The Bridge Column

Q 1— Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ Q 9 8 7 6 5 3 ♥ J 3 ♦ Q ♣ 8 6 5

As dealer, what call would you make?

A— Real men would open 3S, but we think this is the kind of hand to settle for opening 2S.

Q 2— North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold:

♠ A K ♥ A ♦ A K 10 9 7 ♣ A KJ 10 5

Partner opens 3H and righthand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A— Key Card Blackwood would help here. You could find out that partner holds both the king and queen of hearts and bid a grand slam. The important thing is to let it play in hearts. Partner might not have a highcard entry to his hand. We would bid 6H.

Q 3— East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ 10 8 3 2 ♥ K 10 4 ♦ 10 8 6 5 3 ♣ 7

Partner opens 1C and righthand opponent passes. What call would you make?

A— Some would respond because of the singleton club. We think that is wrong minded, especially at this vulnerability. Pass.

Q4 — Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

A— K Q 97 ♥ 7643 ♦ K J4 ♣ K 7

WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH

1♣ 1♦ Dbl* 2♣** 2♥ Pass Pass 3♦ Pass Pass 3♥ ? *Negative **Diamond fit, at least invitational values

What call would you make? A— Do not bid 4D with only three trumps. We would pass, but we don’t mind a double.

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