Author: Larry Cohen
Date of publish: 03/22/2020
Level: General Interest
Conception: "Even Bergen Doesn't play Bergen Raises."
The Truth: FALSE
"I've heard that Marty Bergen doesn't play Bergen Raises."
What?
Why do I hear that so often?
Nothing could be further from the truth!
Bergen swears by Bergen Raises. He is the biggest proponent in the world of his convention.
When we were partners in the 1980's, Marty first invented (and sometimes modified) this convention. At the time, we were very successful with it.
Over the years, more and more people learned it and got used to playing against it. Some of the positive effect has worn off.
In my opinion, it is a fine convention, but it requires lots of partnership study and work. There are several variations--and partners need to agree on which version they are using. It is also essential (like with any convention) to know if Bergen Raises are on over interference (overcalls and/or doubles) and if they are on by a passed hand. Unless you want to study, work and memorize, don't use this (or any) convention.
But, please, let's not ask anymore if Bergen plays Bergen. The answer is a resounding: YES
