On October 19, bridge players from around the world will gather online for the first Erik Bridge Cup, a charity tournament organized by the Hungarian and Swiss Bridge Federations.
The tournament is being held in support of research into Asparagine Synthetase Deficiency (ASNSD), a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder that affects fewer than 40 children worldwide.
The Erik Bridge Cup is named after a one-year-old boy living with ASNSD. Erik was a healthy and smiling baby until the age of five months, when he began experiencing frequent epileptic seizures. His diagnosis revealed a condition with no known cure and limited treatment options.
Erik’s parents have partnered with two research teams working on early-stage treatments. One, at the University of Geneva, is exploring drug repurposing to help stabilize symptoms. The other, based at University College London, is focused on gene therapy. Together, these projects represent a possible path forward not only for Erik but for others with this diagnosis. Funding remains a challenge, and the Erik Bridge Cup aims to contribute directly to this effort.
The tournament will be held on RealBridge, a digital platform that allows players to compete online using video and audio. Participants will play in pairs, competing across 24 to 27 boards in a matchpoint format. The event takes place October 19, 15:00 CEST (9:00 a.m. Eastern Time).
Players may choose their own partners. Those without a partner can request help in being matched. All levels are welcome.
Registration is handled by email. Interested players should contact Mariann Vegh at mariann.s.vegh@gmail.com. All participants will receive information and a personalized link ahead of the tournament. If you need a partner, let Mariann know.
The entry fee is 10 USD (or local equivalent in HUF, CHF, or EUR) per person. Players under 26 qualify for a 50% discount.
Payments for the entry fee will be made via:
Donations to support the ASNSD research can also be made through:
Several prizes will be awarded following the tournament:
The Erik Bridge Cup connects bridge players around a shared goal: helping fund research into a rare condition affecting a small number of children worldwide. By participating, players support teams working on early-stage treatments that currently have no commercial backing. The tournament offers a chance to contribute directly to scientific efforts while taking part in a global event.
