The EBL President Eric Laurant is currently in Qingdao, China, where the inaugural Asia-Pacific Fall Transnational Bridge Championships are under way.
On 31 October, Laurant, who also serves as WBF Vice-President, and WBF President Franck Riehm visited the headquarters of the Qingdao Contract Bridge Association to meet young players, parents and local bridge officials.
They were welcomed by Frank Li (Li Chunshan), President of the Qingdao Bridge Federation, Jerry Li (Li Jie), Member of the Expert Committee of the Qingdao Bridge Association and Sun Shiyu, Head Coach of the Qingdao Junior Team.
Also taking part in the visit were Gilad Ofir, member of the EBL Executive Committee, who will become WBF Treasurer in January 2027; Jean-Pierre Desmoulins, World Bridge Academy Coordinator; and Francesca Canali, EBL and WBF Head of Communications and Marketing.
The young players had plenty to show their visitors – and plenty to ask them. Both Presidents sat down for a few boards with the children, whose ability and enthusiasm made a strong impression.
The visit continued with a meeting between the WBF delegation and Qingdao’s bridge officials. Together, they discussed how to reach new audiences, encourage more young people to discover bridge and support their continued involvement in the sport.
