Backgammon Tournaments
Backgammon, the game of skill, luck and intuition has reached the
zenith of its popularity today.
This is mainly due to the vast array of tournaments and competitions
that are taking place all over the world.
In the beginning, backgammon used to be played as per the rules of
the host country. As the game has stretched its wings worldwide, the
standardization of the rules and regulations has become inevitable.
The rules have undergone several changes before finally reaching
standardization in the year 1990.
The tradition of backgammon is that the number of matches played in
tournaments is always odd. Matches generally start at 9 and may be
increased to 13 or 15 matches. The more the merrier for the
strategic experts.
There is a clear-cut guideline regarding even the recess between two
games, which is 5 minutes (for a match of 13 points or less),
violation of which may lead to penalty points, rewarded to the
opponent. Even slow play (as observed by the Director) is cautioned
followed by penalties. However for games with larger points may have
different recess time at the discretion of the director.
The dice should be thrown correctly for bounce and roll. The reading
can be taken only when both dice have landed and are rested flat on
the board. Handling of checkers should be done very neatly. Any
illegal move of the opponent should immediately be brought into the
notice of the director.
According to the United States Backgammon Tournament Rules &
Procedures, a gammon or backgammon does not necessitate double and
at the final stage as the Crawford rule is to be followed. The
Double and redouble need to be clearly, verbally announced and
rejection to that effect may be announced as 'Pass'.
In case of dispute the Director’s decision is final and liable to
all.
