Passing the Bar Exam Is No Game

Someone dropping in on the middle of two or more players discussing a "bar" may assume the wrong conversation topic - that perhaps this is a chat about the local tavern or drinking hole, maybe a sporting talk about two gymnasts on their technique on that equipment, or even pole vaulters or high-jumpers setting new heights for themselves. Well, set them straight that you are talking about backgammon and that infamous part of our game that is the equivalent of "go to jail" in that other board game, Monopoly.

That's right, THE bar.

Afraid of heights? Well, don't get decked or hit then, because that's just where your "man" or piece has to sit, up high on the bar, while he waits his chance to re-enter the active playing board in backgammon. Nothing can cause more frustration or even ulcers in our game as when you are hit and must sit atop the bar - especially if your opponent has devilishly planned ahead and blocked all the points in his home board because then, indeed, you will be sitting for more than a couple of moves!

However, we've been an eye-witness to that equally sweet moment when there was only ONE point unblocked and the opponent had a solo piece sitting vulnerable on another spot on the board, leaving ONLY one possible exact double roll to exit to the bar AND hit the open man - and then the bar-sitter rolled and did just that! The simultaneous laughter by the roller and the ensuing groan of the opponent just his was a moment to remember.