With four qualifying days, Monday to Thursday, all players are aiming for the Gold Category; which means that some, after losing their first round match are dropping out and re-entering on another draw sheet. Although not technically incorrect it isn't in the Olympiad spirit of 'taking part' however, for some backgammon players this ideal is anathema to them; winning is paramount. Their opponent's are happy to accept the bye as this increases their chances to qualify for the Silver Category at least.

This system, although no different this year than last (or others for that matter) will stream players into the three categories, with free re-entries it looks as if the Silver will be the biggest entry, with the Bronze being the smallest - if any! On the drawing board, re-entries subject to time table and numbers seemed a good idea, off the drawing board it was different. Thankfully I am not only blessed with 100% hindsight but am clairvoyant as well; and I know that next year we shall limit the re-entries to a total of three attempts at a higher category.

After a hectic first day we had 8 Gold Categories:

• Graham Brittain¹
• Ian Hutson
• Shidan Shabrohk
• Ashfin Foulad
• Dario de Toffoli
• Gary Lee
• Pietro Rossi
• John Broomfield

For those of you interested in my tan; there is good news and bad news! The good news is the room we are now based in has windows and sunlight streams through; the bad news is they start at floor level and finish just below my waist! You won't have any trouble recognising me, I'm the one with the brown knees.

¹ Graham beat his big rival and friend, John Clark in the 3rd match to gain his Gold Category - which pleased Graham greatly as it was at MSO3 last year that Graham lost to John in the Olympiad Championship final. However, John is confident of qualifying for the Gold Category and is looking forward to future encounters.