For the first time ever I don't know how to start a report! The event in China had such a special atmosphere that it's difficult for me to give priority to the Country and the people or to the organization of the tournament.

The idea of this event was born in Estoril, during the World Championships. The very enthusiastic President of the Zone 6, member of the WBF Women Committee, Esther Sophonpanich together with the Chinese, Japanese, PABF representatives, and myself, decided to organize a Women Team Event in Zone 6.

CHINA, winners of Juno Cup 2006

The CCBA (Chinese Contract Bridge League),was ready to host the "Juno Cup 2006" in China in the city of Wo Xi. They asked my collaboration for inviting the Women Teams from Europe and of course I was delighted to help!

The 8 participating Teams were Canada- China- England- Germany- Italy- Netherlands- Sweden- USA.

Wo Xi, known as "Pearl of Tai Hu" is located in the centre of Yangtze River Delta, close to Shanghai and Naijing.

It's is one of the China's most important economic cities, and thanks to the marvellous landscapes, Wo Xi is evalueted as the "best touristic City of China".

The splendid 5 stars Hotel "Tai Hu" was the venue for this event.

The organizing Committee offered rooms and accommodation throughout the event to 8 members of each Team, as well as the transportation from and to the Airport of Shanghai and, just imagine, a charming interpreter dedicated to each team, who left them only during the play! The rooms, the service and the food in Tai Hu Hotel was really at a very high standard.

We attended three particular and perfectly arranged Gala Dinners, two at the Opening and Prize-Giving Ceremonies and one offered by the Major: an enjoyment for our eyes and taste!

During these Ceremonies the Major, all the highest local authorities and the most important Bridge personalities were present and made speeches. I insist on this point because I want to underline the high importance that China gave to this "Juno Cup" and to" Bridge" in general.

Esther Sophonpanich as President of Zone 6 was present during the first two days. We were honoured and had the great pleasure to receive the WBF President José Damiani who attended the prize-giving.

I gave personally many interviews, in TV, to Wo Xi journalists and by telephone also from Beijing. Two questions were emphasized: The first- "How do you promote Women’s Bridge" and the second, "What do you think of the Chinese Women’s Team- Can they win?"

They organized also a very interesting tour to the Ling Shan Buddhist Spot: the Ling Shan Grand Buddha is the highest in China- 88 meter high!

But the most outstanding and lasting impression was of the kindness, the smiles, the availability the profound sense of hospitality and the warm atmosphere that our Chinese hosts created!

At the end, at the prize-giving all the Captains of the Teams, went to the microphone to show their enthusiasm and appreciation .

Thanks, many thanks to all CCBA organizers, to the Sponsor, to the people who so efficiently worked at the tournament, to the Directors, and to the City of Wo Xi who offered us the opportunity to spend 5 unforgettable days in its magic beauty… and more, let me have the great pleasure to give my personal warmest thanks and deep appreciation to Chen Zelan and Lilian Sun, important part of CCBA and also members of the WBF Women's Committee, who didn’t leave me for a moment!

And now, the RESULTS.

Four teams qualified for the semifinal and finals: China, England, the Netherlands and USA.

In the Semifinals, China beat England 132-128
The Netherlands beat USA 130-65.5

In the Final, China beat the Netherlands 177-145.5
England beat USA 83.7-44

So CHINA were the winners of the first Juno Cup and I offer them my warm congratulations. The Netherlands were the runners up and England took the third place.

The Netherlands, second place		England, third place

Money prizes in US$: 20,000 to the winners, 10,000 to the second classified and 5,000 to the third.

Congratulations to the Chinese Women's Team!!, you deserved it!

See you next year!!