Backgammon to Come to Northern England?
Classic BackgammonLocal hotelier hopes to bring the high-brow game to the masses
Think that backgammon is only for exotic Mediterranean locales and exclusive London night clubs? A Windermere hotelier doesn’t think so. Jonathan Kaye, owner of the Casino Manor Hotel plans to bring backgammon to the north of England, staging a one-day tournament attracting players from across the region.
Hoping to bring players an alternative to casino games as well as online blackjack and poker, Kaye developed a taste for the game during the ten years he spent in London managing a nightclub frequented by royals and celebrities. He thinks that everyday people would enjoy the game just as much.
Said Kaye: “Everyone who has been on holiday to Greece or Spain will see how popular backgammon is there, with games being played at roadside cafes by all age groups,” he said. “We want anyone who might be interested to get in touch, and then we will arrange a competition.”
Backgammon’s rich history
Archaeologists have found the game to have originated in ancient Persia, making one of the world’s oldest casino strategy games. The first world championship was held in Las Vegas in 1967, but since then has been held annually in Monte Carlo. Kaye is optimistic that English players will develop a taste for it if given the opportunity.
