The Australian bridge teams heading to the Asia Pacific Bridge Federation (APBF) Championships and the World Bridge Championships (Bermuda Bowl) have been confirmed – and there’s something especially exciting about this year’s Open Team lineup.

Introducing Sophie Ashton – Breaking Barriers in Bridge

For the first time since Pauline Gumby in 2006 and 2007, a woman will compete in Australia’s Open Team. Sophie Ashton made history by winning the 2025 Open Playoff alongside teammates Dave Wiltshire, Phil Markey, and Joe Haffer. They’ve since selected powerhouse pair Liam Milne and James Coutts to complete their team, who will take on the world in China (May) and Denmark (August).

But Sophie’s journey to this moment is anything but ordinary. From risk management at Goldman Sachs and quant analytics at Barclays Capital in Tokyo, to founding a thriving healthcare hub in regional New South Wales, Sophie’s career has been marked by bold moves, resilience, and a love for intellectual challenges.

From Two-Player Bridge in Argentina to the Bermuda Bowl

Despite growing up in a bridge-playing household, Sophie initially avoided the game. Ironically, it was on a trip to Argentina with her dad that she was introduced to a quirky form of two-player bridge – and the spark was lit. Upon her return to Australia, Sophie joined the Sydney Uni Bridge Club and began her slow climb into the competitive scene.

Sophie took a break from bridge during her time in Japan but returned with renewed passion in 2013. She played State events with Dave Wiltshire and later national tournaments, eventually marrying fellow top player Sartaj Hans in 2015. With their two daughters, Rosie and Sasha, Sophie balances family, bridge, and business with tenacity and heart.

Eyes on the APBF and Bermuda Bowl

Sophie’s presence in the Open Team isn’t just symbolic – she’s a serious contender and a strategic force on the international stage. As she prepares to compete in two of the world’s most prestigious bridge events, we celebrate her achievement and the dedication it took to get here.

Want to see the full lineup of Australian representative teams?
Visit: Meet the Teams (https://www.abf.com.au/australian-representative-teams/meet-the-teams/)

Let’s rally behind our national teams as they head into battle on the world stage – and cheer on trailblazers like Sophie Ashton who are reshaping the future of Australian bridge.

Posted in Latest News on May 5, 2025