Double Club System

Auctions starting 1, 1/, 1NT, 2

What has been shown?

Opener has shown a balanced hand with 17-19 hcp (or possibly the higher range of 23-24 hcp if the folded ranges are being used).

Responder is seeking a suit fit. He is either weak, looking to play in 2 or 2, or strong enough to wish to be in a game contract (or higher) but unsure of which denomination. If strong, responder's major may be only a 4-card suit.

If responder is weak, he will be 5-5 in the majors if he bid spades originally, and will be 4-5 in spades and hearts if he bid hearts originally. He can show 5-4 in spades and hearts naturally (by bidding spades then hearts), but cannot show either of the other patterns except by using this convention.

Strategy

Opener must first assume that responder is weak and wishing to play in two of a major. Opener knows responder's shape and simply bids two of the major that offers the better fit. Responder will pass if he is weak.

If responder bids on, the auction is game-forcing. Both players bid naturally, showing suits in order and showing extra length where held.

Continuations

2 or 2

Opener's choice of contract if responder is minimum.

No other bid is allowed.

If responder bids on, both players bid their shape naturally until at least a game is reached.

Author: Chris Burton
Gravesend Bridge Club