How to organize a bridge tournament

A bridge tournament runs smoothly when the competition format, player registration and table plan are settled before anything is printed. Start by deciding the format, number of rounds and scoring method, then reserve a suitable venue and assign a match official. Registration should close early enough to create the final participant list, running order and table layout. On the day, focus on a clear registration desk, correctly prepared boards and score sheets, and a timetable that leaves room for breaks and scoring.

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The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

1
Define the competition format
2 people
2
Reserve venue
3
Assign a match official
4
Record sponsor agreements
2 people
5
Send invitations
2 people
6
Open registration form
7
Process registrations
2 people
8
Collect dietary requirements
9
Set up the prize table
2 people
10
Create final participant list
2 people
11
Create the table layout
2 people
12
Create the running order
2 people
13
Prepare race cards
2 people
14
Print score sheets
15
Send participant information
16
Prepare prizes and certificates
2 people
17
Do the shopping
2 people
18
Chill drinks
2 people
19
Charge equipment
20
Check materials
2 people

Event

21
Open venue
2 people
22
Set up tables and chairs
4 people
23
Set up registration desk
2 people
24
Set out bridge boards
3 people
25
Set up score tables
2 people
26
Set up coffee station
2 people
27
Set out snack break refreshments
2 people
28
Receive participants
3 people
29
Check registrations
2 people
30
Distribute Table Numbers
2 people
31
Give game instructions
32
Guide the First Round
2 people
33
Process scores
2 people
34
Serve coffee and tea
2 people
35
Assist with the second round
2 people
36
Guide the third round
2 people
37
Refill drinks
2 people
38
Refill snacks
2 people
39
Guide the fourth round
2 people
40
Check final standings
2 people
41
Announce the winners
2 people
42
Present prizes
2 people
43
See participants off
2 people

Aftercare

44
Collect bridge boards
3 people
45
Clear tables and chairs
4 people
46
Wash dishes
2 people
47
Collect waste
2 people
48
Clean the venue
3 people
49
Pack up materials
2 people
50
Lock up the venue
2 people
51
Publish results
52
Send thank-you message
53
Return materials
2 people
54
Process expenses

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Bridge tablesqty 12
Chairsqty 48
Registration desk
Buffet tablesqty 2
Coat racksqty 2

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 60
Glassesqty 60
Platesqty 60
Teaspoonsqty 60
Serving spoonsqty 8

Equipment

Coffee machinesqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Extension cordsqty 4
Power stripsqty 4
Laptop
Printer

Bridge materials

Bridge boardsqty 48
Card gamesqty 12
Bied boxesqty 24
Bridge table numbersqty 12
Score Bowlsqty 12
Pensqty 60
Score sheetsqty 100
Running sheetsqty 60
Calculatorqty 2
Tableclothsqty 12

Decorations

Welcome sign
Round signsqty 12
Prize table sign

Catering

Coffee potsqty 4
Thermos flasksqty 4
Coolersqty 3
Serving traysqty 6
Bread basketsqty 4
Waste binsqty 4
Water carafesqty 6
Groceries

Cleaning

Bucketsqty 2
Mopsqty 2
Broom
Dustpan and brushqty 2
Cleaning glovesqty 4

Tips

Close registration at least 7 days before the tournament so you can confirm the final participant list, table numbers and running order. Keep dietary requirements with the registration records rather than collecting them at the venue.
Plan the room from the number of tables, not just the number of players. Allow space between bridge tables, a separate registration desk and a visible area for score tables, prizes and refreshments.
Prepare one complete set of materials for every playing table: bridge boards, bid boxes, pens, score sheets and table numbers. Add spare pens and score sheets at the registration desk before players arrive.
Print the running sheets, race cards and participant information at least 2 days beforehand. Check that the round signs match the running order and that the printer, laptop and calculator are ready for scoring.
Finish venue setup at least 60 minutes before the advertised start. Put out the boards and score tables first, then check power strips and extension cords, chill the drinks and set up coffee, cups, glasses and plates.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organize a bridge tournament?: Start planning at least 6 to 8 weeks before the event. Reserve the venue and define the format first, then open registration early enough to close it 7 days before play.
How many bridge tables do I need for a tournament?: You normally need one bridge table for each active table in the running order, with four players per table. Confirm the exact number after registration closes and keep one spare table if the venue allows.
When should bridge tournament registration close?: Close registration about 7 days before the tournament. That gives you time to process entries, collect dietary requirements, create the final participant list and print the running sheets and score sheets.
How early should I arrive to set up a bridge tournament?: Open the venue at least 60 minutes before the advertised start, and allow longer if tables or chairs need moving. Use the first 30 minutes for room layout and materials, then check registration, refreshments and scoring equipment.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.