This set proved to be even more challenging than last month with, again, fewer than 3% of competition entrants scoring in the 70s. Congratulations are due to all of those who broke that barrier on the September set. Only three players make the honor roll this month, and all three also have the distinction of outscoring the entire expert panel. Leading the field with a tremendous 79/80:
Todd Holes from USA
One of five Americans currently in the Top 10 in the annual competition, Todd is a college tutor specializing in Legal Studies. He says, "Sixteen years ago, I left my job to care for my father, who had Alzheimer’s. The free time led me to bridge on BBO. I absorbed every lesson I could and somehow won my first tournament in 2010—despite a heart attack with three boards left (I finished first, then went to the hospital). I rarely play now, but I do enjoy bidding contests. The Bridge World MSC and RealBridge bidding contest have greatly sharpened my judgment. You can learn a lot by reading!"
Also on the September Honour Roll, with a score of 78/80, is:
Dror Axelrod from Israel
And, with a score of 77/80:
Dave Williams from Wales
Half of the twelve players who have either won or co-won a monthly competition this year have been Americans. For Dror, this is his second consecutive month in which he finished just a single point behind the monthly winner. Dave, currently second in the 2026 annual competition, completes a distinguished honour roll.
