Bridge's biggest challenges were to engage the youth and to attract sponsors, said World Bridge Federation (WBF) president Gianarrigo Rona.
To witness the BFAME championships, Mr. Rona spoke to the press on Monday, outlining his vision for developing the sport.
“We have to approach the youth and introduce them to bridge,” he said. “We have had some success in some countries introducing it in the curriculum, but it hasn't been easy. There's the stigma associated with card games, but bridge isn't gambling. It's a true sport, a sport of attention. I've played basketball at a high level in Italy, and I know what it is to play a physical sport. We feel strongly that bridge is a sport, and it is a position others are beginning to accept.”
Mr. Rona also spoke of the benefits of bridge for students in improving their mental faculties. Bridge Federation of India (BFI) president N.R. Kirubakara Moorthy, who was present at the media interaction, said some BFI units had started teaching bridge in schools.
Mr. Moorthy also proposed a project to introduce bridge to unemployed graduates, which Mr. Rona encouraged, saying the world body would assist financially depending on its feasibility.
Asked about its financial position, Mr. Rona said the WBF wasn't finding it easy to attract sponsors. He said being recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was a significant step in gaining financial assistance. “But it's important to compete for Olympic medals,” he added.
Towards this endeavour, Mr. Rona said the WBF had been included in the International Mind Sports Association (IMSA), which engages with the IOC to organise the World Mind Games in Olympic cities following the Winter or Summer Games. The next Mind Games event will be held in 2012 in Manchester.
