Grand Slam

On a typical morning or afternoon at the Vero Beach Bridge Center, four players chat at a table before the beginning of their first round of duplicate bridge. As soon as the director calls the game and announces, “You’re on the clock,” the room turns quiet and each player reaches for the cards from the pre-set board. After counting to be sure they hold 13 cards, they take their first look. At this point many feel a rush of excitement. They are in the competition and ready for it.

Duplicate bridge players love the fun, no doubt about it. It’s only a game, as most say, but they have to admit, there’s an addictive element to it. In Vero Beach numerous venues offer duplicate bridge. Yet a growing number of players flock daily to the Vero Beach Bridge Center, a converted bowling alley on 14th Avenue just south of downtown.

They have many good reasons for getting together. They come because they can always find a game, no matter their level of skill. They come for the social aspect and for the friendships they have formed at the tables. They come for the lessons so they can either learn or continue to progress. They come to take part in a game that is intellectually stimulating and challenging. These enthusiasts have made the nonprofit Vero Beach Bridge Center one of the largest and most successful member-owned clubs in the country.