I went to my first Backgammon in London evening in January at the Lockside Lounge in Camden. I got there at 6:30 and was made very welcome by Mike. I explained that I have played against the computer but not against real people and was not sure of my standard. Mike fixed me up with a couple of friendly games with John, who is a very experienced player. John said that I should play in the Swiss tournament. That way I was guaranteed to get three games. The Swiss had an entry fee of £10. I won the first game, lost the second and won the third so I managed to win my money back.

I was quite exhausted by then. I could have joined another tournament but chose to play a friendly game with Sue, who was the runner up in my Swiss tournie.

Everyone was very welcoming and friendly and the atmosphere relaxed. I enjoyed evening very much. I look forward to the next evening in Camden and pitting my skills against more players and hopefully emulating Simon by winning the Swiss on my second visit.

Hi David,

Thanx for the nice comments. But where were you last night for the Feb gig at The Lockside Lounge. Snow bound? Hope to see you next month (Tue 3rd March.)

Mike

I was really looking forward to it and have been practicing on gnubg all month but work commitments and the weather intervened.

I read your report and it sounds like you all had a good time but I think that I will stay with the Swiss for now - 100 nicker is a bit rich for me !

I'll be there in March for sure.