Page 21 - ABF Newsletter October 2024

Around the clubs
Did you notice
the extra King?
King Charles congratulates Joan Riley, a great example of how to play good bridge and still make it a pleasure to play at her table
Our Wednesday players recently had another King in the room.
But unlike the normal Kings of Spades, Hearts, Diamonds and Clubs we are all used to, this honour wasn’t sitting in the boards waiting to be played.
It was a congratulatory letter from HRH King Charles to cele- brate Joan Riley’s 100th birthday along with similar letters from the Governor of South Australia, Frances Adamson and the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
Not a bad start. Their sentiments were warmly endorsed by one
of the biggest Wednesday crowds this year who were there to wish Joan a happy 100th birthday. She’s been playing bridge for the past 30 years and is our longest playing member.
Before the 15 tables started playing Joan’s current partner for the past three years, Yvonne Deakin, paid trib- ute to her.
“What stands out to me the most about Joan is her rare and admirable quality to never utter a bad word about anyone,” Yvonne told the audience.
“In a world of negativity, Joan’s ability to see the good in everyone is truly a remarkable gift. Her ability to stay gracious and find the good in every situation is inspiring.”
But don’t be fooled, Joan’s not there to make up the numbers. She and Yvonne recently won the monthly eclectic competition! And they’ve made their fair share of small slams as well.
One of Joan’s favourites, club president Graeme Hammond, met Joan while they were vol- unteering more than a decade ago.
“She is one of life’s gen- erous and dignified per- sonalities,” he said. “Joan’s a great example of how to play good bridge and still make it a pleasure to play at her table.”
And Joan’s best tip for ev- eryone. “Just enjoy your bridge.”
June Hammond Glenelg Bridge Club
Australian Bridge Federation Ltd. Newsletter: October 2024
Page: 21