Richmond Bridge Association

After a three-year hiatus due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Fredericksburg St. Patrick’s Day Sectional Bridge Tournament will return in 2023.

The event, sponsored by the Richmond Bridge Association and the Rappahannock Area Bridge Club, is scheduled for March 10-12. The tournament will be held at a new location, the Holiday Inn Conference Center at 20 Sanford Drive on the western side of the intersection at Interstate 95 Exit 133 and Route 17.

The 132-room event hotel features a $79 room rate for attendees. Amenities include refrigerators and microwaves, complimentary wireless Internet, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.

“We will have some new features at the tournament and expect a great turnout from throughout the region,” Show Chairman Peter Martin said.

Updates will be available on the Richmond Bridge Association and the Rappahannock Area Bridge Club websites beginning in December.

We have just received the news that our good friend and amazing bridge player from Charlottesville, David Butler, passed away Sunday, November 13.

Note from Steve Rothman:

I still can’t believe it’s true–I’m absolutely gobsmacked–it’s with the greatest sadness I report the death of Dave Butler–suddenly and without any indication that he was ill–one of the finest players in our district is gone I have no real details other than he cancelled on his partner for today’s pro-am since he didn’t feel well yesterday or the day before and took himself to the hospital. I worked the election with him all day Tuesday–he was our precinct chief–and handled that job skillfully with no signs of distress. He was our unit president, and with Betsy Ruehl helped arrange our recent unit party. He provided expert commentary and counterpoint to Mile Lane in the club’s First Friday Forums. His regular and occasional partners will sorely miss him, as will everyone who knew him. He offered advice kindly, with dry wit, was never haughty, and I never saw him moved to anger. I still can’t believe he’s gone. I have no other details to share; will post his obituary when available. We will surely have games in his tribute and honor in the near future. Everyone, please, think of those close to you–let them know you care about them lest they suddenly be gone and you’ve lost the chance to let them know.

I’m sorry to be the bearer of this bad news–I have a candle lit–I can’t believe he’s gone–Steve Rothman