Bridge Club

Members of the bridge club were stunned by the sudden death of Mr Breen at the beginning of the summer holidays (2005). He had been the corner stone of bridge at CAI and senior member Alistair Adams paid a fitting tribute in the school magazine when writing “ I would like to thank Mr Breen for his invaluable contribution to the club over the past 24 years. In this time he has continued to support and encourage the development of the club.  His experience and teaching ability has helped to make the bridge club into one of the top schools in Ireland.”  Unfortunately the final sentiment in the article concerning a “long and happy retirement” was not to be.

Such was Alan’s dedication that it was his intention to continue coaching at school during his retirement thus enabling further generations of CAI boys to experience the challenge of bridge. Therefore the beginning of the academic year 2005/6 was a time of uncertainty for club. However, one of Alan’s many good friends in bridge circles, Mr Tom McKeever, made the generous offer to assist with teaching the game in school and we are truly indebted to him for his willingness to share his wealth of knowledge and experience.

It has been encouraging to welcome both beginners to the game and those with more experience to the library for tutelage on Thursdays after school. It is hoped that these young men will experience some of the enjoyment of a game “well played” and make lasting friendships, as was the case with Mr Breen.