We are sad to report the recent death of Brid Kirby of Limerick. Brid was a teacher in Crescent Comprehensive College who took up bridge in the 1970s with her friend Marie Hanrahan, and later joined several of the major Limerick clubs.
Brid’s game quickly flourished, and she had great success locally. Her first appearance in the national annals was in 1990 when she and Marie teamed up with Noel and Angela Hickey to win the Kelburne Cup. In 1992 she and Marie were part of the Munster team that won the Interprovincial Championship for the first time since 1966, under the captaincy of Des Houlihan. Brid subsequently won both the Jackson Cup and the McMenamin Bowl on several occasions, with partners and teammates including Ena Cleary, Maureen Pattinson, Mary Finn, Gerri McMahon, and Carol-Ann Cummins.
Brid represented Ireland in World and European Championships in Malmo and Ostend, and played in the Lady Milne Trophy (home international championships) on three occasions, partnering variously Marie Hanrahan, Maureen Pattinson, Gerri McMahon, Margaret Fitzpatrick, and Joan Kenny at international level. She also played her part in the administration of bridge, serving as President of both Limerick Bridge Club and the 99 Bridge Club as well as the North Munster Region.
Away from the bridge table, Brid’s main interest was her family. Her husband Eddie was a great support to her, and she was very proud of her three children, Brian, Orla, and Daragh. We send our condolences to them, and to all Brid’s extended family and her wide circle of friends. May she rest in peace.