Gary Conrad

Gary originally learned to play bridge when he was 19, but after getting married, raising a family, and working to pay the mortgage, he gave up for about 15 years, and started playing again following the break up of his first marriage in 1981. He only started playing more seriously at the end of the 1980’s.

Gary followed a career in manufacturing childrens toys, and managed his own company for over 20 years, with offices in UK and Hong Kong. He made many trips to China and other countries in Asia developing ideas for major UK retailers.

After he retired from his business in 2005, he was able to devote much more time to playing bridge, and at that time took the decision to go on a Directors course, as he was helping out at two local clubs directing occasionally. As a player, he now plays in a few congresses and continues to coach improvers.

Since 2005, his directing and involvement with Bridge has moved forward at a very rapid pace. He started directing for Hertfordshire at Cadet Events, and attended the EBU County Directors Course in 2007. He is now the Chief Tournament Director for both Hertfordshire and Middlesex and directs all the senior events for Berks and Bucks.

Since 2007 Gary also started hosting Bridge holidays for Mr Bridge, which includes weekends, holidays and cruises, and finds he enjoys the teaching aspect of these immensely.

In 2010, Gary was appointed as an EBU Panel Director, and is now a Senior Congress director and can be seen at various EBU congresses around the country as well as many county Green Point weekends.

Gary is now involved also In supplying equipment to counties and clubs for their tournaments where he is also directing.

When not directing, hosting or playing bridge, Gary still finds time to enjoy reading, gardening, and eating out (food is favourite!)

Last updated: August 2015