Goren Bridge

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

♠ 105 ♥ AK75 ♦ K6 ♣ K Q J 10 5 Right-hand opponent opens 1D. What call would you make?

A: We don’t mind double over a 1S opening, but not over 1D. Partner, thinking we have spade support, might get us into trouble. Bid 2C. Q: North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ 764 ♥ KQ64 ♦ AQ8 ♣ 652 EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1♥ Pass 1NT 2♠ Pass ?

What call would you make?

A: Half the strength is in hearts, which might not be best for partner. Even so, you still must take responsibility for your values. Bid 3H, a limit raise in spades or better. Q: East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ A864 ♥ AK3 ♦ AJ7 ♣ A 10 4 Partner opens 1C and right-hand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A: Plenty of values for a strong jump shift, but why? You’re going to drive to slam anyway, so why not give partner an easy rebid to help you decide which slam? Bid 1S.

Q: Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ A65 ♥ 984 ♦ J6 ♣ Q J 10 5 3 WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH 1♣ Dbl 1♥ ? What call would you make?

A: Bid 1NT. Don’t worry about your heart holding after partner’s takeout double.

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

♠ 86 ♥ AK5 ♦ AKQJ64 ♣ KJ As dealer, what call would you make?

A: This looks like a NT hand to us, and it is worth at least 22 points. Open 2C, planning to rebid 2NT.

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

♠ AQJ653 ♥ K 10 7 5 ♦ 73 ♣ 8 EAST SOUTH WEST NORTH 1♣ 1♠ 2♥ 2♠

3♥ ?

What call would you make?

A: You will almost certainly get a heart lead, which will help you. This might be a chance to steal a game bonus. Bid 4S.

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