In this episode, John sits down with Dennis Bilde, one of Denmark’s top bridge talents and a player with a reputation for being both formidable at the table and fun to be around. Dennis shares stories of missing flights, winning world championships, and his early card-playing days before discovering bridge. The conversation dives into partnership dynamics, life with two young kids, and how Danish coffee might be the bridge world's best-kept secret. From his time on the Lavazza team to his upcoming appearance at the Bermuda Bowl on home soil, Dennis reflects on what it means to grow, both as a player and a person.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
🏆 Dennis won the 2008 Junior World Championship—after failing to qualify for the under-21 trials
🍷 Known for being a slow drinker, he’s still a favorite drinking buddy of Zia’s
🎲 He and Zia played 5NT in each of their first two tournaments together
🇩🇰 He’ll represent Denmark at the 2025 Bermuda Bowl, alongside his longtime partner Martin Schaltz
🧸 Father of two, Dennis talks candidly about balancing bridge with family life
🧠 On his first try at Rubber Bridge in New York, he walked away with $3,500 after reluctantly agreeing to play $1 per point
☕️ What’s a Danish coffee? Let’s just say you might need a solo cup…
🎄 His time with the Lavazza team included Christmas dinners at Maria Teresa Lavazza’s home
Resources & Next Steps:
🎧 More Stories Like This – Subscribe to The Setting Trick wherever you listen to podcasts for more deep dives into the world of bridge.
📱 Follow @thesettingtrick – Stay connected on Instagram and for episode drops, tournament pics, and more.
Andrew Robson describes Dennis as the best player in Denmark
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