Howard Weinstein has been named the winner of the 2015 Sidney H. Lazard Jr. Sportsmanship Award. Sidney Lazard Sr., who serves as the selection committee’s chairman emeritus, said of Weinstein, “Howie works very hard at bridge, and he does it a way that makes bridge a more pleasant experience for everyone.”
In response to being selected for the prestigious recognition, Weinstein said, “I have always tried to play bridge in a sportsmanlike manner by being pleasant and respectful to my partner and the opponents. I am truly honored to be chosen for this award.”
The award was established by Lazard in honor of his son, who died in 1999 at the age of 41 after a year-long battle with cancer. Administered by the ACBL Educational Foundation, the award is given annually to a top-level player. According to Lazard, the object of the award is to “enhance sportsmanship among top players and to salute those who try to win with class and dignity.”
The selection committee members are Steve Beatty, Steve Weinstein, and Zia Mahmood.
Previous winners:
2014 Bob Hamman
2013 Benedicte Cronier and Sylvie Willard
2012 Michael Kamil
2011 Betty Ann Kennedy
2010 Roy Welland
2009 Peter Boyd
2008 Giorgio Duboin
2007 Seymon Deutsch
2006 Ralph Cohen
2005 Nick Nickell
2004 Lynn Deas
2003 Larry Cohen
2002 Rose Meltzer
2001 Paul Soloway