Matthew Brown: High Compatibility in the Card Game Bridge
My guest today is Matthew Brown. Matt has been my partner for the last two North American Bridge Championships and for the upcoming March NABC in Louisville.
Matt’s partnership with Michael Whibley on team New Zealand has pulled off some big time wins and upsets. Stay tuned to hear how they went from zero to being one of the best pairs in the world.
As his partner, I’m happy to put down the dummy for Matt to play. As his teammate, I’m delighted for him to be playing a difficult contract.
See if you can see why I think our temperaments are quite different.
[8:20] Even though New Zealand has a high rate of bridge players per capita, most professionals move to Australia or other countries. Why Matt chose England.
[11:43] The amazing opportunity to partner Michael Whibley and supporting his partner.
[14:09] Matt’s favorite bridge memory.
[17:10] How Matt and Michael practice.
[25:35] Matt’s nickname.
[37:45] Meeting his wife, Andi.
[43:48] Matt’s favorite thing about bridge.
Link to hand on Page 3
[49:15] Maintaining partnership agreements and going through them, including (especially) late-round bidding.
[54:22] Loving having a strong partner be the declarer.
[56:05] Everyday life in England.
[1:01:50] Playing against Rodwell.
[1:06:28] On not having to be the best team to win; being the underdog.
[1:09:49] The challenging partnership aspects of bridge.
Matt’s zodiac sign is …
[1:17:05] John McAllister: All right. That is a wrap. My research has shown that Matt is a Gemini, which is actually an air sign. I thought he might be a water sign, but fire signs are, I think obvious to me. But I don’t know so much about earth, air, and water. So happy to be schooled.
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