Tales from the Past
by Judy Kay-Wolff on
March 9th, 2013
Today our club was honored by the appearance of a visitor from Chicago – modest and likeable Billy Rosen. Those oldtimers will remember Billy, who in 1954, at the age of 24, won the Bermuda Bowl, playing with Steen, Oakey, Ellenby and Bishop. Quite an achievement.
Since we finished the round early, we were reminiscing and Billy related a story I had never heard before. Over half a century ago, a lady came to Charlie Goren’s table and said, “Mr. Goren, I have been waiting thirty years for the opportunity to play against you.” He smiled … and the bidding proceeded: Pass Pass Pass Pass. So much for playing against him.
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HBJ : Yes, I remember once arriving at a table where two English internationals were seated, thinking here’s my chance to pit my wits against theirs. As it happened, my partner was declarer on all 3 boards, with me dutifully and mundanely following his instructions. So much for me playing against them.
Hi JHG:
Yes, it is fun playing against a guru. It is usually an unforgettable experience. I remember back in the Sixties, Alvin Landy was visiting Philadelphia at the time of a Regional. Norman and he decided to play for old time’s sake. The auction proceeded, beginning with 1NT and when the next hand responded 2C, opener’s partner asked what it was. Embarrassed that she didn’t know — Norman sheepishly replied Landy. To this day I am sure she never knew Norman’s partner.
Billy was before my time but I remember his name being associated with a world championship a long time ago. Someone saw him recently and heard at 84 he is doing great.
Yes, JS, he is remarkable indeed. In fact, tonight Bobby and I are meeting him and his wife, Eunice, for dinner at a terrific restaurant at The Rampart Casino. They’ve joined us there before and the food was loved by all. We look forward to catching up with them.
Judy, I will be 66 this year. Thanks for an old timers story where I am too young to recall the players! 😉
Bill:
You’re just a toddler!
Judy
more memories about my pop please. i hear he was quite colorful back in the day!