Goren Bridge

QUESTION 1: Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ KQ8 ♥ K J 10 7 6 ♦ J 10 7 ♣ J7

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1♥ Pass 1NT Pass

What call would you make?

A: When Charles Goren ruled the bridge world, pass was routine with this hand. Many modern players are forced to rebid over 1NT. For them, 2D is the bid.

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

♠ AKQ63 ♥ K532 ♦ 86 ♣ K7

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1♠ Pass 1NT Pass

2♥ Pass 3♥ Pass

What call would you make?

A: Partner has 9 or 10 points, so game should have a fair chance. Bid 4H.

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

♠ A10 7 4 ♥ 964 ♦ J6 ♣ AQ63

NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST 1♣ Pass 1♠ Pass

2♠ Pass ?

What call would you make?

A: Game is unlikely and no forward-going bid is safe, especially if partner has raised on three-card support. Pass.

Q: Both vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ Q 10 8 6 5 ♥ 65 ♦ 4 ♣ A Q 10 6 3

NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST 1♦ 1♥ 1♠ Pass

2♠ Pass ?

What call would you make?

A: Game is possible on a good day, but shortness in partner’s suit is not an asset. Pass.

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

♠ A 10 8 ♥ KJ84 ♦ K6 ♣ K763

SOUTH WEST NORTH EAST 1♣ 4♦ Dbl* Pass

*Negative

What call would you make?

A: A negative double at this level just shows cards and does not promise length in any suit. You should usually pass with a balanced hand. This hand is balanced. Pass.

Q 6 -East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ J85 ♥ 75 ♦ Q9863 ♣ A Q 10 Partner opens 1C and right-hand opponent bids 1H. What call would you make?

A: Another instance where a negative double is the best action despite holding only three cards in the unbid major. Double.