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# U.S. Backgammon Federation

Have fun. Play backgammon!

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://usbgf.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [USBGF News](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-news/)
- [Magriel Cup 2025 Results](https://usbgf.org/2025-magriel-cup-results/)
- [World Team USA vs Iran Exhibition Match](https://usbgf.org/world-team-usa-vs-iran-exhibition-match/) - On Friday & Saturday (July 17/18) for a clash of backgammon's best with live commentary from several members of Team USA! As a warmup to the WBGF World Team Championship in London this August, team USA and team Iran, have arranged a series of friendly matches to be conducted on Backgammon Studio Heroes. Join the
- [Results: 2026 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-2026-michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/) - 51st MICHIGAN SUMMER BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIPS July 1-5, 2026; Novi, Michigan ABT OPEN (74): 1-Garry Kallos (Canada), 2-Gary Koscielny (FL), 3-Michael Mesich (MN), 4/5-Ricky Griggs (MI) / Marty Storer (NH), 6/8-Jim Airgood (MI) / Paul Belsito (MI) / David Habib (Canada); 1C-John Quinn (MI), 2C-Steve Sax (CA), 3C/4C-David Kettler (TX) / Frank Raposa (VA). ABT INTERMEDIATE
- [Results: 2023 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-48th-michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships
- [Results: 2024 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships
- [Results: 2025 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/) - July 2-6, 2025; Novi, Michigan Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (71): 1-Dana Nazarian (CA), 2-James Slomkoski (MI), 3-Cary Hoarty (CO), 4/5-Stephen Trundy (TN) / Gary Koscielny (FL), 6/7/8-Bob Azari (FL) / Farhad Forudi (OH) / Gary Kallos (Canada); 1C-Art Benjamin (CA), 2C-Steve Sax (CA), 3C/4C-Irina Litzenberger (VA) / Phil Simborg (FL). ABT INTERMEDIATE
- [Results: St. Louis Gateway Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-2026-st-louis-gateway-open/) - June 17-21, 2026; Saint Louis, Missouri ABT OPEN (38): 1-Roberto Litzenberger (VA), 2-Ben Friesen (MI), 3/6-Christopher Knapp (MA) / Bernard Pollara (NY) / Eric Sosna (NY) / Larry Whittenburg (IL). ABT INTERMEDIATE (52): 1-Anatoliy Katsnelson (IL), 2-Kevin Heacox (IN), 3/7-Phil Franklin (KS) / Samra Hadden (GA) / Patty Knapp (MA) / Jason Lacny (IN) /
- [2026 American Backgammon Hall of Fame — Call for Nominations](https://usbgf.org/2026-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame-call-for-nominations/) - Submit your nomination by July 1st, 2026. The American Backgammon Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have achieved extraordinary playing results and/or have made extraordinary contributions to the game of backgammon in the United States. Candidates are not limited to American citizens, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. The 2026 Hall of Fame dinner will
- [Results: 2026 Denver Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-2026-denver-open-backgammon-tournament/) - ABT: WILD WEST SHOOTOUT: 8th ANNUAL DENVER OPEN BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENTJune 3-7, 2026; Denver, Colorado ABT DIVISION 1 - BISON (50+24 rebuys): 1-Richard Stubbe (TX), 2-Charles Raichle (CO), 3-Gus Contos (CA), 4/5-Scotty Kelland (CT) / David Kettler (TX); 1C-Jonah Seewald (CO), 2C-Irina Litzenberger (VA). ABT DIVISION 2- GUNSLINGERS (32+18 rebuys): 1-William Reeves (CO), 2-Brett Hemes (MN), 3-David Gray
- [Chicago Open Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/chicago-open-2026/) - ABT: 44th CHICAGO OPEN BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENTMay 20-25, 2026; Rosemont, Illinois ABT OPEN (79): 1-John O'Hagan (IN), 2-Anthony Niakiani (CA), 3-Michael Flohr (IL), 4/6-Karen Davis (FL) / Gennady Mekhanik (NJ) / David Wu (IL), 7/9-Saba Bejanishvili (GA) / Dennis Culpepper (VA) / Albert Steg (MA). ABT INTERMEDIATE (78): 1-Dan Doherty (CA), 2-Graham Webb (WI), 3/7-Dannia Esquivel (Costa
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2026](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2026/) - In this issue, we pay tribute to John Pirne.
- [2026 Club Tournament of Champions Freeroll](https://usbgf.org/2026-club-championship/) - The USBGF is thrilled to announce our annual USBGF Club Championship, a freeroll to find the best of the best in each club across the country! Invited players will battle it out in a single elimination tournament! Whether your club has 5 or a 100 members, you will get a chance to send one nominee.
- [Charlotte Backgammon Invitational Results](https://usbgf.org/charlotte-backgammon-invitational-results/) - April 30-May 3, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina ABT OPEN (39): 1-Gary Koscielny (FL), 2-Michael Mesich (MN), 3/6-Ben Friesen (MI) / G.L. Harvie (NC) / Mike Horri (GA) / Roberto Litzenberger (VA). ABT ADVANCED (48): 1-Alex Miller (FL), 2-Samra Hadden (GA), 3-Mary Tobin (NC), 4/7-Mark Kaye (IL) / Joan Koscielny (FL) / Maggie Sweeney (MI) /
- [Results: 2026 Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-2026-cherry-blossom/) - Cherry Blossom Backgammon ChampionshipHerndon, VAApril 15-19, 2026 Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT CHAMPIONSHIP (92): 1-Marty Storer (NH), 2-Joe Russell (CA), 3/9-Karen Davis (FL) / Tony Diamantidis (Greece/CA) / Bill Lonergan (NY) / Frank Raposa (VA) / Mark Robinson (PA) / Mike Senkiewicz (NY) / Jon Veltri (FL), 10/14-Al Hodis (NV) / John Klein (MD)
- [Results: Ohio State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-ohio-state-backgammon-championships-2/) - 31st OHIO STATE BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIPSCanton, OhioMarch 26-29, 2026 Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT CHAMPIONSHIP (37): 1-Kit Woolsey (CA), 2-Lynda Clay (CO), 3-John O'Hagan (IN), 4/5-Jim Airgood (MI) / Joe Calvaruso (OH); 1C-Irina Litzenberger (VA), 2C-Ryan Rebelo (Canada). ABT ADVANCED (34): 1-Ian McGuigan (IN), 2-Peter Swartwout (PA), 3-David Smith (Canada), 4/5-Dan Doherty (CA) / Ken
- [Prime Time Magazine 2010 Sept-Oct](https://usbgf.org/prime-time-magazine-2010-sept-oct/) - The first issue of PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine with a Welcome Message from President/Executive Director Perry Gartner.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2010](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2010/) - Part 1 of a 2 part series on the Monte Carlo Backgammon World Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jan-Feb 2011](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jan-feb-2011/) - Completes a 2 part series on the 2010 Monte Carlo World Backgammon Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Mar-Apr 2011](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-mar-apr-2011/) - A tribute to Carol Joy Cole, the "First Lady of Backgammon."
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2011 May-June](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2011-may-june/) - Kit Woolsey annotates some matches from his win at the New York Metropolitan Open.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jul-Aug 2011](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jul-aug-2011/) - Battle of the Titans: a match between Neil Kazaross vs. Ralf Jonas.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Sept-Oct 2011](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-sept-oct-2011/) - Mochy gives a lecture on how to play backgames.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2011](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2011/) - International backgammon federations organize a Backgammon Olympics.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jan-Feb 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jan-feb-2012/) - Coverage of the Las Vegas Open and the National Internet Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Mar-Apr 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-mar-apr-2012/) - Marty Storer annotates the Masters Jackpot Final at the US Open between Matt Cohn-Geier and Justin Nunez.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jul-Aug 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jul-aug-2012/) - Battle of the Giants: Falafel vs. Mochy at the Chicago Open.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Sept-Oct 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-sept-oct-2012/) - Paul Weaver reports on a match between Falafel and Michy from the Monte Carlo World Championship of Backgammon.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2012/) - Jeremy Bagai and Ed O'Laughlin compete in the finals of the USBGF National Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jan-Feb 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jan-feb-2013/) - Petko Kostadinov wins the 2nd International Backgammon Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Mar-Apr 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-mar-apr-2013/) - Texas Backgammon Championships features a new event: The Dual-Duel.
- [PrimeTime Magazine May-Jun 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-may-jun-2013/) - The USBGF inaugurates the Online Match Feature on its website.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jul-Aug 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jul-aug-2013/) - Ed O'Laughlin plays Malcom Davis in the 2013 Los Angeles Open.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Sept-Oct 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-sept-oct-2013/) - Masayuki (Mochy) Mochizukiwins the 33rd Chicago Open Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2013](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2013/) - Bob Wachtel reports on the USBGF National Championship Finals between Jeremy Bagai and Ed O'Laughlin.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jan-Feb 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jan-feb-2014/) - Marty Storer analyzes key positions in the USBGF Team Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Mar-Apr 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-mar-apr-2014/) - Ray Fogerlund versus Mochy in the Dual Duel in San Antonio.
- [PrimeTime Magazine May-Jun 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-may-jun-2014/) - The magazine shines the spotlight on strong new players: Saba Bejanishvili, Julius High, and David Presser.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jul-Aug 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jul-aug-2014/) - The 2014 Nordic Open and the Denmark vs. the World challenge match.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Sept-Oct 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-sept-oct-2014/) - Akiko Yazawa wins 2014 Monte Carlo World Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2014](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2014/) - 2014 Texas Backgammon Championship Dual-Duel match between Petko Kostadinov and Saba Bejanishvili.
- [Prime Time Magazine Jan-Feb 2015](https://usbgf.org/prime-time-magazine-2015-winter/) - Ray Fogerlund is the 2014 Player of the Year.
- [Prime Time Magazine March-April 2015](https://usbgf.org/prime-time-magazine-spring-2015/) - On our cover, Victor Askenazi number 11 Giant of Backgammon.
- [PrimeTime Magazine May-June 2015](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-may-june-2015/) - Saba Bejanishvili graces the cover of the PrimeTime Magazine May-Jun 2015.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jul-Aug 2015](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jul-aug-2015/) - Joe Russell fresh from victories at the US Open and the Atlanta Masters Jackpot appear on the cover of the Jul-Aug PrimeTime Magazine.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Sep-Oct 2015](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-sep-oct-2015/) - Coverage of the Backgammon World Championship held in Monte Carlo.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Nov-Dec 2015](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-nov-dec-2015/) - Triumph for the USBGF, executive director Bill Riles leads the federation to 2016.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Jan-Feb 2016](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-jan-feb-2016/) - Kick off 2016 with induction of four members to the American Backgammon Hall of Fame.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Mar-Jun 2016](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-mar-jun-2016/) - Just a few months into 2016 and we barely have enough space to cover the burgeoning action on the backgammon scene.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2016](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2016/) - With this issue we begin to publish quarterly to include even more backgammon news.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2016](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazin-fall-2016/) - Read about the exciting final match of the World Championship held in Monte Carlo.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2017](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2017/) - This issue covers the biggest tournament of 2016, the 4th Merit Open.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2017](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2017/) - This issue features three Hall of Fame inductees.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2017](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2017/) - Three new American Backgammon Tour tournaments kicked off the first half of 2017: Boston, Minneapolis and Washington DC. Several articles contain suggestions for fine-tuning your game. Ed Rosenblum shares his system of producing flashcards tailored to his own errors. Marty Storer teaches how to save gammons as you bear in the last checker.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2017](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2017/) - Joe Russell kicks off our issue with an explanation of the Federation's newly ratified 2018 Tournament Rules.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2018](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2018/) - Carter Mattig, winner of the 5th Merit Open graces the cover.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2018](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2018-2/) - This issue celebrates the life of Paul Magriel, America's backgammon pioneer.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2018](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2018/) - This issue continues the tribute to Paul Magriel from a longtime acquaintance and student, Karen Davis.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2018](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2018/) - The USBGF awarded its highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, to the beloved Falafel Natanzon.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2019](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2019/) - This issue highlights the Queen of Backgammon, Carol Joy Cole, Hall of Famer and preeminent Tournament Director.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2019](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2019/) - Steve Sax, perennial Backgammon Giant is interviewed.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2019](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2019/) - This issue reports on the USA's results in the WBGF World Team Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2019](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2019/) - Report on Jonah Seewald's ride to victory in the Texas Championship.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2020](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2020/) - This is the first issue after the death of the great Falafel.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2020 Summer Issue](https://usbgf.org/primetime-2020-summer-issue/) - Our Summer issue is devoted to online tournaments.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2020](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2020/) - This issue follows Chris Trencher and his outstanding play in the first Magriel Cup.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2020 Winter](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2020-winter/) - Our Winter issue features 2019 ABT Champion, Frank Raposa.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2021 Winter Issue](https://usbgf.org/primetime-winter-2021/) - Our headline topic is the 2020 ABT Online! tour, with champion Art Benjamin!
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2021 Spring Issue](https://usbgf.org/primetime-2021-spring-issue/) - This issue features the marathon 2020 Ultimate Backgammon Championship final
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2021 Summer](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2021-summer/) - On our cover: Karen Davis! She is our newest inductee to the American Backgammon Hall of Fame.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2021 Fall](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2021-fall/) - Grandmaster Dmitriy Obukhov appears on our cover this month.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2022](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2022/) - Gerry Tansey on the cover a winner in the Denver Masters over Ed O'Laughlin.
- [2025-26 Selection Criteria for Women's Team Competitions](https://usbgf.org/new-selection-criteria-women-team-competitions/) - Learn what you need to do to qualify.
- [USBGF Expert Sessions - Decision Science & Your Path to Backgammon Excellence](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-decision-science-webinar/) - An Exclusive Webinar with 2-Time World Champion Frank Frigo
- [Results: Atlanta Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-atlanta-backgammon-classic/) - February 26-March 1, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia Results courtesy ChicagoPoint ABT CHAMPIONSHIP (56): 1-Rory Pascar (IL), 2-Kit Woolsey (CA); 1C-Petko Kostadinov (SC), 2C-Saba Bejanishvili (GA); 1LC-Kent Goulding (MD), 2LC-Sean Garber (IN). ABT ADVANCED (51): 1-Laura Granger (MI), 2-Ann Major (TX); 1C-Homer Hector (GA), 2C-Jeremy Moulton (GA); 1LC-Scott Redfern (GA), 2LC-Karen Janowsky (NY), 3LC/4LC-Rob Reynolds (GA) /
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2026](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2026/) - This issue we feature Rich Munitz.
- [Results: Texas Backgammon Champtionships](https://usbgf.org/results-texas-backgammon-champtionships/) - February 3-8, 2026; San Antonio, Texas Results Courtesy Chicago Point ABT GEOFFREY PARKER CHAMPIONSHIP (110+48 rebuys): 1-Benjamin Hugon (TX), 2-Saba Bejanishvili (GA), 3/4-Art Benjamin (CA) / Jörgen Granstedt (Sweden); 1C-Frank Frigo (CA), 2C-David Kettler (TX), 3C/4C-Roberto Litzenberger (VA) / David Todd (MO); 1LC-Irina Litzenberger (VA), 2LC-Petko Kostadinov (SC), 3LC/4LC-Victor Ashkenazi (NJ) / Matt Reklaitis (MA).
- [Results: New York Metropolitan Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/results-new-york-metropolitan-backgammon-open/) - January 15-19, 2026 Jersey City, New Jersey Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT CHAMPIONSHIP (178+74 rebuys): 1-Vlad Eydelman (WI), 2-Dirk Schiemann (Germany), 3/4-Doron Claxton (South Africa) / Josh Findley (TX), 5/8-Steve Sax (CA) / Julian Schulman (NY) / Blake Sorem (WA) / Marty Storer (NH); 1C-Chris Trencher (NY), 2C-Richard Munitz (NY), 3C/4C-Gary Koscielny (FL) /
- [2026 USBGF Online Championship](https://usbgf.org/2026-usbgf-online-championship/) - The USBGF is thrilled to announce our 2nd Annual USBGF Online Championship, a freeroll that had a total of 390 players last year! Players will battle it out in a 5-Loss Swiss Format tournament, playing others with the same record until there's only one remaining! This online tournament is the premier annual event designed to bring
- [2026 Hall of Fame Awards](https://usbgf.org/2026-usbgf-hall-of-fame-dinner/) - USBGF Awards Dinner & Hall of Fame Buckhorn Museum, 318 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205 5pm – 7:30pm Feb. 7 We will be hosting the 2026 USBGF Awards Dinner and Hall of Fame Induction at the famous Buckhorn Museum. Richard Munitz will be inducted into the USBGF Hall of Fame alongside Bill Riles
- [Results: California Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-california-backgammon-championship/) - December 3-7, 2025; Los Angeles, California Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (85+49 rebuys): 1-Robert Virnig (CA). 2-Vlad Eydelman (IL), 3-Arnold Freeman (CA), 4/5-Alex Farzan (CA) / Phil Simborg (FL); 1C-Frank Frigo (CA), 2C-Anthony Niakiani (CA), 3C/4C-Jack Edelson (MN) / Max Mowzoon (FL). ABT ADVANCED (58+36 rebuys): 1-Jeremy Ly (NY), 2-Wayland Augur (CA), 3-Alain
- [2025 Board of Directors Election Results](https://usbgf.org/2025-board-of-directors-election-results/) - We are pleased to announce the results of our 2025 USBGF Board of Directors election.
- [Vote for the 2025 USBGF Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-board-of-directors-election-2025/) - Cast your vote by December 10th, 2025
- [Backgammon Basics: How To Play](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-basics-how-to-play/) - Backgammon is a game for two players, played on a board consisting of twenty-four narrow triangles called points. The object of the game is to move all your checkers into your own home board and then bear them off. The first player to bear off all of their checkers wins the game
- [Results: 2025 Miami Open](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-miami-open/) - ABT – 2nd MIAMI OPEN BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIP(Results organized courtesy of ChicagoPoint)November 18-24, 2025; Sunny Isles Beach, Florida ABT OPEN (97+37 rebuys): 1-Petko Kostadinov (SC), 2-David Wells (CA), 3-Kimon Papachristopoulos (Germany), 4/5-Matt Cohn-Geier (NV) / Steve Sax (CA), 6/8-Carlos Azcarate (FL) / Herb Roman (IL) / Lev Rosenfeld (Israel); 1LC-Lynda Clay (CO), 2LC-David Winn (TX), 3LC/4LC-Richard
- [2025 Magriel Cup, USA vs. UK](https://usbgf.org/2025-magriel-cup/) - Watch the USA and UK teams battle it out this weekend, starting on Saturday November 15th, 2025
- [2025 Board Nominations](https://usbgf.org/2025-board-nominations/) - As prescribed by the By-Laws, the Board of Directors of the U.S. Backgammon Federation announces that members may nominate candidates, including themselves, for election to the Board of Directors. Nominees must be members of the USBGF. The Board asks members to please limit their nominees to candidates who have expressed a willingness to serve and
- [2025 Qualifier for the Magriel Cup](https://usbgf.org/2025-magriel-cup-qualifier/) - Hurry registration deadline is September 23rd, 2025.
- [2023 Magriel Cup, USA vs. UK: THE REMATCH](https://usbgf.org/magriel-cup-usa-vs-uk-the-rematch/) - Watch the USA and UK teams battle it out this weekend, starting on Saturday October 14th.
- [Results: Boston Open](https://usbgf.org/results-boston-open/) - October 29-November 2, 2025; Newton, Massachusetts Results Courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (67): 1-Ed Ahola (MA), 2-John Leonard (MA), 3/7-Felix Goykhman (NJ) / John Klein (MD) / Adrian Nedelcu (IL) / Grant Schneider (VA) / Mal Woolley (NY). ABT ADVANCED (44): 1-Marty Gross (MA), 2-Azim Rashidimalakshah (Canada), 3/5-Lou Carlascio (NJ) / Diego Rosenfeld (MA)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2022](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2022/) - On our cover we feature Michihito “Michy” Kageyama, long- time Giant of Backgammon and acclaimed author and teacher.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2022 Summer](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2022-summer/) - Brandon Macklin is featured on our cover. He is a Baltimore player who burst onto the scene by winning two events and the Consolation of another.
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2022 Fall](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-2022-fall/) - In this issue we highlight the exciting Monte Carlo World Championship. Featuring finalists Sander Lylloff and Zdeněk Žižka, with director Arda Fındıkoğlu.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2023](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2023/) - The star of this issue is Dennis Culpepper. His amazing performance in 2022 included wins in the Las Vegas Geoffrey Parker Super Jackpot and the Masters in Sunny Florida.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2023](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2023/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2023](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2023/) - Read the Summer 2023 issue! Available to Premium members and above.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2023](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2023/) - Frank Frigo, winner of the 54th Backgammon World Championship
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2024](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2023-2/) - Read the latest PrimeTime Magazine.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2024](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2024/) - Read the latest PrimeTIme Magazine.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2024](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2024/) - Dana Nazarian is the Summer issue’s featured player. He has had a streak stretching back to 2021, with particularly good results last year and the year before, and some cashes this year as well. Marty Storer’s article is “Dana Nazarian: Hard Work Pays Off” Wendy Kaplan wins the Women's National Championship and Art Benjamin reprises
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2024](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2024/) - In this issue, we spotlight Rory Pascar, newly crowned Grandmaster and winner of this year’s Viking Classic.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2025](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-winter-2025/) - This issue we feature Joe Urso, who after years of study and play has come into his own, and more.
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2025](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-fall-2025/) - This issue we feature Jack Edelson.
- [2026 American Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/2026-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame/) - Please welcome Richard Munitz to the American Backgammon Hall of Fame
- [Results: 2025 Wild West Shootout](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-denver-backgammon/) - ABT - WILD WEST SHOOTOUT: 7th ANNUAL DENVER OPEN BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENTOctober 8-12, 2025; Denver, Colorado ABT DIVISION 1 - BISON (54): 1-David Winn (TX), 2-Kara Schultz (CA), 3-Richard Siebold (CO), 4/5-Carl James (TX) / John O'Hagan (IN); 1C-Gus Contos (CA), 2C-Gary Koscielny (FL). ABT DIVISION 2 - GUNSLINGERS (25): 1-John Baron (OH), 2-Mark Weiner (CA), 3-Will
- [Results: 2025 Gammon Geaux Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-gammon-geaux/) - September 10-14, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT - OPEN (82+30 rebuys): 1-Richard Munitz (NY), 2-Chris Trencher (NY), 3/4-Neil Kazaross (IL) / Stepan Nuniyants (WA); 1C-Al Hodis (NV), 2C-Dan Minardi (CO), 3C/4C-Paul Polatov (NY) / Gerry Tansey (MO); 1LC-Mehmet Agirbas (GA), 2LC-Roberto Litzenberger (VA). ABT - INTERMEDIATE (57+15 rebuys): 1-Kevin McDonough
- [Results: Viking Classic Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-viking-classic-championships/) - Aug 27-Sep 1, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT - ODIN OPEN (42): 1-Bob Kamp (IL), 2-Kit Woolsey (CA), 3-John O'Hagan (IN), 4/5-Todd Obadal (IA) / Marty Storer (NH), 6/7-Jack Edelson (MN) / Roberto Litzenberger (VA). ABT - THOR ADVANCED (36): 1-Matthew Lundeen (MN), 2-Joe Briggs (MN), 3/4-Steve Hanson (MN) / Alex
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2025](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-summer-2025/) - This issue we feature Joe Urso, who after years of study and play has come into his own, and more.
- [Results: Wisconsin Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-wisconsin-backgammon-championships/) - August 6-10, 2025; Madison, Wisconsin Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (47): 1-Mo Abbasian (WI), 2-Roberto Litzenberger (VA), 3/4-Keene Marin (WI) / Richard Munitz (NY); 1C-Chris Trencher (NY), 2C-James "Yim Baum" Baumeister (WI); 1LC-Gerry Tansey (MO), 2LC-Sean Garber (IN). ABT INTERMEDIATE (39): 1-Mark Kaye (IL), 2-Tom Rosandich (WI), 3/4-Jeff Erdmann (FL) / Eric Wazner
- [Results: Saint Louis Gateway Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-saint-louis-gateway-open-backgammon-tournament/) - June 18-22, 2025; Saint Louis, Missouri Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (43): 1-Bernard Pollara (NY), 2-Sean Garber (IN), 3-Mehmet Agirbas (GA), 4/7-Ozgur Aktunc (TX) / Rory Pascar (IL) / Mike Senkiewicz (NY) / Gerry Tansey (MO). ABT ADVANCED (31): 1-Jim Zinkhon (IL), 2-Jim Glover (FL), 3-Hernan Cortes (GA), 4/7-Bob Ellis (TN) / Phil
- [Results: Los Angeles Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-los-angeles-open-backgammon-tournament/) - June 11-15, 2025; Los Angeles, California Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT OPEN (64+40 rebuys): 1-Richard Munitz (NY), 2-Steve Sax (CA), 3-Kit Woolsey (CA), 4/5-Art Benjamin (CA) / Kara Schultz (CA); 1C-Marty Storer (NH), 2C-Masayuki Mochizuki (Japan), 3C/4C-Ed Rosenblum (NM) / Peter Wisniewski (CA). ABT ADVANCED (41+25 rebuys): 1-Daniel Bluestone (VA), 2-David Cohen (CA), 3-Jim
- [2025 Chicago Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-2025-chicago-abt/) - May 21-26, 2025; Chicago, Illinois Results updated 05/28/25 at 9:00 AM EST ABT OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP (106): 1- Jack Edelson 2- Ian Terry; 3/8- Victor Ashkenazi, Steven Blanchard, David Habib, Eduardo Maciel, John O’Hagan, William Phipps; 9/13- Yim Baum, Garry Kallos, Dmitriy Obukhov, Herb Roman, Boris Shafransky ABT INTERMEDIATE (80): 1- Graham Webb, 2- Nura Awda,
- [Results:  2023 New York Metro Tournament](https://usbgf.org/2023-new-york-metro-tournament/) - Results: New York Metro Tournament
- [2024 Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-2024-vikings-classic/) - Results: Viking Backgammon Classic
- [2024 Saint Louis Gateway Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-saint-louis-gateway-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Saint Louis Gateway
- [2024 Wild West Shootout: Denver Annual Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-wild-west-shootout-denver-annual-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Denver Annual Backgammon Tournament
- [2024 Miami Open Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-miami-open-backgammon-championship/) - Results: Miami Open Backgammon Championship
- [2024 California State Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-california-state-backgammon-championship/) - Results: California State Backgammon Championship
- [Results: New York Metropolitan Open](https://usbgf.org/results-new-york-metropolitan-open-2/) - Results: New York Metropolitan Open
- [Results: Charlotte Backgammon Invitational](https://usbgf.org/results-charlotte-backgammon-invitational/) - Results Charlotte Backgammon Invitational
- [Results: Atlanta Spring Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-atlanta-spring-backgammon-classic-2/) - Results: Atlanta Spring Classic
- [Results: Ohio State Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-ohio-state-backgammon-championship/) - Results: Ohio State Backgammon Championship
- [Results: Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-cherry-blossom-backgammon-championship-2/) - April 9-13, 2025; Herndon, Virginia Results Courtesy of Chicago Point ABT CHAMPIONSHIP (75): 1-Richard Munitz (NY), 2-John Klein (MD), 3-Victor Ashkenazi (NJ), 4/5-Sabine Brinkmann (Germany) / Eddie Rodriguez (NY), 6/7-Kent Goulding (MD) / Dana Nazarian (CA), 8/11-Frank Frigo (CA) / John O'Hagan (IN) / Kit Woolsey (CA) / Anthony Wuersch (MA). ABT ADVANCED (32): 1-James
- [2025 Hall of Fame Awards](https://usbgf.org/hof-program/) - THE AWARDS DINNER AT THE LAX HILTON HOTEL: takes place on Saturday night, June 14, 2025 and honors those players, directors and other individuals who have made significant contributions to the game over a substantial period of time. The playing room will be closed so that everyone can attend. Reservations are cancelable with full refund up to
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2025](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-spring-2025/) - This issue we feature Zdeněk Žižka, who has become the #2 Giant of Backgammon.
- [2024 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2024-financial-report/)
- [2023 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2023-financial-report/)
- [2025 American Backgammon Hall of Fame — Call for Nominations](https://usbgf.org/2025-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame-call-for-nominations/) - Submit your nomination by September 30th, 2024. The American Backgammon Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have achieved extraordinary playing results and/or have made extraordinary contributions to the game of backgammon in the United States. Candidates are not limited to American citizens, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. The 2025 Hall of Fame dinner will
- [Qualifiers for the Magriel Cup and the WBIF Online World Team Championship](https://usbgf.org/qualifiers-for-the-magriel-cup-and-the-wbif-online-world-team-championship/) - Hurry registration deadline is September 5th.
- [Results: Annual Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-annual-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Annual Wisconsin State Backgammon Tournament
- [Backgammon Community Mourns the Loss of Hall of Famer Ed O'Laughlin, Champion and Mentor, at 85](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-community-mourns-the-loss-of-hall-of-famer-ed-olaughlin-champion-and-mentor-at-85/) - He played backgammon for over four decades, continually improving and maintaining his curiosity and enthusiasm.
- [Results: Los Angeles Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-los-angeles-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Los Angeles Backgammon Tournament
- [Results: Chicago Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-chicago-open-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Chicago Open Backgammon Tournament
- [Results: Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-cherry-blossom-backgammon-championship/) - Results: Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship
- [Tara Mendicino and Bill Riles to Receive USBGF Lifetime Achievement Awards](https://usbgf.org/tara-mendicino-and-bill-riles-to-receive-usbgf-lifetime-achievement-awards/) - Tara and Bill will be presented with their award at the 2025 Texas Backgammon Championships.
- [Results:  Ohio State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-ohio-state-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Ohio State Backgammon Championships
- [Qualifier for World Cup and Champions Cup](https://usbgf.org/qualifier-for-world-cup-and-champions-cup-2/) - Qualify to represent the U.S. in the WBIF World Cup and Champions Cup! Hurry entry deadline is Friday, March 29th.
- [Results: Atlanta Spring Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-atlanta-spring-backgammon-classic/) - Results: Atlanta Spring Classic
- [Results: Massachusetts State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-massachusetts-state-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Massachusetts State Backgammon Championships
- [ABT Calendar Update](https://usbgf.org/abt-calendar-update/) - Updates to the ABT calendar, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
- [Results: Texas Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-texas-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Texas Backgammon Championships
- [Three-Way Tiebreakers: A New Approach](https://usbgf.org/three-way-tiebreakers-a-new-approach/) - Read about our revised USBGF policy for handling three-way ties.
- [Results: New York Metropolitan Open](https://usbgf.org/results-new-york-metropolitan-open/) - Results: New York Metropolitan Backgammon Open
- [Backgammon Excellence: Recognizing the Top Performers of 2023](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-excellence-recognizing-the-top-performers-of-2023/) - ABT and Online Tournament Series Players of the Year for 2023.
- [2024 American Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/2024-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame/) - View the 2024 American Backgammon Hall of Fame inductees.
- [Results: California State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-california-state-backgammon-championships/) - Results: California State Backgammon Championships
- [2023 Board of Directors Election Results](https://usbgf.org/2023-board-of-directors-election-results/) - We are pleased to announce the results of our 2023 USBGF Board of Directors election.
- [Results: The Capital Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-the-capital-classic/) - ABT tournament results for The Capital Classic
- [Online Match Series: Sharpen Your Backgammon Skills](https://usbgf.org/online-match-series-sharpen-your-backgammon-skills/) - The USBGF Online Match Series (OLM) is back, and we'd like to extend a warm invitation for you to get involved!
- [Results: Connecticut Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-connecticut-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Connecticut Backgammon Champtionships
- [Time to Vote for the USBGF Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/time-to-vote-for-the-usbgf-board-of-directors-2023/) - Cast your vote by November 25th, 2023.
- [U.S. Backgammon Federation Announces Updated Ruleset Effective January 2024](https://usbgf.org/u-s-backgammon-federation-announces-updated-ruleset-effective-january-2024/) - Read about the new tournament rule changes coming in 2024.
- [Dice Distribution Spreadsheet](https://usbgf.org/dice-distribution-spreadsheet/) - Utilize this specially designed spreadsheet to elevate your backgammon studies. Watch the video to learn more.
- [Results: Saint Louis Gateway Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/results-saint-louis-gateway-backgammon-open/) - Results: Saint Louis Gateway Backgammon Open
- [Results:  Wild West Backgammon Shootout, 5th Denver Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-wild-west-backgammon-shootout-5th-denver-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Wild West Backgammon Denver Tournament
- [Results: Las Vegas Open Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/results-las-vegas-open-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Las Vegas Open Backgammon Tournament
- [Recommended Books: By Skill Level](https://usbgf.org/recommended-books-by-skill-level/) - One of the best ways to improve is by reading some of the excellent books that have been written about this complex game.
- [President's Corner: Winners and How They Win](https://usbgf.org/presidents-corner-winners-and-how-they-win/) - John Pirner discusses his thoughts on what is needed to become a champion.
- [Results: 20th Annual Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/results-20th-annual-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships/) - Results: Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships
- [Results: Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/results-viking-backgammon-classic/) - Results: Viking Backgammon Classic
- [Results: Sunny Florida Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/results-sunny-florida-backgammon-championship/) - Results: Sunny Florida Backgammon Championships
- [Nominate Your Candidate: 2023 USBGF Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/nominate-your-candidate-2023-usbgf-board-of-directors/) - Nomination time! Submit you candidate by September 7, 2023.
- [Proposed Tournament Rule Changes](https://usbgf.org/proposed-tournament-rule-changes/) - Submit your feedback by July 25th.
- [Results:  2022 St. Louis Gateway Open](https://usbgf.org/2022-st-louis-gateway-open/) - Results: St. Louis Gateway Open
- [Results:  2022 LAS VEGAS OPEN BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENT](https://usbgf.org/2022-las-vegas-open-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Las Vegas Open Backgammon Tournament
- [2022 California State Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/2022-california-state-backgammon-championship/) - Results: California State Backgammon Championship
- [Results:  2023 Texas Championships](https://usbgf.org/2023-texas-championships/) - Results: Texas Championships
- [Results: 2023 Atlanta Classic](https://usbgf.org/2023-atlanta-classic/) - Results: 2023 Atlanta Classic
- [Results: 28th Ohio State Championships](https://usbgf.org/28th-ohio-state-championships/) - Results: Ohio State Championships
- [Results: US Open Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/us-open-backgammon-championships/) - Results: US Open Backgammon Championships
- [Results: CHERRY BLOSSOM BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIP ](https://usbgf.org/cherry-blossom-backgammon-championship/) - Results: Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship
- [Results: PENNSYLVANIA STATE BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIPS](https://usbgf.org/pennsylvania-state-backgammon-championshipsmay-5-7-2023-philadelphia-pennsylvania/) - Results: Pennsylvania State Backgammon Championships
- [Results: 41st CHICAGO OPEN BACKGAMMON TOURNAMENT ](https://usbgf.org/41st-chicago-open-backgammon-tournament/) - Results: Chicago Open Backgammon Tournament
- [Results: 46th Los Angeles Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/46th-los-angeles-backgammon-open/) - Results: Los Angeles Backgammon Open
- [2023 American Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/2023-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame/) - The U.S. Backgammon Federation (USBGF) is pleased to announce the selection of Matvey "Falafel" Natanzon and Masayuki "Mochy" Mochizuki into the American Backgammon Hall of Fame.
- [Understanding Opening Replies](https://usbgf.org/understanding-opening-replies/) - A principles-based approach to mastering the 651 most common 2nd-roll positions in backgammon. Store these in your memory for easy retrieval.
- [Starting Off Right: Offence vs. Defense](https://usbgf.org/starting-off-right-offence-vs-defense/) - This article is the first in a series intended to address how to play when the game is still in its formative stages.
- [Qualifier for World Cup and Champions Cup](https://usbgf.org/qualifier-for-world-cup-and-champions-cup/) - Qualify to represent the U.S. in the WBIF World Cup and Champions Cup! Hurry entry deadline is Saturday, March 25th.
- [Rule FAQ: Understanding Dice on Checkers](https://usbgf.org/rule-faq-understanding-dice-on-checkers/) - To be valid, a die must come to rest on the playing field or checkers on the same side of the bar as rolled. If the die is supported by a vertical surface, balanced on its edge or corner, or descends below the top surface of all checkers on which it rests, then a re-roll is required. - Valid Rolls rule
- [2022 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2022-financial-report/)
- [Connecticut and Boston are Back on the ABT](https://usbgf.org/connecticut-and-boston-are-back-on-the-abt/) - Connecticut State is back on the American Backgammon Tour (ABT), effective in 2023, and Massachusetts State next year in 2024.
- [President's Corner](https://usbgf.org/presidents-corner-2/) - If attendance at the New York ABT is an indication of the year to come, it portends that 2023 will be a strong year for live tournament play.
- [Win a Backgammon Board](https://usbgf.org/win-a-backgammon-board/) - Enter to win. Hurry offer ends on January 8th.
- [What is backgammon?](https://usbgf.org/what-is-backgammon/) - Backgammon is a classic board game that people around the world have enjoyed for centuries.
- [2023 and 2024 American Backgammon Hall of Fame — Call for Nominations](https://usbgf.org/2023-and-2024-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame-call-for-nominations/) - Submit your nominations by December 31
- [2022 Board of Directors Election Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-board-of-directors-election-results/) - We are pleased to announce the results of our 2022 USBGF Board of Directors election.
- [President's Corner](https://usbgf.org/presidents-corner/) - Membership is at an all-time high of 1,415. We launched a new membership category with the new website called Premium Plus. It bundles a Premium membership with a hard copy of PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine.
- [Beginner's Guide to Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/beginners-guide-to-backgammon/) - This beginner's guide to backgammon gives you all you need to start playing today plus learn some fun history of the game!
- [Time to Vote for the USBGF Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/time-to-vote-for-the-usbgf-board-of-directors/) - Submit your vote by November 30th.
- [Nomination of Candidates for USBGF Board of Directors Election - Oct 28 deadline!](https://usbgf.org/nomination-of-candidates-for-usbgf-board-of-directors-election-oct-28-deadline/) - Submit your nominations by October 28th.
- [2022 Sunny Florida Championship: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-sunny-florida-championship-results/) - View results.
- [2022 Wild West Shootout: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-wild-west-shootout-live-updates/) - 2022 Wild West Shootout Results
- [2022 Viking Backgammon Classic: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-viking-backgammon-classic-results/) - 2022 Viking Classic Results
- [2022 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships (Results)](https://usbgf.org/2022-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships/) - See the results.
- [What is Backgammon 101?](https://usbgf.org/what-is-backgammon-101/) - Learning backgammon basics and having fun while doing it!
- [Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/) - 2022 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships Results
- [What is a Mission Sponsor?](https://usbgf.org/what-is-a-mission-sponsor/) - Mission Sponsors sustain educational programs, local club development, technology initiatives, marketing, and ABT tournament support.
- [2022 Los Angeles Open: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-los-angeles-open/) - Los Angeles Open Results
- [2022 Chicago Open: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-chicago-open-results/) - 2022 Chicago Open Results
- [Opening Rolls Part 2: 62, 63, 64](https://usbgf.org/opening-rolls-part-2-62-63-64/) - This is the second article in the Opening Rolls series. It covers three rolls: 62, 63, and 64.
- [Opening Rolls Part 1: The Easy Ones](https://usbgf.org/opening-rolls-part-1-the-easy-ones/) - This is the first article in the Opening Rolls series. An opening roll is the very first roll of any game. This article covers the best opening rolls: 31, 42, 61, 53, and 65.
- [Backgammon is War](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-is-war/) - Commander, and expert backgammon player, Julius High uses military terminology and strategies to define, illustrate, and emphasize fundamental backgammon principles.
- [An Invitation to Novices and Social Players](https://usbgf.org/an-invitation-to-novices-and-social-players/) - This invitation is directed to the “social players” on all the backgammon playing sites where there are large numbers of regulars who have never played in a live tournament.
- [Charting the Best Play: Introducing the XG Analysis Table](https://usbgf.org/charting-the-best-play-introducing-the-xg-analysis-table/) - Backgammon analysis has changed reflecting the increasing power and influence of computers.
- [Counting Magic: Handy Mental Shortcuts to Improve your Game](https://usbgf.org/counting-magic-handy-mental-shortcuts-to-improve-your-game/) - Art Benjamin shares some of his secrets with us in this hour-long engaging video lecture.
- [Mochy-Simborg Bold vs. Safe Lecture](https://usbgf.org/mochy-simborg-bold-vs-safe-lecture/) - A summary of Phil Simborg and Mochy’s 2013 presentation in San Antonio
- [2022 Atlanta Spring Classic: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-atlanta-spring-classic/) - ABT - 12th ATLANTA SPRING BACKGAMMON CLASSICMay 12-15, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia ABT CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION (38): 1-G.L. Harvie (VT), 2-Sean Garber (IN); 1C-Joe Urso (NY), 2C-Ed O’Laughlin (VA); 1LC-Jeff Spencer (MN) . ABT ADVANCED DIVISION (32): 1-Robert Ellis (TN), 2-Sandra Sha (FL); 1C-Roland Leutert (FL), 2C-Duncan Noyes (MA); 1LC-Jesus Ibarra (LA). NOVICE DIVISION (9): 1-Ece Agirbas (GA).
- [2022 Women's Online World Championship](https://usbgf.org/2022-womens-online-world-championship/) - Hurry registration deadline soon!
- [2021 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2021-financial-report/)
- [2022 Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-cherry-blossom-follow-the-action/) - Follow the live action.
- [Announcing Our 2022 USBGF Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients](https://usbgf.org/announcing-our-2022-usbgf-lifetime-achievement-award-recipients/) - We are pleased to announce that Marty Storer and Rich Munitz will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards at the 2022 USBGF Awards Dinner, to be held on Saturday, June 11, at the 44th Los Angeles Open.
- [2022 U.S. Open Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-u-s-open-backgammon-championships-results/) - April 6-10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada Results courtesy of Chicago Point ABT CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION (46+20 rebuys): 1-Brandon Macklin (MD), 2-Ken Bame (CA), 3/4-Al Hodis (NV) / Stacy Turner (FL); 1C-Stuart Hosen (NV), 2C-John O'Hagan (IN); 1LC-Dennis McFarlin (NV), 2LC-Ted Chee (CA). ABT INTERMEDIATE DIVISION (50+20 rebuys): 1-Mary Franks (NV), 2-Greg West (NV), 3/4-Apollo Lammers (MN)
- [Announcing the 2022 American Backgammon Hall of Fame Inductees](https://usbgf.org/announcing-the-2022-american-backgammon-hall-of-fame-inductees/) - We are pleased to announce that John O’Hagan and Art Benjamin will be inducted into the American Backgammon Hall of Fame!
- [2022 Ohio State Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-ohio-state-backgammon-championships-follow-the-action/) - See tournament results.
- [New Website Launched](https://usbgf.org/new-website-launched/) - usbgf.org gets an overhaul and a new look
- [New Website](https://usbgf.org/new-website/) - usbgf.org gets an overhaul and a new look
- [The Art of the Long Race](https://usbgf.org/the-art-of-the-long-race/) - Part of the Math Overboard Series by Art Benjamin. How to calculate your chances of winning the race.
- [Backgammon is as Easy as 1, 2, 3](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-is-as-easy-as-1-2-3/) - To progress from beginner to intermediate to champion, you have to master the basics of the game. They may seem complex but are as easy as one, two, three.
- [Meeting Future Challenges](https://usbgf.org/meeting-future-challenges/) - A developing vision for the future.
- [New Developments](https://usbgf.org/new-developments/) - Hall of Fame News and Much More.
- [Realizing our Mission](https://usbgf.org/realizing-our-mission/) - How we are progressing on our goal is to attract new players by giving them an entertaining and educational experience.
- [Backgammon, the USBGF, and You](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-the-usbgf-and-you/) - Karen Davis, and an ambitious road map.
- [Rising to the Challenge](https://usbgf.org/rising-to-the-challenge/) - Latest Federation Business.
- [How the USBGF Works](https://usbgf.org/how-the-usbgf-works/) - Learn about the USBGF vision and how the ABT tour is helping to grow backgammon.
- [Welcome to 2022:  John Answers Your Questions](https://usbgf.org/14012-2/) - Optimism has at times morphed into weariness, but we have found creative ways to manage risk and come together.
- [2022 Minnesota Open ABT Online: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-minnesota-open-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament updates and results.
- [2022 Texas Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/texas-backgammon-championships-results/) - Get tournament updates and results.
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out Series #2 ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-the-big-freeze-out-series-2-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament updates and results.
- [2022 THE BIG FREEZE-OUT SERIES #1 ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-the-big-freeze-out-series-1-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament results.
- [PrimeTime Magazine May-June 2012](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine-may-june-2012/) - Bob Wachtel reports on the Nordic Open.
- [2021 U.S. Open Backgammon Championships ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-u-s-open-abt-online-results/) - Tournament results
- [2022 New York Metropolitan Open: Results](https://usbgf.org/2022-new-york-metropolitan-open/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Minnesota Backgammon Open ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-minnesota-backgammon-open-abt-online-results/) - Tournament updates and results.
- [2021 Las Vegas Backgammon Open: Results](https://usbgf.org/2020-las-vegas-backgammon-open-abt-online-results/) - Get information and updates.
- [2021 California State Backgammon Championship: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-california-state-backgammon-championship/) - Get tournament news and updates.
- [2021 Chicago Classic Backgammon Tournament: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-chicago-classic-backgammon-tournament/) - Get tournament updates and results.
- [Backgammon for Complete Beginners Video Series](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-for-complete-beginners-video-series/) - Explore this excellent video series on the Ensor42 YouTube channel.
- [Attending Your First ABT](https://usbgf.org/attending-your-first-abt/) - Your guide as you enter your first American Backgammon Tour tournament.
- [Enjoy Backgammon at Home](https://usbgf.org/enjoy-backgammon-at-home/) - Backgammon is an enduringly popular board game, and for good reasons. We provide practical pointers for players just starting out on their backgammon journey.
- [2021 New York Metropolitan Backgammon Open ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-new-york-metropolitan-backgammon-open/) - Tournament updates and results.
- [2021 The Big Freeze-Out Backgammon Tournament ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-results/) - Tournament updates and results.
- [2021 Boston Backgammon Open ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-boston-backgammon-open-abt-online-results/) - Tournament updates and results.
- [2021 Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-cherry-blossom-backgammon-championship-abt-online-results/) - Tournament information and results.
- [2021 Beale Street Blues Backgammon Tournament ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-beale-street-blues-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Chicago Backgammon Open ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-chicago-backgammon-open-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Los Angeles Backgammon Open ABT Online!: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-los-angeles-backgammon-open-abt-online-results/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-michigan-summer-championships/) - Tournament information and results.
- [2021 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships-results/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Viking Backgammon Classic: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-viking-backgammon-classic/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Wild West Backgammon Shootout: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-wild-west-shootout-results/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 Sunny Florida Backgammon Championship: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-sunny-florida-backgammon-championship/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2021 St. Louis Gateway Backgammon Open: Results](https://usbgf.org/2021-st-louis-gateway-backgammon-open/) - Get tournament information and updates.
- [2018 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2018-financial-report/)
- [2020 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2020-financial-report/)
- [Founding Sponsors Program](https://usbgf.org/founding-sponsors-program/) - 200+ Founding Sponsors contributed over $400,000
- [Updated Logo](https://usbgf.org/updated-logo/) - Updated logo design
- [2019 Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/2019-financial-report/)
- [Matvey “Falafel” Natanzon](https://usbgf.org/mike-falafel-natanzon/) - Interviews and stories from Giant of Backgammon, Mike “Falafel” Natanzon.
- [Malcolm Davis](https://usbgf.org/malcolm-davis/) - Interviews and stories from Malcolm Davis.
- [Brand Redesign with Logo Update](https://usbgf.org/brand-redesign-with-logo-update/) - Brand redesign with logo update
- [Online Tournament Series](https://usbgf.org/online-tournament-series/) - An evolution of our Online Tournament Circuit
- [USBGF Master Points](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-master-points/) - Awarded for tournament play starting in 2014
- [Launch Video Streaming](https://usbgf.org/launch-video-streaming/) - Key matches at ABT tournaments streamed on YouTube
- [Acquired backgames.org](https://usbgf.org/acquired-backgames-org/) - Kind gift from developer Michael Darooge
- [Standards of Ethical Practice Created](https://usbgf.org/standards-of-ethical-practice/) - Rules and Ethics Committee formed in 2010
- [USBGF Logo](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-logo/) - Our first logo
- [Rod Covlin](https://usbgf.org/rod-covlin/) - President/Executive Director 2009–2010
- [John Pirner](https://usbgf.org/john-pirner/) - President/Executive Director 2020–present
- [Karen Davis](https://usbgf.org/karen-davis/) - President/Executive Director 2017–2020
- [Bill Riles](https://usbgf.org/bill-riles/) - President/Executive Director 2013–2017
- [Perry Gartner](https://usbgf.org/perry-gardner/) - President/Executive Director 2010–2013
- [Boards for Kids](https://usbgf.org/boards-for-kids/) - Free backgammon boards for students
- [ABT Online! Created](https://usbgf.org/abt-online-created/) - As a response to lockdown due to COVID-19 restrictions
- [Online Tournament Circuit](https://usbgf.org/online-tournament-circuit/) - September 2012–December 2020
- [USBGF Acquires American Backgammon Tour (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-acquires-american-backgammon-tour-abt/) - The ABT was created by Bill Davis in 1993
- [American Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/american-backgammon-hall-of-fame/) - Established by, then President and Executive Director, Bill Riles
- [Tournament of the Stars / USBGF National Championships](https://usbgf.org/tournament-of-the-stars/) - Inaugurated at the 2011 LA Open
- [USBGF Tournament Rules Rewriten](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-tournament-rules-rewriten/) - Simplified ruleset first used in 2017
- [First USBGF Ruleset Published](https://usbgf.org/first-usbgf-ruleset-published/)
- [USBGF Officially Endorses Legal Moves](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-officially-endorses-legal-moves/) - Putting the onus of legal moves on both players
- [PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine Launched](https://usbgf.org/primetime-backgammon-magazine-launched/) - Inaugural issue September–October
- [usbgf.org Launched](https://usbgf.org/launch-of-usbgf-org/)
- [Election of Board of Directors by Membership](https://usbgf.org/election-of-board-of-directors-by-membership/) - Online election of Board of Directors held annually beginning February 2014
- [U.S. Backgammon Foundation Formed](https://usbgf.org/u-s-backgammon-foundation-formed/) - Our 501c3 organization
- [Name Changed to U.S. Backgammon Federation](https://usbgf.org/name-changed-to-u-s-backgammon-federation/) - Our current name
- [U.S. Backgammon Association Formed](https://usbgf.org/u-s-backgammon-association-formed/) - Our original name

## Pages

- [Home](https://usbgf.org/) - Connect, Compete, and Celebrate Backgammon with the U.S. Backgammon Federation Your hub for online and in-person backgammon play, tournaments, and community. Online Tournaments In-Person Tournaments Local Clubs Brackets & Stats Tournament Results ABT Points Join the USBGF Become a Sponsor Play Backgammon Online The Online Tournament Series (OTS) offers dozens of exciting ways to play
- [ABT Post-Tournament Survey](https://usbgf.org/abt-post-tournament-survey/)
- [Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/membership/usbgf-community/women-of-backgammon/) - The USBGF Women of Backgammon, empower girls, women, and gender minorities to achieve their full potential. Learn. Connect. Grow.
- [USBGF Private Club Championship](https://usbgf.org/private-club-championship/) - Invite-only | USBGF membership required USBGF Private Club National Championship Private club teams compete for national honors and the NEW traveling trophy at The Briggs Residence in Palm Beach. The 2026 USBGF Private Club National Championship will be held Sunday, November 1, following the SAMP Backgammon Championship weekend. Purchase Team Entry The team fee is
- [Support Team USA at the London 2026 WBGF Team Championship](https://usbgf.org/team/) - Show Your Support for Team USA Our Mission In coordination with the USBGF, the US National Backgammon Team Committee is coordinating an effort to showcase the very best of the U.S. Backgammon Federation on the world stage during the August 2026 WBGF World Team Championships in London. The Event: WBGF World Team Championships When: August
- [Backgammon For Everyone: Novice Workshop](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-for-everyone-novice-workshop/) - Backgammon For Everyone: Novice Workshop Step Up, Roll the Dice, Play with Confidence Are you a backgammon novice excited to build your confidence? Look no further! The USBGF Backgammon For Everyone Novice Workshop, presented at select American Backgammon Tour (ABT) tournaments, is designed just for you. This two-day program covers everything you need to know
- [USBGF Community and Member Cancellation Policy](https://usbgf.org/community-policy/) - USBGF Community and Member Cancellation Policy Updated July 2026 On this page Membership Cancellation PolicySubscription FeesCredit card holder’s, or PayPal, account is immediately charged upon signup. Thereafter members are charged automatically on either a monthly or annual basis, depending on the payment frequency they choose. Monthly memberships are charged on the same day each month,
- [American Backgammon Hall of Fame Nomination Form](https://usbgf.org/american-backgammon-hall-of-fame-nomination-form/) - American Backgammon Hall of Fame Nomination Form Submit 2026 nominations by July 1, 2026 Use this form to nominate a candidate to the American Backgammon Hall of Fame. All USBGF members in good standing are invited to nominate up to three candidates for consideration by the USBGF Hall of Fame Committee. Candidates for the Hall
- [ABT Calendar](https://usbgf.org/abt-calendar/) - American Backgammon Tour (ABT) Calendar View upcoming ABT events. To see all of our events visit our full USBGF calendar. September 2026 02 - 07 Sep 2026 Viking Backgammon Classic Wednesday, Hilton Minneapolis Bloomington EVENT DETAIL 09 - 13 Sep 2026 New Orleans Backgammon Championships Wednesday, Kimpton Hotel Fontenot EVENT DETAIL 23 - 27 Sep
- [PrimeTime Ad Buys](https://usbgf.org/primetime-ad-buys/) - Content Deadlines Winter - Dec 30Spring - March 30Summer - June 30Fall - September 30 Want to connect with a highly engaged audience that appreciates quality backgammon content? An ad in our printed magazine puts your message directly into the hands of thousands of discerning readers who actively pursue the backgammon life. Discover how a
- [USBGF Online Points](https://usbgf.org/results/ratings/usbgf-online-points/) - USBGF Master Points - Online Play The below tables reflect USBGF Master Points for online play. Players earn USBGF online points by winning matches in designated events on the Online Tournament Series. Learn more about how points are calculated Looking for USBGF Points for in-person play? Current YearPrevious YearAll TimeCurrent Year First : Last :
- [USBGF Points](https://usbgf.org/results/ratings/usbgf-master-points/) - USBGF Master Points - Live Play The below tables reflect USBGF Master Points for in-person play. Players earn USBGF points by winning matches in designated events, such as a skill-based event at an ABT tournamet or other USBGF sanctioned event. Learn more about how points are calculated Looking for USBGF Online Points? Current YearPrevious Years
- [Club Resources](https://usbgf.org/club-resources/) - Club Resources On this page Run Your Tournament Download these print-ready templates to run your next club tournament. Fill in player names and go. All Tournament Drawsheets Download Player Sign Up Sheet Download Scorecards - 6 to a page Download 8 Player Draw Download 10 Player Draw Download 12 Player Draw Download 16 Player Draw
- [PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/primetime-magazine/) - PrimeTime Magazine Get the latest issue of PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine PrimeTime Backgammon is the official magazine of the U.S. Backgammon Federation. Once every quarter you will enjoy an issue packed with articles by leading backgammon players and authors, backgammon news, people features, community updates, and more. A Great Member BenefitElectronic access to PrimeTime is one
- [Submit Your Club](https://usbgf.org/submit-your-club/) - Submit your club Help grow the backgammon community by listing your club on the USBGF directory.Fill out the form below with your club’s information. Once submitted, our team will review your listing and publish it within a few business days. "*" indicates required fields Club name* Club ScheduleClub Website URL Meetup Link Discord Server Paste
- [ABT Live Tournaments](https://usbgf.org/play/find-a-tournament/play-backgammon-in-person/abt-tournaments/) - ABT Live Tournaments An American backgammon institution since 1993 American Backgammon Tour (ABT) tournaments are a great opportunity to sharpen your backgammon skills while competing with players at your own skill level. Players enjoy winning prizes, meeting other backgammon enthusiasts, making new friends, and exploring interesting places across North America and beyond.The ABT is a
- [Contact Us](https://usbgf.org/contact-us/) - Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you. Email hello@usbgf.org Mailing Address U.S. Backgammon Federation1114 North Leroy StUnit #3064Fenton, MI 48430
- [Become a Mission Sponsor](https://usbgf.org/membership/give/mission-sponsor/) - Become a Mission Sponsor Your generous gift helps to support our mission to grow backgammon. . Pay Monthly Pay Annually Bronze Backgammon Lesson Bronze Doubling Cube Silver Backgammon LessonShirt, Hat, or Coffee CupSilver Doubling Cube Gold Backgammon Lesson Book: Dice, Cubes & GentlemenGold Doubling Cube Platinum Belair Watch Book: Dice, Cubes & Gentlemen Platinum Doubling
- [Member Benefits](https://usbgf.org/membership/member-benefits/) - Member Benefits When you become a U.S. Backgammon Federation (USBGF) member, you join a passionate community of people who love the game. Our mission is to grow backgammon and to provide quality education and play experiences.Wherever you are on your backgammon journey, we are here to help you learn and — most importantly — have
- [Backgammon Teachers](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-teachers/) - Connect & Learn from the Best in Backgammon Your hub for reaching backgammon teachers around the world. Numerous accolades, Giants of Backgammon, and certified instructors in backgammon. Every instructor has an unique approach to the game, find one that matches your goals and strive for excellence in your next ABT Event! Art Benjamin 2020 ABT
- [How USBGF Points are Calculated](https://usbgf.org/how-points-are-calculated/how-usbgf-master-points-are-calculated/) - How USBGF Master Points are Calculated Updated by: Richard Munitz and Joe Russell, Effective January, 2019 On this page Quick Reference Master Points are awarded in two types: Match Win Master Points Placement Master Points Match Win Master Points = Event Weight * Division Weight * Match Win Points Placement Master Points = Event Weight
- [National Team Criteria](https://usbgf.org/national-team-criteria/) - We are excited to share some important updates regarding the selection criteria for the U.S. National Backgammon Team, which represents the USBGF in the annual in-person team competition.
- [Chicago Backgammon League Member Signup](https://usbgf.org/chicago-league/) - Chicago Backgammon League Signup The Chicago Backgammon League (CBL) is where strategy meets camaraderie—and now, the U.S. Backgammon Federation (USBGF) wants to help you take that passion to the next level. Whether you’re a regular at the CBL weekly meetups, a competitor in the seasonal rankings, or a newcomer learning the ropes in Naperville, joining the
- [Heroes Upgrade for USBGF](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-heroes-premium-upgrade/) - USBGF Member Heroes Upgrade Upgrading your Backgammon Studio Heroes account to a Premium membership unlocks a suite of advanced tools designed to take your game to the next level. While the platform is famous for its depth, a Premium subscription offers a number of benefits. Guaranteed server access during peak times. You won’t need to
- [Magriel Cup History](https://usbgf.org/magriel-cup-history/) - Magriel Cup History USA 2 WINS VS. 1 WIN UK Browse the events years 2025 MAGRIEL CUP 2023 MAGRIEL CUP 2025 Magriel Cup The Magriel Cup is an annual, team-based backgammon competition held online between the United Kingdom Backgammon Federation (UKBGF) and the United States Backgammon Federation (USBGF). It is named in honor of Paul
- [ABT Online! Points](https://usbgf.org/results/ratings/abt-online-points/) - ABT Online! Points The below tables reflect American Backgammon Tour (ABT) points for online play. Players earn ABT points by placing in an American Backgammon Tour sanctioned event. Learn more about how points are calculatedLooking for ABT Points for in-person play? Current Year By Tournament Previous Years All Time Additional Data Current Year Main Point
- [Find a Club](https://usbgf.org/play/find-a-backgammon-club/) - Find a Backgammon Club Connect with local backgammon enthusiasts. Find backgammon clubs in your local area. A Prime Club has 8 or more USBGF members. Help us keep this page updated. If you have a correction or want to add your club to this page, please contact us. Do you attend a local club? Tell
- [Fundraising Thank You Page](https://usbgf.org/national-team-fundraising-thank-you/) - Thank you for donating to the National Team fundraiser. Your donation helps secure the very best players for Team USA. Funds are used in the following order: Tournament Fees Uniforms Streaming Costs Hotel Accommodations Meal Expenses Some travel expenses
- [Our People](https://usbgf.org/about/our-people/) - Our People People who make us great Board of Directors April Mesich Director Benjamin Friesen Interim President, Treasurer Dan Minardi Director Jason Briggs Director, Planned Giving Program Richard Munitz Ratings and Stats Committee, Rules and Ethics Committee, Online Tournament System Developer Rory Pascar Eligibility Committee Kara Schultz Board Chairman Ian Terry Director Alex Eshaghian Director
- [Our Mission](https://usbgf.org/about/our-mission/) - Our Mission Growing backgammon since 2010 The U.S. Backgammon Federation is a not-for-profit organization devoted to advancing backgammon as a social pastime and competitive mind sport. Backgammon has existed in some form or another for over 5,000 years, so, relatively, we are a young organization. The USBGF® leads a community of players who are passionate
- [Individual Sponsors](https://usbgf.org/about/our-sponsors/individual-sponsors/) - Individual Sponsors The USBGF salutes the individuals and organizations who generously support our federation by becoming sponsors. Become a sponsor today! Mission Sponsors Donor product_id Mission Sponsorship Pete Jarvis 1,824 Mission Bronze Ian Terry 1,824 Mission Bronze John Y Brown III 1,824 Mission Bronze Andrew Goldman 1,824 Mission Bronze Blake Fleetwood 1,824 Mission Bronze Kara
- [Backgammon Club for Kids](https://usbgf.org/membership/usbgf-community/backgammon-club-for-kids/) - Our online backgammon club for kids gives your child the opportunity to play with other youth from around the world.
- [American Backgammon Tour (ABT) Policy](https://usbgf.org/american-backgammon-tour-policy/) - American Backgammon Tour (ABT) Policy Effective January 1, 2024 - Revised April 19, 2024 On this page Overview The purpose of the American Backgammon Tour is to promote unified live national tournament backgammon competition in order to advance the participation, education, and enjoyment of the skill-based game of backgammon for players served by the U.S.
- [Quick Register](https://usbgf.org/quick-register/) - First Name:* First Name Required Last Name:* Last Name Required Address Line 1:* Address Line 1 is Required Address Line 2: Address Line 2 is not valid City:* City is Required Country:* Country is Required -- Select Country -- United States (US) Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina
- [ABT Points](https://usbgf.org/results/ratings/abt-points/) - ABT Points - Live Play The below tables reflect American Backgammon Tour (ABT) points for in-person play. Players earn ABT points by placing in an American Backgammon Tour sanctioned event. Learn more about how points are calculatedLooking for ABT Points for online play? Table of Contents Current Year Main ABT Point Race # Year Player
- [Giants of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/results/awards-recognition/giants-of-backgammon/) - Giants of Backgammon The Giants of Backgammon list ranks players from around the world based on their performance and active involvement in backgammon. Every two years, championship-level players and tournament directors submit their ranking, and results are tabulated and published by committee members Yamin Yamin, John Stryker, Jake Jacobs, and Carol Joy Cole. Photos and
- [Phil Simborg's Video Lessons](https://usbgf.org/learn/increase-your-skill/phil-simborg-video-lessons/) - Phil Simborg's Video Lessons Teaching pro Phil Simborg, along with other visiting top players, helps us demystify the complex as well the basic.Phil Simborg is a full-time backgammon-playing and teaching professional. He is the lifeblood of the Backgammon Learning Center and volunteers much of his time to bringing new, young players into the game. Explore
- [Learn](https://usbgf.org/learn/) - Increase Your Skill Expert guidance for all skill levels Bray's Learning CurveEach week, Chris Bray lends his sharp insight to help you improve your game Phil Simborg's Video LessonsLearn practical tips and tricks from backgammon pro Phil Simborg Bill Robertie ChallengeWhen you have more than one good option, which one is the best? Online Match
- [Online Match Series](https://usbgf.org/learn/online-match-series/) - Online Match Series Play in daily battle and try to beat a backgammon expert. The Online Match Series (OLM) offers a unique backgammon experience. USBGF members collectively participate — through voting — in matches against a formidable opponent. It progresses at a relaxed pace with one move made each day or so. Our OLM posts
- [Increase Your Skill](https://usbgf.org/learn/increase-your-skill/)
- [Committees](https://usbgf.org/about/committees/) - Committees On this page Governance and Nominating Committee Members: Antoinette Williams (Chair), John PirnerCharge: Oversee election of directors, identify additional needed Board director competencies, succession planning Hall of Fame Committee Members: Joe Russell (Chair), Patrick Gibson, Neil Kazaross, Kent Goulding, Frank Talbot, Karen Davis, Jake Jacobs Charge: Oversee election of inductees to Hall of Fame; awards dinner
- [Lifetime Achievement](https://usbgf.org/results/awards-recognition/lifetime-achievement/) - USBGF Lifetime Achievement This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution over their lifetime to the conduct of the game and tournaments, knowledge about its history and traditions, or the creation of tools, strategies, commentary, and educational offerings that have advanced the game. Butch and Mary Ann Meese 2023 Their tireless efforts
- [Recommended Books](https://usbgf.org/learn/recommended-books/) - Recommended Books One of the best ways to improve is by reading some of the excellent books that have been written about this complex game. Trying to become a better backgammon player? One of the best ways to improve is by reading some of the excellent books that have been written about this complex game.
- [Tournament Results](https://usbgf.org/tournament-results/) - ABT Live Results ABT Online Results Africa Asia Australia Europe North America South America All Results: 2026 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships 51st MICHIGAN SUMMER BACKGAMMON CHAMPIONSHIPS July 1-5, 2026; Novi, Michigan ABT OPEN (74): 1-Garry Kallos (Canada), 2-Gary Koscielny (FL), 3-Michael Mesich (MN), 4/5-Ricky Griggs (MI) / Marty Storer (NH), 6/8-Jim Airgood (MI) / Paul
- [Home v1](https://usbgf.org/home-v1/) - Growing backgammon since 2010. Our focus is to provide education, offer quality play experiences, and help more people discover backgammon.
- [Leaderboards](https://usbgf.org/results/ratings/leaderboards/) - Leaderboards View our top performers for the current year. JUMP TO: ABT Live ABT Online! USBGF Online USBGF Live American Backgammon Tour (ABT) Points ABT Live Play - Top 20 See all Main Race # Name wpid abtpointsearned Points Year 1 Vlad Eydelman 7047 37.38 37.38 2026 2 Marty Storer 1796 5.69 34.63 2026 3
- [Start A Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/play/start-a-backgammon-club/) - Start a Backgammon Club Start a trend and connect with local backgammon enthusiasts. If a backgammon club does not exist in your city already, you are welcome to create one. The USBGF will support interested club captains in their journey to find members and promote the game locally. Step 1: Choose a location. First things
- [Online Tournament Series FAQ & Support](https://usbgf.org/ots-support/) - How to Play Online Tournaments Do you want to take your backgammon game to a more competitive level? You can do this from the comfort of your home and on your own schedule!Online Tournament Series (OTS) event registration is done on our website. Online play happens on one of our authorized playing sites. Our preferred
- [Corporate Sponsors](https://usbgf.org/about/our-sponsors/corporate-sponsors/) - Corporate Sponsors We thank our corporate sponsors for the benefits they provide to both the USBGF and our members! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please send us a message. Gammon Stuff Gammon Stuff and its CEO John Pirner are generous donors to the USBGF. Gammon Stuff provides a free FTH backgammon set, including cups,
- [Rules for In-Person Play](https://usbgf.org/tournament-rules/rules-for-in-person-play/) - Rules for in Person Play Effective 1/2025 On this page These Tournament Rules govern live tournament backgammon play. They are a complete, though concise rendition of the WBGF Tournament Rules, having the identical intent and interpretation.INTERPRETATION AND SCOPEIn case of a dispute or inquiry, participants must be truthful and forthcoming when questioned by the Tournament
- [FAQ](https://usbgf.org/faq/) - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What do I do if my USBGF password is not working? Resetting your password usually resolves this issue. Go to the login page, click on the Forgot Password link, and follow the prompts to reset your password. How do I transfer eXtremeGammon to a new computer? If you change computers and
- [Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/about/our-people/board-of-directors/) - Board of Directors April Mesich Director Benjamin Friesen Interim President, Treasurer Dan Minardi Director Jason Briggs Director, Planned Giving Program Richard Munitz Ratings and Stats Committee, Rules and Ethics Committee, Online Tournament System Developer Rory Pascar Eligibility Committee Kara Schultz Board Chairman Ian Terry Director Alex Eshaghian Director Roberto Litzenberger Director Remington Davenport Director
- [Calendar](https://usbgf.org/play/calendar/) - Backgammon Calendar Plan your next backgammon adventure Use the filters below to search, or filter by type of event. Looking for a list of just ABT tournaments? Event Type ABT Live Local Tournaments Online Tournament Series Women’s Event SelectJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecemberSelect202620272028202920302031203220332034 August 2026 15 Aug Iowa State Fair Backgammon Tournament Saturday Local Time: Aug 15 2026 |
- [Backgammon Glossary](https://usbgf.org/backgammon-glossary/) - Backgammon Glossary by Michael Strato A · B · C · D · E · F · G · H · I · J · K · L · M · N · O · P · Q · R · S · T · U · V · X AAce: The number one on a
- [Tournament Rules](https://usbgf.org/tournament-rules/) - USBGF Tournament Rules Rules for in Person Play U.S. Backgammon Federation rules for live tournament play – Effective January 2025 Download in Person Rules Rules for Online Play U.S. Backgammon Federation rules for online tournament play – Effective July 2021 View Online Rules Ruling Guide Provides greater detail about the intent of the 2025 Tournament
- [Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB)](https://usbgf.org/results/awards-recognition/backgammon-masters-awarding-body-bmab/) - Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB) BMAB The Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB) awards mastership titles and proficiency level certificates to players based on demonstrated skill. The fundamental goal of BMAB is to promote backgammon as a leading international mind-sport.Players are awarded titles based on their calculated performance rating (PR) in a large number of verified
- [Online Tournament Series](https://usbgf.org/play/find-a-tournament/play-backgammon-online/online-tournament-series/) - Online Tournament Series Flexible-Schedule Online Tournaments Our Online Tournament Series (OTS) is a great member benefit. It allows you to play in tournaments from your home — or wherever you are — on your own schedule. It is perfect for busy adults! First time playing in the OTS? Follow our step-by-step instructions
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- [How ABT Points are Calculated](https://usbgf.org/how-points-are-calculated/how-abt-points-are-calculated/) - How ABT Points are Calculated Effective January 1, 2025 On this page OverviewOnly players who place in an ABT event receive ABT points. To place, a player must achieve a position or rank in the event specifically designated for recognition by the director. Players entering ABT main events are segregated into skill divisions, with each
- [Deceased Members](https://usbgf.org/staff-reports/deceased-members/) - Deceased Members All Members active popular newest George Sai-Halasz Greg Merriman Lloyd E. (LEW) Webber Alice Kay Greg Evans Edward Bauder Bill Davis Sam Ahmed Ed O'Laughlin Bill Finneran Duncan Noyes Steve Binenstock Quint McTyeire Larry Roberg Tak Morioka Jacques Hay Ralf Priebe Larry Oman Eliot Bean Scott Butki Emil Mortuk Butch Meese Charles Haley
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- [PrimeTime Mailing List  Report](https://usbgf.org/staff-reports/primetime-mailing-list/) - PrimeTime Mailing List FullName : City : State : Zip : Country : Membership : ExpirationDate : AutoRenew : Clear filters FullName Address1 Address2 City State Zip Country Membership ExpirationDate AutoRenew Patrick Gibson 7641 Orion Ave Van Nuys CA 91406 US PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine Quarterly (Print Edition Only – No Membership) 02/13/2027 Yes Karen Davis
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- [List of Backgammon Clubs Report](https://usbgf.org/staff-reports/list-of-backgammon-clubs/)
- [Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/results/awards-recognition/backgammon-hall-of-fame/) - American Backgammon Hall of Fame The American Backgammon Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have achieved extraordinary playing results and/or have made extraordinary contributions to the game of backgammon in the United States. Billy Horan 2026 Billy Horan was an extraordinary backgammon player. He was one of the best money players in the world and
- [Foundation](https://usbgf.org/about/foundation/) - U.S. Backgammon Foundation Our 501c3 sister organization. MissionThe U.S. Backgammon Foundation (hereafter Foundation) was established in 2010 as a 501c3 incorporated in the State of Delaware to provide and advance the education of the skill-based game of backgammon to institutions, clubs and individuals. The Foundation conducts discussion groups, forums, lectures, and similar programs on the
- [New to Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/learn/new-to-backgammon/) - New to Backgammon Start your learning journey here Novice Workshop Backgammon For Everyone In Select Cities Backgammon is as Easy as 1, 2, 3 To progress from beginner to intermediate to champion, you have to master the basics of the game. They may seem complex but are as easy as one, two, three. Backgammon Basics
- [Tournament Brackets](https://usbgf.org/results/tournament-brackets/) - Tournament Brackets Find tournament brackets for American Backgammon Tour events. Follow the live action and explore completed tournaments and stats. > ABT Brackets> ABT Online! Brackets
- [How to Play the Online Tournament Series](https://usbgf.org/play/find-a-tournament/play-backgammon-online/online-tournament-series/how-to-play-the-online-tournament-series/) - How to Play the Online Tournament Series Do you want to take your backgammon game to a more competitive level? You can do this from the comfort of your home and on your own schedule! Online Tournament Series (OTS) event registration is done on our website. Online play happens on one of our authorized playing
- [Mega Menu Navigation Test Page](https://usbgf.org/mega-menu-navigation-test-page/)
- [Time to Vote for the USBGF Board of Directors](https://usbgf.org/time-to-vote-for-the-usbgf-board-of-directors/) - The USBGF Board of Directors election is underway. All members in good standing are eligible to vote. Members may vote until 11:45 p.m. EST, Wednesday, November 25, 2023. Each member may submit only one ballot.We have four board seats to fill and four candidates to choose from. Yes, there are four candidates for four seats,
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- [Bill Robertie Challenge](https://usbgf.org/learn/increase-your-skill/bill-robertie-challenge/) - Bill Robertie Challenge Expert backgammon player and author Bill Robertie provides challenging puzzles that illustrate important principles that you can immediately apply to your game!Bill is the author of multiple books including 501 Essential Backgammon Problems and the How to Play the Opening in Backgammon series. View and purchase books at his website, thegammonpress.com Improve Your
- [Bray's Learning Curve](https://usbgf.org/learn/increase-your-skill/brays-learning-curve/) - Bray's Learning Curve Each week, author Chris Bray lends his sharp insight and easy-to-understand analysis to help you improve your game. Chris is the author of multiple backgammon books, including Backgammon for Dummies, and is the backgammon columnist for The Times of London. A New Puzzle Every Week Every Monday Chris posts an interesting backgammon position
- [Logos and Brand Guidelines](https://usbgf.org/logos-and-brand-guides/) - Logos and Brand Guidelines On this page USBGF Prime Club Badge Backgammon clubs that meet the USBGF requirements for a Prime Club may display this badge. Download for: Digital Use I Print Use ABT Logos Tournaments that offer USBGF sanctioned American Backgammon Tour (ABT) events are allowed to use the ABT logo. Download for: Digital
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- [ABT Results](https://usbgf.org/results/tournament-results/) - Tournament Results View results for backgammon tournaments. 202620252024202320222021 ABT Live ResultsABT Online ResultsNorth America Results: 2026 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships July 14, 2026 ABT Live Results, News, Tournament Results 2025 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships Results: St. Louis Gateway Open Backgammon Tournament June 26, 2026 ABT Live Results, North America, Tournament Results Results: 2026 Cherry Blossom
- [People Features](https://usbgf.org/membership/usbgf-community/people-features/) - People Features Malcolm Davis Interviews and stories from Malcolm Davis. Matvey “Falafel” Natanzon Interviews and stories from Giant of Backgammon, Mike “Falafel” Natanzon.
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- [Our History](https://usbgf.org/about/our-history/) - Our History Browse our organizational milestones March 1, 2022New Websiteusbgf.org gets an overhaul and a new look January 30, 2021Brand Redesign with Logo UpdateBrand redesign with logo update January 1, 2021Online Tournament SeriesAn evolution of our Online Tournament Circuit April 1, 2020ABT Online! CreatedAs a response to lockdown due to COVID-19 restrictions April 1, 2020John
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- [ABT Points - Live Play](https://usbgf.org/2022-abt-points-live-play/) - ABT Points - Live Play Current Year By Tournament Previous Years All Time Additional Data Current Year Open/Championship Division # Year Player Name wdt_ID wpid abtpointsearned Date Updated Total 32 2026 Karen Davis 6,950 1250 5.53 04/17/2026 11.35 27 2026 Richard Munitz 6,854 1256 10.66 01/16/2026 12.86 7 2026 Kit Woolsey 6,914 1260 10.67 02/28/2026
- [News](https://usbgf.org/news/) - Backgammon News World Team USA vs Iran Exhibition Match July 17, 2026 On Friday & Saturday (July 17/18) for a clash of backgammon’s best with live commentary from several members of Team USA! As a warmup to the WBGF World Team Championship Results: 2026 Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships July 14, 2026 51st MICHIGAN SUMMER BACKGAMMON
- [Staff and Volunteers](https://usbgf.org/about/our-people/staff-and-volunteers/) - Our Staff Candace Mayeron Special Projects Ed Corey Member Services Karen Davis Chair of the PrimeTime Editorial Board and Chairman of the U.S. Backgammon Foundation Jeb Horton Chief Financial Officer Julius High Workshop Instructor Martin Thurmann OTS Tournament Director Matt Patterson Director of Operations Michael Mesich Chief Technology Officer John Pirner Director Marty Storer Executive
- [Articles and Presentations](https://usbgf.org/learn/increase-your-skill/articles-and-presentations/) - Articles and Presentations What is Backgammon 101? Learning backgammon basics and having fun while doing it! Backgammon is as Easy as 1, 2, 3 To progress from beginner to intermediate to champion, you have to master the basics of the game. They may seem complex but are as easy as one, two, three. Backgammon Basics
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- [Standards of Ethical Practice](https://usbgf.org/standards-of-ethical-practice/) - USBGF Standards of Ethical Practice Updated: September 2019 On this page Goals The USBGF has formed a Rules and Ethics Committee dedicated to helping the backgammon community achieve the highest possible levels of fair play, good sportsmanship, and appropriate behavior. We have two goals in seeking to maintain these higher ideals: to assure that participation
- [How Points are Calculated](https://usbgf.org/how-points-are-calculated/)
- [Rules for Online Play](https://usbgf.org/tournament-rules/rules-for-online-play/) - Rules for Online Play Updated Month DD, YYYY On this page American Backgammon Tour (ABT) Online Rules INTERPRETATION AND SCOPE In case of a dispute or inquiry, participants must be truthful and forthcoming when questioned by the tournament director (Director), who shall determine the most appropriate course of action in circumstances not expressly addressed by
- [Test App Server Query](https://usbgf.org/test-app-server-query/) - Test App Server Query. DimPlayerKey LastName FirstName 1 Covlin Anna 2 Covlin Myles 3 Covlin Roderick 4 Gibson Patrick 5 Gillis Harvey 6 Davis Karen 7 Gartner Perry 8 Taylor Larry H. 9 Mamlet Alfred 10 Bennett Edward B. DimPlayerKey LastName FirstName
- [USBGF By-Laws](https://usbgf.org/usbgf-by-laws/) - USBGF By-Laws The By-Laws of the U.S. Backgammon Federation – Effective March 7, 2017 Download By-Laws
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## Groups

- [Standard Memberships](https://usbgf.org/membership-levels/join-renew/)
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## Memberships

- [Premium Plus Monthly](https://usbgf.org/join/premium-plus-monthly/)
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- [Legacy Premium Quarterly](https://usbgf.org/join/legacy-premium-quarterly/) - Recurring quarterly plan $15 every three months. This is a legacy plan.
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- [Legacy Magazine Subscription](https://usbgf.org/join/legacy-magazine-subscription/) - $25.05 per issue, billed every three months. This is a legacy plan and is no longer available.
- [Legacy Basic Quarterly](https://usbgf.org/join/legacy-basic-quarterly/) - $10 every three months. This legacy plan is not available.
- [Founding Sponsor Silver](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-silver/) - Donation of $800.00. Legacy sponsorship level, no longer available.
- [Founding Sponsor Platinum](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-platinum/) - A donation of $3,200.00. This legacy sponsor plan is not available.
- [Founding Sponsor Gold](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-gold/) - A $1,600 donation. This legacy sponsorship program is not available.
- [Founding Sponsor Diamond](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-diamond/) - A donation of $6,400. This legacy sponsorship program is not available.
- [Founding Sponsor Bronze](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-bronze/) - One-time payment of $400.00. This is a legacy sponsorship program, no longer available.
- [Founding Sponsor Beaver](https://usbgf.org/join/founding-sponsor-beaver/) - This is a legacy sponsor type and is not open to new members.

## Lessons

- [Principles of cluster counting (Video)](https://usbgf.org/courses/pip-counting-with-art-benjamin/lessons/principles-of-cluster-counting/)
- [Holding the count using American Sign Language](https://usbgf.org/courses/pip-counting-with-art-benjamin/lessons/holding-the-count-using-american-sign-language/)
- [Review the American Sign Language Numbers](https://usbgf.org/courses/pip-counting-with-art-benjamin/lessons/review-the-american-sign-language-numbers/) - In American Sign Language (ASL), numbers 1-5 are signed with the palm facing inward, while numbers 6-10 are signed with the palm facing outward. Numbers 1-5 are formed by extending the index finger for 1, index and middle fingers for 2, index, middle, and thumb for 3, index, middle, ring, and pinky for 4, and all fingers
- [Backgammon Etiquette](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/backgammon-etiquette/)
- [Openings](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/openings/)
- [Middle Game - Meaning](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/middle-game-meaning/)
- [Cube Strategy](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/cube-strategy/)
- [](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/24084/)
- [Introduction to the Workshop](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/introduction-to-the-workshop/)
- [Backgammonese - The Language of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/backgammonese-the-language-of-backgammon-2/)
- [Backgammon is War](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/backgammon-is-war-2/)
- [Backgammon Basics - Openings](https://usbgf.org/courses//lessons/backgammon-basics-openings/)
- [](https://usbgf.org/lessons/backgammonese-the-language-of-backgammon/)
- [1 Point Matches](https://usbgf.org/lessons/1-point-matches/)
- [Backgammon is War](https://usbgf.org/lessons/backgammon-is-war/)

## Courses

- [PIP Counting with Art Benjamin](https://usbgf.org/courses/pip-counting-with-art-benjamin/) - Quickly master the basic principles of cluster counting with mathematics professor and 2020 ABT Winner, Art Benjamin!

## Files

- [2025 Winter PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2025-winter-primetime.pdf/)
- [2024 Fall PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2024-fall-primetime.pdf/)
- [2024 Summer PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2024-summer-primetime.pdf/)
- [2024 Spring PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2024-spring-primetime.pdf/)
- [2024 Winter PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/20556.pdf/)
- [2023 Fall PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2023-fall-primetime.pdf/)
- [2023 Summer PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2023-summer-primetime.pdf/)
- [2023 Spring PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2023-spring-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2023 Winter PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2023-winter-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2023](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-winter-2023.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2022](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2022.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2020](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-winter-2020.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2020](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-summer-2020.pdf/)
- [2022 Summer PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2022-summer-primetime.pdf/)
- [2022 Spring PrimeTime](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2022-spring-primetime.pdf/)
- [2014 Nov-Dec: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-nov-dec-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2014 Sept-Oct: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-sept-oct-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2014 Jul-Aug: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-jul-aug-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2014 May-June: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-may-june-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2014 Mar-Apr: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-mar-apr-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2014 Jan-Feb: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2014-jan-feb-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2022](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-winter-2022.pdf/)
- [2013 Nov-Dec: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-nov-dec-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2013 Sept-Oct: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-sept-oct-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2013 Jul-Aug: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-jul-aug-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2013 May-Jun: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-may-jun-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2013 Mar-Apr: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-mar-apr-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2013 Jan-Feb: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2013-jan-feb-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 Nov-Dec: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-nov-dec-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 Sept-Oct: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-sept-oct-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 Jul-Aug: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-jul-aug-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 May-June: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-may-june-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 Mar-Apr: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-mar-apr-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2012 Jan-Feb: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2012-jan-feb-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [Nov-Dec 2011: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/nov-dec-2011-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2011 Sept-Oct: PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2011-sept-oct-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2011 Jul-Aug: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2011-jul-aug-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2011 May-June: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2011-may-june-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2011 Mar-Apr: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2011-mar-apr-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2011 Jan-Feb: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2011-jan-feb-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2010 Nov-Dec: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2010-nov-dec-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine 2010 Sept-Oct](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-2010-sept-oct.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2020](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2020.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2020](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-spring-2020.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2019](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2019.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2019](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-summer-2019.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2019](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-spring-2019.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2019](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-winter-2019.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2018](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2018-2.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2018](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-summer-2018.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2018](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2018.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2018](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-spring-2018-2.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2018](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-spring-2018.pdf/)
- [](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/12202.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2017](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2017.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2017](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-summer-2017.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Spring 2017](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-spring-2017.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Winter 2017](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-winter-2017.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Fall 2016](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-fall-2016.pdf/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine Summer 2016](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/primetime-magazine-summer-2016.pdf/)
- [2016 Summer PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2016-summer-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2016 Mar-Jun PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2016-mar-jun-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2016 Jan-Feb PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2016-jan-feb-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2015 Nov-Dec PrimeTime Magazin](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-nov-dec-primetime-magazin.pdf/)
- [2015 Sep-Oct PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-sep-oct-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2015 July-August PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-july-august-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2015 Jan-Feb PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-winter-prime-time-magazine.pdf/)
- [2015 Jan-Feb Prime Time Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-winter-prime-time-magazine-2.pdf/)
- [2015 Mar-Apr Prime Time Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-spring-prime-time-magazine.pdf/)
- [2015 May-Jun PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2015-summer-primetime-magazine.pdf/)
- [2021 Fall: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2021-fall-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)
- [2021 Summer: PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine](https://usbgf.org/mp-files/2021-summer-primetime-backgammon-magazine.pdf/)

## Quizzes

- [Test your ASL Number Knowledge](https://usbgf.org/courses/pip-counting-with-art-benjamin/quizzes/test-your-asl-number-knowledge/) - If you are holding a pip count in your head, what number is currently showing?
- [Position 1 -](https://usbgf.org/courses//quizzes/position-1/)

## WB Polls

- [10-30 v2 test poll](https://usbgf.org/poll/10-30-v2-test-poll/)

## Bray's Learning Curve

- [Washing Day](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/washing-day/) - I see this misplayed so often I thought it was time to point readers in the right direction. This position occurs after Red 53: 8/3, 6/3, White 62: 24/18, 13/11 With double twos the only correct move is 6/4(2), 3/1(2)*. Everything else is double blunder or worse. When your opponent has three loose blots and
- [Beware the empty 4-pt](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/beware-the-empty-4-pt/) - It might seem odd to have a simple bear-off as an expert problem but most experts and nearly everybody else gets this wrong. By any formula, including the Thorpe adjusted Ward Count which I rely on, gets this wrong. Triple World Champion Jorgen Granstedt also got it wrong when he passed as White. Everybody undervalues the
- [Take Care](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/take-care-3/) - Making the 4-pt with 7/4*, 6/4 looks obvious so why not do that? Firstly, if you are going to have an open point in your structure when bearing in, it should be as high as possible. Low empty points breed shots. Secondly, you want White to run that checker off Red’s 4-pt. White would prefer
- [Basic Doubling Theory](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-doubling-theory/) - Most experts know this position as part of their basic understanding of backgammon. The untitled games question is easy as this is one of the first positions you ever learn when studying doubling. It is a double and a close but correct take. White wins 10 games in 36 (all aces except double aces miss
- [Not so easy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-so-easy/) - Should Red give up one of his anchors? If so, how? A move like 12/6, 8/3 is clearly wrong. Red should not cede the outer boards to White. Running one checker with 20/9, or 21/10 is wrong because it would allow White a home board attack against the remaining checker, thus creating time to roll
- [Flawed Strategy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/flawed-strategy/) - I am the first to admit that I got this wrong over the board. It seemed to be clear to step up with 24/22 and then play 10/7, safetying the blot on the 10-pt. That move turns out to be a double blunder and is too passive Red is behind in the race so stepping
- [Early Game Skirmish](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-game-skirmish/) - This position occurs after Red 54: 24/20, 13/8 White 21: 13/11, 6/5* and I played it incorrectly for years believing that bar/23, 6/5 gave White a good four which she didn’t have anywhere else on the board. I would routinely play bar/24, 13/11. I was wrong. The benefits of bar/23, 6/5 far outweigh the risks.
- [Monte Carlo 1985](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/monte-carlo-1985/) - This position is taken from the video of the 1985 Monte Carlo World Championships. Trailing 6-10 to 21 Rick Steiger (Black) had doubled early and Paul Magriel had blundered by accepting the cube. In this week’s position Rick now has an awkward 51 to play. Not having Bray’s Laws to assist him Rick made the
- [Single Falcon](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/single-falcon/) - I think most players know the modern backgammon tactic, the Double Falcon, which is defined as follows: “to voluntarily expose two blots in front of an opponent’s stripped outer board point to force the break-up of the opponent’s point.” Sometimes one checker can do the work of two and this week’s problem is what I define
- [The Single Falcon](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-single-falcon/) - Most modern players are aware of the concept of the “Double Falcon” where you run off a high anchor with both checkers in front of an opponent’s stripped point to either escape or generate return shots when one of the blots is hit. This position is an example of its lesser-known cousin, the “Single Falcon”.
- [Back Game Theory](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-theory/) - White has a 1-4 back game that could become a simple 4-pt holding game. Red needs to get his checkers working for a living and the worst stack is the one on his 6-pt. It is very clear to play bar/22, 6/5. If that checker gets recirculated so much the better. Bar/21 does nothing to
- [Cube Power](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/cube-power/) - At first sight this position looks innocuous, and few would give much though to redoubling. Red still has a. lot of work to do and White has a five-point home board. Even so the redouble is correct by a tiny margin. As you can see, Red wins a lot of gammons and that just swings
- [Time for an anchor](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-for-an-anchor/) - When you can do two do things instead of one it is normally right to do so. Red trails in the race, even after playing this roll. Thirdly Red is outboarded in the position. Finally, he leads the match 4-1 to 11. When you have a lead, having an advanced anchor is a good idea.
- [Two on the bar](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/two-on-the-bar/) - A nice easy one this week. After all it is a beginner’s problem. “Two on the bar, better by far” is an old backgammon adage and it has stood the test of time. Despite the lack of checkers in the zone, 6/3*/1* is very clear here. Any other move is a blunder. White will have
- [Positive Thinking](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/positive-thinking/) - Red’s position is better than it looks despite White’s four-point home board. The race is equal and White has three blots. The key plan for Red is to escape his rear checkers. This is not the time for a passive play like 24/17. Nor is it time to button up with 24/23, 8/2. That is
- [Very Early Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/very-early-double-2/) - In the good old days, nobody doubled positions like this – it was thought to be way too early. Modern theory is very different, and the cube now moves earlier and earlier. A PRaT (Position, Race, Threat) analysis of this position shows Red to be ahead in all three elements, so this should definitely be
- [Difficult Match Play Redouble](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/difficult-match-play-redouble/) - The first thing to do with any doubling problem is to decide on the correct action in unlimited games and use that as a benchmark. Having done that, you adjust for the match score and make your final decision. In unlimited games a redouble here would be slightly premature. If Red doesn’t roll a five
- [Not Just yet](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-just-yet/) - This problem came up in a lesson. It looks natural to run out with 24/15 but that is not the right answer. Firstly, White has twenty-five numbers which hit the blot, so it is likely to be sent to the bar. The problem then is that Red has no home board and an exchange of
- [Another Early Poser](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-early-poser/) - This type of position arises quite often in the opening. White has rolled and early double three and made his 5-pt and 3-pt and has ten checkers in the zone. What should Red’s game plan be? That stack of checkers on his 6-pt are ugly. They need to be put to work if possible. It
- [Complex Match Play Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-match-play-double/) - For money or at an even score this would be a double and a massive pass. Red’s advantages are too powerful: a five-point prime; White has no anchor; White has a dead checker on her ace-pt; White has a blot on her 10-pt. White’s only redeeming feature is her four-point prime with three Red checkers
- [The Eternal Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-eternal-problem/) - How many times have we seen this type of problem? Should Red go or should he stay? Let’s think it through. After the roll Red will lead by 18 pips. That indicates running. If red plays 10/6, 10/4 or 7/3, 7/1 he will weaken his forward position. That indicates running. White has a blot in
- [Not so Fast](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-so-fast/) - This position came up in a lesson with one of my students. As Red he wanted to double and thought it would also be a take. Was he correct? Red has lots of good numbers to make his 9-pt or his 4-pt. He can advance his rear checker with a 1 or a 3 and
- [Another Crawford Conundrum](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-crawford-conundrum/) - I had this position at the Fulham Backgammon Club a couple of weeks ago. I made the right play and lost a gammon and the match. 10/5 is much too passive and making the 9-pt with 13/9, 10/9 is not much better. Down 36 pips before the roll, Red must be positive and hit 5/4*.
- [Run or prime or blitz](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/run-or-prime-or-blitz/) - All three game plan options, run, prima and blitz are available in this position. Let’s look at all of them. Red can run with 21/10. That play gives Red a 1-pip lead in the race but leaves the rear checker stranded and subject to attack. If the lead after the play was bigger, say 10
- [Simple Basics](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/simple-basics/) - There are only two choices for this double four: (a) 13/5(2), (b) 24/16, 13/9(2). Both plays make good four-point primes. The problem with (a) is that it leaves the rear checker badly stranded. A long time ago Bill Robertie wrote about connectivity. Here it is important that the rear checker gets closer to its fellows. Being
- [Blind Spot Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blind-spot-2/) - My thanks to my colleague Danny DeMeester for showing me this excellent containment position. Virtually nobody gets this problem right without a little help. As is often the case when you roll a small number there is a plethora of possible moves. Note that this is the Crawford Game and therefore the cube is out of play.
- [Game Plan Required](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/game-plan-required/) - This is a binary choice problem. (a) bar/20* or (b) bar/21. 6/5* are the only two sensible alternatives. Red is well behind in the race. What is the correct game plan? Keeping the 3-4 back game looks eminently sensible, in which case 6/5* is the correct ace. That brings an unused checker into play and
- [Apparently Simple](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/apparently-simple/) - When I first saw this position I though bar/24, 13/9 was very clear and obvious. However, one needs to look deeper. Electing to have goalkeeper when training by only 14 pips in the middle game is too negative. Holding the butterfly anchor (the 22-pt) is OK but the 21-pt is a much better anchor and
- [Quacks](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/quacks-2/) - Double twos were Paul Magriel’s favourite roll and he invariably accompanied thrm with a loud shout of “quack, quack”. Firstly, Red must realise that the priming play of 13/7, 6/4 is a non-starter. Red has poor timing and two checkers back to one. 13/7, 6/4 is a bad blunder. There are two viable game plans:
- [Boxcar Poser](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/boxcar-poser/) - If you made the full prime with 13/7(2), 8/2(2) then you have much to learn about backgammon. That moves makes a beautiful six-point prime, but it may well have a very short half-life. It could crack on the very next roll. XG rates that play as very bad blunder (see rollout). Clearly two sixes must
- [All Together Now](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/all-together-now/) - I see this type of position misplayed so often that I thought I should set it as a problem. After playing this double four, Red will be ahead in the race by 24 pips and so White will have the timing advantage. Red should not be seeking to create multiple new points which will only
- [Michy F13 Concept](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/michy-f13-concept/) - This position is taken from Michihito Kageyama’s (Michy) book “Back Checker Strategy”. This is the best of his three books (they are all good) and essential reading for any serious player. Red had the potential for a well-timed back game but this double six has scotched that plan. The key here is to use what
- [Match versus money again](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-versus-money-again/) - As you can see from the rollouts below making the 3-pt wins more gammons than the safe 9/5, 7/4. The key is in the score. At this score a gammon gives Red the match with perfect efficiency – the holy grail of backgammon. In unlimited games the two plays are virtually equal but at 4-away
- [Nine blocks three](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/nine-blocks-three/) - For once, a nice and easy problem in the beginner’s section which most people got right. The correct move is 13/9(2), blocking sixes from Red’s 3-pt. Kent Goulding calls this “nine blocks three”. Now White will need two aces and two sixes to escape his rear checkers. Meanwhile White has two outer board stripped points.
- [Will you pay now](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/will-you-pay-now/) - It is remarkable that only one commenter got this correct. I also got it wrong over the board. Although it is close all moves other than 8/5, 8/3 are errors. The kay is that White has two stripped points. Ideally White will move in the inner board next time but any roll over 8 pips
- [Time to Go](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-to-go-2/) - Most players get this problem wrong. After we discard the very ugly 11/7, 6/4 we are left with two choices, slotting the 5-pt with 11/5 or running a back checker with 22/16. Because White has eleven checkers in the attack zone it looks very dangerous to make the running play. However, Red will be 22pips
- [Into the Jaws](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/into-the-jaws/) - The solution to this problem is not obvious. The race is equal, but White has the upper hand with a five-point broken prime and fully escaped rear checkers. Red could stay with the butterfly anchor (White’s 3-pt) by playing 13/5 but that gives White a free hand to move the outer board checkers with the
- [Match Score Variation](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-score-variation/) - I posted this position to demonstrate how even a one-point difference in the match score can radically change the doubling decision. For money this position is a double and a take (just) which might surprise many because White is nearly out of time. However, the 4-pt anchor game has remarkable resilience. Trailing 0-1 White does
- [Not so obvious](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-so-obvious-2/) - White has an awkward structure, so Red does not want to help White get those checkers home. This means that 24/18 must be eliminated form any move selection. That gives White what we call “room at the back of the bus”, i.e. an area in which to dump checkers on difficult rolls. All of Red’s
- [Keep Calm and Carry on](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/keep-calm-and-carry-on/) - These early rolls are often tricky to play and often there is little to choose between the various plays. That is the case here where there are a lot of possibilities. Red can be provocative with bar/20, 24/22, duplicating threes. Red can also use the deflection play bar/20/18 so that unless White rolls a double
- [The Ultimate Duplication Play](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-ultimate-duplication-play/) - This is by no means an easy problem. Clearly Red was unlucky to roll such a poor number but one of the most important skills to develop in backgammon is how one makes the best use of poor dice. White owns the cube so Red must win with good checker play. The knee-jerk reaction is
- [Think Carefully](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/think-carefully/) - Over the board it is far too easy to play 15/9 and then look for an ace by breaking the home board. Sadly, that idea does not meet the demands of the position. Breaking one’s home board should be a last resort. 9/2 keeps the board but kills a checker and does nothing to improve
- [A Very Common Mistake](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-very-common-mistake/) - I posted this position because I so often see this type of roll misplayed. White has the better structure and crucially has an anchor on Red’s 5-pt. As we know the best way to counter an advanced anchor is to get one of your own. Here Red has the chance to start two anchors by
- [Zugzwang](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/zugzwang/) - Over the board Red tried 13/11(2)*, which is a massive blunder. Why is that? White is effectively in Zugzwang which is a German term meaning "compulsion to move," and it describes a situation in chess and other turn-based games where a player is forced to make a move, even though any legal move will worsen their
- [Flexible Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/flexible-game-plan/) - Red was playing a 1-4 back game when a few hits changed the game. Now Red only trails by 13 pips so a back game is probably no longer viable. Over the board 16/13 was played, but that is the wrong idea. The checker on the 8-pt is a liability not an asset and so
- [Stepping Stone](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/stepping-stone/) - When your opponent is on the bar is the time to take some risk to improve your position. In this week’s position Red is way ahead in the race and so he should be looking for a racing play. 23/16 is a reasonable try but Red has an excellent stepping stone on his 15-pt. Red
- [Weird and Wonderful](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/weird-and-wonderful/) - This very odd position is taken from one of my training games. It is unlikely that you will have a reference position in your mental library to deal with this. My opponent as Red was playing for an undoubled gammon/backgammon when a last-ditch shot was hit. Red then fanned with a 63, As White I moved
- [Triple Back Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/triple-back-game/) - In a money game a double shot from a back game does not normally warrant a double but this is 3-away vs 2-away. The standard tactics at this score are to double early as the trailer and drop early as the leader. Here things are more complicated because there is already a White blot in
- [Watch the Score](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/watch-the-score/) - At many scores it would be correct to hit on the ace-point because of the increased number of gammons but here gammons are irrelevant, and Red just wants to make the move that wins the most games. Given his dominance it is not surprising that there is little to choose between the top plays with
- [World Championship 2009](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/world-championship-2009/) - This is the key position from the World Championship Final of 2009. I changed the score to subtly hide that fact! Lars Trabolt (Red) was coasting towards a gammon when he rolled this dreadful 51. Under the intense pressure of a WC Final, he must be given immense credit for finding 23/18, 15/14, leaving five
- [Pointless](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/pointless/) - The key to positions like this is to facilitate the speedy movement of the rear checkers around the board. For once you are not trying to make new points, but rather you should keep the checkers close to each other so that if one is hit there will be return shots aplenty. So, clearly Red
- [Run when behind](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/run-when-behind/) - There is an adage in backgammon that says when you are behind in the race do not race but, of course, there are exceptions, and this is one of them. In this position Red needs to promote contact to generate the opportunity to hit a White blot. White’s home board is a mess, and all
- [Bravado Required](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/bravado-required/) - In unlimited games and with a fully live cube common sense (if there is such a thing in backgammon!) should prevail. The ace must be played 23/22 so that spare checker can see daylight if White doesn’t cover the 9-pt. It is a toss-up for the five between 13/8 and 6/1. The hit 22/16* is
- [Snake Eyes Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/snake-eyes-problem/) - It might seem that making the bar-point, with 9/7, 8/7 and playing 13/12 is Red’s best bet, but that would ignore the fourteen White checkers lining up for a blitz attack on the other side of the board, although then, some of White’s sixes would play badly. Certainly 13/12, 9/7, 8/7 is not a blunder
- [Think then act](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/think-then-act/) - The last thing you want to do as Red in this position is to play 22/20 with the two. It takes all the pressure off White who can then enjoy a sixteen-pip lead and calmly bring the checkers home and win the game. Red must retain the tension and the pressure by keeping the rear
- [Complex Redouble](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-redouble/) - As usual we start by evaluating the position as if it were a money game. That is not difficult. Using PRaT red is ahead in position, race and threat so this is a redouble and a huge drop for money. As ever the match play decision is driven by the score. If Red redoubles to
- [Against the Grain](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/against-the-grain/) - “When ahead in the race, race” is a common maxim but beware of using it without thinking. This week’s position came up in a training match. Following the maxim Black should play 18/14(2), 18/10. This keeps good contact and maintains the anchor on the 20-pt to generate later shots as White attempts to bring home
- [Deflection](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/deflection/) - This is a classic example of a deflection play. White has an advanced anchor and so Red wants one as well if at all possible. If Red plays on automatic and moves 24/13 it gives White total control of the outer boards. If instead Red moves 24/18, 13/8 White will have to deal with the
- [Back Game Preparation](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-preparation/) - White already has a back game so the last thing Red should do is to send another checker back and give White the chance of making a third anchor. When playing against a back game it is important to get your checkers in play. Red has ugly stacks on the 8-pt and 6-pt which need
- [Michy Proverb 17](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/michy-proverb-17/) - An apparently simple problem. Most would play 8/7, 8/3 leaving no gaps but awkward big doubles on the next turn. This type of position occurs frequently and it useful to have a rule to deal with it. Luckily Michihito Kageyama (Michy) has done this in his most excellent book, “Endgame Technique”. In the book he
- [DMP Once More](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-once-more/) - This caused quite some debate when it occurred in a match. Red split the rear checkers. White rolled 55 and it was all over, but Red insisted splitting was correct. Right or wrong? No, wrong, and by quite some way. Splitting gives Red too many jokers. Red does get some return when White rolls numbers
- [The Score](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-score/) - The key factor here is the blots in White’s home board which are a significant weakness in the event that this becomes a hitting battle. They turn what could be a take into a very clear pass. If you put the White blot on the 3-pt onto the White ace-point giving White a four-point home
- [An Early Quandary](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-early-quandary/) - The problem with any passive move in this position is that it allows White the opportunity to attack with gusto. Whatever move Red makes White will double next turn. In that case Red may as well take away half of White’s next roll by playing bar/22, 8/4*. That way Red retains the ace-point anchor and
- [The Sleeping Policeman](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-sleeping-policeman/) - This is a deceptive position but attacked logically you can reach the correct answer. The White checkers add little value to White’s chances. They are simply too easy to jump over for Red. The 5-9 back game is rare for a reason and that is it just doesn’t work for the defender. Red has a
- [Skewed Score Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/skewed-score-question/) - For money this is double/pass and if the Jacoby Rule is not in effect in would be too good to double. However, the skewed score changes things dramatically. Many would play on for an undoubled gammon to get to the Crawford Game. As you can see from the rollout that option is a small mistake,
- [The Butterfly](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-butterfly/) - White holds the 3-pt, christened the “Butterfly Anchor” by Michihito Kageyama. When you hold that point you often end up in non-volatile positions and you are in the game until the end. Another key point is that you lose relatively few gammons when you hold the butterfly. Given White’s home board this will be a
- [Take Those Assets](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/take-those-assets/) - Red has the chance to make two key points on the board which will be lasting assets. That opportunity must be taken. Any of the hitting plays leave the position too wide open and anybody’s game. When in doubt, hit, does not apply here. There is no doubt. As you can see from the rollout
- [Back Game Complexity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-complexity/) - This is a complex position that I have used for many years in lessons. Red’s position looks far stronger than it is in practice. Red has twenty-seven-hitting numbers but after hitting there will still be much work to do to win the game. On the other nine numbers White will be in the driving seat.
- [Hold that Anchor](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/hold-that-anchor/) - Red did not study this position for too long before applying the old backgammon adage, “when ahead in the race, race”, and promptly moved 21/13. One of the reasons for running was that the alternatives, 11/8, 11/6, and 11/3 were seemingly unattractive. However, backgammon is not a beauty contest, and Red should have looked more
- [Time to go](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-to-go/) - This basically a ‘pay me now, pay me later’ problem. Th race is close, but Red will lead by eleven pips after the roll. 13/7 and 7/1 are both neat and tidy but what will Red do next turn? White’s position will improve and then running off the anchor will become ever more dangerous. At
- [A difficult decision](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-difficult-decision/) - The solution to this problem is counter intuitive. Clearly Red does not have the timing to play a 3-5 back game. Many would choose 22/20, 6/2 and that is the second-best play and by no means an error. However, leaving a blot on the 22-pt invites an attack there. Red does better to leave a
- [Abandon All Hope](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/abandon-all-hope/) - Red was already bemoaning his luck when this apparently useless 43 fell out of the dice cup. Wanting to keep both the mid-point and the 11-pt, 8/1* was played and Red went on to lose a gammon One of the key differences between an expert and an intermediate player is that the former will always
- [All four quadrants](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/all-four-quadrants/) - Never take your eyes off the whole board. Red leads in the race, so wants to race, and has two stripped points to clear, the mid-point and the 15-pt. Is this roll an opportunity to clear one of them? If Red plays 8/1 it is a safe play, but White will be stronger next turn.
- [End game conundrum](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/end-game-conundrum/) - Clearly Red must hit. The question is whether to hit one or two blots and if only one, which one. The double tiger play, 10/5*, 10/4* is the obvious choice and if one of the Red checkers on the 6-pt was on the 10-pt then that play would be correct by a long way. The
- [Another prime vs prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-prime-vs-prime/) - The adage says that all prime versus prime positions are doubles and take. Does that hold true here? Red has nine pips of spare timing before his prime breaks while White has eight pips. However, Red can safely play from the 8-pt without too much risk. On the flip side White cannot play sixes except
- [Playing the odds](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/playing-the-odds/) - This is a straightforward pay me now, pay me later problem. Despite the possibility of losing the match if White hits a blot left on Red’s midpoint Red must play 13/4, risking six shots. Those six shots don’t all win the game because of the blot on White’s 2-pt. By next turn White is likely
- [Another Complex Prime Versus Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-complex-prime-versus-prime/) - If you have never seen a problem like this before you will very likely go astray. Most experts will make their judgement based upon their stored knowledge of similar previous positions. This is essentially a prime versus prime position with the complication that Red has two checkers on the bar. Red has a solid five-point
- [Late Hit Conundrum](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/late-hit-conundrum/) - If you have not been taught how to play containment positions, then you are likely to go wrong here. Going wrong means playing 9/4*, 8/4. As you can see from the rollout you win fewer game and lose more gammons with that play. We are taught to attack a lone blot but prime an anchor.
- [Middle Game Poser](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/middle-game-poser/) - When it comes to the middle game the most useful doubling tool is PRaT which stands for Position, Race, Threat. If you are ahead in all three then the position is likely to be a double and a pass. That is as clear as it ever gets. The problem is that each of three of
- [Purity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/purity/) - This one caught me out. It should be clear that 7/2*, 5/2 is not the right game plan. You own the 8-pt, so you don’t want the 2-pt as well. XG rightly classifies that move as worse than a double blunder. Clearly making White’s 5-pt with 23/20 is a good plan. After that should one
- [Back Game Redouble](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-redouble/) - A classic back game position but is Red strong enough to redouble? Let’s take the time to do some analysis. White has a reasonably well-timed 3-5 back game. Even if White ends up giving up Red’s 5-pt to preserve a strong home board White will still have a good 3-pt holding game. White will lose
- [Another Early Decision](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-early-decision/) - This position arises after Red 54 (24/20, 13/8), White 66 (24/18(2), 13/17(2). Interestingly, of those who commented nobody chose what XG considers to be the best play which is 24/22, 6/5. Why is that move the best? Red wants an advanced anchor and also wants to build the home board. 24/22, 6/5 plays to that
- [Multiple Plans](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/multiple-plans/) - 8/2 looks nice for one roll but leaves far too many crashing numbers on subsequent. It would be a bad error. Therefore, the back checkers must get moving. The question is how? With all those White outer board checkers Red must retain White’s 5-pt to exert pressure against those checkers. Therefore, 22/20 is mandatory. After
- [Gammon Go](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/gammon-go/) - At this score Red is in a gammon go situation so needs to create some gammon chances if at all possible. A mutual holding game is not the right game plan. At most scores 24/21(2) would form part of the solution, but not here. Red needs a strong home board as soon as possible and
- [An Early Decision](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-early-decision/) - This position occurs after Red starts with a 61 (13/7, 8/7) and White replies with double aces (8/7(2), 6/5(2). How should Red now play this 32? White has the start of a prime while Red has the awkward structure which arises after a 61 opener. When your opponent has the start of a prime it
- [Crawford Play](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/crawford-play/) - Red has an excellent position for the Crawford Game. At this score Red should be playing gammon save and the fact that Red holds the opponent’s golden point plays perfectly to that plan. Red's other checkers are all well placed. White has a poorly timed 2-5 back game. The last thing Red wants to do
- [More on planning](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/more-on-planning/) - This is not an easy problem because at first sight the answer is anti-thematic. Red’s problem is the stranded rear checkers so the solution must involve moving one of them. Shuffling checkers on Red’s side of the board is the wrong idea and the super-safe 13/8, 10/6 is a blunder. So, the four must played
- [Avoiding an Anchor](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/avoiding-an-anchor/) - This position came up in a group beginners session last week and as 50% of the class got it wrong I thought it was worth posting. Based on the responses on the USBGF Facebook page I was correct to do so. An expert will play 9/2*, virtually without thinking. As you can see from the
- [They do not grow on trees](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/they-do-not-grow-on-trees/) - 24/17 leaves White 24 shots but not all of those will win the game although Red will lose some gammons. Note that White will still have a lot of work to do to close out both Red blots and escape the two White rear checkers. If Red stays back on White’s ace-point and plays 9/3,
- [Seeking Equality](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/seeking-equality/) - White has a high anchor and so Red needs to try to establish a high anchor as well. Another part of the game plan should be to try to make the bar-point. This roll of 21 is very poor but it must be put to the best use possible. White has ten checkers in the
- [Game Plan Time](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/game-plan-time-2/) - The key here is to select the right game plan. Red can race, blitz or possibly prime. Given Red’s structure priming looks problematical so we can ignore 14/8, 13/9. 8/2*, 6/2 is a possibility but leaves lots of return shots while not really progressing Red’s plans. The blitzing play 14/10*, 8/2* leaves four blots while
- [A tricky endgame redouble](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-tricky-endgame-redouble/) - This position comes from the Galaxy freeroll final which you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6noZv1DojU thus explaining how both Red and White have checkers already borne off. The range of answers on the website shows the difficulty of the position and to prove the point grandmaster Marc Olsen got this one completely wrong in his commentary. Red still
- [Playing for Contact](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/playing-for-contact/) - Red owns the rack, the 4-, 5- and 6-pts while White has an undeveloped position. Red needs to make use of the asset. Running with 24/14 is the wrong game plan. It gives White too much freedom on the next roll. Similarly, 8/2, 6/2 exerts no pressure on White. Red must make use of his
- [An anchor question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-anchor-question/) - Once again, we are faced with the question of whether to run off an anchor. Red will be twenty-seven pips after the roll so 20/13 is certainly a candidate play. However, modern players are increasingly loth to give up anchors, something that the bots have taught us. Is there a sensible alternative? Red certainly doesn’t
- [An expert dilemma](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-expert-dilemma/) - I spent three minutes getting this wrong at the recent Union Club tournament. It is difficult because the all the candidate plays support different game plans. It turns out that the duplication of threes created by 24/15 is the most important factor. The hitting plays and even the priming play 13/4 win more gammons (which
- [Blotfest](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blotfest/) - We have seen this type of problem before, and the technique required is interesting. Red leads in the race so should be running for home. Red should also take note of the blots in White’s home board. Without those 21/10 would be correct but, as it is, Red is afforded much more freedom with his
- [An early planning problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-early-planning-problem/) - This turned out be closer than I thought. Red must split the back checkers while White only has nine checkers in the zone. The only two sensible contenders are 24/16 and 24/22, 13/7. 24/16 is a deflection play. If White is hitting in the outfield then the home board won’t be improved. If the play
- [A Third Move Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-third-move-problem/) - Red opened with 61 and White replied with 33. How should Red now play this 21? White has both a blitzing and a priming structure. Meanwhile a blitz is out of the question for Red and priming will also be difficult. A running game plan seems indicated but White already has ten checkers in the
- [Complex Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-question/) - This is not that easy. Red would like to have escaped White’s home board but has rolled 21. Red wants to prime White’s rear checker so making his 5-pt would be a huge boon. Meanwhile White wants to escape his rear checker while blitzing Red’s rear checker. It should be clear that Red’s ace should
- [Robertie's Addition Method](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/roberties-addition-method-2/) - The reason for posting this problem is to introduce Robertie’s Addition Method to those who don’t know it. Everybody should know that in a pure three-roll ending (one where both players are guaranteed to be off in three rolls) White’s winning chances are a shade over 21.2%. Robertie then taught us to look for additional
- [How to Split](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/how-to-split/) - With the better board Red could try the blitz attack with 8/1*. That will succeed occasionally but Red needs to look deeper and have a game plan. Red must try to activate the rear checkers. White already has eleven checkers in the attack zone and is set to increase that number. Trailing in the race
- [An Awkward Roll](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-awkward-roll/) - This is a classic ‘pay me now, pay me later’ problem. All the conditions for ‘pay me now’ are met. Red’s position is awkward and deteriorating, White’s board is improving, and it will be very difficult for Red to get home without leaving multiple shots along the way. 8/3, 8/2 would be safe but what
- [Basic Bear Off Knowledge](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-bear-off-knowledge/) - There are a number of bear-off positions that everybody should know because they recur frequently and learning them is a lot quicker than trying to work things out from first principles over the board. I think most players will know that if you hit a late shot then you can redouble when you have taken
- [More on Containment](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/more-on-containment/) - As this is a quiz you can probably guess that 9/4*, 8/4 won’t be the answer! This is a difficult problem, as are most containment positions. You must look at the immediate problem but also have a long-term plan. At first sight making the 4-pt looks good and that is what was played over the
- [Passive or Active](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/passive-or-active-2/) - Over the board bar/21, 7/5 was played. All very neat and tidy but not meeting the demands of the position. Red is way behind in the race and bar/21, 7/5 gives White a very easy ride. Therefore, Red must play bar/23 with the two and hit with the four. The choices are 13/9* or 7/3*.
- [Going home](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/going-home/) - This is a question of balancing leaving shots versus the opportunity to get a shot as White leave the mid-point. 18/13 minimises shots but gives White no bad numbers as all ones hit and everything else enables White to break contact. Correct is 18/17, 10/6. This makes good use of all the pips as 10/6
- [Follow the Rules](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/follow-the-rules/) - The first question is, does Red need to split his rear checkers? Red is behind in the race and White has eleven checkers in the attack zone. White also has a blitzing structure. Those two points mean that Red should definitely not move 24/22, 24/21 into the teeth of the storm. On Red’s side of
- [Crawford Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/crawford-question/) - This is really an exercise in logic. While the blitzing play 5/4(2)*, 3/2(2)* is superficially attractive that move does not solve Red’s main problem. That problem is the Red checker on the 23-pt. If it stays where it is then, on average, it will take 5.9 rolls for it to escape from behind White’s five-point
- [Many Factors](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/many-factors/) - Red can play a priming or blitzing game. Meanwhile White has a blitzing structure and so any move that splits Red’s back checkers is likely to be wrong and in fact any play that moves a rear checker is a clear blunder. 6/1* is the blitzing play but that is difficult to follow up even
- [A lesson in match scores](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-lesson-in-match-scores/) - This is basically a lesson in cube efficiency in match play. The position is not that volatile and with White having an anchor on Red’s bar-point the game has some way to go. In unlimited games Red does not quite have enough to double although it is only a small error to double because Red
- [Match against XG](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-against-xg/) - This position came up in a video that I did with Alex Eshaghian on his YouTube Channel. Red has three choices: (a) 21/14; (b) 7/5, 7/2 and (c) 6/1, 3/1 In mutual holding games the player who gives up the anchor first is usually at a disadvantage and that is very much the case here.
- [A question of balance](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-question-of-balance/) - Red owns the rack (the 4-, 5- and 6-pts) and therefore has a strong board. Meanwhile, White has escaped a rear checker, but his forward position is undeveloped. In such a position Red should be seeking contact to take advantage of his home board. 8/2, 6/2 is the poorest choice here because it doesn’t generate
- [Have no fear](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/have-no-fear/) - The key here is to play positively. Playing 9/8, 9/7 or 8/7, 8/6 gives Red a difficult position to bring home. Despite the apparent risk Red must hit 14/12*, putting a fourth White checker behind Red’s four-point prime. Many of White’s return hits, e.g. 41 or 31, will then crack White’s home board. The other
- [A simple opening problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-simple-opening-problem/) - In the opening one of the key objectives is to make new points, particularly in the home board. Here Red can make the 9-pt with 13/9, 11/9 or the 4-pt with 8/4, 6/4. The 4-pt is the better point but is it worth leaving White a shot at the 11-pt blot to make it? The answer
- [A Challenging 31](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-challenging-31/) - This position is taken from Bill Robertie’s third book in the series, “How to Play the Opening in Backgammon”. The book is subtitled “Order from Chaos”. All three books are excellent and should be in any serious player’s backgammon library. We can discount 13/10, 11/10. It is too safe in a position where we need
- [Hold your nerve](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/hold-your-nerve/) - At first sight this looks to be a crushing double. Red has twenty-eight numbers to hit a White blot. He already leads by twenty-two pips in the race and there is a very real gammon threat. The truth is very different. This is a double but only just and the take is trivial. Why is
- [Match versus Money](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-versus-money/) - A graphic illustration of the difference between money and match play. In unlimited games having given away the cube Red must play with some caution. The correct play is to make White’s 2-pt and Red’s ace-point. Facing ten checkers in White’s attack zone securing an anchor in White’s home board is sensible. That gives Red
- [Multiple Choice Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/multiple-choice-question/) - This is difficult because there are so many options. We are taught to attack a lone rear checker and here we can do that with 8/1*. With ten checkers in the attack zone that is certainly a reasonable try, albeit not correct.. The main issue for Red is those two rear checkers way back on
- [Planning](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/planning/) - With an even race it is unlikely that Red will end up playing a backgame. With four rear checkers he should not be giving up his mid-point as that destroys a vital communication channel. Therefore, any play that makes the 5-pt will be wrong. With only nine checkers in the zone a blitz attack is
- [Back to the Double Tiger?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-to-the-double-tiger/) - This is an easy problem if you have been taught the right technique but very difficult if you have not. There are three candidate plays: (a) 22/13; (b) 6/1, 5/1 and (c) 13/4*. Racing when behind in the race is hardly ever correct and it certainly isn’t here so we can discard 22/13 very quickly.
- [Four Candidates](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/four-candidates/) - There are four candidate plays in this position: (a) 13/7*, 8/7 (b) 8/7*/1 (c) 8/2*/1 and (d) 11/5, 6/5 There is an old saying in backgammon that once you have started the ace-point then you should make it. Back in the 1970s most people would have made the bar here with 13/7*, 8/7 – the
- [Basic Theory](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-theory/) - I thought it was time for a relatively easy problem and this is it! Over the board Red chose 24/23, 16/10 but this wrong on several counts: It does not create a lasting asset, an essential of opening play. If you have single checker in your opponent’s home board, the worst place for it is
- [A choice of points](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-choice-of-points/) - Red can choose to make his 21-pt, his bar-pt or his 4-pt. Which is correct? Trailing by twenty-five pips his primary game plan is priming. Making the 21-pt is the wrong idea as it allows White to dump checkers behind the anchor when he rolls a bad number. Making his own 4-pt is nice because
- [Multiple Choices](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/multiple-choices/) - It looks as if there isn’t much between the various plays but there is. The weakest play is 13/10, 13/8 which leaves a blot, an unwieldy structure and doesn’t improve Red’s position. That move is a double blunder. 13/10, 6/1* doesn’t do much either. Another unwieldy structure and no real benefit to hitting White’s goalkeeper.
- [Too Many Choices](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/too-many-choices-2/) - The clue here is White’s stripped 8-pt. It cannot be allowed to contribute to the battle without paying a penalty. Therefore, the two must be played bar/23. His rules out bar/24, 13/11 which is much too passive. After that it is a choice of 24/23, 23/22 or 6/5. Red is outboarded so can’t afford too
- [Keep Connectivity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/keep-connectivity/) - White has eleven checkers in the zone so Red would dearly like to have an anchor. Red is also behind in the race so a racing play is not indicated. The running play 23/16 is superficially attractive as the checker comes out in front of White’s stripped mid-point. However, that play doesn’t meet Red’s game
- [A Recurring Theme](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-recurring-theme/) - I hope everybody used two of the fives to hit 13/3*. Not hitting is a massive blunder despite the lack of cover numbers. Two on the bar, better by far. The key is how to play the other two fives. With two White checkers on the bar safety should not be a concern so 21/16(2)
- [Goulding Mantra](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/goulding-mantra/) - It is just too easy to play on automatic here and hit with 11/2* but should Red be priming or blitzing? The blitz play leaves only one cover number, a six. Even if the 2-pt is made White can still escape with a one followed by a six. Is there an easier path to victory?
- [To go or not to go](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/to-go-or-not-to-go/) - In positions like this whoever blinks first tends to be at a disadvantage. If Blue runs a rear checker with 22/13 White will attack the remaining rear checker with gusto. Blue should be patient and hold the 22-pt anchor. That leaves the choice between (a) 13/10, 13/7 and (b) 13/4. Move (a) is slightly better
- [Take Care](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/take-care/) - This position was meant to be easy, but it didn’t turn out that way. It should be obvious that 18/10 is not the right idea. Blue won’t be favourite to get a shot next turn and he is way behind in the race. Equally well I thought initially that Blue should build a perfect home
- [Another Blind Spot](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-blind-spot/) - This position came up in a teaching session. After a group discussion 8/3 was chosen as the move to be played. Hitting on the 10-pt was correctly deemed to be too loose while makes the two points with 6/4, 6/3 was seen as too passive. Interestingly, nobody chose the best move, the simple 4/1, 3/1
- [Field of Battle](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/field-of-battle/) - Blue’s army is separated in two with no lines of communication. The race is even so playing a 3-4 back game is not a viable option. Blue’s checkers are not well placed for a blitz (22/16, 6/1*) so perhaps a running game with 21/10 is the best option? No, it is not. The field of
- [Passive or Active](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/passive-or-active/) - The key learning point from this position is that Blue cannot play passively. White is threatening to escape the last rear checker and must be stopped from doing so. 24/16 is not only too passive it is also the wrong game plan. Racing when behind is usually incorrect. The two must be played 6/4*. For
- [Elementary](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/elementary/) - There are only two sensible choices here, 24/13 or 20/9. The difference between the two is not huge but much more important is to understand the reasoning. 20/9 is the best play for four reasons: (a) it removes the blot from White’s 5-pt which is where White would like to attack because that is a key
- [Match Play Impact](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-impact/) - When analysing a match play cube decision, one should always start with the decision for money and then adjust for the match score. In this position Blue is ahead in the race. The static positional elements are roughly equal, but Blue has partially escaped his rear checkers. Blue certainly has threats but White has an
- [Blind Spot](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blind-spot/) - This position causes a mental blind spot for most players. They just don’t consider the best play as a candidate move. They mainly hit the White checker on Blue’s 4-pt by moving 6/4* and then look around as to how to play the other three twos. They largely choose 13/9, 11/9, 6/4* or 24/22, 13/9,
- [Early Doubling Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-doubling-question/) - Blue has the advantage in race, position and threat and yet this position is not a double for Blue and White has a trivial take if doubled. Why is that? The answer is that none of Blue’s threats, other than perhaps rolling double sixes, is very powerful. White’s position is stable with no real weaknesses.
- [Twenty-Four Shots](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/twenty-four-shots/) - This is a standard reference position. Blue has twenty-four hitting numbers, but a hit doesn’t necessarily win as White will be favourite to re-enter and will have plenty of chances to win the game through hitting or racing. Blue should hold the cube and wait for a hit before cubing. Doubling is very nearly blunder.
- [Back Game Triple Shot](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-triple-shot/) - It helps if you have seen this type of position before, so you have a reference to work with. If you have studied this type of position, you will know that even if Blue has a triple shot, then White still has a take. Here Blue has thirty-one hitting numbers and White also has a
- [The Long Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-long-game/) - At first glance 7/3*, 5/3 looks obvious, putting the rear White checker on the bar. However, Blue has only nine checkers in the attack zone and a stack of four checkers on White’s 5-pt. Those four checkers are a very inefficient structure. After making the 3-pt Blue will be very lucky to contain White’s lone rear
- [Active or passive?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/active-or-passive/) - This is not easy. Behind in the race 24/16 does not look like the right game plan although it is a reasonable choice. The problem is that Blue’s next roll will have to be spent tidying up the blot. The do nothing play of 8/6, 8/2 reduces the strength of Blue’s position without solving any
- [Basic Bear-off Redouble](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-bear-off-redouble/) - This is a basic reference position that everybody should know. Massive redouble, trivial take. Not redoubling here is nearly a double blunder while dropping would be a sextuple blunder! It is a three-roll position but White has the chance to be off in two or even one roll. Any ace in the next two rolls
- [Student Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/student-problem/) - This problem comes from a training session with one of my students. He had this position in a match and wanted my opinion on it. Even with the Quiz Factor I couldn’t see beyond 6/3, 4/3 which is, as you can see, a double blunder. Why is that the case? The correct solution is 13/12,
- [Skewed Score Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/skewed-score-problem/) - White’s structure and overall position is far too threatening to make a passive move here such as 13/11, 8/4 or 8/4, 6/4. Blue needs to make a tempo play here and therefore the four must be played 6/2*. The question is how to play the two? In a money game or at an even score
- [Early Double Tiger](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-double-tiger/) - In the days before computers the most common move made in this position would have been 8/3, 6/3. Nowadays the recognition of how important tempo is would lead many to play 13/5*. Those really up with the pace would quickly see 8/5*, 6/1* - a Double Tiger Play. Hitting on the 5-pt fights for a
- [Beware of the full prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/beware-of-the-full-prime/) - There is a well-known rule of thumb for this type of position, which is basically a pay me now, pay me later problem. If there is no life after death if you are hit when paying now, it is virtually never correct to leave even one indirect shot, never mind five of them. For an
- [Multiple Options](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/multiple-options/) - This problem ties in with one of the themes in Mochy’s new book “Backgammon Masterclass”. You need to keep as many viable game plans as possible for as long as possible until the game structure is defined. Blue can still prime, blitz, play a back game or play a holding game. For that reason, a
- [Time to go time](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-to-go-time-2/) - This is a good lesson on how to treat positions like this one where you have quite a few back checkers and your opponent is on the bar against your strong board. The basic theory is to go while the going is good and don’t worry too much about the number of blots that you
- [Make them work](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/make-them-work-3/) - The key to solving this problem is to understand what type of position we are dealing with. Here are they elements: The basic structure is that of a prime versus prime game with White having only one checker to escape to Orange’s two.Orange trails in the race.White has twelve checkers in the attack zone just
- [Tempo Time](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/tempo-time/) - Orange could play safe with 23/22, 8/6 but that will just invite a blitz attack from White and Orange has no defence. Orange must make a tempo hit with 6/4*. That will stop White from making a new home-board point unless a double is rolled. The question is how to play the ace? 23/22 seeks
- [Bray's Principle](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/brays-principle/) - I am indebted to my colleague, Paul Lamford, for showing me this position. I have written before about Bray’s Principle which says that in such positions you should not mind giving up one point in your home board, but you should be loath to give up a second, because your power of containment is so
- [Break the rules](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/break-the-rules/) - I love this problem because I have 100% record with it. Nobody I have given it you has ever got the right solution. We are taught that the 5-pt is the most important point on the board and so once we make it, we don’t break it until we start bearing off or, just very
- [Crawford Thinking](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/crawford-thinking/) - I hope you considered hitting with 22/16* and then swiftly rejected it. The last thing Red wants to do here is lose a gammon. Losing a single game is of little consequence because White will still need to win two more games (or one gammon) to win the match. Therefore, Red must keep the 22-pt
- [Keep it very simple](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/keep-it-very-simple/) - After the forced bar/23* Red has the choice of (a) 23/20; (b) 13/10 (c) 8/5. The worst place for a single checker in your opponent’s home board is on the 23-pt because its sixes are blocked. That implies that (a) is correct. However, that play gives White multiple return shots. To counter those shots, note
- [Chouette](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/chouette/) - This position came up in a chouette at the London Open this last weekend and caused a heated debate with arguments put forward for all the plays listed in the rollout. In the end the captain played bar/21, 5/2* and the team went on to win the game. However, as you can see from the
- [DMP Quandary](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-quandary-2/) - Despite the attraction of triplicating threes with 21/15, 5/4 that play should be ignored. As Paul Magriel would say, that is duplication for duplication’s sake. Red should also resist any temptation to leave the 21-pt anchor. It gives White too many attacking options without gaining anything in return. The action should be on Red’s side
- [Doubling with a lead](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/doubling-with-a-lead/) - It is interesting that my doubling problems always get a much poorer response than my checker play problems. Is doubling really that much more difficult? The correct way to approach this problem is to answer the unlimited games question first. Red is ahead in position, race and threat but White’s structure is sound and importantly
- [Block or Build](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/block-or-build/) - This one is ever so easy to get wrong over the board. Making the 4-pt seems obvious but when your opponent holds your 3-pt the best blocking point for you to own is your 9-pt. 9/4, 8/4 makes a point but leaves an unwieldy structure with a stripped 8-pt and five checkers on the 6-pt.
- [Understanding Risk](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/understanding-risk/) - This position graphically demonstrates the need to make your checkers work efficiently. Over the board the safe 8/6, 8/4 was played but this made no attempt to solve the problem of having three checkers stuck back on the 22-pt. That safe play was a triple blunder. Clearly Red should play 22/18 with four. The problem
- [Quack quack](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/quack-quack/) - Over the board 9/7(2), 8/4 was played. This gives Red a solid five-point prime and looks nice but what is the follow-up? It is difficult to see how Red will improve his position without a fortuitous double. Whenever you make a move, you should ask yourself, what next? You should also look at the whole
- [UBC Opening](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/ubc-opening/) - This position is taken from the 2022 UBC (Ultimate Backgammon Championship) final between Mochy and Sander Lylloff. Amazingly the move chosen by Sander was 24/21, 15/13 which is the worst of all the possible options, thus proving that even the best players in the world make blunders. 24/21, 15/13 tries to race when that is
- [Keep it simple](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/keep-it-simple/) - We sometimes forget that for all its complexity backgammon is still a race. We are also advised not to make points behind our opponent’s anchor, although sometimes that is necessary. Here we can combine both pieces of advice. After the roll will be forty-seven pips ahead in the race so escaping the rear checkers should
- [Hold the Anchor](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/hold-the-anchor/) - This is one I got badly wrong over the board. I played 20/10(2). This gives Red a ten-pip lead in the race but leaves White fifteen hitting numbers to at least equalise the position. Red should not be racing; it is too early. Even 20/15(2), 8/3(2) is the wrong idea. Red must keep the anchor
- [Pick the right game plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/pick-the-right-game-plan/) - The key here is to understand the game plan. Should Red be trying to prime White’s rear checker or mounting a blitz attack against it? Red’s structure is geared towards priming rather than blitzing. There are only eight/nine checkers in the attack zone and there are unwieldy stacks on the mid-point and 6-pt. As you
- [Quacks](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/quacks/) - Double twos are known as quacks – one of Paul Magriel’s favourite numbers. Normally when we roll doubles, we move our checkers in pairs to build new points. In this position clearly the first pair of twos should be played 6/4(2)*, putting White on the bar. The fact that White is on the bar gives
- [A troublesome six](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-troublesome-six/) - Bar/22/16 is the weakest move because the 22-pt is somewhere Red might want to build an anchor and it is more useful if the rear checkers stay in communication, i.e. within six pips of each other. Bar/22/16 applies very little pressure to White. Bar/22, 8/2* takes the last spare checker off the 8-pt, buries a
- [Another Early Game Choice](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-early-game-choice/) - There are multiple choices but following the basic rules of playing backgammon openings leads one to the correct answer quite quickly. It is far too early to make an anchor on the 23-pt as that is the worst anchor to hold early in the game because it is blocked by the opponent’s 8-pt. Given the
- [<strong>Knowing the Game Plan</strong>](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/knowing-the-game-plan/) - This position occurs after Red opens with 61 (13/7, 8/7) and White responds with double threes played 24/21(2), 13/10(2). This is all about understanding game planning. When your opponent has an advanced anchor, you should try to get one as well. 24/23, 13/7 is the wrong idea because that is only a minor split and dumping
- [A Difficult Ending](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-difficult-ending/) - As usual one should look at the unlimited games variation first and then adjust for the match score. Clearly Red is a huge favourite. In addition, Red will win a high percentage of gammons because of those three White checkers on Red’s ace-point. Is the position volatile? Yes, it is. If Red releases a rear
- [Opening Theory 2](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/opening-theory-2/) - 24/14 gives Red a very disconnected position and puts no real pressure on White. Theory says that because White has an advanced anchor Red should try to obtain his own high anchor. The three-point home board and the principle of duplication enable Red to play much more dynamically with 24/20, 13/7. This gets the checkers
- [More Opening Fundamentals](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/more-opening-fundamentals/) - I think many would choose 24/23, 13/11 here but that is not quite the best move. White has ten checkers in the attack zone and also owns the 5-pt. Red’s best game plan is to equalise the position by making his own 5-pt. 13/10 is too passive. To paraphrase Macbeth, “if it were done then
- [Complex Prime versus Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-prime-versus-prime/) - Most players will look at this position and quickly play 23/12 as happened over the board. However, one needs to look deeper. This is actually a prime versus prime position. While 23/12 is relatively safe it does not address the issue that Red has three checkers trapped behind a broken prime while White has three
- [Avoiding the obvious](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/avoiding-the-obvious/) - This position is more difficult than it looks. The “obvious” move is 8/3* and that was played over the board, but it is nearly a blunder. Why? Several reasons: Next turn Red will only have one covering numberRed has four rear checkers and must start to escape them to stop rolls like 33 being anti-jokers
- [Opening Fundamentals](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/opening-fundamentals/) - Red leads in the race and has the better home board but White has an advanced anchor. It should be clear that Red must do something to activate the rear checkers. Red will have the advantage in any hitting battle because of the stronger board. We can quickly discount 8/2, 6/2 which puts two checkers
- [Early Game Choice](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-game-choice/) - As ever in the early game, Red has many choices and can play actively or passively. Perhaps 24/22, 13/8 is the logical choice? It splits the back checkers and develops one of the checkers on the mid-point into a useful position. A second passive play is 13/8, 6/4, developing two stacks of checkers at once.
- [Fear Nothing](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/fear-nothing/) - At Double Match Point 14/8, 10/6 would be the correct play because it wins the highest percentage of games but the thing that is often forgotten in positions like this is the gammon win percentage. As you can see from the rollout making the 2-pt wins an extra 6% gammons and that is a huge
- [Prime against Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prime-against-prime/) - Prime against prime games are the most difficult in backgammon. If you haven’t studied this type of position, it is virtually impossible to get close to the correct answer. Here Red has one rear checker to White’s two but has a checker on the bar. Meanwhile White has one rear checker at the edge of
- [A Well Known Position](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-well-known-position/) - This is a well known type of ending which everybody should learn. For money this is double and pass but the match score is crucial to the decision-making process here. With Red owning the cube things are radically different. If Red redoubles to 4 this becomes Double Match Point, and the cube is completely dead.
- [Back to Basics](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-to-basics/) - It is just too easy to hit with the four, 13/9*, and then work out what to do with two. 13/11 or 22/20 or perhaps even 9/7 or 8/6? “When in doubt, hit,” is a well-known backgammon maxim but for once it would steer you in the wrong direction. Once you hit with the four
- [The score is everything](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-score-is-everything/) - Hopefully nobody would double this position with a live cube. Red is the favourite, but the position is not volatile enough to warrant a double. White has a take but not a beaver. The match score changes everything. By doubling Red effectively kills the cube. It will be of no use whatsoever to White. Secondly
- [Make the Prime First](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/make-the-prime-first/) - There are many elements to Red’s game plan but his top priority is to make his 3-pt. Escaping his rear checkers is important but if he can lock up his 3-pt and make a full six-point prime then he can move those rear checkers with impunity later on. So, the key is to slot the 3-pt
- [Basic Planning](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-planning/) - Always have a game plan. Here Red is way behind in the race and has a weaker home board. Both these elements indicate that splitting the rear checkers is not the right plan. For the same reason hitting loose on the 2-pt is not the right idea. Simply best is 13/10, 13/9, creating builders for
- [Not so obvious](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-so-obvious/) - This is a difficult problem. Red’s position looks stronger than it actually is, and this has deceived many of my students. It is true that Red has twenty-nine numbers to cover the ace-point blot but even if that happens White still has a 30% chance of entering next turn and will then have one rear
- [Balanced Play](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/balanced-play/) - Coming in on the ace-point is a definite non-starter so bar/20 is mandatory and then it is a question of how to play the ace. Playing 7/6 is too weak and Red does not want six checkers on the 6-pt. 8/7 just swaps one blot for another and the gain from making the bar-point is
- [Ineffective Hit](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/16285-2/) - “When in doubt, hit” is a well-known backgammon maxim”. Knowing when not to apply it is an important and necessary skill in becoming an expert player. Red can hit here with 13/7* but where in the benefit in that? White has the golden-point anchor so in no danger irrespective of how Red plays the three.
- [Super Genius Quiz](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/super-genius-quiz/) - This position is taken from James Vogl’s excellent new book, “Backgammon – Super Genius Quiz” (available on Amazon). Take twelve of the best players in the world. Give them one hundred multi-choice backgammon problems and give them one minute per problem to give their answers. The problems are logically grouped into ten topic areas. What
- [Occam's Razor](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/occams-razor/) - Because there are so many choices with Red’s 31 this look like a difficult problem but ,in fact, it is straightforward. White has a well-timed back game and Red will struggle to change that. All of White’s checkers are in play and excepting something like double fours things will stay that way. Red should not
- [Back Game Technique](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-technique/) - White’s timing for the 2-3 back game is excellent. Ideally you need to trail by the value of the two back game points. Here that would be 90 pips so White is close to perfection, especially as there is a White checker still on the bar. Red’s position is also very good. The only weakness
- [Bearing Off Against Contact](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/bearing-off-against-contact/) - Many choices here. Should one play for safety, if so how, or bear off aggressively? Unless hit, Red should comfortably win a gammon, so safety is likely to dominate over and above ripping off checkers. There are a number of backgammon adages that give conflicting advice here. “Clear from the rear and don’t ask questions”
- [Third Roll Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/third-roll-problem/) - A simple third roll problem? We should know these, but of course we don’t! No need to panic so the anti-thematic 6/1* can quickly be discounted. We need to split but 24/23, 13/9 is also the wrong idea as it gives White too many good numbers. The choice is between the big split, 24/23, 24/20,
- [Making the Checkers Work](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/making-the-checkers-work/) - When I first set this problem the answers to the two questions, using a 3-ply evaluation, were different but the rollouts tell a different story. Now the answer to both questions is the same, 12/9*, 11/8, 9/6, 4/1. At DMP gammons don’t count and you want to make the play that wins the highest percentage
- [Which game plan?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/which-game-plan/) - Should Red hit with bar/24, 11/8* to take a tempo away from White so that it is more difficult to make White’s bar-point? The alternative is to play this position as a prime-versus-prime game. In that case bar/24, 6/5(2) will be three of the aces. What about the fourth ace? In pvp positions it is
- [Opening Theory](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/opening-theory-3/) - I posted this position because I got it wrong when it came up in live play. I routinely hit on the 2-pt with a 43 when my opponent has split the rear checkers with an ace on the opening roll. I therefore assumed that would be the best idea in this position. However, the fact
- [A Snake Eyes Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-snake-eyes-problem/) - Put the checkers where you want them. Two of the aces must be used to make Red’s 5-pt. They could then continue on to make the 4-pt instead but that is a much weaker structure than the 5-pt. Red should take advantage of White’s very weak home board, including a blot, and play 6/5(2), 6/4*.
- [Back Game Puzzle](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-puzzle/) - After playing this 55 Red will still trail by 80 pips. To play a well-timed 1-2 back game you need to trail by approximately 94 pips (the value in pips of your two anchors). That means Red is in the right ballpark to maintain his back game and should not yet give up his 23-pt
- [Blockade](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blockade/) - This one is not easy. The ‘natural’ move is to play 8/4(2), 6/2(2) but that position is very stiff with every point bar one stripped. In this instance connectivity outweighs the need for the 20-pt. After 20/12(2) Red has a very strong blockade of the White checkers on Red’s bar-point. After that play 44 and 22
- [A Tricky Ending](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-tricky-ending/) - Red can play this dice roll completely safely by moving 5/3, 5/2 or he can take some risk with either 5/off or 3/off, 2/off. It should be clear that 3/off, 2/off is much better than 5/off. It takes two checkers off rather than one and it continues to block White’s fives. Both plays give White
- [Utilising Your Troops](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/utilising-your-troops/) - Over the board 14/8 was played but this is the wrong idea in this position. It is safe for the moment but leaves Red with three inflexible stacks of checkers and he is very unlikely to be able to keep playing safe. In the opening, when the home boards have not yet been developed, the
- [Ignoring the Obvious](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/ignoring-the-obvious/) - If you don’t see a move, you can’t play it! I had this position in an online match and it didn’t take me long to find 15/12*, 9/3*, 6/3. Two checkers on the bar and a three-point home board. How can that possibly be wrong? But wrong it is. XG was very quick to point
- [Back Game Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-question/) - The match score has a huge influence on back game redoubling decisions.
- [Risk Management](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/risk-management/) - Backgammon is a game of risk and reward and balancing those two things is at the heart of the game.
- [Michy's Lesson](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/michys-lesson-2/) - Did you consider 6/5, 6/4?
- [Rollout Lesson](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/rollout-lesson/) - A complex position where you need a bot to confirm the best play.
- [Wide Open](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/wide-open/) - Clearly the six should be used to hit but what about the three?
- [Opening Theory](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/opening-theory/) - This is a short lesson in opening theory.
- [Make Them Work](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/make-them-work-2/) - Red is losing this game and needs to take action to turn things round.
- [Complexity Plus](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complexity-plus/) - This was the most difficult problem I encountered last year and nearly everybody gets it wrong.
- [Maintain Communications](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/maintain-communications/) - The keys to this position are determining the correct game plan and maintaining communications.
- [A Blast from the Past](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-blast-from-the-past/) - This position is taken from Jeff Ward’s 1982 book ‘Winning is More Fun’. Red was Nack Ballard and White was Kent Goulding and this was the final of the Las Vegas Open.
- [Tempo](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/tempo/) - Taking a tempo from your opponent in the opening is a fundamental backgammon tactic.
- [The Guff](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-guff/) - Should Red make his 1-pt?
- [Make Them Work](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/make-them-work/) - One of the key things in backgammon is to make the checkers work for a living.
- [UBC 2021](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/ubc-2021/) - This position is taken from the Ultimate Backgammon Championship 2021 Final between “Mochy" Mochizuki and Dirk Schiemann.
- [War Games](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/war-games/) - Over the board, Red moved 22/16, 8/3 with this 65. This seems logical, escaping one of the rear checkers and moving the blot on his 8-pt to safety.
- [Volatility](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/volatility/) - This is a type of position that I often see misjudged.
- [Three on the Bar](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/three-on-the-bar/) - Three checkers on the bar is normally a recipe for a swift drop
- [Weighing Anchors](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/weighing-anchors-2/) - When should you give up an anchor? My answer is always later than you think!
- [Which Back Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/which-back-game/) - Deciding which back game play can be a crucial decision
- [Which Point?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/which-point/) - This is another third roll position that demonstrates an important learning point.
- [When in Doubt](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/when-in-doubt-2/) - The age-old saying in backgammon is, “when in doubt, hit”.
- [Weighing Anchors](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/weighing-anchors/) - Over the years I have learnt to be very circumspect about giving up anchors.
- [Time for a Plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-for-a-plan/) - Just making moves is never a good idea. You should always have a game plan.
- [Triple Shot](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/triple-shot/) - Not all triple shots generate a double as is ably demonstrated by this position
- [Three-Point Holding Game Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/three-point-holding-game-double/) - You should know the basic doubling rules for all the different types of anchor games.
- [Third Roll Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/third-roll-question/) - This position arises after Red opens 21 played 13/11, 6/5 and White responds with 66 and makes both bar points. How should Red play this 42?
- [Time to go time?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/time-to-go-time/) - This problem looks at the thorny issue of when to advance the last rear checker.
- [When in Doubt](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/when-in-doubt/) - This game is in its infancy and the game plans for both players have yet to be defined.
- [Third Roll Poser](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/third-roll-poser/) - Put your checkers where they want to go.
- [Too Many Choices](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/too-many-choices/) - There are a huge number of possible moves with Red’s double threes as there often are with small doubles.
- [When in Doubt](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/when-in-doubt-4/) - The age-old saying in backgammon is, “when in doubt, hit”.
- [Up or back?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/up-or-back/) - The key question is whether Red should stay back or try to escape.
- [Third Move Thoughts](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/third-move-thoughts/) - Rely on general principles to guide a third roll.
- [The Third Roll](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-third-roll/) - After the second roll there are about 600 positions. When it gets to third roll there are many thousands so you cannot learn them off by heart, instead you have to learn the appropriate principles.
- [The Principle of Separation](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-principle-of-separation/) - Whenever you roll a double it is always worth taking some extra time to think about how to play it as there will be multiple options.
- [Third Roll Conundrum](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/third-roll-conundrum/) - A simple third roll position that the best five players in France managed to get wrong last week at the World Team Championships!
- [The Power of Gammons](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/the-power-of-gammons/) - One of the things many players forget is just how much a gammon win can increase their equity in a position.
- [Run or Prime?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/run-or-prime-2/) - The age-old question: should you build the full prime or use that precious 6 to run with either 23/14 or 23/17, 8/5?
- [Second Roll Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/second-roll-problem/) - What are the priorities for the second roll?
- [Take Care With Redoubles](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/take-care-with-redoubles/) - Once more the match score has significant input to the doubling decisions.
- [Simple Bear-Off Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/simple-bear-off-double/) - What could be simpler than a four-roll ending?
- [Sixes Don't Grow on Trees](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/sixes-dont-grow-on-trees/) - To hit or not to hit? Therein lies the question as Shakespeare would say.
- [Small Doubles](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/small-doubles/) - Small doubles nearly always generate a lot of possible move and hence are difficult to play.
- [Save the Straggler](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/save-the-straggler/) - Can White’s straggler get home quickly often enough to justify taking Red’s very powerful redouble?
- [Snake Eyes](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/snake-eyes/) - This is a very difficult back game problem and to solve it you need to work out the correct game plan for Red.
- [Run or Prime?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/run-or-prime/) - A simple question: do you close the home board or run out with one checker to avoid crashing with small numbers on subsequent rolls?
- [Scary Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/scary-double/) - It should be clear Red has a huge double, due to the volatility of the position. Now the difficult part, should White take or drop?
- [Small Margins](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/small-margins/) - This is a tricky position. I think if you play on automatic you will choose 24/22, 16/11.
- [Stop and Think](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/stop-and-think/) - Is the fact that Red has his 5-pt made enough to change his play from the standard 24/18, 13/11?
- [Security Plus Asset](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/security-plus-asset/) - Over the board Red chose the very safe bar/21(2)*. This was a blunder.
- [Safety First](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/safety-first/) - There are times in backgammon when you have to play safely, and this is one of them.
- [Races](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/races/) - A simple racing position.
- [Priorities](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/priorities/) - Over the board Red chose 24/22(2), 13/9. Was he correct?
- [Risk and Reward](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/risk-and-reward/) - Red stands well in this position but has not yet won the game. Should he play safely or boldly?
- [Reference Positions](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/reference-positions/) - This is a classic reference position for the 5-pt holding game.
- [Robertie’s Addition Method](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/roberties-addition-method/) - This position demonstrates a simple application of Robertie’s Addition Method.
- [Risk and Reward](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/risk-and-reward-2/) - Winning backgammon is all about learning to balance risk and reward.
- [One Back versus Two](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/one-back-versus-two/) - This is a type of position that I often see misplayed and not only by beginners!
- [Offense or Defense](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/offense-or-defense/) - Money Play. How should Red play 32?
- [Not Good Enough Too Good to Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/not-good-enough-too-good-to-double/) - This is a lesson in match-play thinking. Clearly this is a huge pass for money but the match score scenario is very different.
- [Opening Choices](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/what-could-be-easier-than-the-opening-roll/) - What could be easier than the opening roll?
- [PRaT 1](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prat/) - How do we learn how to make accurate doubling decisions? One fundamental tool is PRaT (Position, Race Threat).
- [Pay Me Now, Pay Me Later?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/pay-me-now-pay-me-later/) - This looks like a classic ‘Pay me now, pay me later’ problem.
- [PRaT 2](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prat-2/) - Doubles in races and bear-offs can be learnt using formulae to help decide. The same is not true of the middle game which is far too complex for a set of rules to be doggedly applied.
- [Prime Versus Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prime-versus-prime/) - There is a well-known backgammon saying that all Prime Versus prime Positions are doubles and takes.
- [Prime Versus Prime Part 2](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prime-versus-prime-part-2/) - Once more we return to Prime versus Prime. It is said all prime versus prime problems are doubles and takes. Is this the one that breaks that rule?
- [One Checker Back](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/one-checker-back/) - One of backgammon’s more useful adages is this: “Prime an anchor, attack a lone rear checker.”
- [Prime Management](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/prime-management/) - There is an aversion amongst beginners to giving up a full prime.
- [Point Clearance](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/point-clearance/) - There is an old backgammon maxim, “A point cleared is a point not to be feared”.
- [Pick a Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/pick-a-game-plan/) - Small numbers often cause a problem in backgammon because they give you so much choice.
- [Patience is a virtue](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/patience-is-a-virtue/) - Red is playing a perfectly timed 2-3 back game. Unexpectedly White has left him an early shot. Should Red hit that shot or should he bide his time?
- [Multiplicity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/multiplicity/) - You might question White’s ability to take Red’s double but despite the fact that Red is a favourite to cover the blot on his 4-pt that is only part of what he needs to do to win the game.
- [Non-Contact Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/non-contact-double/) - What could be simpler than a race? How do we know when to double and take?
- [More on Match Play Redoubles](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/more-on-match-play-redoubles/) - Many players would miss the redouble as Red because they would be influenced by money play thinking.
- [Money vs Match](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/money-vs-match/) - This position is a classic demonstration of the difference between match play and money play.
- [Middle Game Strategy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/middle-game-strategy/) - This is not an easy position, especially over the board. Falafel's law.
- [Middle Game Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/middle-game-double-2/) - This position is deceptive. Red seems to control the whole board and this looks to be a strong double that White might not be able to take.
- [Middle Game Thinking](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/middle-game-thinking/) - This 42 is a very poor roll for Red. Every move weakens his position.
- [Monte Carlo](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/monte-carlo/) - This position is taken from Steiger (Red) versus Magriel (White) at Monte Carlo 1985.
- [Match Play Complexity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-complexity/) - The most common error I see is players not adjusting their play to the score and consistently making money-game decisions.
- [Match Play Doubling](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-doubling/) - Match play doubling is still poorly understood.
- [Match Play Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-problem/) - For money this would be a very premature redouble but at this match score the cube is valueless to White.
- [Man or Mouse](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/man-or-mouse/) - The question here is whether or not Red should hit White’s blot on his 4-pt?
- [Match Play Thoughts](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-thoughts/) - Once again, we the huge difference between money play and match play as the match nears its end.
- [Match Play Influence](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-influence/) - Money double is not necessarily the same as a match double.
- [Look Ahead](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/look-ahead/) - Red will be thirty-eight pips ahead after the roll. That is the biggest clue in the position!
- [Middle Game Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/middle-game-double/) - The race is close but Red leads in Position and Threat. Being ahead in two out of the three key measures would indicate that Red should probably be doubling if there is sufficient volatility.
- [Match Score Influence](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-score-influence/) - In a money game a double here would be premature and XG rates it as a blunder (just)
- [Match Play Enigma](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/match-play-enigma/) - If this was an unlimited game this would be a grossly premature double.
- [Make the Checkers Work](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/make-the-checkers-work/) - At Double Match Point you cannot win with the doubling cube and gammons are irrelevant.
- [Late Hit](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/late-hit/) - This type of position occurs frequently – White was happily bearing off and looking forward to two points when he left a shot and got hit.
- [Hit or Point?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/hit-or-point/) - This is a type of position that I constantly see misplayed by beginners and intermediates.
- [High Value Cube](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/high-value-cube/) - High cubes in matches often determine the eventual outcome.
- [Keeping Tension](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/keeping-tension/) - Don't make it easy for your opponent.
- [Learning Match Play](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/learning-match-play/) - Early on in one’s match playing career you learn the difference between playing unlimited games and playing matches.
- [Last Checker Premium](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/last-checker-premium/) - It might seem clear here to play 19/16, 18/16 to block White’s sixes from her 16-pt. That is the obvious move, and it is what was played over the board.
- [Intricate Endgame](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/intricate-endgame/) - The key for Red to winning this game is to separate the three white checkers.
- [Early Game Dilemma](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-game-dilemma/) - For this first column Chris starts at the beginning of the game.
- [Flexible Game Plans](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/flexible-game-plans/) - Red played the ‘obvious’ 13/9, 7/2 but that move is a blunder. Why is that the case?
- [Good Numbers and Bad Numbers](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/good-numbers-and-bad-numbers/) - This is not a very difficult problem but Red went astray over the board by playing 24/21, 8/4, which is far too big a play.
- [Gammons Count Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/gammons-count-double/) - The key point in this position, which may not be immediately obvious, is the gammon percentage won by Red after each play
- [Extended Jeopardy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/extended-jeopardy/) - What could be easier than a simple bear-off?
- [Early Strategy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-strategy/) - Principle behind responding to an opening double 5s.
- [Early Thinking](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-thinking/) - It looks as if both players have started with a 42 and Red now has another 42 to play. However, a closer look establishes that is not quite the case and Red trails in the race by 16 pips.
- [Every Play Matters](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/every-play-matters/) - Backgammon is difficult for many reasons but one of them is that every play matters, and to play well you have to concentrate throughout the game.
- [Fundamental Tactics](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/fundamental-tactics/) - One of the fundamental backgammon tactics is this: “attack a lone rear checker, prime an anchor”.
- [Escape or Build?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/escape-or-build/) - Prepare to escape or make our five point?
- [Early Game Tactics](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-game-tactics/) - This is a demonstration that playing safe in the opening is rarely correct.
- [Follow the Basics](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/follow-the-basics/) - You cannot play successful backgammon without continually taking balanced risks.
- [Flexibility](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/flexibility/) - Over the board the natural looking 9/7, 8/7(2) was played but this turned out to be a blunder.
- [Early Game Decision](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-game-decision/) - Once your opponent has made the 2-pt early in the game it is rarely right to split the back checkers.
- [Early Doubling Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-doubling-problem/) - Once gain we examine the difference between money and match play.
- [Early Double Sixes](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-double-sixes/) - A fairly common type of problem. Do you blitz or not?
- [Deep Thought](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/deep-thought/) - Before the advent of the bots this roll would have been played bar/21*, 8/6 and nobody would have known that they were making a big error.
- [DMP Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-problem-2/) - Firstly, this is DMP so Red wants to make the move that wins the most games
- [Count the Ways](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/count-the-ways/) - This type of position is fairly common so it is best to know how to deal with it.
- [Containment](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/containment/) - This is a problem about containment- a complex topic about which much could be written.
- [Connectivity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/connectivity-2/) - Always remember that backgammon is a like war. An essential element of warfare is communication.
- [Early Dilemma](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-dilemma/) - This early game position gives Red a dilemma. Should he take the safety of the ace-point anchor or not?
- [Containment](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/containment-2/) - The bots have taught us a lot about containment. Before the early 1990s we really weren’t very good at containing hit checkers!
- [Early 5-5 Blitz](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-5-5-blitz/) - Early double fives blitzes are very common in backgammon, so it is useful to know how to handle them.
- [Early Development](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/early-development/) - Many choices, how to decide.
- [Early Development](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/money-game-how-should-red-play-21/) - Early in the game it is crucial to get the checkers working.
- [Dynamic versus Static](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dynamic-versus-static/) - This position cries out for an active rather than a passive play.
- [DMP Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-problem/) - The play at DMP is often very different from when there is a live cube.
- [DMP Quandary](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-quandary/) - Before neural net computers nobody would get this problem correct.
- [DMP Thinking](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/dmp-thinking/) - Whenever you roll a small number like 21 you know you are going to have a lot of choices.
- [Containment](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/containment-3/) - Red needs to contain White’s rear checker. Clearly the three must be played 6/3*. The question is how to play the two?
- [Deep Thought](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/deep-thought-2/) - A very complex problem.
- [Counter Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/counter-prime/) - This is all about understanding Red’s game plan.
- [Complex Ending](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-ending/) - This is not the time for timidity (it rarely is in backgammon)
- [Basic Blitz](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/basic-blitz/) - This is a basic double five early blitz. Everybody should know the correct doubling actions both here and in many other closely related positions.
- [Bray’s Law](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/brays-law/) - This position occurred in a London League match this week and provides a classic demonstration of Bray’s Law.
- [Blitz](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blitz/) - This position is used to highlight a very common error amongst beginners, intermediates and sometimes even experts. Continue the blitz?
- [Complex Ending](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-ending-2/) - Without an extensive knowledge of reference positions this is a difficult problem. If you have seen something like this before it makes life a lot easier!
- [Blitz Reference - Double?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blitz-reference-double/) - Other than end-game situations and races how do we learn when to double and whether or not to take an offered double?
- [Bear-Off Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/bear-off-problem/) - When we study bear-off doubling we learn about ‘roll’ positions.
- [Complex Double](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-double/) - A highly volatile position that looks very scary for White but in fact it is a comfortable take.
- [Bear-Off Reference](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/bear-off-reference/) - You have been lucky enough to hit a shot when White was bearing off. You have closed your home board and White still languishes on the bar. When should you redouble?
- [Back Game Planning](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-planning/) - After Red’s forced five, bar/20, he has a choice of four fours.
- [Blitz Doubling Reference](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/blitz-doubling-reference/) - When to double after an early double fives.
- [Complex Containment](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-containment/) - In this position Red has to balance making new points with an element of safety.
- [Connectivity](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/connectivity/) - Like an army, backgammon checkers work better when the soldiers are in communication with each other.
- [Backgame Planning](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/backgame-planning/) - It is easy to get confused by the array of choice that Red has with his double threes.
- [Complex DMP](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-dmp/) - This is not an easy problem and finding the best plan, particularly over the board in live play, even more so.
- [Combating A Prime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/combating-a-prime/) - Is this the time to split our back men or make an inner point?
- [Back Game Strategies](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-strategies/) - White has a reasonably well-timed 2-3 back game, but her home board could collapse with a sequence of high numbers.
- [Checker Development](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/checker-development/) - When in doubt, hit is a well-known backgammon maxim.
- [Complex Back Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/complex-back-game/) - Back games can be horrendously difficult and this one certainly isn’t easy.
- [Asset or hit?](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/asset-or-hit/) - When in doubt, hit, or make a point?
- [Avoiding Contact](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/avoiding-contact/) - An apparently simple position but only one move is not a triple blunder or worse.
- [A Question of Strategy](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-question-of-strategy/) - The two blots in White’s home board give Red the licence to make a bold play. The question is what is the right game plan?
- [Back Game Dilemma](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/back-game-dilemma/) - Back games are very difficult to play well.
- [An Unusual Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-unusual-problem/) - Even a small lead in a long match can have a huge influence on doubling decisions.
- [A Question of Priorities](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-question-of-priorities/) - Most people, including myself, get this one wrong.
- [A Tricky Double Threes](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-tricky-double-threes/) - The key to this position is that White has an advanced anchor and so Red wants one as well.
- [Another Third Move Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/another-third-move-problem/) - This position arises after Red 52: 13/11, 13/8, White 21: 24/23, 13/11. Now Red has a 51 to play.
- [Always Have a Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/always-have-a-game-plan/) - The vagaries of the dice mean you will constantly have to update that plan but at any point in time, you should always have a clear idea of what you are trying to achieve.
- [Anchors Not Allowed](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/anchors-not-allowed/) - Red has a lot of work to do yet to win from this position so we can quickly ignore the safest play of 16/13, 2/1. The question is which White blot should Red hit and how?
- [An Early Conundrum](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-early-conundrum/) - It is ever so easy to play bar/24, 13/11 here without thinking. Sadly, that move is a blunder.
- [An Early Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/an-early-problem/) - We can quickly reject 8/2, 6/2 which creates an ugly structure and one that is difficult to put back together again.
- [Always Have a Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/always-have-a-game-plan-2/) - Always having a game plan is a key to winning backgammon. This is not a difficult problem if you follow that idea. Should Red be blitzing or priming here?
- [A Tricky Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-tricky-question/) - Red could play safe with 6/1, 4/1 but what will he do next time and meanwhile he has trashed his board.
- [Asset versus Race](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/asset-versus-race/) - This is a common opening problem. Should Red hit, if so where, or should he take the asset of the 5-pt?
- [A Bot Play](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-bot-play/) - This is a difficult position that I got wrong in my first analysis.
- [A Doubling Question](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-doubling-question/) - Red has only seventeen numbers that hit White’s blot. Normally that is not enough to warrant a double but is that the case here?
- [A Doubling Problem](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-doubling-problem/) - When looking at any match play problem you should first seek to determine what the correct action in a money game would be.
- [A Lesson from the Past](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve/a-lesson-from-the-past/) - This position is taken from the US vs UK match in 1973, the first ever recorded backgammon match.

## Phil Simborg Video Lessons

- [Colorless Counting Made Easy](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/colorless-counting-made-easy/) - Phil Simborg shows how fast and easy it is to count pips using the Colorless Counting method. Improve your decision-making!
- [2-Away, 4-Away](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-away-4-away/) - Phil analyzes one of the most fascinating match scores: 2-Away, 4-Away.
- [2-1 From the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-1-from-the-bar/) - Phil analyzes an interesting 2-1 from the bar checker play.
- [2-2 Second Roll Study](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-2-second-roll-study/) - Phil takes a look at how to play 2-2 on the second roll.
- [2-3 Bearing In](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-3-bearing-in/) - Phil looks at a seemingly simple 2-3 bear in position.
- [A Game of Luck](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/a-game-of-luck/) - Phil shows us why backgammon is not just a game of luck.
- [Most Common Variation](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/most-common-variation/) - Phil teaches us a useful tool, the Most Common Variation Approach.
- [5-1 MCG Evaluation](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-1-mcg-evaluation/) - Matt Cohn-Geier joins Phil to evaluate a 5-1 checker play.
- [5-2 Short Video](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-short-video/) - A short study of a 5-2 checker play.
- [A Game of Luck Part II](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/a-game-of-luck-part-ii/) - Phil re-visits a 4-2 checker play, and explains why backgammon is a game of skill.
- [Late Game Hit](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/late-game-hit/) - Phil gives a lesson in bringing home the win after a late game hit.
- [Bearing Off With Contact](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/bearing-off-with-contact/) - Morten Holm joins Phil for a study in bearing off where there is still contact.
- [Breaking the Anchor](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/breaking-the-anchor/) - Phil shares the key factors to consider when deciding if we should break our anchor.
- [Counting Pips](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/counting-pips/) - Phil teaches us the best ways to count pips over the board.
- [Deliberate Practice in the Early Game](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/deliberate-practice-in-the-early-game/) - Phil teaches us the best ways to practice early game checker play.
- [Bearing Off Against 1 Checker](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/bearing-off-against-1-checker/) - Phil teaches us how to properly bear off after hitting our opponent's last checker.
- [Doubling Cube 102](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/doubling-cube-102/) - Advanced Study of Cube for Money, Match and End Games
- [Early Game with Stick](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/early-game-with-stick/) - Stick joins Phil to analyze an early game checker play.
- [Effective Pip Count Study](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/effective-pip-count-study/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to give an extended study of effective pip counts.
- [End Game Cube](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/end-game-cube/) - Phil takes a look at an interesting cube action in the last few rolls of the game.
- [Break Anchor or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/break-anchor-or-not/) - Phil gives us a lesson about a common predicament: break the anchor or not?
- [Introduction to eXtreme Gammon](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/introduction-to-extreme-gammon/) - Phil gives us a tour of the leading backgammon computer, eXtreme Gammon.
- [How to Learn Containment Cube and Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-to-learn-containment-cube-and-checker-play/) - Phil helps us better understand cube and checker play in a containment game.
- [Learning from the Best](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/learning-from-the-best/) - Phil shows us a fantastic way to learn from the best player - eXtreme Gammon.
- [Learning Process on Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/learning-process-on-cube-action/) - Phil teaches us a great learning process for cube action in eXtreme Gammon.
- [Mid Point Stand Off](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/mid-point-stand-off/) - Phil helps us understand a common position, the mid point stand off.
- [Revolution in Pip Counting](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/revolution-in-pip-counting/) - Counting made easy! Phil shares his tips & tricks.
- [1-1 at DMP](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/1-1-at-dmp/) - Stick Rice and Phil discuss the merits of double 1s at Double Match Point (DMP).
- [1-5 Backgame Study](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/1-5-backgame-study/) - Phil evaluates the critical differences between a 2-5 and a 1-5 backgame.
- [Tricky 2-1 Bear In](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/tricky-2-1-bear-in/) - Phil walks through the many options with this difficult 2-1 bear in.
- [2-1 Bear In Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-1-bear-in-play/) - Phil explains how to find the right play on an interesting 2-1 bear in problem.
- [2-1: Blitz or Prime?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-1-blitz-or-prime/) - Phil discusses the various game plans and which one is the best with this 2-1.
- [2-1 Money Position](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-1-money-position/) - Phil talks through a 2-1 checker decision from a money game.
- [Early Game 2-1](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/early-game-2-1/) - Perry Gartner and Phil discuss an early 2-1 checker play.
- [2-2 at Gammon Save](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-2-at-gammon-save/) - Phil contemplates how to play a 2-2 at a Gammon Save score.
- [3-1 Bear Off Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/3-1-bear-off-decision/) - Mary Hickey dives into the nuances of this 3-1 bear off play.
- [Second Roll Double 2s](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/second-roll-double-2s/) - Phil talks about a difficult second roll 2-2 checker play.
- [Difficult 2-2 Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/difficult-2-2-checker-play/) - MCG contemplates a 2-2 play that Phil had trouble with.
- [2-Away Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-away-cube-action/) - Phil helps us understand cube action from a lopsided score.
- [2-Away 4-Away Cube Study](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-away-4-away-cube-study/) - Phil discusses cube strategy from a very special match score.
- [2-Away 4-Away Cube Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/2-away-4-away-cube-decision/) - Phil walks us through a tough match score cube decision.
- [3-1 "European Split"](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/3-1-european-split/) - Phil discusses his rationale for a 3-1 checker play.
- [3-2 by Perry](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/3-2-by-perry/) - Perry Gartner helps Phil will a 3-2 that gave him trouble.
- [3-2 Slot or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/3-2-slot-or-not/) - MCG and Phil discuss whether or not you should slot with this 3-2.
- [Double 3 Money Game Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/double-3-money-game-analysis/) - John O'Hagan and Phil comtemplate the proper game plan with this Money Game 3-3.
- [Challenging 3-3 Checker Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/challenging-3-3-checker-decision/) - Mary Hickey and Phil discuss a difficult checker play that gave them both trouble.
- [Second Roll Double 3s](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/second-roll-double-3s/) - Phil evaluates a second roll double 3 at various match scores.
- [4-1 Bear Off Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-1-bear-off-analysis/) - Stick analyzes a deceptively difficult 4-1 bear off position.
- [4-1 at DMP](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-1-at-dmp/) - Phil helps us understand a puzzing 4-1 at DMP.
- [Second Roll 4-1 Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/second-roll-4-1-analysis/) - Matt Cohn-Geier and Phil analyze a second roll 4-1 position.
- [Early Game 4-1](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/early-game-4-1/) - Rich Munitz joins Phil Simborg to analyze an early game 4-1.
- [Middle Game 4-1](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/middle-game-4-1/) - Phil uses game plan theory to tackle this 4-1 checker decision.
- [Challenging 4-1 Problem](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/challenging-4-1-problem/) - Matt Cohn-Geier tackles a checker play that gave Phil a headache.
- [4-2 Bear In Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-2-bear-in-play/) - Phil shares wisdom on a 4-2 bear in with two possible plays.
- [4-2 from the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-2-from-the-bar/) - Phil shares a thoughtful analysis of this deceptive 4-2 from the bar.
- [4-2 Hit or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-2-hit-or-not/) - Hit or no hit? Phil breaks it down with a thorough analysis.
- [Priming Game 4-2](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/priming-game-4-2/) - Phil talks through the many options with this 4-2 in a priming game.
- [Pay Now or Pay Later?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/pay-now-or-pay-later/) - Pay now or Pay Later? Phil helps us answer with some useful tricks.
- [Tough 4-3 Checker Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/tough-4-3-checker-decision/) - Mary Hickey joins Phil to explain the game plan with this 4-3
- [Money Game 4-3](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/money-game-4-3/) - Phil helps us understand this 4-3 that came up in a money game.
- [4-4 Bold vs. Safe](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-4-bold-vs-safe/) - Phil explains the Bold vs. Safe criteria using this simple 4-4 position.
- [4-Away, 4-Away Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-away-4-away-cube-action/) - Phil walks us through match equity with an interesting cube decision.
- [Late Shot Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/late-shot-cube-action/) - Stick Rice helps Phil analyze this cube action resulting from a late game hit.
- [5-1 Alternate Plays](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-1-alternate-plays/) - Phil explains how this 5-1 play alters based on changes in the position.
- [5-1 Early Game Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-1-early-game-play/) - Phil talks through game plan in this early 5-1 decision.
- [5-1 from Novi Tournament](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-1-from-novi-tournament/) - Test yourself with a simple checker decision Phil encountered in Novi.
- [5-2 Money Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-money-analysis/) - Mary Hickey helps decipher a 5-2 checker play from a money game.
- [5-1 Perry Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-1-perry-analysis/) - Perry Gartner walks through his thought process on this 5-1 checker play.
- [5-2 from Jamaica](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-from-jamaica/) - Phil helps us understand a play that his opponent encountered in Jamaica.
- [5-2 from the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-from-the-bar/) - Phil explains his though process for this early game 5-2.
- [5-2: What's Your Game Plan?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-whats-your-game-plan/) - Phil gives us a lesson in game plan using this crazy 5-2 position.
- [5-2 Match Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-2-match-play/) - Phil helps us find the right game plan for this 5-2 decision from a match.
- [Second Roll 5-2](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/second-roll-5-2/) - Phil analyzes a second roll 5-2 checker play.
- [5-3 from the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-3-from-the-bar/) - Phil explains the reasoning behind this 5-3 checker play from the bar.
- [5-3 Complete Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-3-complete-analysis/) - Perry Gartner joins Phil to give a thorough analysis of this 5-3 from the bar.
- [Late Game 5-3](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/late-game-5-3/) - 2019 Backgammon Giant #3 joins phil to analyze a 5-3 checker decision.
- [Fun 5-4 Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/fun-5-4-analysis/) - Phil analyzes a fun 5-4 position that varies based on match score.
- [Anchor or Hit?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/anchor-or-hit/) - Matt Cohn Geier analyzes an interesting early game decision.
- [5-4 Containment Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-4-containment-play/) - Matt Cohn Geier takes a look at a late game containment play.
- [5-4 Most Common Variation Approach](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/5-4-most-common-variation-approach/) - Phil gives us a lesson in the Most Common Variation Approach with this 5-4
- [Great 5-4 Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/great-5-4-analysis/) - Stick Rice joins Phil to give us a thorough analysis of an interesting 5-4
- [6-1 Comparative Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-1-comparative-analysis/) - Phil uses a comparative analysis to find the best play with this 6-1.
- [Difficult 6-1 Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/difficult-6-1-decision/) - David Presser joins Phil to help with a difficult 6-1 checker play.
- [6-1 Hickey Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-1-hickey-analysis/) - Mary Hickey gives us a fantastic analysis of a tricky 6-1 decision.
- [Great 6-1 Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/great-6-1-analysis/) - MCG gives us a fantastic analysis of this 6-1 checker decision.
- [6-2 from the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-2-from-the-bar/) - Phil analyzes this entering 2-6 and gives us a lesson in using XG!
- [Tricky 6-2 Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/tricky-6-2-checker-play/) - Phil analyzes the proper game plan with this 6-2 checker decision.
- [6-2 Perry Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-2-perry-analysis/) - Perry Gartner share his though process for an interesting 6-2 checker play.
- [6-3 at DMP](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-3-at-dmp/) - Phil helps us understand this 6-3 decision at double match point.
- [Middle Game 6-3](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/middle-game-6-3/) - Phil helps us understand a puzzling 6-3 checker play.
- [6-5 Hit or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-5-hit-or-not/) - To hit or not to hit? Phil helps us answer this difficult question.
- [6-5 Match Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-5-match-play/) - Phil Simborg analyzes an early game 6-5.
- [Late Game 6-5](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/late-game-6-5/) - Phil tests Matt Cohn Geier with a tough 6-5 checker play.
- [6-5 Run or Stay?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-5-run-or-stay/) - Matt Cohn Geier analyzes a late game decision to run or stay back.
- [6-5 Checker Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-5-checker-decision/) - Victor Ashkenazi helps us understand an interesting 6-5 checker decision.
- [6-6 Bear In](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-6-bear-in/) - Does this 6-6 bear in look obvious? Be careful!
- [Action Double](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/action-double/) - Would you double this position before such a big roll?
- [6-X from the Bar](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/6-x-from-the-bar/) - Phil looks at a common problem: 6-X from the bar.
- [A Lesson From Sly](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/a-lesson-from-sly/) - Phil shares a lesson from his mentor Joe Sylvester.
- [Action Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/action-cube-analysis/) - Phil analyzes a cube action and gives us a better approach to decision making.
- [Advanced Odds and Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/advanced-odds-and-cube-action/) - Phil Simborg gives an advanced study of odds and cube action.
- [Analyzing a Checker Error](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/analyzing-a-checker-error/) - Phil analyzes a checker play and teaches us how to figure out why the play is correct.
- [Are You Crazy?!](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/are-you-crazy/) - Phil analyzes a play he made in a chouette that made his partners think he was crazy.
- [Back Game Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/back-game-cube-analysis/) - Matt Cohn-Geier joins Phil to analyze a back game cube action.
- [Back Game Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/back-game-cube-action/) - Phil takes a look at a potential cube action in a backgame.
- [Basic Numbers and Odds](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/basic-numbers-and-odds/) - Phil gives a beginner lesson on basic numbers and odds in backgammon.
- [Better To Give Than Receive](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/better-to-give-than-receive/) - Phil explains why it is better to leave a shot than play safe in this position.
- [Blitz Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/blitz-cube-analysis/) - Stick Rice analyzes cube action in this blitzing position.
- [Blitz or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/blitz-or-not/) - Blitz or make the 5-point? Never an easy decision.
- [4-1 Priming Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-1-priming-decision/) - Phil analyzes a 4-1 checker play in a priming position.
- [Cleveland Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cleveland-cube-action/) - Phil looks at a cube action that came up in his match from Celveland.
- [Hit or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/hit-or-not/) - Stick Rice analyzes a choice to hit or make another point.
- [Breaking the Midpoint](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/breaking-the-midpoint/) - Phil gives us a lesson about when to break the midpoint.
- [Bring it Home](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/bring-it-home/) - Phil teaches us the right way to bring it home with this 5-5.
- [Chicago Cube Dilemma](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/chicago-cube-dilemma/) - Phil shows us a crazy cube decision from his Chicago chouette.
- [Common Error](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/common-error/) - Phil helps us avoid a common checker play error.
- [Containment](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/containment/) - Phil teaches us about how to properly play containment games.
- [How the Giants Got That Way](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-the-giants-got-that-way/) - Phil teaches us how giants of backgammon would analyze this containment position.
- [Crawford and Post Crawford](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/crawford-and-post-crawford/) - Phil gives us key ideas about playing at crawford & post crawford.
- [Doubling Cube 101](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/doubling-cube-101/) - A basic study in using the doubling cube in races.
- [Cube Action - Bob Koca Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-action-bob-koca-analysis/) - Bob Koca joins Phil to give an in-depth analysis of an interesting cube action.
- [Cube Action from Jamaica](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-action-from-jamaica/) - Phil analyzes a wild cube decision from a money game in Jamaica.
- [Cube Decision from LA](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-decision-from-la/) - Phil walks us through a decision he had at the LA tournament.
- [7-Away, 2-Away Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/7-away-2-away-cube-action/) - Phil helps us understand how to use the cube at a lopsided score.
- [Blitzing Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/blitzing-cube-action/) - John O'Hagan analyzes a cube action in a money game blitz position.
- [4-Away, 2-Away Cube Challenge](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/4-away-2-away-cube-challenge/) - Test yourself with this interesting 4-away 2-away cube action.
- [Cube Decision in Charlotte with Koca](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-decision-in-charlotte-with-koca/) - Bob Koca shares an interesting position with Phil and gives a great analysis.
- [Cube Analysis by O'Hagan](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-analysis-by-ohagan/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to analyze an interesting cube action.
- [Money Game Cube Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/money-game-cube-decision/) - Victor Ashkenazi joins Phil to analyze a money game cube action.
- [Cube Position from California](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-position-from-california/) - Phil walks through an interesting cube decision from California.
- [Quiz Factor Cube Decision](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/quiz-factor-cube-decision/) - Phil uses this position to demonstrate the "quiz factor".
- [Cube Vig](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/cube-vig/) - Phil uses a 5-4 position to demonstrate the idea of cube vig.
- [Defending a Super Backgame](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/defending-a-super-backgame/) - Phil teaches us how to defend against a super backgame.
- [Double Jeopardy](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/double-jeopardy/) - Phil explains the concept of double jeopardy in the bear off.
- [Doubling From 2-Away](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/doubling-from-2-away/) - Phil shares his tips regarding doubling from a 2-away score.
- [Doubling Window by John and Phil](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/doubling-window-by-john-and-phil/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to analyze a doubling window cube problem.
- [Early Game Exercise](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/early-game-exercise/) - Phil teaches us a fantastic exercise to improve our checker play.
- [End Game Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/end-game-cube-analysis/) - Phil and John talk through an end game re-cube decision to 8.
- [End Game Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/end-game-cube-action/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to discuss end game cube action.
- [European Split](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/european-split/) - Phil uses a 4-1 decision to teach us about the "European Split".
- [Falafel vs. MCG Prime](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/falafel-vs-mcg-prime/) - Phil analyzes a cube action from a match between MCG and Falafel.
- [Game Plan - A New Perspective](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/game-plan-a-new-perspective/) - Phil shares a new perspective on the idea of game plan.
- [Game Plan Advanced](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/game-plan-advanced/) - An advanced study of game plan.
- [Game Plan is the Key](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/game-plan-is-the-key/) - Phil teaches us about a key theory in checker decisions.
- [Gammon Adjusted Take Points](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/gammon-adjusted-take-points/) - Phil duscusses his process for calculating gammon adjusted take points.
- [Gammon Go and Gammon Save](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/gammon-go-and-gammon-save/) - Phil gives us a lesson in two critical match scores: Gammon Go and Gammon Save.
- [Gammon Go](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/gammon-go/) - Phil teaches us how to play the early game at gammon go.
- [Giant Cube Error](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/giant-cube-error/) - John O'Hagan and Phil analyze a giant cube error made by a strong player.
- [Late Game Redouble](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/late-game-redouble/) - Phil analyzes a late game redouble decision in a money game.
- [Hitting from the Bar Variations](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/hitting-from-the-bar-variations/) - Phil walks through variations in a hitting from the bar position.
- [Hitting Twice in the Early Game](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/hitting-twice-in-the-early-game/) - Phil shows us when it is correct to hit twice in the early game.
- [Holistic Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/holistic-backgammon/) - Phil teaches us how to avoid talking ourselves out of the right play.
- [How to Learn: 5-1](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-to-learn-5-1/) - Phil uses a 5-1 position to show us the best way to learn from XG.
- [Containment Cube and Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/containment-cube-and-checker-play/) - Phil shows us the best way to study containment cube and checker play.
- [I Got Lucky](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/i-got-lucky/) - Phil shows us a cube decision at 5-away 2-away where he got very lucky.
- [I'm the Gingerbread Man](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/im-the-gingerbread-man/) - Phil made the "gingerbread man" play, but is it correct?
- [How I Lost to Herb](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-i-lost-to-herb/) - Phil analyzes the last decision in his match with Herb Roman.
- [How to Improve Early Game Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-to-improve-early-game-play/) - Phil teaches us how to improve our early game play.
- [How to Learn with XG](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-to-learn-with-xg/) - Phil teaches us how to vary a position and learn from it.
- [In the Game to the End](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/in-the-game-to-the-end/) - Bob Wachtel joins Phil to analyze contact positions at the end of an ace point game.
- [It's All About Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/its-all-about-game-plan/) - Phil explains the importance of game plan when deciding checker plays.
- [It's All About Odds](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/its-all-about-odds/) - Phil explains the importance of knowing basic odds and number short cuts that will help improve your game.
- [It's All Math](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/its-all-math/) - Phil presents a position that is simply all about math.
- [It's All Odds](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/its-all-odds/) - Phil shows us a checker decision that is all about odds.
- [It's Not Always About the PR](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/its-not-always-about-the-pr/) - Phil presents a great lesson on how human interaction can affect the moves we make.
- [Keep It Pretty](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/keep-it-pretty/) - Phil shows us the importance of "keeping it pretty" with our checker play.
- [Keith Count](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/keith-count/) - Phil teaches us the Keith count to improve our accuracy in racing cubes.
- [Most Common Variation](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/most-common-variation-2/) - Phil teaches us how to use the Most Common Variation approach.
- [Middle Game Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/middle-game-checker-play/) - Phil analyzes an interesting middle game checker play.
- [Myth Buster - Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/myth-buster-cube-action/) - Phil busts a common myth about being too good to double.
- [Making That 5 Point](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/making-that-5-point/) - Bob Wachtel joins Phil to explain why it might not always be right to make the five point.
- [Market Gainers](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/market-gainers/) - Phil analyzes a cube action and teaches us about market gainers.
- [NMS and DMP](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/nms-and-dmp/) - Phil analyzes a 2-1 at a normal score and at double match point.
- [Nothing to Lose](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/nothing-to-lose/) - Phil looks at a cube action from a score with "nothing to lose".
- [Illinois Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/illinois-cube-analysis/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to analyze a re-cube decision from Illinois.
- [O'Hagan's Law](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/ohagans-law/) - Phil uses O'Hagan's law to analyze this cube position.
- [One on the Bar Containment](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/one-on-the-bar-containment/) - Phil shares a great reference position for a common decision.
- [Oops](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/oops/) - Phil takes a look at a mistake he made in a recent money game.
- [Pay Now or Pay Later](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/pay-now-or-pay-later-2/) - Phil analyzes a common dilemma, pay now or pay later?
- [Playing Double Fives](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/playing-double-fives/) - Phil explains how to avoid errors when playing tricky doubles.
- [Playing Ugly or Not](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/playing-ugly-or-not/) - Phil analyzes how to play an ugly checker decision.
- [Post Crawford Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/post-crawford-cube-action/) - Phil analyzes a fascinating post crawford cube decision.
- [Post Crawford Cube Study](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/post-crawford-cube-study/) - Phil talks through how to think about the cube post crawford.
- [Prime vs. Prime](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/prime-vs-prime/) - Phil analyzes a classic prime vs. prime cube decision.
- [Prime vs. Prime Cube from Chou](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/prime-vs-prime-cube-from-chou/) - Phil looks at a tricky decision that came up in a chouette.
- [Prime vs. Prime Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/prime-vs-prime-checker-play/) - Phil gives us tips for playing the checkers in prime positions.
- [Race 101](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/race-101/) - Phil teaches us the fundamental concepts of racing cube action.
- [Recube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/recube-action/) - Phil analyzes a difficult recube decision from a match.
- [Recube Lesson](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/recube-lesson/) - Phil gives an advanced lesson in recube takepoints.
- [Reference Positions](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/reference-positions/) - Phil shows us why reference positions are the keys to success.
- [Risk Reward for Open Players](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/risk-reward-for-open-players/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to give an advanced risk/reward cube study.
- [Rule of 4](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/rule-of-4/) - Phil shares an important rule for doubling in a very common position.
- [Should I Stay or Should I Go](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/should-i-stay-or-should-i-go/) - Phil tackles a common dillema: should I stay or go?
- [Sly Was Right](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/sly-was-right/) - Phil shows us what Joe Sylvester knew before the bots agreed.
- [Splitting for Beginners](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/splitting-for-beginners/) - Phil shares simple tips to help you decide whether to split or not.
- [Los Angeles Cube Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/los-angeles-cube-analysis/) - Steve Sax joins Phil to analyze a cube action from the LA tournament.
- [Early Game 2-2](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/early-game-2-2/) - Stick explains an early game double 2 play.
- [Third Roll Triple Headache](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/third-roll-triple-headache/) - Phil analyzes a third roll position giving him a triple headache.
- [Three Checker Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/three-checker-cube-action/) - Phil analyzes a cube action with just three checkers left.
- [Too Good or Not](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/too-good-or-not/) - Jacob Stick Rice joins Phil to explain whether or not this position is too good to double.
- [Volunteer or Not?](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/volunteer-or-not/) - Phil helps us understand a common dilemma, volunteer or not?
- [Two-Roll Position Analysis](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/two-roll-position-analysis/) - John O'Hagan joins Phil to analyze a late game position with 2 rolls left.
- [Using XG for a Deeper Understanding](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/using-xg-for-a-deeper-understanding/) - Phil teaches us how to use eXtreme Gammon for a deeper understanding of positions.
- [Volatile Cube Action](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/volatile-cube-action/) - Phil analyzes a tricky match score based cube decision.
- [You Hit the Shot](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/you-hit-the-shot/) - Phil analyzes late game cube action after hitting a shot.
- [Tough 5-2 Middle Game Play](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/tough-5-2-middle-game-play/) - Phil talks through finding the best play given one of the worst rolls.
- [How to Transcribe a Match](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/how-to-transcribe-a-match/) - Justin Nunez joins Phil to teach us how to transcribe a match in XG.
- [When in Doubt](https://usbgf.org/simborg_video_lesson/when-in-doubt/) - Phil shares a simple rule for tough bearoff positions.

## Clubs

- [Arkansas Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/arkansas-backgammon-club/) - Join players of all skill levels for friendly matches, competitive tournaments, and a welcoming backgammon community in Arkansas. Learn, play, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned tournament player, a casual player, or someone who has never shaken a dice cup before, you have found your seat at the board. Our backgammon
- [Pleasanton TX Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/pleasanton-backgammon-club/)
- [Bloomington Backgammon Club - IL](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bloomington-backgammon-club-il/)
- [Midlands Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/midlands-backgammon-club/)
- [Fort Collins Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/fort-collins-backgammon-club/)
- [Olde Towne Backgammon Columbus](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/olde-towne-backgammon-columbus/)
- [Panther City Backgammon Club (Fort Worth, TX)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/panther-city-backgammon-club-fort-worth-tx/) - Welcome to Fort Worth Backgammon! We have a rotating series of venues to enjoy the city more. We'd love for you to attend. All levels of play are welcome. Reach out to our email or find us on social to be added to our next event notification.
- [Backgammon Club of the Great Manhattan North](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-club-of-the-great-manhattan-north/) - The Backgammon Club of the Great Manhattan North is a competitive backgammon club in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City. We welcome players of all levels who share a love of the game. Calendar of events: https://bcgmn.club/tournaments/
- [Waco Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/waco-backgammon-club/) - Waco Backgammon Club will meet weekly on Thursday at Shorty's Pizza Shack located at 8640 LaVillage Ave, Waco, Tx 76712 (located off Hewitt Drive). Happy Hour and social time starts at 5:30pm. Tournament draw starts at 6:15pm and dice roll at 6:30pm Tournament Entry fee is $10 (cash only) Each player should get to
- [Santa Ynez Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/santa-ynez-backgammon-club/) - The Santa Ynez Backgammon Club meets twice monthly, typically on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, at Petros Winery & Restaurant (3360 Foxen Canyon Rd., Los Olivos, CA). General play begins at 4:30 PM, and players of all skill levels are welcome. Founded by Teri Harmon in 2025, the club has grown into
- [Willow Glen Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/willow-glen-backgammon-club/)
- [Arizona Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/arizona-backgammon-club/)
- [Lexington Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/lexington-backgammon-club/) - The Lexington Backgammon Club, serving the Bluegrass Backgammon enthursiasts out of Lexington, KY. We have a great location in downtown Lexington in the Old North Bar at the Greyline Station! Come join the fun. We play a double elimination tournament each event. Buy-in and sidepools to be determined based on turnout. Novices and total beginners
- [Backgammon Nights (The Woodlands)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-nights-the-woodlands/) - We have recently launched a new premium, live backgammon social club in the Greater Houston area called Backgammon Nights (The Woodlands, TX). Casual social play. Boards are provided by us! Backgammon Nights is about stepping away from the screens and returning to analog strategy. We host casual, sleek gatherings in the heart of The Woodlands where players
- [St. Louis Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/st-louis-backgammon-club/) - Connect with fellow members, stay updated on our latest activities, and be part of our growing backgammon community. We play weekly tournaments every Sunday at 3 PM. All skill levels welcome. Follow our official updates and connect with us directly on our Facebook Page. We look forward to seeing you at our next gathering!
- [Backgammon on the Delta](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-on-the-delta/) - We are an online only backgammon club for California players. We meet, play and study matches every Tuesday.
- [Brunswick Beaches Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/brunswick-beaches-backgammon-club/) - What is Brunswick Beaches Backgammon all about? We're about Saturday afternoon fun! Come make new friends, enjoy some friendly game play, improve your skills, and join a tournament for the competition and prizes! Who can participate in Brunswick Beaches Backgammon? Anyone who is interested in playing backgammon! We welcome all ages and skill levels from
- [Gammon Associates (Los Angeles)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/gammon-associates/) - WEDNESDAY NIGHT @ 6:00 PM ALIJENAB Banquets 16940 Ventura Blvd Encino, CA 91316 (8 Format: 5 & 7 point matches. CASH only for entry fees. No Reservations required. $10.00 entry fee with re-buys at $5 & $10. Plus $10 meeting room fee per attendee. We accept late players until 7:45 PM, if not
- [Bucktown Biweekly Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bucktown-biweekly-backgammon-club/) - We meet every other Tuesday at the Green Eye in Chicago (2403 W. Homer) at 7pm. Tournament style varies based on attendance but we usually do chouette before and after.
- [Rock Valley Backgammon Special Interest group](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/rock-valley-backgammon-special-interest-group/) - We are a group of players that meet once a month for educational lessons and group play for all things backgammon. We meet at Rock Valley College. Contact Joe to be invited to the group lesson.
- [Shore Backgammon Club of Central New Jersey](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/shore-backgammon-club-of-central-new-jersey/) - Join our growing group of new and advanced backgammon players. Novice players are welcome to come and learn this amazing game. We meet at Peninsula Games on Wednesdays at 6 PM for small tournaments and round robin play.
- [Peoria Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/peoria-backgammon-club/)
- [Tucson Backgammon Society](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/tucson-backgammon-society/) - This isn’t your local meetup. This is a society shrouded in cigar smoke, questionable legality, and rocks glasses with three-finger pours of expensive Scotch from Dave’s Liquor Locker — neat. Always poured neat. TBS has prestige. It has panache. It has enemies. It has multiple open investigations led by “Brian” from the IRS. Join the
- [Diablo Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/diablo-backgammon/) - Dave Simpson at (925) 997-8486 has a meetup at 6 pm every Tuesday at Draft Sports Pub in Pleasanton.
- [US West Coast League](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/us-west-coast-league/) - This is an Online League only. We play a 10 person a division format, where everyone plays everyone. The best records are promoted to the next level up and the worst are relegated down. Awards for best PR average are given each month. Small entry fee and prize awarded to the best records.
- [Charlotte Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/charlotte-backgammon-club/)
- [Northern Virginia Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/northern-virginia-backgammon-club/)
- [Beltway Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/beltway-backgammon-club/) - Beltway Backgammon is a social backgammon club located at Mister Days, 1101 N. Highland St, Clarendon VA 22201. We are open to all players - from those who would like to learn to professional players. We have Tournaments every Sunday at 12:30 EST, plus other events. Some of the top players in the United States
- [Orange County Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/orange-county-backgammon-club/) - Update: Monday May 4 @ CLAIM JUMPER - South Coast PlazaMonday May 11 @ Muldoon's Irish Pub- Newport BeachMonday May 18 @ Muldoon's Irish Pub- Newport BeachMonday May 25 @ Muldoon's Irish Pub- Newport Beach We play a tournament, Matches to 5 or 7 points. The entry fee is $20 and re -entries accepted if available. Prizes awarded to top 3
- [The Social Point Backgammon Club (Ft. Lauderdale)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/the-social-point-backgammon-club-ft-lauderdale/) - The Social Point Backgammon Club plays social backgammon in two locations in Fort Lauderdale. The Club provides social play, especially for players in their 20s and 30s, with instruction available from Pros. Tuesdays – Bar Betty, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm. Entrance at rear of building, @ 2465 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 ($8 charge
- [Houston Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/houston-backgammon-club/) - Typically play on a Saturday near the middle of each month -- players will receive an email with advance notification of the specific date. Players can also call ahead to confirm playing dates or can check Houston Backgammon League on Facebook. Tournament starts at 12:30 pm, players should arrive by 12:15 pm to ensure inclusion
- [Backgammon Social Club - Las Vegas](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-social-club-las-vegas/) - Backgammon Social Club – Game Night at Cafe Landwer Ready to roll the dice and enjoy a great night out? Join Backgammon Social Club Las Vegas for a fun and relaxed game night at Cafe Landwer, where great food, friendly competition, and good company come together. Whether you’re brand new to backgammon or a seasoned
- [Backgammon Social - Los Angeles](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-social-los-angeles/) - Events every week, check the website for all details and RSVP instructions Backgammon Social brings people together through culture, conversation, and play. We are reviving an ancient game to create modern connections, creating a community of both seasoned players and curious beginners who love unique experiences.
- [Backgammon Social - Bay Area](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-social-bay-area/)
- [Backgammon Social - Philly](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-social-philly/) - Events every week, check the website for all details and RSVP instructions Backgammon Social brings people together through culture, conversation, and play. We are reviving an ancient game to create modern connections, creating a community of both seasoned players and curious beginners who love unique experiences.
- [Backgammon Social - Miami](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-social-miami/) - Backgammon Social brings people together through culture, conversation, and play. We are reviving an ancient game to create modern connections, creating a community of both seasoned players and curious beginners who love unique experiences. Miami Events
- [Louisville Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/louisville-backgammon-club/) - The Louisville Backgammon Club is bringing the action to Louisville Turner in 2026! We will meet on select Tuesdays each month, but this could change based on turnout. $5 Entry Fee — all entry fees will be pooled and paid out to the winning players! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to roll
- [Bull City Backgammon (NC)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bull-city-backgammon-nc/) - Join us every third Saturday at 12 noon for Bull City Backgammon. All are welcome, even if you just would like to watch. Required entry fee of $10 to play with optional side pool of $10. Tournament format depends on turnout; we’ve been running an opening Round-Robin, often in two groups to determine final 2
- [Raleigh-Durham Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/raleigh-durham-backgammon-club/) - Backgammon players group in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina. We meet every Thursday, approx. 6:00pm @ The MacGregor Draft House in Cary for free tournaments involving 7 & 5 point timed matches. There's also a completely optional $10 side pool. Many of us gather as early as 5:00pm in order to grab a drink
- [Topsail Backgammon Club (NC)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/topsail-backgammon-club-nc/)
- [Rochester Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/rochester-backgammon-club/) - We meet at Dicky's Corner Pub on the first Monday of each month from 6-10 PM Double check our Facebook Group to confirm. 791 Meigs St #2137, Rochester, NY 14620
- [Palm Springs Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/palm-springs-backgammon-club/) - We are a club in Palm Springs, California dedicated to the appreciation and learning of the beautiful game of backgammon. If you are a pro, come play, if you want to learn, come and check it out.
- [Naperville Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/naperville-backgammon-club-cbl/) - Naperville acts as the community's heartbeat, offering a "buzzing" environment from early morning coffee runs to late-night drinks. It’s a popular spot for date nights, boutique shopping, and socializing. The demographic is increasingly global, with a large South Asian and East Asian population contributing to a diverse culinary and cultural scene. Rock Bottom is a
- [Wrigleyville Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/wrigleyville-backgammon-club-cbl/) - Join us for an evening of backgammon, laughter, and engaging conversation. Whether you’re brand new to the board, looking to elevate your tactics, or just in the mood for a few friendly matches and great energy, this welcoming gathering is open to everyone—no pressure, just play. ✨ What to Expect:• Learn-to-play demos and friendly guidance•
- [Evanston Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/evanston-backgammon-club-cbl/) - A sophisticated and academic social environment that balances Northwestern Univeristy’s influence with a walkable, urban-lite downtown. The scene is marked by upscale dining, artsy boutiques, and a strong sense of civic engagement, making it popular for both young families and professionals. We play every Monday at the Firehouse Grill, which is located in a beautifully restored historic firehouse that has been
- [The Loop Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/the-loop-backgammon-club-cbl/) - A high-energy and cosmopolitan scene that has evolved from a 9-to-5 business district into a 24-hour residential neighborhood. Social life often centers on iconic cultural venues, rooftop bars, and public spaces like Millenium Park, attracting a global mix of tourists, professionals, and students. The Chicago Backgammon League (CBL) plays in a number of locations around Chicago.
- [Libertyville Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/libertyville-backgammon-club-cbl/) - It maintains a quaint, small-town social life centered on its historic Main Street. The scene is highly community-driven, defined by local festivals, tavern culture, and boutique shopping that foster deep connections among longtime residents. We play every Wednesday (beginning April 1st) at the The Parched Pug, a gastropub for humans with great drinks, food, and games. We also help our best
- [Hyde Park Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/hyde-park-backgammon-club-cbl/) - The social life is deeply intellectual and culturally rich, revolving around the University of Chicago campus and its surrounding independent bookstore, cafes, and museums. It offers a laid-back, progressive vibe where diverse residents—from PhD students to longtime locals—mingle at community events like the Hyde Park Jazz Festival.
- [Schaumburg Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/schaumburg-backgammon-club-cbl/) - Social activity is commercial and suburban, largely focused on its extensive retail and entertainment corridors. Interaction often happens at major shopping centers like Woodfield Mall, chain restaurants, and large-scale entertainment venues that draw crowds from throughout the northwest suburbs.
- [Portage Park Backgammon Club (CBL)](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/portage-park-backgammon-club-cbl/) - The scene is unpretentious and family-oriented, centered on its massive 38-are park which hosts community athletic events, farmers’ markets, and festivals. It lacks a trendy nightlife, prioritizing neighborly block parties and local dive bars over a fast-paced social life.
- [Second City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/second-city-backgammon-club/)
- [Honolulu Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/honolulu-backgammon-club/) - The Honolulu Backgammon Club meets every other Wednesday at 6 PM. It's perfect for beginners to learn the game as well as join in our competitive tournaments. The group meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6 PM for Tournaments. We also host a free Backgammon Lesson seminar on the 2nd Wednesday
- [Tampa Bay Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/tampa-bay-backgammon-club/) - Welcome to the Tampa Bay Backgammon Club. We have a new location as of March 2026 and we are looking to welcome new players to the club site. Our new playing site is a recreational camp site that has facilities for outdoor and indoor play depending on the weather. It's got a lively feel and
- [North Jersey Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/north-jersey-backgammon-club/) - The North Jersey Backgammon Club was founded by Pete Jarvis in 2024. We welcome players of all levels, from novice to championship. Our mission includes promoting backgammon as a mind sport while providing community outreach. NJBC holds a weekly tournament on Wednesday evenings at 5:45. They typically end between 9:15 and 9:45. We also hold
- [Quad City Social Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/quad-ci-social-backgammon-club/)
- [West Hollywood Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/west-hollywood-backgammon-club/) - The West Hollywood Backgammon Club is a Los Angeles–based community focused on bringing players together through both competitive and social formats. We host recurring events at curated venues across LA, including structured league play, ladder-style competitions, social tournaments, themed backgammon nights, and beginner-friendly open play. Our goal is to create an accessible, welcoming environment while
- [Woodstock Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/woodstock-backgammon-club/) - Backgammon in the Catskill Mountains. Come and join, all levels of expertise are welcome.
- [Anchorage Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/anchorage-backgammon-club/) - On Thursday evenings, @ 5:00 PM, we meet at The Side Quest - Board Game Cafe, 1300 East 68th Avenue, Suite 102. The Side Quest accommodates us until store closing at 11:00 PM. Thursday nights are for casual play, with lessons/instruction provided as requested of either Ed Sawyer or me. Although there is no "club
- [Sunny Florida Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/sunny-florida-backgammon-club/) - Coral Gables on Wednesday - registration at 5:30 pm - Rice's Mediterranean Kitchen, 64 Giralda Ave., Coral Gables, FL 33134; Public parking garage at 51 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, 33134.Fort Lauderdale on Tuesdays - The Social Point Backgammon Club plays social backgammon at Bar Betty, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm @ 2465 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale,
- [Myrtle Beach Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/myrtle-beach-backgammon-club/) - Time: 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month starting at 6:00 PM ET Please contact Mike Crouch for the location.
- [LeHigh Valley Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/lehigh-valley-backgammon-club/) - Seeking backgammon players in Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton, come join this group for Backgammon enthusiasts of all skill levels living in and around the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania to stay informed and plan meet-ups, matches, and tournaments.
- [Gotham City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/gotham-city-backgammon/)
- [Central Florida Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/sanford-backgammon-club/)
- [Iowa Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/iowa-backgammon/)
- [Ohio State Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/ohio-state-backgammon-club/) - Our Backgammon Club started in 1979, one of the oldest Backgammon clubs within the US. And since you can play online, many people have learned how to play. The club has grown with more players each year. All levels of play are welcome. We all begin somewhere, but you'll find the group is easy, welcoming
- [Mansfield TX Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/mansfield-tx-backgammon-club/) - Welcome to the Mansfield Texas Backgammon Club. We meet at Market Street in Mansfield @ 7 PM. Hope to see you there! Join our Facebook group to get the latest event details.
- [Stamford Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/stamford-backgammon-club/) - Looking for a fun, social night. Come join the Stamford Backgammon Club! Brand new to backgammon? We'll teach you! Experienced player? Great games await! Meet New people, relax, socialize and have fun. No signup, no pressure, just show up and play.
- [Easton Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/easton-backgammon-club/)
- [Birmingham Backgammon Club ](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/birmingham-backgammon-club/)
- [North Orange County / San Gabriel Valley Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/north-orange-county-san-gabriel-valley-backgammon-club/) - – All Levels of players and All Ages Welcome To be the first to know when your events are happening, please join us on Meetup and/or Facebook. https://www.meetup.com/north-orange-county-san-gabriel-valley-backgammon-club/ – Learn strategies to improve your game– Play in person and online with group members – Both casual and competitive play– Make new friends and have
- [Bonner Springs Chess/Backgammon/Rook Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bonner-springs-chess-checkers-backgammon-club/)
- [Bloomington Backgammon Club - Indiana](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bloomington-backgammon-club-in/) - Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned player, the Bloomington Backgammon Club is a great place to gain skill, meet new friends, and play the best game there is! Come join us! Meets Thursday at 6:30 pm. Come at 6:00 pm for a beginner lesson. Indiana Memorial Union - Ground floor in the Food Court
- [Steel City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/steel-city-backgammon-club/) - Welcome to Steel City Backgammon, the main backgammon club for the city of Pittsburgh. We're a group of advanced and casual players that get together to play several tournaments based on skill and member turnout. Be sure to follow our Facebook group for the most current event details and updates: https://www.facebook.com/groups/steelcitybackgammon/events
- [Charleston Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/charleston-backgammon-club/)
- [Brass City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/brass-city-backgammon-club/) - Please reach out to the main organizer to be added to our newsletter about events and meetups for backgammon.
- [Monterey Bay Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/monterey-bay-backgammon-club/)
- [Austin Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/austin-backgammon-club/)
- [South Bay Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/south-bay-backgammon-club/) - The South Bay Backgammon Club is a welcoming community of backgammon enthusiasts based in the South Bay Area of Los Angeles. We meet monthly to play casual games, run friendly tournaments, and help new players learn the game. Our members range from beginners to experienced competitors, and we aim to promote fun, skill-building, and friendship
- [USBGF Kids Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/usbgf-kids-backgammon-club/) - Help your child learn backgammon by playing other kids from around the world and learning from expert coaches.
- [Des Moines Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/des-moines-backgammon-club/) - Club Tourney once a month Always the second Sunday of the month $20 entry, double elimination Play starts at Noon
- [Long Beach Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/long-beach-backgammon-club/) - Meeting Details: All skill levels welcome! Dates, times, and locations will change to accommodate new venues and neighborhoods. If you are in the Long Beach area, please email the director or check the website or follow our Instagram page for details. **** SCHEDULE WILL CHANGE PER EVENT **** Our first meetup is at Ambitious Ales
- [Sacramento Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/sacramento-backgammon-club/) - The Sacramento Backgammon Club plays Chouette on specific days of the month at: Round Table Pizza7873 Lichen Drive, Citrus Heights All Skill Levels Welcome
- [Atlanta Northside Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/atlanta-northside-backgammon-club/)
- [Colorado Backgammon Club - Denver](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/colorado-backgammon-club-denver/)
- [PA Movers and Shakers Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/movers-and-shakers-backgammon-club-pa/)
- [Madison Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/madison-backgammon-club/)
- [Backgammon on Long Island](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-on-long-island/)
- [Puget Sound Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/22284-2/)
- [Bozeman Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/bozeman-backgammon-club/)
- [NYC Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/nyc-backgammon-club/)
- [Northwest Indiana Backgammon Association](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/northwest-indiana-backgammon-association/)
- [Nashville Backgammon Association](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/nashville-backgammon-association/)
- [Twin Cities Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/twin-cities-backgammon-club/)
- [Maryland Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/maryland-backgammon-club/)
- [Clinton Hill Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/clinton-hill-backgammon-club/)
- [Wachusett Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/wachusett-backgammon-club/)
- [Flint Area Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/flint-area-backgammon-club/)
- [Albuquerque Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/albuquerque-backgammon-club/)
- [Utah Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/utah-backgammon-club/)
- [Milwaukee Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/milwaukee-backgammon-club/)
- [Fox Valley Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/fox-valley-backgammon-club/)
- [San Diego Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/san-diego-backgammon-club/)
- [Backgammon By the Bay](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-by-the-bay/)
- [Oklahoma City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/oklahoma-city-backgammon-club/)
- [Connecticut Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/connecticut-backgammon-club/)
- [Delaware County Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/delaware-county-backgammon-club/)
- [Kansas City Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/kansas-city-backgammon-club-2/)
- [Potomac Green Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/potomac-green-backgammon-club/)
- [Backgammon of Northwest Connecticut](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-of-northwest-connecticut/)
- [Venice Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/venice-backgammon-club/)
- [Portland Metro Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/portland-metro-backgammon-club/)
- [Pub Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/pub-club/)
- [Nevada Backgammon Association](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/nevada-backgammon-association/)
- [Sangamon Valley Backgammon Association](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/sangamon-valley-backgammon-association/)
- [Trudie's Winnetka Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/trudies-winnetka-backgammon-club/)
- [Miami Valley Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/miami-valley-backgammon-club/)
- [NYAC Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/nyac-backgammon-club/)
- [New England Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/new-england-backgammon-club/)
- [Las Vegas Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/las-vegas-backgammon-club/)
- [Dallas Backgammon League](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/dallas-backgammon-league/)
- [Columbus Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/columbus-backgammon-club/)
- [Backgammon Society of Hilton Head](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/backgammon-society-of-hilton-head/)
- [Tulsa Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/tulsa-backgammon-club/)
- [Beacon NY Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/beacon-ny-backgammon-club/)
- [Long Island Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/long-island-backgammon-club/)
- [Pair-O-Dice Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/pair-o-dice-backgammon-club/)
- [Movers and Shakers Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/movers-and-shakers-backgammon-club/)
- [Southwest Michigan Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/southwest-michigan-backgammon-club/)
- [Baltimore Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/baltimore-backgammon-club/)
- [Gammon Underground Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/gammon-underground-backgammon-club/)
- [Hoosier Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/hoosier-backgammon-club/)
- [Palm Beach Chapter](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/palm-beach-chapter/)
- [Miami Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/miami-backgammon-club/)
- [Coventry Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/coventry-backgammon-club/)
- [Florence Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/florence-backgammon-club/)
- [Pig Hill Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/pig-hill-backgammon/)
- [Phoenix Backgammon Club](https://usbgf.org/find-a-club/phoenix-backgammon-club/)

## awards

- [Billy Horan](https://usbgf.org/awards/billy-horan/) - Billy Horan was an extraordinary backgammon player. He was one of the best money players in the world and won many of the largest tournaments in the world. He was among the most feared players at the famed Mayfair and Coterie clubs in New York City, where many of the world’s best players cut their teeth. He twice won the prestigious World Cup tournament, a feat never equaled.
- [Richard Munitz](https://usbgf.org/awards/rich-munitz-2/) - Richard Munitz is a current member of the USBGF Board of Directors and serves on the USBGF Rules and Ethics Committee (former Chair) and the Ratings and Stats Committee (former Chair). He is the developer of the USBGF’s Online Tournament System (OTS). Richard has played competitive backgammon since the 1990’s, winning the American Backgammon Tour in 2006, 2018, and 2025. He is one of the top-ranked players of all time on the ABT, having won 12 ABT events at the Open level. He has been ranked several times as a Giant of Backgammon. Richard was a founder of the USBGF in 2009 and was awarded the USBGF Lifetime Achievement award in 2022. Richard lives in Suffern, New York, with his wife Deborah and three children. He is one of the organizers of the NYC Backgammon club and gives free lessons at the club each month. Richard has spent his professional career developing financial and market data systems. He obtained a Master’s degree from SUNY Stony Brook in Computer Science as well as a BS in both Computer Science and Mathematics. Other interests include racquetball, biking, skiing, and collecting beer bottles.
- [John Crawford](https://usbgf.org/awards/john-crawford/) - John R. Crawford was an American bridge and backgammon player, most notably recognized for creating the "Crawford rule" in backgammon. This rule, which significantly impacts match play, adds a layer of strategic depth to the game. Born John Yocum Randolph Crawford on August 4, 1915, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, he demonstrated exceptional skill in both card and board games.
- [Marty Storer](https://usbgf.org/awards/marty-storer-2/) - Marty Storer is a highly respected figure in the world of backgammon, renowned for his exceptional skill as a player and his significant contributions as an author and analyst. He is a BMAB Grandmaster Class 1, with a PR rating of 3.19 at this writing, one of only three Americans to have earned this title. He has been as high as third-ranked in the world. In 2024 he ranked #22 on the top 32 Giants of Backgammon list and has been on the list since 2015 for a total of five times. He has no shortage of ABT titles over the decades, becoming one of the most accomplished players in American history. He won the first American Backgammon Tour championship in 1993, and again in 2022, He was a member of the winning Team USA in the 2020 Magriel Cup. He is a three-time champion of the New England Backgammon Club.
- [Joseph Russell](https://usbgf.org/awards/joseph-russell/) - For over thirty years, Joe Russell has been an outstanding player, an international ambassador of the game, and a significant contributor and promoter of backgammon through his work with the U.S. Backgammon Federation.
- [Lewis Deyong](https://usbgf.org/awards/lewis-deyong/) - Lewis was one of the top players in the world during the first decade of “Modern Backgammon” 1964- 1974. Lewis Deyong transitioned into perhaps the best promoter, organizer, director, and auctioneer the backgammon world has ever seen.
- [Lee Genud](https://usbgf.org/awards/lee-genud/) - Lee won the Backgammon World Championship in 1981. She is one of only four women to win the title in over a half-century of existence. Lee won the Women’s World Championship in 1978 and 1979. Between 1979 and 1985 she won or came in second in 37 major world tournaments.
- [Wilcox Snellings](https://usbgf.org/awards/wilcox-snellings/) - Wilcox was universally regarded as one of the top few players of his era. He was widely regarded as one of the world’s best, if not the best, money games players. He was voted the number one Giant in 1993 and 1997 and finished second in Recorded matches from the pre-bot and early bot era show that Wilcox played at an exceptionally low PR for players at that time.
- [Masayuki "Mochy" Mochizuki](https://usbgf.org/awards/masayuki-mochy-mochizuki/) - For an astounding 14 years, Mochy’s unrivaled skill has placed him at the pinnacle of the game, earning him universal acclaim. He triumphed in the Ultimate Backgammon Championship (UBC) three times out of four, finishing second last year. In April of 2023, he won the UBC Contender event and will try to retake the UBC title from the defending champion, 2022 World Champion Sander Lylloff. Such fine results reaffirm Mochy’s dominance. His extraordinarily low performance rating (PR) has consistently surpassed his peers and earned him the coveted Super Grandmaster classification, an honor bestowed upon him exclusively by the Backgammon Masters Awarding Body.
- [Butch and Mary Ann Meese](https://usbgf.org/awards/butch-and-mary-ann-meese/) - Their tireless efforts and expertise have enriched our backgammon community and touched the lives of many.
- [Matvey "Falafel" Natanzon](https://usbgf.org/awards/matvey-falafel-natanzon-2/) - With a career that spanned over two decades, Matvey Natanzon, better known affectionately as Falafel, has left an indelible mark on the game we hold dear through his extraordinary skill, intuitive gameplay, and magnetic personality. Falafel’s remarkable achievements earned him a place among the Giants of Backgammon. He was voted in the top 10 of the Giants list for seven consecutive years and claimed the coveted No. 1 spot twice and No. 2 once. His intuitive playing style repeatedly triumphed against advanced artificial intelligence, helping him emerge victorious in numerous national and international events and solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s greatest natural players.
- [Marty Storer](https://usbgf.org/awards/marty-storer/) - Marty Storer is a distinguished world-class player. He is a BMAB Grandmaster Class 1, with a PR rating of 3.19, one of only three Americans to have earned this title. In 2022 he ranked #23 on the Giants of Backgammon list and has been on the list since 2015. He won the inaugural American Backgammon Tour points race in 1993, helped by his victory in the star-studded Boston Open. He was the #40 Giant in 1995. In 1983 he won the Ottawa Open. He won two ABT tournaments in 1994. In 2015 he won the Michigan Summer Championship and the Boston Masters in 2019 and 2022. He was a member of the winning Team USA in the 2020 Magriel Cup. With David Kettler, he was a finalist in the 2020 Tournament of Stars. He is a three-time champion of the New England Backgammon Club.
- [John O'Hagan](https://usbgf.org/awards/john-ohagan/) - John O'Hagan is a man of impeccable character and uncommon intelligence. His easy, laid-back demeanor makes him among the most approachable of the Elite players. A stalwart of the BMABs, he is ranked Grandmaster 2, and has been elected to the Giants of Backgammon every single time since 2005. He is currently, in 2022, ranked #9 Giant in the world. In 2005 he missed being the World Champion by a hair, coming in 2nd in a 25-point match at DMP. His online game is fantastic too. With Galaxy's 20,000 members, he is ranked #7. In the world.
- [Rich Munitz](https://usbgf.org/awards/rich-munitz/) - Rich Munitz is a rare combination of a top-notch world-class player, director, prolific organizer, tireless volunteer, and mediator. As a player, Rich won the ABT tour in 2006 and 2018. He is one of only three people to have won it more than once. The other two are in the Hall of Fame. He also recorded a second-place finish in 2007 and a third-place finish in 2010. He has won nine ABT tournaments in total as of 2022. As of this writing, he ranks fifth on the all-time ABT Points list, which means he has more ABT points than all but four players in the USBGF Hall of Fame. He has been voted to the Giants of Backgammon List four times, including three times in the top 32. As of December 2021, he had the highest Elo rating in ABT matches of any player with at least 50 experience points. While he has achieved greatness as a player, his contributions as a volunteer, organizer, and director may be even more impressive.
- [Art Benjamin](https://usbgf.org/awards/art-benjamin/) - Art has been on the backgammon scene for over 30 years and has had tremendous success at the highest levels, finishing first, second, and third in the ABT, between 1993 and 1997. He is ranked 12th on the all-time ABT list, even though work prevents him from attending more than a few events a year. But more than just a player, he is a scholar, a teacher, a volunteer, an innovator, and a mediator as well.
- [Walter Trice](https://usbgf.org/awards/walter-trice/) - Backgammon’s preeminent mathematical theorist, Walter Trice is known for development of the Effective Pip Count and his best-selling book, Backgammon Boot Camp.
- [Kit Woolsey](https://usbgf.org/awards/kit-woolsey/) - Noted bridge and backgammon author, Kit Woolsey is one of backgammon’s leading experts on the doubling cube and tournament play. Kit has been on the vanguard of the computer revolution – writing his own programs for analysis in the early 1980s, and running the First Internet Backgammon Server (FIBS), created by Andreas Schneider.
- [Nack Ballard](https://usbgf.org/awards/nack-ballard/) - Considered an all-time great player, Nack Ballard has done it all in the world of backgammon. He is one of the few players to have been voted onto every Giants of Backgammon listing.
- [Carol Joy Cole](https://usbgf.org/awards/carol-joy-cole/) - Widely regarded as the Queen of backgammon in the United States, Carol Joy Cole is revered and beloved by all. She founded the Flint Area Backgammon Club in 1978, publishing the Flint Area Backgammon News.
- [Barclay Cooke](https://usbgf.org/awards/barclay-cooke/) - Named by Sports Illustrated as “the father of modern backgammon,” Barclay Cooke was renowned for his fairness and generosity.
- [Bill Davis](https://usbgf.org/awards/bill-davis/) - Bill Davis is widely respected for his contributions, innovations, and promotion of the game. He is the founder of the American Backgammon Tour, has directed the Chicago Bar Point Club since 1983, directed the Midwest Backgammon Championships from 1984 thru 2009, and has directed the Central States Invitational since 2010.
- [Malcolm Davis](https://usbgf.org/awards/malcolm-davis/) - The epitome of a gracious gentleman, Malcolm Davis is one of only seven players to have been voted onto every Giants of Backgammon listing since its inception.
- [Kent Goulding](https://usbgf.org/awards/kent-goulding/) - An innovative force in the game, Kent Goulding is esteemed as a backgammon player, publisher, director/organizer, witty auctioneer, and raconteur extraordinaire.
- [Neil Kazaross](https://usbgf.org/awards/neil-kazaross/) - Noted for his brilliant analytical mind, Neil Kazaross is famous for inventing “Neil’s Numbers,” a short-hand method of calculating match equities over the board, and coauthor of the Rockwell/Kazaross MET (Match Equity Table).
- [Paul Magriel](https://usbgf.org/awards/paul-magriel/) - Author of the “Bible” of backgammon, the name Paul Magriel has been synonymous with backgammon since the publication of his groundbreaking book Backgammon in 1976, still viewed as backgammon’s leading text.
- [Bill Robertie](https://usbgf.org/awards/bill-robertie/) - A gifted and prolific author, publisher, and promoter/director widely respected for his intelligence and insight, Bill Robertie is a two-time World Champion.
- [Mike Senkiewicz](https://usbgf.org/awards/mike-senkiewicz/) - Master chess player, Scrabble legend, backgammon champion, and mainstay of the New York games scene for four decades, Mike Senkiewicz raised the level of backgammon play since the early 1980s.
- [Patrick Gibson](https://usbgf.org/awards/patrick-gibson/) - Known as the quintessential tournament director, Patrick Gibson has gained widespread affection and universal respect for his fairness, integrity, and dedication. He has directed 76 Los Angeles Open and California State Championships, over 3,600 weekly tournaments in the Los Angeles area, and, beginning in 2000, sixteen Vietor Cup tournaments in La Jolla (the oldest tournament in the U.S.).
- [Matvey “Falafel” Natanzon](https://usbgf.org/awards/matvey-falafel-natanzon/) - Falafel is one of backgammon’s most beloved and respected players. He has an engaging personality, and his dominating table presence has helped him reap tremendous results. He is a perennial Giant of Backgammon, having been elected to the top-ten list seven straight times, including one #1 and one #2 finish.
- [Tim Holland](https://usbgf.org/awards/tim-holland/) - The first modern backgammon superstar, Tim Holland won three World Championships and three International Backgammon Championships — more major backgammon championships than anyone else in the history of the game. Tim was also a successful author and renowned teacher.
- [Danny Kleinman](https://usbgf.org/awards/danny-kleinman/) - Backgammon’s first mathematical theoretician and analyst; Danny Kleinman’s insight, wit, and satire entertained and educated backgammon players for decades. He was a prolific author and a renowned, beloved columnist.
- [Howard Markowitz](https://usbgf.org/awards/howard-markowitz/) - For over thirty years, Howard Markowitz has put his own unique stamp on backgammon tournaments, with his high payouts attracting the largest number of entrants and drawing top players from around the world.
- [Mike Svobodny](https://usbgf.org/awards/mike-svobodny/) - Mike Svobodny is one of the most internationally well-known backgammon players and one of the few true celebrities of the game. In addition to a significant tournament play history, he is regarded as the most successful money and proposition player in backgammon. Mike Svobodny is a citizen of the world, travelling far and wide to play.
- [Norm Wiggins](https://usbgf.org/awards/norm-wiggins/) - Norm Wiggins is one of backgammon’s most distinguished figures. He was touted at his 80th birthday party in 2010 for his courteous, gentlemanly demeanor that has made him so beloved by family, friends, and fellow backgammon players. His book Boards, Blots, and Double Shots is a recommended must reading for all aspiring players.
- [Ray Fogerlund](https://usbgf.org/awards/ray-fogerlund/) - Ray Fogerlund is one of the most accomplished tournament players in modern backgammon history. Known as an intense competitor, he is also recognized for having a heart of gold beneath the occasionally rough exterior.
- [Perry Gartner](https://usbgf.org/awards/perry-gartner/) - As co-founder of The Backgammon Learning Center (BLC), Perry Gartner has formed a top-flight cadre of teachers including many of the top players in the world. The group has helped hundreds of players raise their skill level and offered affordable lessons to beginners.
- [Joe Sylvester](https://usbgf.org/awards/joe-sylvester/) - Beginning with a victory in the World Amateur Championship (544 players) in Las Vegas in 1983, at the age of twenty-one, Joe Sylvester was generally considered to be the best tournament player in the game for at least the next twelve years.
- [Xavier Dufaure de Citres](https://usbgf.org/awards/xavier-dufaure-de-citres/) - Xavier is honored for his development of the eXtreme Gammon (XG) software, which has transformed backgammon. XG quickly established itself as the premier tool for players worldwide to analyze, study, and improve their games.
- [Steve Sax](https://usbgf.org/awards/steve-sax/) - One of the best-liked and most-respected players in American backgammon, Steve Sax has been a prominent member of the backgammon community for four decades. A renowned competitor with a superlative record of achievement, he is also known for giving generously of his time and expertise.
- [Phil Simborg](https://usbgf.org/awards/phil-simborg/) - The USBGF is honoring Phil Simborg with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution as a backgammon educator. Along with Perry Gartner, he established the Backgammon Learning Center which has 25 prominent faculty from countries around the world.
- [Ed O'Laughlin](https://usbgf.org/awards/ed-olaughlin/) - Ed O'Laughlin is a Hall-of-Famer in every way. He has been playing backgammon for 38 years, with his game stronger than ever at age 81. He is an avid student of the game and has never lost his curiosity and enthusiasm.
- [Robert Stoller](https://usbgf.org/awards/robert-stoller/) - As the USBGF historian, Robert Stoller does the critical work of meticulously cataloging backgammon’s rich history. He helps bring to life notable people, events, and contributors to the development of the game.
- [Candace Mayeron](https://usbgf.org/awards/candace-mayeron/) - Candace Mayeron, tournament producer and promoter, is recognized for her innovative leadership in bringing show-business glamour and excitement to backgammon events with Oscar-like awards, banners and backdrops, red carpets, and raffles.
- [Karen Davis](https://usbgf.org/awards/karen-davis/) - Karen has been a central figure in the rise of the U.S. Backgammon Federation — many say the central figure. She has served on the USBGF Board since its inception in 2009. She was Board Chair from 2010 to 2017, and she was the Federation’s President and Executive Director from 2017 to 2020. She has been a driving force for PrimeTime Backgammon Magazine since its publication began in 2010.
- [Oswald Jacoby](https://usbgf.org/awards/oswald-jacoby/) - One of the preeminent gamesmen of the twentieth century, Oswald Jacoby was regarded both as a leading backgammon player and co-author of the first analytic book on backgammon.
- [Patti Rubin](https://usbgf.org/awards/patti-rubin/) - Patti Rubin is known by all today as the organizer of the Backgammon World Championships in Monte Carlo. She works tirelessly to preserve an institution while innovating and adapting it to the modern technology of the game and to the ever-evolving contemporary tournament environments.
- [Louise Goldsmith](https://usbgf.org/awards/louise-goldsmith/) - Louise Goldsmith was one of the great club directors of her era, overseeing play at the Mayfair Club in New York City in the heyday of backgammon in the 1970s, and directing her own Madison Avenue club, the Coterie, in the 1980s and 1990s. She helped organize the World Amateur Championships and other glamorous backgammon events in the Caribbean and Las Vegas.
- [Alexis Obolensky](https://usbgf.org/awards/alexis-obolensky/) - Prince Alexis Obolensky, regarded by some as the “The Father of Modern Backgammon,” was the first person to define, organize, and popularize tournament play in the United States and internationally.

## Bill Robertie Challenge

- [Bill Robertie Challenge #2](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-2/) - Things have changed since the 70s.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #158](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-158/) - How does Black play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #157](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-157/) - How does Black play 1-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #156](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-156/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #155](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-155/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #154](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-154/) - How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #153](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-153/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #152](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-152/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #151](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-151/) - How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #150](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-150/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #149](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-149/) - How does Black play 4-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #148](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-148/) - How does Black play 1-1? Where does the blot belong?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #147](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-147/) - how does Black play 2-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #146](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-146/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #145](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-145/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #144](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-144/) - Part (a) How does Black play 6-1? Part (b) Same position, How does Black play 6-1 at double match point?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #143](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-143/) - How does Black play 4-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #142](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-142/) - Should Black double? What should White do if Black doubles?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #141](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-141/) - How does Black play 5-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #140](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-140/) - How does Black play 2-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #139](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-139/) - How does Black play 2-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #138](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-138/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #137](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-137/) - How does Black play 5-5?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #136](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-136/) - How does Black play 6-5? 6-3? 5-4? 5-3? 5-2? and 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #135](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-135/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #134](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-134/) - How does Black play 6-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #133](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-133/) - How does Black play 1-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #132](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-132/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #131](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-131/) - How does Black play 5-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #130](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-130/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #127](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-127/) - Black on roll, owning a 2-cube. Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #129](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-129/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #128](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-128/) - Should Black Double?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #125](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-125/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #126](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-126/) - Part (a) Cash game. Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do? Part (b) Match, score tied 1 to 1 to 5 points. Same question. Part (c) Match, Black leads 2 to 1 to 5 points. Same question. Part (d) Match, Black leads 3 to 1 to 5 points. Same question.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #124](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-124/) - How does Black play 6-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #123](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-123/) - How does Black play 4-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #122](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-122/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #121](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-121/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #120](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-120/) - How does Black play 6-6 in these situations: (a) Cash game, center cube. (b) Tournament match, double match point. (c) Tournament match, Black trails 3-4 to 5, Crawford Game. (d) Tournament match, Black leads 4-3 to 5, Crawford Game.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #119](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-119/) - How does Black play 3-1 in these situations: (a) Cash game, center cube. (b) Tournament match, double match point. (c) Tournament match, Black trails 3-4 to 5, Crawford Game. (d) Tournament match, Black leads 4-3 to 5, Crawford Game.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #118](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-118/) - How does Black play 4-3 in these situations: Part (a) Cash game, center cube. Part (b) Tournament match, center cube, Black trails 6-12 to 15.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #117](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-117/) - How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #113](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-113/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #116](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-116/) - How does Black play 5-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #115](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-115/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #114](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-114/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #112](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-112/) - How does Black play 6-5?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #111](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-111/) - How does Black play 5-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #109](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-109/) - How does Black play 5-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #110](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-110/) - How does Black play 2-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #107](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-107/) - How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #108](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-108/) - How does Black play 5-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #106](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-106/) - How does Black play 3-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #104](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-104/) - How does Black play 4-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #105](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-105/) - (a) How does Black play 1-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #103](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-103/) - How does Black play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #102](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-102/) - How does Black play 5-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #101](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-101/) - How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #100](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-100/) - How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #99](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-99/) - Cube action, both sides?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #98](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-98/) - How does Black play 6-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #97](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-97/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #96](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-96/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #95](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-95/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #94](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-94/) - How does Black play 4-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #93](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-93/) - Part (a) How does Black play 6-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #91](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-91/) - Part (a) Assume you are Black and playing a very strong player. Should Black double? If Black doubles, should White take or drop? Part (b) Same question, but now you are Black playing a weak player.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #92](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-92/) - How does Black play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #90](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-90/) - How does Black play 4-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #89](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-89/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #88](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-88/) - How does Black play 6-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #87](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-87/) - How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #86](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-86/) - Part (a) Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take, drop, or beaver? (b) Assume Black doubles and White takes. How should Black play 6-2? 6-3? 4-3? 5-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #85](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-85/) - How does Black play 2-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #81](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-81/) - Part (a) How does Black play 5-1? Part (b) How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #80](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-80/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge#5](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-5/) - Part (a): How does Black play 4-3? Part (b): How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #4](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-4/) - Part (a) How does Black play 2-1? Part (b) How does Black play 3-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #79](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-79/) - How does Black play 1-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #78](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-78/) - Part (a) Should Black double? Should White take if doubled? Part (b) Assume Black doubles and White takes. How does Black play 3-1? 4-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #77](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-77/) - Part (a) Who is a favorite? Part (b) How does Black play 5-2, 4-1, 2-1, 6-5?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #76](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-76/) - How does Black play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #74](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-74/) - Part (a) Should Black double? If he does, Should White take? Part (b) Should Black double? If he does, Should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #75](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-75/) - Should Black double? If he does, Should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #73](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-73/) - Should Black double? If he does, Should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #72](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-72/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #71](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-71/) - How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #70](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-70/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #69](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-69/) - How does Black play 1-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #68](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-68/) - Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #67](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-67/) - How does Black play 4-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #66](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-66/) - How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #65](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-65/) - How does Black play 4-4?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #64](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-64/) - Should Black double? If Black doubles, what should White do?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #63](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-63/) - How does Black play 6-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #62](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-62/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #61](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-60-2/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #60](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-60/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #59](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-59/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #57](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-57/) - How does Black play 5-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #58](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-58/) - How does Black play 6-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #56](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-56/) - How does Black play 4-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #55](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-55/) - How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #54](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-54/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #53](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-53/) - How does Black play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #52](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-52/) - Part (a) How does Black play 3-1? Part (b) How does Black play 3-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #51](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-51/) - Should Black double? If doubled, should White take?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #50](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-50/) - How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #49](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-49/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #48](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-48/) - How does Black play 3-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #47](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-47/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #46](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-46/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #45](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-45/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #44](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-44/) - How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #43](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-43/) - Should Black double? If he does, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #42](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-42/) - Part (a) How does Black play 6-1? Part (b) How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #37](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-37/) - How does Black play 2-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #38](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-38/) - How does Black play 2-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #41](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-41/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #40](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-40/) - Part (a) Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop? Part (b) Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #39](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-39/) - Part (a) How does Black play 5-1? Part (b) How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #36](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-36/) - Should Black double? If he doubles, should White take or drop?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #35](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-35/) - How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #34](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-34/) - How does Black play 3-3?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #33](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-33/) - Part (a) How does Black play 5-4? Part (b) How does Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #32](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-32/) - How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #31](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-31/) - How does Black play 5-2?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #30](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-30/) - How does Black play 2-2?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #28](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-28/) - Part (a): How does Black play 2-1? Part (b): How does Black play 6-5?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #29](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-29/) - How does Black play 6-4?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #27](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-27/) - Part (a): Black on move. How does Black play 2-2? Part (b): White on move. How does White play 4-2?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #26](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-26/) - Part (a): How does Black play 6-2? Part (b): How dos Black play 5-4?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #25](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-25/) - Part (a): Should Black double? Should White take if doubled? Part (b): Should Black double? Should White take if doubled? Part (c): Should Black double? Should White take if doubled?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #24](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-24/) - Part (a): How does Black play 5-4? Part (b): How does Black to play 5-4? Part (c): How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #23](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-23/) - Part (a): How does Black play 4-4? Part (b): How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #22](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-22/) - Part (a): How does Black play 5-1? Part (b): How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #21](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-21/) - Part (a): Should Black double? If Black doubles, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #20](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-20/) - Part (a): How does Black play 5-2? Part (b): How does Black play 4-2?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #19](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-19/) - How does Black play 5-3?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #18](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-18/) - How does Black play 5-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #17](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-17/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #16](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-16/) - Part (a) Should Black double? Part (b) If doubled, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #15](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-15/) - How does Black play 2-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #14](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-14/) - Part (a) How does Black play 2-1? Part (b) How does Black to play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #13](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-13/) - Part (a) How does Black play 5-3? Part (b) How does Black to play 3-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #12](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-12/) - Part (a) Should Black double? Part (b) If doubled, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #11](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-11/) - How does Black play 6-1?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #10](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-10/) - Part (a) Should Black double? Part (b) If doubled, should White take, drop, or beaver?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #9](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-9/) - How does Black play 4-3?
- [Bill Robertie challenge #7](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-7/) - Part (a) How does Black play 3-1 Part (b) How does Black play 4-2
- [Bill Robertie challenge #8](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-8/) - Part (a): How does Black play 6-4 Part (b): How does Black play 6-4.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #6](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-6/) - (a) Black to play 4-2 (b) Black to play 6-2
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #3](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-3/) - Part (a) how does black play a 3-3? Part (b), how does black play a 4-1?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #1](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-1/) - Part (a): How should Black play a 4-2? Part (b). How should Black play 6-2?
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #84](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-84/) - Cash game, center cube. Black on roll.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #83](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-83/) - Cash Game. Black owns the cube. Black on roll.
- [Bill Robertie Challenge #82](https://usbgf.org/bill-robertie/bill-robertie-challenge-82/) - Problem 82 isn’t difficult, but it contains some interesting points.

## Events

- [Monthly Tournament: USBGF Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/monthly-tournament-usbgf-women-of-backgammon/) - Founded, and directed by women, the USBGF Women of Backgammon ℠ provides support and resources to girls, women, and gender minorities seeking to get involved in the game. Backgammon is a strategic game that can be enjoyed by all — no matter your skill level. The USBGF Women of Backgammon seeks to increase the number of active
- [2026 Miami Open ​​​​Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-miami-open-abt/)
- [2026 Las Vegas Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-las-vegas-open/) - The Entertainment Capital of the World is back on the Backgammon map in 2026! The last Las Vegas Open tournament was hosted in 2023. After years of searching, Rory Pasacr has finally found a new fantastic venue for all our amazing players. We welcome you to the brand new AC Hotel by Marriott Las Vegas
- [2026 Boston Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-boston-open/)
- [2027 Texas Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2027-texas-backgammon/) - Tuesday, February 9, 2027 11:30 am - Registration Begins & Announcements12:00 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 101:15 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 202:30 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 303:45 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 405:00 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 506:30 pm - Dinner Break08:00
- [2026 New Orleans Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-new-orleans-backgammon-championships/) - Join Us for the 2026 Gammon Geaux New Orleans Backgammon ChampionshipsThe 2026 Gammon Geaux New Orleans Backgammon Championships will be directed by Bill Riles and Tara Mendicino.
- [2026 Ohio State Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-ohio-state-championships/) - New Location with Modern Suites & Event Room! 4520 Everhard Rd NW Canton, Ohio 44718 Thursday, March 26th 202610:00 AM - BMAB (USA) Registrations11:00 AM - Announcements and play begins11:15 AM - Rounds 1-44:00 PM - Registrations Open for Main Events7:00 PM - Warm-Up Tournament Friday, March 27th11:00 AM Registration Opens12:00 NOON - 5PM BMAB
- [2026 Cherry Blossom Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-cherry-blossom-championships/)
- [2026 Texas Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-texas-backgammon-championships/) - Tuesday, February 3, 2026 11:30 am - Registration Begins & Announcements12:00 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 101:15 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 202:30 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 303:45 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 405:00 pm - UBC Regional Contender - Round 506:30 pm - Dinner Break08:00
- [2026 Wild West Shootout (Denver)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-denver-backgammon-championship/) - Wednesday 6/39:00 am Registration Opens11:00 am BMAB Round 1 (9pt Matches)1:00 pm BMAB Round 23:00 pm BMAB Round 34:00 pm Early Rustler Jackpot w/ Rebuys5:00 pm BMAB Dinner Break6:30 pm Early Rustler Jackpot Rebuys Closed7:00 pm BMAB Round 49:00 pm BMAB Round 5 Thursday 6/49:00 am Side Events Open– Senior / Young Wranglers 65+/
- [2026 Music City Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-music-city-backgammon-tournament/) - Welcome to the 1st annual Music City Backgammon Tournament hosted in beautiful, exciting Nashville, Tennessee! Website: https://musiccitybackgammon.com/ Hotel: http://www.holidayinn.com/nashvillearpt Director: Rory Pascar, rory@chicagoopenbg.com
- [2026 St. Louis Gateway Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-st-louis-gateway-open/) - WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 5:00 pm – Players Cup BMAB Registration 6:00 pm – Players Cup BMAB Start THURSDAY, JUNE 18 11:00 am – Registration Opens for All Events 11:00 am – Players Cup BMAB Continues Noon – Tansey Challenge, LW Int. Challenge, Cancelgammon & Quickie/DMP Begin 2:00 pm – Gateway Jackpot Begins 6:00 pm –
- [2026 California State Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-california-state-championships/) - Wednesday, December 2, 2026 BMAB Schedule Thursday, December 3, 202610:00 am Doors open - REGISTRATION OPENS11:00 am Masters Jackpot “Early” (2-3 rounds)12:00 pm HOLLYWOOD STARS - all levels, continuous entry. Replaces Juniors/Seniors; DMP & Blitzes1:30 pm Amateur Jackpot “Early” (3 rounds)2:00 pm Warmup starts and finishes on Thursday3:00 pm Super Jackpot (2 rounds ending by
- [2026 Chicago Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-chicago-open/) - Wednesday May 20, 20265:00 PM Registration Opens for Players Cup (BMAB)6:00 PM Players Cup (BMAB) Begins (3 Rounds to be Played Wednesday Night) Thursday May 21, 202611:00 am Players Cup (BMAB) Continues (Final 2 Rounds)11:00 am Registration Opens for All Events12:00 pm Markowitz Masters Qualifier12:00 pm Faster Master Start Time #112:15 pm Limited Jackpot Start
- [2026 Atlanta Classic](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-atlanta-classic/) - Wednesday, Feb 266:30 p.m. Atlanta Northside Backgammon Club WeeklyHudson Grille, 6317 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA, 30328If you're arriving a day early come join us at our local club weekly and get warmed up for the tournament weekend! Thursday, Feb 2610:30 am Players' Cup/BMAB registration 11:00 am BMAB begins1:00 pm Super Jackpot 1st start3:30 pm Super
- [2026 New York Metropolitan Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-new-york-metropolitan-open/) - Thursday, January 15th, 2026 10:30 AM - Registration opens 12:00 PM - $20/$50 Jackpots Begin 12:30 PM - Mini matches begin 1:00 PM - Super Jackpot begins 2:30 PM - Lady Liberty Cup. CancelGammon. Seniors, Young & Restless 3;00 PM - P-40 Board Event 5 PM - Doubles Registration Closes 5-7 PM - Dinner 7 PM
- [2025 Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-viking-backgammon-classic/)
- [2025 Cherry Blossom Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-cherry-blossom-championships/)
- [2025 Chicago Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-chicago-open/)
- [2025 St. Louis Gateway Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-st-louis-gateway-open/) - Plan now to attend.
- [2025 Los Angeles Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-los-angeles-open-abt-870/)
- [2025 New Orleans Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-new-orleans/)
- [2025 Michigan Summer Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-michigan-summer-championships/)
- [2025 Boston Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-boston-open/)
- [2025 California State Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-california-state-championships-abt/) - Plan now to attend
- [2025 Miami Open ​​​​Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-miami-open-abt/)
- [2027 Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2027-viking-backgammon-classic/) - The Viking Backgammon Classic is an annual American Backgammon Tour (ABT) event scheduled over Labor Day weekend, at the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington in Minnesota. The event will feature 2 divisions of a "Full Swiss Format" tournament schedule. There are many side events, such as BMAB Players Cup, Jackpots, Blitz, Doubles, and a backgammon variant called "Cash
- [2026 Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-viking-backgammon-classic/) - The Viking Backgammon Classic is an annual American Backgammon Tour (ABT) event scheduled over Labor Day weekend, at the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington in Minnesota. The event will feature 2 divisions of a "Full Swiss Format" tournament schedule. There are many side events, such as BMAB Players Cup, Jackpots, Blitz, Doubles, and a backgammon variant called "Cash
- [Iowa State Fair Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/calendar/iowa-state-fair-backgammon-tournament/) - DESCRIPTION: A popular board game with 2 participants; the object of the game is to remove all of your pieces first. WEBSITE: https://www.iowastatefair.org/participate/fair-time-contests RULES AND CONTEST INFORMATION Entry Fee: $10 for Less Experience, $20 for More Experience Divisions: Less Experienced, More Experienced (doubling cube used) Tournament drawing begins at 12 p.m. with play immediately following.
- [2026 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-wisconsin-backgammon-championships/)
- [2026 Michigan Summer Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2026-michigan-summer-championships/)
- [2026 Charlotte Backgammon Invitational](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-charlotte-backgammon-championship/)
- [Online Tournament Series](https://usbgf.org/calendar/online-tournament-series/) - Play in backgammon online tournaments with other USBGF members. Play on your own schedule.
- [2025 Atlanta Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-atlanta-classic-abt-904/)
- [2025 Wild West Shootout (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-wild-west-shootout-abt-121/)
- [2025 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships-abt-370/)
- [2025 Ohio State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-ohio-state-championships-abt-871/)
- [2024 MIAMI OPEN ​​​​Backgammon Championship (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-miami-open-backgammon-championship-abt/)
- [2025 Charlotte Backgammon Invitational (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-charlotte-backgammon-invitational-abt/)
- [2025 New York Metropolitan Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2025-new-york-metropolitan-open-abt/)
- [2024 Wild West Shootout (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-wild-west-shootout-abt/)
- [2024 Cherry Blossom Championship (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-cherry-blossom-championships-abt/)
- [2024 St. Louis Gateway Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-st-louis-gateway-open-abt/) - Plan now to attend.
- [2024 Chicago Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-chicago-open-abt/)
- [2024 Ohio State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-ohio-state-championships-abt/)
- [Michael Mesich: Getting to Know Heroes  - Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/michael-mesich-getting-to-know-heroes-women-of-backgammon/) - Backgammon Studio Heroes is a great place to play tournament backgammon, but it can feel complicated and overwhelming. Michael will demystify the features and settings of Backgammon Studio Heroes. He will give us a guided tour, providing helpful tips on how to get the most out of the platform. This session is perfect for players
- [2024 Los Angeles Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-los-angeles-open-abt/)
- [2023 Capital Classic Backgammon Tournament (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-capital-classic-backgammon-tournament-abt/)
- [2024 California State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-california-state-championships-abt/) - Plan now to attend
- [2024 Viking Backgammon Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-viking-backgammon-classic-abt/)
- [2024 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2024 Michigan Summer Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-michigan-summer-championships-abt/)
- [Albert Steg: Jazz-Age Backgammon - Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/albert-steg-jazz-age-backgammon-women-of-backgammon/) - The years 1928-31 were an extraordinary time for backgammon, and women were a big part of it. As authors, instructors, and hostesses, women helped propel the game to delirious levels of popularity by recognizing not just the fascination of the game itself, but its social possibilities. As we near the 100th anniversary of the chouette,
- [2024 Atlanta Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-atlanta-classic-abt/)
- [2024 Massachusetts State Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-massachusetts-state-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2024 Texas Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-texas-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2024 New York Metropolitan Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2024-new-york-metropolitan-open-abt/)
- [The Big Freeze-Out, September: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-september-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [Backgammon 101](https://usbgf.org/calendar/backgammon-101/) - Are you interested in learning backgammon, but don't know where to begin? Then our free Backgammon 101 series is for you! We provide relaxed, easy-to-understand, and fun interactive sessions. You will learn how to set up the board, basic strategy, basic probability, how to use the doubling cube, and more! When: Monthly, the 2nd Sunday of every month at
- [2023 Las Vegas Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-las-vegas-open-abt/)
- [2023 Wisconsin State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2023 Wild West Shootout (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-wild-west-shootout-abt/)
- [2023 Pennsylvania State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-pennsylvania-state-championships-abt/)
- [2023 Los Angeles Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-los-angeles-open-abt/)
- [2023 Michigan Summer Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-michigan-summer-championships-abt/)
- [2023 Cherry Blossom Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-cherry-blossom-championships-abt/)
- [Joe Urso: How I went from Novice to Championship - Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/joe-urso-how-i-went-from-novice-to-championship-women-of-backgammon/) - Joe will chart his journey on how he became the strong player he is today and share tips and study strategies that you can apply to your own game. About Joe: Joe Urso is from New York and has been playing backgammon for the past 5 years after rediscovering the game he played with his
- [Bob Wachtel - My Backgammon Journey: Women of Backgammon Presents](https://usbgf.org/calendar/bob-wachtel-women-of-backgammon/) - Bob Wachtel visits the Women of Backgammon. He will tell stories about his adventures and exploits in the bad old, pre-bot era of the early 80s, along with positions and puzzles from his first book, In the Game Until the End (1994). To attend: To attend this session, subscribe to the USBGF Women of Backgammon
- [2023 St. Louis Gateway Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-st-louis-gateway-open-abt/) - Plan now to attend.
- [The Big Freeze-Out, December: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-december-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, November: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-november-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, August: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-august-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, July: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-july-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, June: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-june-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, May: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-may-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [The Big Freeze-Out, April: ABT Online](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-big-freeze-out-april-abt-online/) - Join an ABT Online! event, held monthly in 2023. Learn more at https://www.thebigfreezeout.com/
- [2023 USBGF Awards Dinner](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-usbgf-awards-dinner/) - Join us in honoring the best of the best! Sunday, July 2nd at 5 pm, Eastern. The Michigan Summer Championships backgammon tournament is proud to host this year's event. Learn more and purchase tickets at flintbg.com/michsum.html The USBGF Awards Dinner is our annual event honoring the American Hall of Fame inductee, Lifetime Achievement Award recipients,
- [2023 Connecticut State Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-connecticut-state-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [Bearing in or bearing all! - Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/bearing-in-or-bearing-all-women-of-backgammon/) - Phil Simborg will discuss his approach to bearing checkers in against contact. About Phil Phil Simborg has been a professional Backgammon teacher, player, and lecturer for 25 years. His philosophy is, “We play backgammon because it’s challenging and fun, but it’s a hell of a lot more fun to win. The more you learn the more
- [The Cube Slingers Arsenal: Racing games - Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-cube-slingers-arsenal-racing-games-women-of-backgammon/) - Gary will cover the basic tools essential to making proper cube decisions in racing games. He will also point to areas to explore in order to reach a more advanced level. To attend this session, subscribe to the USBGF Women of Backgammon email list here:usbgf.org/women Attendance to the live session is limited to girls and
- [Playing Backgammon as Art, Rather than Science: Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/playing-backgammon-as-art-rather-than-science-women-of-backgammon/) - The USBGF Women of Backgammon welcome Kent Goulding as our visiting March speaker. Play backgammon without all of the math. Kent will present a visual approach to the game. Attendance at the live session is limited to girls and women, but a video recording will be posted for all to enjoy. Kent is in the
- [Fundamental Mischief with Ray Fogerlund](https://usbgf.org/calendar/fundamental-mischief-with-ray-fogerlund/) - Join us as Ray discusses fundamentals of opening rolls and plays and their intimate relationship with the match score. He will teach you how to fool around with your opening
- [2023 U.S. Open Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-u-s-open-championships-abt/)
- [2023 Chicago Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-chicago-open-abt/)
- [2023 Sunny Florida Championship (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-sunny-florida-championship-abt/)
- [2023 Texas Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-texas-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2023 California State Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-california-state-championships/) - Plan now to attend
- [The Cube Slingers Arsenal: Racing Games](https://usbgf.org/calendar/the-cube-slingers-arsenal-racing-games/) - Title: The Cube Slingers Arsenal: Racing games The discussion will cover some basic tools essential to making proper cube decisions in racing games. It will also point to areas to explore to in order to reach a more advanced level.
- [2022 Las Vegas Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-las-vegas-open-abt/)
- [Opening Concepts by Michy](https://usbgf.org/calendar/opening-concepts-by-michy/) - About MichyMichihito "Michy" Kageyama is a professional backgammon player ranked number 2 in Giants of Backgammon in 2019. He is the author of three excellent books, Opening Concepts, End Game Technique, and Back Checker Strategy. He lives in Japan and teaches and plays internationally. He also has an excellent YouTube channel with learning resources. About
- [2023 Viking Backgammon Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-viking-backgammon-classic-abt/)
- [2023 New York Metropolitan Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-new-york-metropolitan-open-abt/)
- [2023 Atlanta Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-atlanta-spring-classic-abt/)
- [2023 Ohio State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2023-ohio-state-championships-abt/)
- [2022 St. Louis Gateway Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-st-louis-gateway-open-abt/) - Plan now to attend.
- [2022 California State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-california-state-championships-abt/) - Plan now to attend
- [Modern and Effective Approach to Backgammon with Zdenek Zizka](https://usbgf.org/calendar/modern-and-effective-approach-to-backgammon-with-zdenek-zizka/) - Zdenek "ZZ" Zizka is 23 years old is a professional full-time backgammon coach and player. I am a creator of Backgammon Coaching, which is an ideal platform for a backgammon enthusiast.
- [2022 Women’s Online World Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-womens-online-world-championship/) - Play begins on May 8th! Players participate in three exciting competitions at once! In addition to a shot at the online world title, the winner of the Americas region will be crowned the 2022 USBGF Women’s Online National Champion! Other top performers in the Americas region will also be invited to compete on the USBGF
- [Understanding Opening Replies with Albert Steg: Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/understanding-opening-replies-with-albert-steg-women-of-backgammon/) - Learn to play your early game with a real sense of purpose! Albert will outline the approaches taken by Jeremy Bagai, Bill Robertie, and Michy Kageyama in their treatises on the opening replies and then offer his own Backgammon Taskmaster system, based on "four imperatives" that guide decisions in the early game. To attend this
- [2022 U.S. Open Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-u-s-open-championships-abt/)
- [Mike Corbett Riffs on BG: Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/mike-corbett-visits-women-of-backgammon/) - Mike Corbett lends his vast backgammon experience and will provide an entertaining session! Playing backgammon requires one to occasionally consider counterintuitive options. That’s not a problem, it’s a defining characteristic of any great game. A successful analysis may bridge a gap that was invisible to you before that moment, making that act a triumph greater
- [2022 USBGF Awards Dinner](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-usbgf-awards-dinner/) - Join us in honoring the best of the best! Saturday, June 11th at 5 pm, Pacific. The Los Angeles Open backgammon tournament is proud to host this year's event. Learn more and purchase tickets at http://www.gammonassociateswest.com/ The USBGF Awards Dinner is our annual event honoring the American Hall of Fame inductee, Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, and
- [2022 Atlanta Spring Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-atlanta-spring-classic-abt/)
- [2022 47th Michigan Summer Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-47th-michigan-summer-championships-abt/)
- [Bill Robertie Q &A: USBGF Women of Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/calendar/bill-robertie-q-a-women-of-backgammon/) - To receive the conference link, subscribe to the Women of Backgammon mailing list.
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - January](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-january/)
- [ABT Online! MN Open](https://usbgf.org/calendar/abt-online-mn-open/)
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - February](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-february/)
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - April](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-april/)
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - May](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-may/)
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - June](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-june/)
- [2022 The Big Freeze-Out ABT Online! Backgammon Series - July](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-the-big-freeze-out-abt-online-backgammon-series-july/)
- [2022 New York Metropolitan Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-new-york-metropolitan-open-abt/)
- [2022 Texas Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-texas-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2022 Ohio State Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-ohio-state-championships-abt/)
- [2022 Cherry Blossom Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-cherry-blossom-championships-abt/)
- [2022 Chicago Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-chicago-open-abt/)
- [2022 Los Angeles Open (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-los-angeles-open-abt/)
- [2022 Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships-abt/)
- [2022 Viking Backgammon Classic (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-viking-backgammon-classic-abt/)
- [2022 Wild West Shootout (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-wild-west-shootout-abt/)
- [2022 Sunny Florida Championship (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2022-sunny-florida-championship-abt/)
- [2021 California State Championship](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2021-california-state-championship/)
- [2021 Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2021-viking-backgammon-classic/)
- [2021 Wild West Shootout](https://usbgf.org/calendar/2021-wild-west-shootout/)
- [2021 Wisconsin Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/calendar/wisconsin-backgammon-championships/)

## TP Team Member

- [Frank Talbot](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/talbot-frank/) - Frank Talbot’s extensive tournament experience and strategic planning skills will be invaluable to the Board. He is a frequent presence on the American Backgammon Tour and he has been voted in the top 32 Giants of Backgammon five times, and in the top 64 on nearly every list since it started in 1993. His achievements
- [Richard Munitz](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/munitz-richard/) - Richard Munitz is a current member of the USBGF Board of Directors and serves on the USBGF Rules and Ethics Committee (former Chair) and the Ratings and Stats Committee (former Chair). He is the developer of the USBGF's Online Tournament System (OTS). Richard has played competitive backgammon since the 1990’s, winning the American Backgammon Tour
- [Art Benjamin](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/benjamin-art/) - Art Benjamin is a former member of the USBGF Board of Directors, and a professor of mathematics at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California. Known as the “mathemagician”, he has demonstrated and explained his techniques for performing rapid mental arithmetic to audiences throughout the world, and in his book Secrets of Mental Math. Reader’s Digest
- [Benjamin Friesen](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/friesen-benjamin/) - Ben Friesen is the Interim President of USBGF in early 2026, the Treasurer, and Director of Tournament Support. He is a member of the USBGF Board of Directors, a Silver Founding Sponsor, and chair of the Tournament Directors Advisory Committee. He has directed numerous ABT and ABT Online tournaments.
- [Kara Schultz](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/kara-schultz/) - Joining the board is an incredible honor. I love backgammon and the backgammon community. Having received a warm reception into it, my goal is to create the same welcoming environment for others, from the local club level to national tournaments and, given the opportunity, by serving on the USBGF Board. As a lifetime marketer, becoming
- [Jason Briggs](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/briggs-jason/) - In my view, backgammon is about family and fellowship. I have had the great pleasure to play in tournaments, most often with my father and son, from Monaco to Los Angeles. The common thread, to me, is the community. Over the last several years I have introduced backgammon programs to six tennis and golf clubs
- [Dan Minardi](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/minardi-dan/) - Dan Minardi, Board of Directors of the U.S. Backgammon Federation, is the founder and President/CEO of Clear Blue Engineering. He is Director of the ABT’s Wild West Shootout, as well as the Colorado Backgammon Club Director. Dan is also a Gold Founding Sponsor, Finance Committee Chair, a member of the Executive Committee and Tournament Directors
- [John Pirner](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/pirner-john/) - John Pirner served as Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer. He lives in Minnesota and plays with the Twin Cities Backgammon Club. He founded Gammon Stuff in 2016 to import, stock and exclusively sell the handmade boards and accessories built by Fazil Terlemez (FTH), a German craftsman. Begun as a hobby, Gammon Stuff is now an enthusiastic corporate
- [Rory Pascar](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/pascar-rory/) - Rory Pascar has been playing competitive backgammon for almost 30 years. He is a 2-time ABT Tournament winner (Wisconsin State Championship 2010 and Central States Invitational 2014) and a 5-time Chicago Bar Point Club Player of the Year. Over the past decade, Rory has become one of the top ABT Tournament Directors. His background in
- [April Mesich](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/mesich-april/) - Backgammon, to me, is more than just an endlessly fascinating game, it also has an incredible community. Since joining the Twin Cities Backgammon Club in 2015, I have been continuously inspired to expand our community and am devoted to that cause. My goal is to help more people discover backgammon and enjoy the rich experience
- [Ian Terry](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/ian-terry/) - Ian Terry is a current member of the USBGF Board of Directors and serves on the Eligibility Committee. He has played competitive backgammon since 2016 and has become a familiar face on the American Backgammon Tour. He has also played as a member of the U.S. teams at the WBGF World Team Championships in Trier
- [Alex Eshaghian](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/alex-eshaghian/) - Why do you want to join the board? I have been playing backgammon since a child and it is a passion for me and I would like others to enjoy it as much as I do. What do you want to accomplish as a board member? These are some specific goals I have in mind
- [Roberto Litzenberger](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/roberto-litzenberger/) - Playing, discussing, and building tournament backgammon has been a full-time passion for over a decade. I want to continue supporting tournament players, advocate for their needs, and help ensure that everyone has a great experience at every event. My goal is to help our community keep growing by increasing participation in both live and online
- [Remington Davenport](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/remington-davenport/) - I care deeply about the future of backgammon in the United States and believe we are at a pivotal moment for growth, visibility, and modernization. Over the last 3 years, I’ve dedicated my career to expanding the game, bringing in thousands of new players, building inclusive communities, and proving that backgammon can thrive when it
- [Antoinette-Marie Williams](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/antoinette-marie-williams/) - My passion for backgammon started almost 50 years ago. I enjoy playing and teaching people of all skill levels. I believe that my ability to communicate with the world at large will support the USBGF mission to bring more players into the game. Currently, I support the organization as a Bronze Founding Sponsor and lead
- [Matt Patterson](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/matt-patterson/)
- [Stu Steene-Connolly](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/stu-steene-connolly/) - Stu is an accomplished online search engine marketer, WordPress developer, email designer, and general digital technology specialist. Before starting his own branding agency, he worked 20+ years in the film, branding, and digital advertising world in NYC and San Francisco. He's never one to back down from any challenge, a fast learner, relishes data-backed solutions
- [Tom Jayne](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/tom-jayne/)
- [Julius High](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/julius-high/)
- [Terri Fishel](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/terri-fishel/)
- [Bonnie Rogoff](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/bonnie-rogoff-2/)
- [Joseph Urso](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/joseph-urso/)
- [Bill Lonergan](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/bill-lonergan/)
- [Goldie Devalon](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/goldie-devalon/)
- [Jason Lee](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/jason-lee/)
- [Candace Mayeron](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/candace-mayeron/)
- [Jeb Horton](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/horton-jeb/) - ​Jeb Horton is an accomplished backgammon player and director. He has directed or staffed dozens of ABT tournaments, and is an Accredited Tournament Director for Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB). He has been playing on the ABT for over 20 years, and has finished in the top 20 five times. His best finish was 4th
- [Michael Mesich](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/mesich-michael/)
- [Karen Davis](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/davis-karen/) - Karen Davis, Ph.D., is a former member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the USBGF and a former co-chair of the Joint Membership and Marketing Committee. She serves as Managing Editor of the PrimeTime Backgammon electronic magazine and writes news and player profile articles for the magazine. She is currently the Eugene
- [Marty Storer](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/storer-marty/) - Marty has served on the Board since 2016, and is now a member of the Executive Committee. He is Executive Editor of PrimeTime Backgammon, where he has been a frequent contributor for many years, also having had other editorial roles for the magazine. He is a renowned backgammon author and player, recently rated as a
- [Martin Thurmann](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/martin-thurmann/) - Ever since I was introduced to Backgammon as a student in Greece during the summer of '87, it has become my lifelong passion. Over the span of 35 years, this game has remained a constant presence in my life. While raising children, I mostly played Backgammon recreationally due to time constraints. However, in recent years,
- [Neil Kazaross](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/kazaross-neil/) - Known as a Backgammon Superman, Neil resides in Chicago, Illinois where he is a stock trader. He has achieved notoriety as the number 3 Giant of Backgammon in the world and is the all-time number one player in the American Backgammon Tour standings spanning a period of sixteen years. At the Chicago Bar Point Club,
- [Ed Corey](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member/corey-ed/)

## Categories

- [Educational](https://usbgf.org/category/educational/)
- [News](https://usbgf.org/category/news/)
- [New to Backgammon](https://usbgf.org/category/educational/new-to-backgammon/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/category/primetime-magazine/)
- [Financial Report](https://usbgf.org/category/financial-report/)
- [President's Corner](https://usbgf.org/category/news/presidents-corner/)
- [Tournament News](https://usbgf.org/category/news/tournament-news/)
- [Tournament Results](https://usbgf.org/category/tournament-results/)
- [ABT Online Results](https://usbgf.org/category/tournament-results/abt-online-results/)
- [History](https://usbgf.org/category/history/)
- [People](https://usbgf.org/category/people/)
- [ABT Live Results](https://usbgf.org/category/tournament-results/abt-live-results/)
- [Books](https://usbgf.org/category/educational/books/)
- [Basic Backgammon Content](https://usbgf.org/category/educational/basic-backgammon-content/)
- [Premium Backgammon Content](https://usbgf.org/category/educational/premium-backgammon-content/)
- [Rules](https://usbgf.org/category/rules/)
- [Rules FAQ](https://usbgf.org/category/rules/rules-faq/)
- [North America](https://usbgf.org/category/tournament-results/north-america/)

## Tags

- [Virtual](https://usbgf.org/tag/virtual/)
- [Intermediate](https://usbgf.org/tag/intermediate/)
- [Expert](https://usbgf.org/tag/expert/)
- [Opening Roll](https://usbgf.org/tag/opening-roll/)
- [Backgammon Basics](https://usbgf.org/tag/backgammon-basics/)
- [New to Tournaments](https://usbgf.org/tag/new-to-tournaments/)
- [eXtreme Gammon](https://usbgf.org/tag/extreme-gammon/)
- [Video](https://usbgf.org/tag/video/)
- [Bold vs Safe](https://usbgf.org/tag/bold-vs-safe/)
- [Presentation](https://usbgf.org/tag/presentation/)
- [Math Overboard](https://usbgf.org/tag/math-overboard/)
- [American Backgammon Tour (ABT)](https://usbgf.org/tag/american-backgammon-tour-abt/)
- [#match](https://usbgf.org/tag/match/)
- [#experts](https://usbgf.org/tag/experts/)
- [#basicbeginners #openings](https://usbgf.org/tag/basicbeginners-openings/)
- [#endings](https://usbgf.org/tag/endings/)
- [#beginners](https://usbgf.org/tag/beginners/)
- [intermediates](https://usbgf.org/tag/intermediates/)
- [middlegame](https://usbgf.org/tag/middlegame/)
- [experts](https://usbgf.org/tag/experts-2/)
- [openings](https://usbgf.org/tag/openings/)
- [basicbeginners](https://usbgf.org/tag/basicbeginners/)
- [beginners](https://usbgf.org/tag/beginners-3/)
- [endings](https://usbgf.org/tag/endings-2/)
- [primevprime](https://usbgf.org/tag/primevprime/)
- [#middlegame](https://usbgf.org/tag/middlegame-2/)
- [doubling](https://usbgf.org/tag/doubling/)
- [Starting Off Right](https://usbgf.org/tag/starting-off-right/)
- [Opening Replies](https://usbgf.org/tag/opening-replies/)
- [primeversusprime](https://usbgf.org/tag/primeversusprime/)
- [game plans](https://usbgf.org/tag/game-plans/)
- [Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/tag/hall-of-fame/)
- [matchplay](https://usbgf.org/tag/matchplay/)
- [#endgame](https://usbgf.org/tag/endgame/)
- [Crawford](https://usbgf.org/tag/crawford/)
- [backgame](https://usbgf.org/tag/backgame/)
- [containment](https://usbgf.org/tag/containment/)
- [#doubling](https://usbgf.org/tag/doubling-2/)
- [PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/tag/primetime-magazine/)

## File Categories

- [PrimeTime Magazine](https://usbgf.org/file-category/primetime-magazine/)

## States

- [Minnesota](https://usbgf.org/state/minnesota/)
- [(All) United States](https://usbgf.org/state/united-states-all/)
- [Massachusetts](https://usbgf.org/state/massachusetts/)
- [Florida](https://usbgf.org/state/florida/)
- [New York](https://usbgf.org/state/new-york/)
- [California](https://usbgf.org/state/california/)
- [Alaska](https://usbgf.org/state/alaska/)
- [Arizona](https://usbgf.org/state/arizona/)
- [Alabama](https://usbgf.org/state/alabama/)
- [Arkansas](https://usbgf.org/state/arkansas/)
- [Colorado](https://usbgf.org/state/colorado/)
- [Connecticut](https://usbgf.org/state/connecticut/)
- [Georgia](https://usbgf.org/state/georgia/)
- [Illinois](https://usbgf.org/state/illinois/)
- [Indiana](https://usbgf.org/state/indiana/)
- [Kansas](https://usbgf.org/state/kansas/)
- [Kentucky](https://usbgf.org/state/kentucky/)
- [Louisiana](https://usbgf.org/state/louisiana/)
- [Maryland](https://usbgf.org/state/maryland/)
- [Michigan](https://usbgf.org/state/michigan/)
- [Missouri](https://usbgf.org/state/missouri/)
- [Nevada](https://usbgf.org/state/nevada/)
- [New Jersey](https://usbgf.org/state/new-jersey/)
- [New Mexico](https://usbgf.org/state/new-mexico/)
- [North Carolina](https://usbgf.org/state/north-carolina/)
- [Ohio](https://usbgf.org/state/ohio/)
- [Oklahoma](https://usbgf.org/state/oklahoma/)
- [Pennsylvania](https://usbgf.org/state/pennsylvania/)
- [South Carolina](https://usbgf.org/state/south-carolina/)
- [Tennessee](https://usbgf.org/state/tennessee/)
- [Texas](https://usbgf.org/state/texas/)
- [Utah](https://usbgf.org/state/utah/)
- [Virginia](https://usbgf.org/state/virginia/)
- [Wisconsin](https://usbgf.org/state/wisconsin/)
- [Iowa](https://usbgf.org/state/iowa/)
- [Oregon](https://usbgf.org/state/oregon/)
- [Washington](https://usbgf.org/state/washington/)
- [Hawaii](https://usbgf.org/state/hawaii/)

## Cities

- [Cambridge](https://usbgf.org/city/cambridge/)
- [Twin Cities](https://usbgf.org/city/twin-cities/)
- [Boca Raton](https://usbgf.org/city/boca-raton/)
- [New York](https://usbgf.org/city/new-york/)
- [Palm Beach](https://usbgf.org/city/palm-beach/)
- [Los Angeles](https://usbgf.org/city/los-angeles/)
- [Mineola](https://usbgf.org/city/mineola/)
- [Berkeley](https://usbgf.org/city/berkeley/)
- [Cupertino](https://usbgf.org/city/cupertino/)
- [Anchorage](https://usbgf.org/city/anchorage/)
- [Scottsdale](https://usbgf.org/city/scottsdale/)
- [Florence](https://usbgf.org/city/florence/)
- [Phoenix](https://usbgf.org/city/phoenix/)
- [Sacramento](https://usbgf.org/city/sacramento/)
- [San Diego](https://usbgf.org/city/san-diego/)
- [Pasadena](https://usbgf.org/city/pasadena/)
- [Denver](https://usbgf.org/city/denver/)
- [Fort Collins](https://usbgf.org/city/fort-collins/)
- [Milford](https://usbgf.org/city/milford/)
- [Waterbury](https://usbgf.org/city/waterbury/)
- [North Miami](https://usbgf.org/city/north-miami/)
- [Bloomington](https://usbgf.org/city/bloomington/)
- [Charleston](https://usbgf.org/city/charleston/)
- [Chicago](https://usbgf.org/city/chicago/)
- [Peoria](https://usbgf.org/city/peoria/)
- [Springfield](https://usbgf.org/city/springfield/)
- [Indianapolis](https://usbgf.org/city/indianapolis/)
- [Porter](https://usbgf.org/city/porter/)
- [Kansas City](https://usbgf.org/city/kansas-city/)
- [Lexington](https://usbgf.org/city/lexington/)
- [Louisville](https://usbgf.org/city/louisville/)
- [New Orleans](https://usbgf.org/city/new-orleans/)
- [Columbia](https://usbgf.org/city/columbia/)
- [St. Louis](https://usbgf.org/city/st-louis/)
- [Las Vegas](https://usbgf.org/city/las-vegas/)
- [Green Brook Township](https://usbgf.org/city/green-brook-township/)
- [Albuquerque](https://usbgf.org/city/albuquerque/)
- [Charlotte](https://usbgf.org/city/charlotte/)
- [Akron](https://usbgf.org/city/akron/)
- [Columbus](https://usbgf.org/city/columbus/)
- [Dayton](https://usbgf.org/city/dayton/)
- [Tulsa](https://usbgf.org/city/tulsa/)
- [Haverton](https://usbgf.org/city/haverton/)
- [Pittsburgh](https://usbgf.org/city/pittsburgh/)
- [Hilton Head Island](https://usbgf.org/city/hilton-head-island/)
- [Nashville](https://usbgf.org/city/nashville/)
- [Austin](https://usbgf.org/city/austin/)
- [Salt Lake City](https://usbgf.org/city/salt-lake-city/)
- [Arlington](https://usbgf.org/city/arlington/)
- [McLean](https://usbgf.org/city/mclean/)
- [Madison](https://usbgf.org/city/madison/)
- [Milwaukee](https://usbgf.org/city/milwaukee/)
- [Des Moines](https://usbgf.org/city/des-moines/)
- [Bonner Springs](https://usbgf.org/city/bonner-springs/)
- [Cary](https://usbgf.org/city/cary/)
- [Portland](https://usbgf.org/city/portland/)
- [Ashburn](https://usbgf.org/city/ashburn/)
- [West Boylston](https://usbgf.org/city/west-boylston/)
- [Appleton](https://usbgf.org/city/appleton/)
- [Brooklyn](https://usbgf.org/city/brooklyn/)
- [Newport Beach](https://usbgf.org/city/newport-beach/)
- [Little Falls](https://usbgf.org/city/little-falls/)
- [Seattle](https://usbgf.org/city/seattle/)
- [Little Rock](https://usbgf.org/city/little-rock/)
- [Los Olivos](https://usbgf.org/city/los-olivos/)
- [Oakhurst](https://usbgf.org/city/oakhurst/)
- [Ocean Township](https://usbgf.org/city/ocean-township/)
- [Woodstock](https://usbgf.org/city/woodstock/)
- [Honolulu](https://usbgf.org/city/honolulu/)
- [Miami](https://usbgf.org/city/miami/)
- [Rochester](https://usbgf.org/city/rochester/)
- [Durham](https://usbgf.org/city/durham/)
- [Philadelphia](https://usbgf.org/city/philadelphia/)
- [San Francisco](https://usbgf.org/city/san-francisco/)
- [Houston](https://usbgf.org/city/houston/)
- [Fort Lauderdale](https://usbgf.org/city/fort-lauderdale/)
- [Ocean Isle Beach](https://usbgf.org/city/ocean-isle-beach/)
- [Waco](https://usbgf.org/city/waco/)
- [Pleasanton](https://usbgf.org/city/pleasanton/)

## Magazine Year

- [2021](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2021/)
- [2015](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2015/)
- [2016](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2016/)
- [2017](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2017/)
- [2018](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2018/)
- [2019](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2019/)
- [2020](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2020/)
- [2010](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2010/)
- [2011](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2011/)
- [2012](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2012/)
- [2013](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2013/)
- [2014](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2014/)
- [2022](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2022/)
- [2023](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2023/)
- [2024](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2024/)
- [2025](https://usbgf.org/magazine_year/2025/)

## Club Classifications

- [Online](https://usbgf.org/club_classification/online/)
- [In-person](https://usbgf.org/club_classification/in-person/)
- [Prime Club](https://usbgf.org/club_classification/prime-club/)
- [Youth](https://usbgf.org/club_classification/youth/)
- [Social Play](https://usbgf.org/club_classification/social-play/)

## Bray&#039;s Learning Curve Tag

- [Basic Beginners](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/basic-beginners/)
- [Early Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/early-game/)
- [Middle Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/middle-game/)
- [Doubling Decision](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/doubling-decision/)
- [End Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/end-game/)
- [Beginners](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/beginners/)
- [Intermediates](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/intermediates/)
- [Back Game](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/back-game/)
- [Experts](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/experts/)
- [Opening](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/opening/)
- [#backgames #experts](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/backgames-experts/)
- [#beginners](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/beginners-2/)
- [#openings](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/openings/)
- [middlegame](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/middlegame/)
- [endings](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/endings/)
- [backgame](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/backgame/)
- [openings](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/openings-2/)
- [endgame](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/endgame/)
- [basicbeginners](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/basicbeginners/)
- [primevprime](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/primevprime/)
- [matchplay](https://usbgf.org/brays_learning_curve_tags/matchplay/)

## Phil Simborg Video Lessons Tags

- [Checker Play](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/checker-play/)
- [Double Match Point](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/double-match-point/)
- [Stick Rice](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/stick-rice/)
- [Late Game](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/late-game/)
- [Backgame](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/backgame/)
- [Blitz](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/blitz/)
- [Prime](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/prime/)
- [Game Plan](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/game-plan/)
- [Money Games](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/money-games/)
- [Probability](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/probability/)
- [Perry Gartner](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/perry-gartner/)
- [Early Game](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/early-game/)
- [Bold vs. Safe](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/bold-vs-safe/)
- [Gammon Save](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/gammon-save/)
- [Second Roll](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/second-roll/)
- [Matt Cohn-Geier](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/matt-cohn-geier/)
- [Match Strategy](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/match-strategy/)
- [Mary Hickey](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/mary-hickey/)
- [Middle Game](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/middle-game/)
- [Counting Pips](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/counting-pips/)
- [John O'Hagan](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/john-ohagan/)
- [eXtreme Gammon](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/extreme-gammon/)
- [Morten Holm](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/morten-holm/)
- [Rich Munitz](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/rich-munitz/)
- [Victor Ashkenazi](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/victor-ashkenazi/)
- [Containment](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/containment/)
- [David Presser](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/david-presser/)
- [Joe Sylvester](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/joe-sylvester/)
- [Gammon Go](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/gammon-go/)
- [Crawford](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/crawford/)
- [Bob Koca](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/bob-koca/)
- [Falafel Natanzon](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/falafel-natanzon/)
- [Bob Wachtel](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/bob-wachtel/)
- [Steve Sax](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/steve-sax/)
- [Doubling Cube](https://usbgf.org/phil_simborg_video_lessons_tags/doubling-cube/)

## ABT Years

- [2021](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2021/)
- [2022](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2022/)
- [2023](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2023/)
- [2024](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2024/)
- [2025](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2025/)
- [2026](https://usbgf.org/abt_year_tag/2026/)

## ABT Tournament Names

- [Michigan Summer Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/michigan-summer-backgammon-championships/)
- [Wisconsin State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/wisconsin-state-backgammon-championships/)
- [Wild West Backgammon Shootout](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/wild-west-backgammon-shootout/)
- [Las Vegas Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/las-vegas-backgammon-open/)
- [Sunny Florida Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/sunny-florida-backgammon-championship/)
- [St. Louis Gateway Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/st-louis-gateway-backgammon-open/)
- [Los Angeles Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/los-angeles-backgammon-open/)
- [Viking Backgammon Classic](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/viking-backgammon-classic/)
- [Chicago Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/chicago-backgammon-open/)
- [Beale Street Blues Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/beale-street-blues-backgammon-tournament/)
- [Boston Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/boston-backgammon-open/)
- [New York Metropolitan Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/new-york-metropolitan-backgammon-open/)
- [Cherry Blossom Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/cherry-blossom-backgammon-championship/)
- [U.S. Open Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/u-s-open-backgammon-championships/)
- [Minnesota Backgammon Open](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/minnesota-backgammon-open/)
- [The Big Freeze-Out Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/the-big-freeze-out-backgammon-tournament/)
- [Chicago Classic Backgammon Tournament](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/chicago-classic-backgammon-tournament/)
- [California State Backgammon Championship](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/california-state-backgammon-championship/)
- [Texas Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/texas-backgammon-championships/)
- [Ohio State Backgammon Championships](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/ohio-state-backgammon-championships/)
- [Atlanta Spring Classic](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/atlanta-spring-classic/)
- [The Capital Classic](https://usbgf.org/abt_tournament_name/the-capital-classic/)

## Award Types

- [American Backgammon Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/award_type/hall-of-fame/)
- [USBGF Lifetime Achievement](https://usbgf.org/award_type/usbgf-lifetime-achievement/)
- [Legacy Hall of Fame](https://usbgf.org/award_type/legacy/)

## Bill Robertie Challenge Tags

- [Early Game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/early-game/)
- [Middle Game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/middle-game/)
- [Back Game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/back-game/)
- [End Game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/end-game/)
- [Doubling Decision](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/doubling-decision/)
- [Holding game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/holding-game/)
- [Prime Vs. Prime](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/prime-vs-prime/)
- [Bear Off](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/bear-off/)
- [Containment Game](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/containment-game/)
- [Blitz Vs. Priming](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/blitz-vs-priming/)
- [Blitzing](https://usbgf.org/bill_robertie_tags/blitzing/)

## Event Types

- [ABT Online!](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/abt-online/)
- [ABT Live](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/abt-live/)
- [Women's Event](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/womens-event/)
- [Educational](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/educational/)
- [Online Tournament Series](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/online-tournament-series/)
- [Beginner](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/beginner/)
- [Local Tournaments](https://usbgf.org/calendar-category/local-tournaments/)

## TP Team Member Categories

- [Staff](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member_cat/staff/)
- [BOD](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member_cat/bod/)
- [Volunteer](https://usbgf.org/theplus_team_member_cat/volunteer/)