Over Opps T/O Double

Author: Larry Cohen
Date of publish: 01/01/2013
Level: All Levels

 

When we open 1 of a suit and the opponents make a takeout double, a redouble always shows 10+. After our redouble, any subsequent doubles are penalty. If the opener runs prematurely, he is showing a weak shapely hand (such as: 1?-(X)-XX-(2?); 2?).

 

Examples:

 

WestNorthEastSouth
 1?  X  XX  2?
 Pass Pass X=Pen.  
WestNorthEastSouth
1?  X XX 2?
2?=Weak (6+?)      

 

A new-suit on the 1-level is forcing one round. With a hand such as: ?3
?A Q J 9 8
?A 4 3
?J 6 5 4
, after 1?-X, I'd rather get the hearts in at once (1?) instead of redoubling and being subject to preemption. Some 10+ point hands will have the option to go either way (either redouble, or bid at once).

 

A new-suit on the 2-level is natural and non-forcing.  (One of the system-upgrade options is available here).  For example, 1? (X) 2? shows something like: ?43
?32
?Q32
?AQ9864
 (the hand is limited by the failure to redouble).

 

This treatment of NF on the 2-level and forcing on the 1-level is by far the most common worldwide (not something special to LC Standard).

 

Jump shifts are weak [example: 1? (X) 2? ].

Jump raises are weak [example: 1? (X) 3? ].

 

A jump to 2NT after their double is artificial. It shows a limit raise or better. After 1? (X) or 1? (X) the 2NT bid shows 3+ trumps (and 10+ in support). After a 1? opening, it shows at least 4 trumps and after a 1? opening, at least 5.

 

For a full LC Standard Convention Card and a prettier version of this series, see Bridge Winners.