Are masterpoints easier to get online?

[kmbrunskill]

Just wondering.

It seems to me they are. Maybe I'm just crazy or maybe I've just always had bad partners in person.

I realize this answer will vary drastically depending on the skill level at your local club, but maybe those who have been to more than a few local clubs will have some better insight.

Thoughts?

[Klaymen]

I don't think there is a big difference. I mean, they are obviously easier to get from a convenience standpont. Yes, it depends on what the level of play - and size - of your bridge club. My club doesn't have games all the time, but when it does (Saturday afternoon) there are 20-25 tables. Plus there are big-point games often enough.

I would have said YES a year ago when the award for 12 boards was 80% of the club award. I think the ACBL was smart to lower the award to a much-fairer 60%.

Looking at the most recent 24 tourneys I played on BBO:
I spent 24 hours (robot games are faster though), spent $24, scratched 15 times (62.5%), and got 6.56 points.

24 hours is roughly equivalent to 7 club games. That would cost me $42-$45. I would probably scratch 5 times and probably come to the same number of points, with some section awards, and a couple overall awards.

So club games are more expensive and less convenient, but do offer face-to-face contact. I think that as it gets later, the games shrink and get a bit more challenging as more of the die-hards stay on.

I don't think the quality of play is too awful, although I'm used to playing in >500 games. This is a difficult thing to judge, but I don't see any vast differences.

[Klaymen]

Sounds like your question is more of a good local partner availability problem. Can't help you there, you just have to ask around and play with others. I wasn't playing with any of the top players in my club six years ago, now most of them are only too happy to play with me. And a good partnership(s) is crucial to getting the masterpoint train rolling.

[kmbrunskill]

Right.

I've been trying to follow the advice in the given to me previously in threads regarding getting a proper partner.

Asking the right questions, etc.

We'll see how it plays out. Ideally I could play with someone my own age though.

Thanks for the input regarding online play.