Interview with Nick FloresNick Flores of Portland OR was crowned the 2009 King of Bridge. He is the 38th graduating high-school senior to receive this award. Cited for outstanding tournament performances plus administrative, recreational and promotional activities related to bridge, he received a $1000 scholarship from the ACBL Educational Foundation. Nick is a Life Master attending the University of Oregon in Eugene, studying business administration. He is a handball enthusiast who earned his black belt in taekwondo in May of 2005
How old were you when you learned to play? I began Easybridge lessons a few months before my 10th birthday, and was playing in tournaments by age 11.
What drew you to learn Bridge? My grandparents got me into it and I got hooked. It was something that was interesting and kept expanding my mind.
Did your parents play? No, but my grandfather plays duplicate bridge and my grandmother plays social bridge.
Why do you still play? I haven't been able to play much recently because I am now a full-time college student at the University of Oregon.
Have you played continuously? No, but I plan to pick up the game again when I am through with college.
What is your best bridge memory? Going to multiple tournaments in the summer of 2005 to try to get the points I needed to become a life master, and the enjoyable irony of finally getting my last fraction of a point in my home club with all my friends.
What do you look for in a partner and/or teammates? Someone fun, who I don't have to worry about getting in an argument with. Bridge should be a game you play with someone you enjoy being around, and who has the same dedication to the enjoyment of the game as you do.
How did you balance bridge-school-dating- other activities? I've always had to limit play to the weekends to balance bridge with everything else, but I played enough to become the youngest life master in Oregon.
Words of advice to young players? Don't get wrapped up in all the studying and memorization of the game. Make sure you're having fun, and if you ever think about buying a bridge book, take the money and go play at your local club instead. That is hands down the best and most fun way to get experience.
Any other thoughts? Always remember, while bridge is a competitive game, it is a GAME first, and a competition second. Have fun playing the game, because no matter how good you get, or how many points you win, it's meaningless if you're not having fun.
Nick Flores Interview (Fall, 2009) by Patty Tucker