Backgammon: Skill or luck?

The weekly games night has been running for 21 years, and focuses on strategy, as well as luck.

With backgammon boards spread across the tables, 18 regulars sat down to play in their league for the week.

According to the longest-standing member Matthew Ryder, backgammon is about gamesmanship and trash-talking. The group consists of hot-blooded personalities with temperaments to match, which factor into playing.

“Each match is based on the mood of the player. Backgammon requires obsessive-natured people who can multi-task during each round,” explained Ryder.

The backgammon social began as a gentleman’s club. Original member Sophia Phirippides suggested woman take part – and simply voted herself in.

“On Mondays I come to the Church of Backgammon and pray to the dice gods,” quipped Phirippides.

Ryder said backgammon is like chess, with an element of unfairness.

Even though online gaming is taking over and people prefer to play poker, members enjoy the social aspect of the game, as the lively environment plays a big role.

According to player Hani Nash, the evening gives people a reason to have a meal and a glass of wine while participating in an activity they enjoy.

The club is open to those who already play or who want to learn the game.

“I am happy to take people on who have never played before. The rules can be taught in 10 minutes,” said Ryder.

The backgammon club meets every Monday night at The Codfather in Morningside from 7.30pm.

Details: Hani Nash 072-6143-613 or info@tias.co.za