Moving online ensures play for city club

The lockdown and closure of their usual Carmelite Hotel venue, has not prevented Aberdeen Backgammon Club from playing competitively.

Member Brenda Rafferty explained that it has moved online using the platform Backgammon Galaxy and a league of 10 has was set up.

Their competitive online league culminated with Mutlu Ustun taking on Rafferty twice and winning, to secure the title.

Outwith the obvious competitive elements, it has proved a more than useful outlet with valuable transferable skills during these uncertain times.

Rafferty said: “It’s good for concentration

“It’s good for concentration and helps with other games”

and helps you with other games.

“You’re having to look at four boards, at what your opponent has and what they are going to do.

“It can be a very simple game that kids can play but you can play it at many different levels. You’re always learning.”

The club is always seeking new members and Rafferty hopes to see more female players in the future.

They entered the UK Clubs Championships in York last year, in which she reached the semifinals of the individual event.

“There’s 10 in the league and on average 16 in the club.

“We have two Turkish guys at the moment – they are very good as they’ve played since they were children,” Rafferty added.

To register an interest in joining Aberdeen Backgammon Club contact Brenda Rafferty on brenda.donraffy@ gmail.com