Mangaluru is set to host the Mavericks Summer Nationals 2026, a prestigious 10-day National Bridge Championship, at St Sebastian Hall in Bendur from June 4. This marks the second time the city has been chosen to host the event, underscoring its growing prominence in the bridge circuit. The tournament is organized by the Karavali Bridge Association, Mangaluru, under the aegis of the Bridge Federation of India and the Karnataka State Bridge Association.
Reviving Bridge in Mangaluru
Karavali Bridge Association president Marjorie Texeira emphasized that the initiative aims to revive and popularize bridge in the city, particularly among younger players. She noted that while bridge has been played in India for about a century, and in Mangaluru for over 60 years, national-level annual events were rarely hosted in southern states. "By bringing the championship back to Mangaluru, we hope to widen exposure to the mind sport, which features in the Commonwealth and Asian Games, and is being pursued for inclusion in the Olympic programme," Texeira said.
Declining Participation and Renewed Efforts
Texeira revealed that Mangaluru once had around 100 bridge players, but participation has steadily declined due to limited youth interest, leaving fewer than 20 active players today. The championship is being positioned as a catalyst to rebuild local participation by showcasing high-level competition and creating renewed visibility for the game. Organizing secretary Derek Rego is overseeing arrangements, with the association focusing on logistics and player experience to match national championship standards.
International and National Participation
The tournament is expected to draw around 450 participants from across India and overseas, including a contingent from Poland featuring world champion Buras Krzysztof Jerzy, along with Dominic Filopowicz, Jakob Pathrehua, and Patrik Pathrehua. Texeira said the presence of international players and a large national field has strengthened Mangaluru’s standing on the bridge circuit.
Why Mangaluru Was Chosen
Texeira attributed the selection of Mangaluru to its airport and rail connectivity, as well as its reputation for hospitality and cuisine. These factors helped the Bridge Federation of India return the event to the city after it hosted a similar national tournament two years ago. The championship is expected to provide a significant boost to the local bridge community and inspire a new generation of players.
