Sad loss to bridge club members
Ray Curnow
Members of the Westport Bridge Club are mourning the loss of their dear friend and fellow club member Pim Rajasaari. Pim died earlier this week.
Pim first started playing bridge in 2018. She came to the sport after attending a demonstration lesson for members of the Westport newcomers’ group. Pim, originally from Thailand, was attracted to the sport. She also saw it as a good way of meeting new people and extending her English language skills. She very definitely achieved both of these objectives.
She soon made her mark as a player and went on to represent the Westport club in regional interclub competitions. She also played regularly in tournaments across the Top of the South. She was a regular winner and placegetter in club events.
Pim’s most recent goal was to advance to Intermediate grade. She achieved this goal on 1 January this year when the new gradings were announced by New Zealand Bridge. She played her last hand of bridge a week or so before her death when a group of club members went to her house to play cards.
The club celebrated Pim’s contribution at a special social event held before Christmas. Pim’s father from Thailand and sister from Canada were present. Buller mayor Chris Russell was in attendance and spoke on behalf of the whole Buller community.
The club extends its condolences to Pim’s partner Tarmo, her children Eddy and Emma, and to her wider family.
Club bridge resumed this week.
Jo Gear and Wayne Smith won the first session of the Welcome Pairs on Monday with 62.5 percent. Wendy Coburn and Glens Tyler were second equal with Val Mundy and Cherie Hooper on 55.09. Ray Curnow and Phil Rutherford were fourth on 54.63.
Wayne Smith also won last night, this time in partnership with Val Mundy on 61.46. Ray Curnow and Phil Rutherford were second on 55 followed by Jude Woods and Bevan Russell on 53.75.
Five members of the Westport club will be competing in the Top of the South Robin Young 10A Teams event at Lansdowne Park in Blenheim over the weekend.
Some reminders:
Ellen Curnow is the convenor for Thursday nights. She can be contacted by email on ellencurnow1@gmail.com or by text on 0210 522 580.
Glenys Tyler is the Monday night convenor. She can be contacted by email on glenarttyler@gmail.com or by phone or text on 021 265 5627.
The contact for Friday social bridge is Val Mundy on 027 2522 445.
And, don’t forget to tune in to Coast Fm on Saturday morning at 9.20 am to hear a review of the past week in bridge world.
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