In June, we had two Tour of Patio events. July, we will only have one, and it will be late in the month, because it turns out I have a family and will prioritize that over backgammon when it comes down to it.
First event was at The Victoria, which was our inaugural location last year too. Last year, it was freezing cold. This year, it was too darn hot. Many people chose to sit and play inside, where there was air conditioning. Nevertheless, 10 players came out to participate, including first-timer Noel. We managed to run four 4-person knock-outs, which were won by Pete, Howard, Tim, and myself.
Second event was at NEPO42, a new location for us, suggested by Dave. They have a great patio, but this time, it was slightly chilly and damp. Almost everyone chose to sit and play inside, where is was warm and dry. A few matches made it out onto the patio before the day was over, but that was definitely the minority. This one was a blow-out event, too – 17 players showed up. Granted, 3 of them were Jeremy C’s friends that he occasionally drags along, but this time they all agreed to play. Turns out this was Jeremy’s going-away party, he will be moving back to be closer to family.
First timers were Mike (in Portland for an undisclosed but not unlimited time), Alyssa (one of Jeremy’s friends), and Darren (just found out about us and is excited to come back!). Also notable, Eliot was in town, so it was nice of him to stop by.
We managed to run six 4-person knock-outs, which were won by Dave, Eliot, Joel, me, Pete, and Jonathan. Congrats to all.
Afterwards, we also had a chouette going, with Mike, Tim, Leah, and myself battling it out for at least an hour after the tournament wrapped up. Overall, quite the afternoon of backgammon!
The next one is scheduled for July 26th at another new location – Cathedral Park Food Carts. Hope to see you there!
-Mark