BRIDGE

BRIDGE

Q. Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:

x9 6 uQ J 9 5 4 vK 10 8 7 wA 10

Partner opens two hearts, weak, and right-hand opponent bids two spades. What call would you make?

A. The big fit deserves a big bid. Bid four hearts. The real problem will be deciding whether to bid five hearts next should they compete to four spades.

Q. North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

x6 2 u6 4 2 v9 8 6 5 wK Q 8 7

Partner opens one no trump, 15-17, and right-hand opponent bids two spades. What call would you make?

A. Double would be for takeout in the modern game, but this hand isn’t worth competing to the three level. Pass.

Q. East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xJ 6 2 uA vA K 9 7 5 wJ 9 3 2

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

1v Pass 1x Pass

?

What call would you make?

A. Don’t bother bidding your clubs. Partner will love this hand as a dummy for spades, even if he only has four of them. Bid two spades.

Q. Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

x10 uJ 8 4 3 vA K 9 5 wK Q J 6

Right-hand opponent opens one heart. What call would you make?

A. It’s maddening to have such a nice hand with nothing to bid. Pass.

Q. North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xA 10 9 6 uA K Q 6 5 2 vJ 3 wJ

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST

1u Pass 2u Pass

?

What call would you make?

A. Don’t go bashing into game just yet. Should partner’s values be in the minors, they might not work for you. Bid two spades, telling partner where you could use some help.

Q. East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

xA uQ 9 8 7 4 2 vA J w10 7 6 5

As dealer, what call would you make?

A. This hand would be much better if the aces were located in the long suits. Still, it is worth an opening bid. Bid one heart.

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