A Legendary Bridge Partnership: The Story of Steve Robinson and Peter Boyd
Bridge is more than just a card game; it is a lifelong passion, a test of intellect, and a social experience that binds players across generations. Few embody this spirit better than Steve Robinson, whose remarkable partnership with Peter Boyd has spanned nearly five decades. In a recent conversation, Steve shared insights into what makes a great bridge partnership, memorable moments from his career, and how bridge has shaped his life. This blog post delves into Steve’s story, offering inspiration and advice for bridge enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
👉 To listen to Steve's story head over to YouTube:
The Genesis of a Legendary Partnership
Steve Robinson’s journey in bridge began in the 1970s, initially playing with Kit Woolsey. However, it was in the 1980s that he formed a partnership with Peter Boyd, a fellow Washington-area player. This partnership has endured for about five decades, making them one of the longest-standing pairs in the bridge community.
What Makes Their Partnership Work?
Steve attributes their longevity and success to several key factors:
Mutual Respect and Compatibility: They don’t yell at each other, maintaining a calm and respectful dynamic even under pressure.
A Strong System: Their well-honed bidding and playing system ensures they are usually on the same page.
Local Proximity: Living in the same area allows them to play locally and frequently, strengthening their teamwork.
Enjoyment of Each Other’s Company: Beyond competition, they genuinely enjoy playing together.
Together, Steve and Peter have won approximately 15 to 16 national championships, a testament to their skill and synergy.
Memorable Moments: The Highs and Lows of Bridge
One of Steve’s most vivid bridge memories involves a dramatic miscommunication during a national championship. Holding nine solid diamonds, Steve opened the bidding with a diamond. Peter bid a major suit, and after a series of bids, Steve made a four clubs bid he believed was forcing. To his surprise, Peter passed, leaving Steve in a precarious contract.
Frustrated, Steve recounted how he tore up the cards in anger and threw them at Peter—an act that might seem partnership-ending but instead became a humorous anecdote in their long collaboration. This story highlights the emotional intensity of bridge and the importance of resilience and forgiveness in partnerships.
Steve’s Background: From Chess to Computer Programming
Steve’s affinity for games started early. In high school, he played chess and various card games, developing strategic thinking skills. His academic path was diverse: he initially majored in engineering but later switched to government politics, graduating with a modest GPA.
Professionally, Steve worked as a computer programmer for 30 years, including a stint in the Army. His programming career complemented his bridge skills, as both require processing complex information quickly and making strategic decisions based on probabilities and statistics.
Bridge: More Than Intelligence
Steve emphasizes that bridge success is not solely about raw intelligence. While many might assume that being smart is the key, he explains that bridge demands a unique blend of skills:
Quick Decision-Making: Players must analyze numerous variables rapidly.
Statistical Thinking: Understanding probabilities and outcomes is crucial.
Work Ethic and Experience: Consistent practice and learning from mistakes matter more than IQ alone.
He notes that he has played better than many more intelligent players, underscoring that bridge is a specialized skill set.
Advice for New Players
For those new to bridge, Steve offers practical guidance:
Play with Better Players: This accelerates learning by exposing you to advanced strategies and correcting misconceptions.
Ask Questions: At tournaments, many top players are approachable and willing to explain hands or concepts.
Embrace the Social Aspect: Bridge is as much about community as competition.
Steve’s approachable attitude encourages newcomers to engage actively and learn continuously.
Life Balance: Career and Bridge
Steve managed to balance a demanding programming career with his passion for bridge. He was fortunate that his work deadlines rarely conflicted with tournaments, allowing him to take leave to compete. Remarkably, he only called in sick once during his 30-40 year career, and that was to attend a bridge event he deemed important.
He enjoys playing mostly with Peter and prefers team games and local events over club games. Their partnership remains central to his bridge life.
Light-Hearted Reflections
Adding a touch of humor, Steve shared that if a movie were made about his bridge life, he would want Danny DeVito to play him—a choice that reflects his lighthearted personality. When asked what bridge skill would help him survive a zombie apocalypse, Steve candidly replied that he would just run, showing that some situations are beyond even the best card skills.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of a Bridge Partnership
Steve Robinson’s story is a compelling example of how bridge can enrich life through competition, camaraderie, and continuous learning. His partnership with Peter Boyd demonstrates that success in bridge is built on compatibility, communication, and mutual respect. Beyond the trophies and titles, Steve’s reflections remind us that bridge is a game of passion, patience, and personality.
For anyone looking to deepen their bridge experience, Steve’s advice to play with better players and stay curious is invaluable. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting, the bridge community offers a world of challenge and friendship waiting to be explored.
If you enjoyed this deep dive into Steve Robinson’s bridge career and partnership, stay tuned for more stories and insights from the world of bridge. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive enthusiast, there’s always something new to learn and appreciate in this timeless game.
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