Документ взят из кэша поисковой машины. Адрес оригинального документа : http://mavr.sao.ru/hq/dim/bridge/biddings/bridge-system-collection.text Дата изменения: Thu Sep 21 19:54:12 2000 Дата индексирования: Tue Aug 18 07:25:18 2009 Кодировка: Поисковые слова: aurora

From: Jan Eric Larsson


A Bridge System Collection

Jan Eric Larsson
Palo Alto, California, May 5th, 1995

Preface

This report started out almost by accident. Just wanting to write down
some information about different bidding systems, I started collecting
more and more of them. Soon, the effort grew, and I decided to ask
for more information on the Internet, in the newsgroup
Rec.games.bridge, (RGB).

When motivating people, I realized that I had to promise to share what
I found. Why shouldn't I? Well, the very obvious reason is that, in
order to share information, it should be put in readable form... Anyway,
that is how this system collection began.

What is it good for? My original objective was to make an overview of
different systems, in order to get a general idea of what kinds of
systems that have been invented, played, and what you might expect to
meet from time to time. As a bidding system designer, I also wanted to
see what kinds of bids I should device defenses against, (I do not
belong to that unpleasant category of Bridge players who wish to
forbid every unusual system just because they don't have the will to
prepare a defense against them). Hopefully, this information can be
of general interest, and if you happen to find a system that you would
like to know more about, I have included my sources as often as
possible. If there is no attribution, well, then the information comes
from me and my general Bridge knowledge or experiences.

I have also included data on mean openings. I myself is a strong
believer in "lowlevel preempting", i.e., using weak opening bids
often, to take the offensive in bidding and maybe preempting the
opponents, (and anyone who likes weak notrump and weak two openings
shares my opinion, I think). Thus, I find it interesting to see what a
system's mean opening is. If you also like these ideas, well, then you
have a nice number to use in your evaluation of the systems.

If you like "light" opening bids, check out EHAA, a completely
natural system with a mean opening of 4.06. Or why not investigate
Moscito-D or Tangerine Club? These are strong 1C systems which will
let you open on all hands with 10 points and up. If you want to play a
"standard" system, take a look at the Science.

Artificial systems, especially strong pass systems, are often referred
to as strange, bizarre, etc. Even Charles Goren himself writes:

"But don't expect such modern (should I say "futuristic"?) treatments
as the initial pass to show a good hand, or the artificial opening bid
to show a poor one. These and similar methods are designed primarily
to confuse the opponents. The main object of my methods remains to
communicate useful information between partners, so as to arrive at
the best declaration for your side".

Goren, C. H., Goren's New Bridge Complete, Doubleday, Garden
City, New York, p. vi, 1985.

Certainly, some systems have been constructed mainly to be unusual,
but for most of the systems described here, this is a very unfair and
uneducated view, and in my opinion it is almost unbelievable that an
authority like Goren could write what he did.

In fact, there are several constructive arguments for preferring
strong 1C and strong pass systems over "standard" ones. If you
feel that it must be possible to do better than the standard systems'
virtually unlimited one of a suit, do examine the systems described
here. Maybe you will find something interesting... So I also hope
that this report will show that those "bizarre" systems actually
contain some good ideas. Even if you don't want to play one yourself,
it will hopefully show you why people invent and play them.
Best of all, when they meet you, you can have a good defense waiting
for them!

The selection criterium for whether a system should be entered was
very simple: "all systems go". This means that common systems like
Goren will share space with highly unusual systems that might never
have been played at all, like 1D Example System. In order to at
least give a hint about the use of a system, all unusual systems are
marked with a '*' after their name. This means that the system in
question has not been played by a widespread selection of players. It
doesn't mean that the system is a mere theoretical construction.
Systems like Awkward, Moscito-D, and Tangerine Club have only been
played by a small number of players, (often teammates and friends),
but they have been used with great success over a long time and in
both pairs and teams competitions.

This report is not in its final form yet, and maybe it will never be.
Its development hinges on you, dear reader, as much as on me. Thus,
please, if you know of a system, a common one, your own or someone
elses invention, and whether it has ever been played or not, do send
it to me. Likewise, if you spot an error or think that some important
detail in the description of a system is missing, please contact
me. To say it in a different way: do look for missing systems, errors,
and omissions, but don't complain about it. Instead, help me have it
corrected in the next version!

The best way of contacting me is via e-mail:

Larsson@KSL.Stanford.Edu.

By the way, let me mention the Rec.games.bridge archive, which
contains lot's of information. It is kept by Markus Buchhorn,
Markus@arp.anu.edu.au, and if your are lucky enough to be on the
information super highway, you can investigate it via anonymous ftp to
arp.anu.edu.au, or 150.203.20.2 if that works better. The directory is
/pub/Bridge/FAQ.

Finally, I would like to thank all contributors. I have tried to name
them together with the systems they helped me with. If someone has
been forgotten, here is a thanks to you!

I would like to dedicate this work to Anu Uus, my life companion,
wife, Bridge partner, and best friend.

Now, let's drool over all those nifty bids...

About the Author

I was born in Sweden in 1959, and I'm currently working as a
Postdoctoral Fellow, (i.e., a researcher), in Artificial Intelligence
at Stanford University in California. During my student and
Ph. D. years in Lund, Sweden, I played Bridge in local clubs. For a
while, I belonged to the junior elite of southern Sweden, and later I
played on an average club level. I have always liked to invent new
systems and conventions. My best achievement is, at least in my
opinion, the Tangerine Club, (Swedish: Clementinklover), where the
opening 1C shows 8-9 or 15+ points.

Jan Eric Larsson
Knowledge Systems Laboratory
Stanford University
701 Welch Road, Building C
Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
Phone: +1 415 725 3859
Fax: +1 415 725 5850
E-mail: Larsson@KSL.Stanford.Edu

(c) 1995 by Jan Eric Larsson. All rights reserved

Although the information presented in this report has been gathered
with the help of others, I do pronounce my rights to the material. The
idea is the same as that of GNU. You have the right to freely copy and
distribute this report, but not to earn money from it. Furthermore, if
you change or add anything, you must state precisely that you did this
and what you did. Whatever you do, I would be happy if you would
notify me.

Standard Systems

This includes all approach forcing systems, i.e., systems where one of
a suit shows some 10 to 22+ points. The main advantages are said to be
that these systems are natural and easy to learn and use. Probably
neither is true. In many of the systems, 1C and 1D show only 3+
cards in the suit, and the bidding after the openings one of a suit is
often quite difficult to control.

The only clear advantage with these systems is that they adhere
to the common and traditional way of bidding. Thus, they have been
well investigated and developed, and can be played all around the
world with minor modifications.

The obvious drawback is the wide range of strength of the openings one
of a suit, (as well as a rather nebulous pass). With some 10 points in
responder's hand there may be a grand slam, or a part score may be
difficult. This makes the bidding difficult and imprecise, especially
in competitive situations.

Aces Scientific 1.70

A system quite similar to Standard American. It was developed in the
seventies by Ira Corn's team Dallas Aces, with Robert Goldman as the
chief designer. See Standard American for opening bids. Information
from Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge Conventions.

Acol 1.72

Acol is the classical British system, known for simplicity,
naturalness, and light opening bids. It was the system that introduced
systematic limit bids. Information on current versions from Ed
Sheldon, Cambridge, England, and additional information from Steve
Willner, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Acol Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 18+ 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

In the original Acol, 1N is 12-14 non-vulnerable and 15-17
vulnerable. It is common in practise, though, that it is either 12-14
or 15-17 independent of vulnerability. A 4333 is opened 1C, with 44
the higher. The 2D/H/S openings are known as Acol two openings and
show strong playing hands with either a 6+ card suit or a 55+
two-suiter. They usually contain a minimum of some 18 points.

Common variations are to use Multi 2D, meaning a weak two in hearts or
spades, an "Acol Two" in clubs or diamonds, or a 22-23 balanced.
Benjamin means that 2C shows an Acol Two in any suit, 2D is
game-forcing, and 2H/S are weak. Reverse Benjamin means that 2C is
game-forcing and 2D shows an Acol Two. With a weak notrump, Acol's
mean opening is 1.77, with strong notrump it is 1.66, and with weak
notrump and Multi 2D is is 1.97.

Australian Standard 1.78

Australia has a large variety of bidding systems. The following seems
to be a common version. (It is actually a variant of the system
Buchhorn plays himself, but we think it may give a fairly accurate
picture of an Australian Standard. The system shown differs from
Buchhorn's in the 2N opening.) Most Australian players use either this
system, Acol, or Goren. Information from Markus Buchhorn, Canberra,
New South Wales, and Dennis Yovich, Perth, Western Australia.

Australian Standard Opening Bids
1C 11-20 3+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 4+ hearts
1S 11-20 5+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 21+ any shape
2D 6-10 6 diamonds
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on the two level.

Benjaminised Acol 1.98

A version of Acol, where 2C shows an Acol Two, 2D is game-forcing, and
2H/S are weak. Information from Ed Sheldon, Cambridge, England.

BiederMeier 1.68

This system is the "Dutch Standard" if there is one. In Holland, many
different systems are in use. Information from Hans van Staveren,
Amstelveen, the Netherlands.

Biedermeier Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-11 6 hearts or spades
22-23 balanced
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 20-21 balanced

1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on the two level, and 2H/S are
Acol two openings.

Bridge World Standard 1.68

This system was created by consensus of the readers of the Bridge
World Magazine, (with Edgar Kaplan as editor and driving
force). Information from the RGB archive.

Bridge World Standard Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 3+ diamonds
1H 12-21 5+ hearts
1S 12-21 5+ spades
1N 15-18 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on the two and four levels,
and 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round.

CAB 1.63

CAB is a British system from the fifties. The acronym stands for "2
Clubs, Ace responses, and Blackwood". Information from Richard
Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey. See The Quintessence of CAB,
circa 1950.

CAB Opening Bids
1C 12-21 4+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 18+ 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 21-23 balanced

CAB uses no "prepared" opening bids as in Culbertson, instead any
suit is biddable. A 2-over-1 shows 10+ points, jump raises and 2N are
forcing, and after jump raises opener shows a side ace. After 2C, 2D
shows no ace, 2N shows no ace but 2 kings and 8+ points, 3N shows two
aces, and other bids the location of one ace. The other two openings
are according to Acol.

Cambridge Standard 1.82

This is a simple version of a system played by several young British
experts. Information from Ed Sheldon, Cambridge, England.

Cambridge Standard Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 3+ diamonds
1H 12-21 5+ hearts
1S 12-21 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

Inverted raises in minors. After 1H/S, 2N shows support and at least
invitational strength. Some partnerships treat 2-over-1 as
game-forcing.

Clement-Oliver* 2.18 (hcp)

This version of Benjaminised Acol was developed and played by Bruce
Clement and Pam Oliver, Welington, New Zealand. Information from Bruce
Clement.

Clement-Oliver Opening Bids
1C 9-22 3+ clubs
1D 9-22 4+ diamonds
1H 9-22 4+ hearts
1S 9-22 4+ spades
1N 11-14 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 6-10 6 hearts or spades
18+ "Acol Two"
20-22 balanced
2H 7-15 55+ in hearts and another
2S 7-15 55+ in spades and minor
2N 6-10 55+ in spades and minor

The lower limit of the opening bids are calculated according to the
"rule of 19", i.e., the sum of the hcp and the number of cards in
the two longest suits must be at least 19. Usually, this corresponds
well with opening on 12 points. Otherwise, the system uses hcp only.

After 2C, 2D is an artificial negative and all other bids show
slam interest. After 2D, 2H is negative, 2S agrees hearts, and
2N is strong. After 2H/S, 2N is forcing, whereupon opener bids his
second suit, (weak), or shows point count.

Crowhurst Acol 1.77

In Southern England Crowhurst Acol is still popular. In Crowhurst, 1N
is always 12-14. Information from Ed Sheldon, Cambridge, England.

Crowhurst Acol Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 18+ 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

The openings 2D/H/S are Acol (sic!) two openings.

Culbertson 1.10

Culbertson was the first wide-spread system and is one of the
ancestors of Standard American. The early versions of Culbertson used
a trick count evaluation of the hands.

Culbertson Opening Bids
1C 13-22 3+ clubs
1D 13-22 4+ diamonds
1H 13-22 4+ hearts
1S 13-22 4+ spades
1N 16-19 balanced
2C 23+ 5+ clubs
2D 23+ 5+ diamonds
2H 23+ 5+ hearts
2S 23+ 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

Culbertson demands at least a honor in a suit in order to open in
it. Thus, 1C is used if there is no other openable suit. Raises to
the three level are game forcing with trump support, and all the two
level openings are strong enough to force to game, with 2N as a
negative response. In order to invite to game with trump support,
responder first bids another suit and then raises the opening suit,
the so called delayed raise.

Danish Standard 1.59 (hcp)

This system is the Danish Standard as described in a booklet by F.
Dahl in the early eighties, and very similar to the system used by the
expert in the national Bridge magazine Dansk Bridge. Information
from Steffen Enni, Odense, Denmark.

Danish Standard Opening Bids
1C 11-20 3+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 4+ hearts
1S 11-20 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 21+ any shape
2D 6-11 6 hearts or spades
18+ 5+ clubs or diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on the two level. After 1H/S,
2N is a game-forcing trump support. The openings 2D/H/S shows Acol two
bids, i.e., hands with high playing strength. With two 4 card suits,
the lowest is opened, and with 4333, the opening bid is 1C.

Danish Trend 1.89 (hcp)

This system is the new trend among many top Danish
players. Information from Steffen Enni, Odense, Denmark.

Danish Trend Opening Bids
1C 11-20 3+ clubs
1D 11-20 3+ diamonds
1H 11-20 5+ hearts
1S 11-20 5+ spades
1N 10-13 balanced
2C 21+ any shape
2D 6-10 6 hearts of spades
20-21 balanced
2H 6-10 55+ in roundeds or pointeds
2S 6-10 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 6-10 55+ in minors or majors

Danish Trend uses a variable notrump opening, 10-13 when
non-vulnerable, 12-14 when vulnerable. The mean openings are 2.03 and
1.75, respectively.

Dutch Acol 1.74 (hcp)

This is Acol in a modern Dutch version. Information from Henk
Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Dutch Acol Opening Bids
1C 11-20 3+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 5+ hearts
11-20 44 in majors
1S 11-20 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 7-10 6 diamonds
21+ any shape
2D 7-10 6 hearts or spades
18+ 5+ minor
22-23 balanced
2H 7-11 54+ in hearts and minor
2S 7-11 54+ in spades and minor
2N 20-21 balanced

The opening 2D can hold an Acol two opening in a minor.

Eastern Scientific 1.70

A standard system quite similar to Standard American. It was developed
in the seventies in the Philadelphia area, with Robert Goldman and
William Eisenberg as chief designers. See Standard American for
opening bids. Information from Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge
Conventions.

Efos 1.23

Efos, the Economical Forcing System, was developed by Eric Jannersten
and others in Sweden, in the sixties and seventies.

Efos Opening Bids
1C 13-21 3+ clubs
1D 13-21 4+ diamonds
1H 13-21 4+ hearts
1S 13-21 4+ spades
1N 16-19 balanced
2C 22+ 5+ clubs
2D 18+ 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 22-23 balanced

Efos introduced several modern gadgets in the notrump bidding, such as
repeated Stayman and an extensive transfer system. After the opening
one of a suit, the nearest suit bid is either natural or a general
forcing bid, which makes Efos somewhat similar to a relay system.

Finnish Junior Standard 1.78 (hcp)

This system was developed by Finnish juniors in the late eighties and
early nineties. Nowadays, it is more popular than the Finnish
Standard. Information from Pekka Viitasalo, Espoo, Finland.

Finnish Junior Standard Opening Bids
1C 11-20 4+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 4+ hearts
1S 11-20 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 21+ forcing
2D 7-11 6 hearts of spades
20-21 balanced
2H 7-11 55+ in roundeds or pointeds
2S 7-11 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 7-11 55+ in minors or majors

Inverted limit raises in minors. After 1H/S, 2N is at least
invitational with trump support, and after 1N, both 2C and 2D ask for
majors.

Finnish Standard 1.63 (hcp)

This is the system used by the bidding panel of the Finnish Bridge
magazine. The current version stems from 1987 and was defined by Eero
Salmenkivi, (editor), and Pekka Viitasalo, (panel director in
1987). Information from Pekka Viitasalo, Espoo, Finland.

Finnish Standard Opening Bids
1C 11-20 4+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 4+ hearts
1S 11-20 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 21+ forcing
2D 7-11 6 diamonds
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

After 1H/S, 2N is an artificial game force with trump support,
(Stenberg 2N), and after 1N, both 2C and 2D ask for majors.

Goren 1.05

Goren is the second and most influential forefather of Standard
American. It used to be the standard in America, and maybe it
still is. Information from Goren's Bridge Complete. Additional
information from Steve Willner, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Goren Opening Bids
1C 13-22 3+ clubs
1D 13-22 4+ diamonds
1H 13-22 4+ hearts
1S 13-22 4+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 23+ 5+ clubs
2D 23+ 5+ diamonds
2H 23+ 5+ hearts
2S 23+ 5+ spades
2N 22-24 balanced

Raises to the three level are game forcing with trump support, and all
two level openings are strong enough to force to game, with 2N as a
negative response. In order to invite to game with trump support,
responder first bids another suit and then raises the opening suit,
the so called delayed raise.

Goren '85 1.55

The earlier versions of Goren used 4+ card major openings, but the
newer version, described in Goren's New Bridge Complete, introduces 5+
card major openings, and 3+ card minor openings, together with weak
two openings and limit raises. Information from Goren's New Bridge
Complete.

Goren '85 Opening Bids
1C 13-22 3+ clubs
1D 13-22 3+ diamonds
1H 13-22 5+ hearts
1S 13-22 5+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 6-12 6 diamonds
2H 6-12 6 hearts
2S 6-12 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

The new version of Goren also introduced limit raises as in Acol,
instead of the old way of using raises to the three level to show
game-forcing hands, and recommended weak two openings instead of
strong ones. In addition, 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round.

Hungarian Standard

Most Hungarian players use variants of Standard American or Precision,
with some pairs playing Aces Scientific. Information from Steve
Starkey, Pecs, Hungary.

Icelandic Standard

On Iceland, some 40% play a system very similar to Standard American,
with 16-18 notrump and 2-over-1 game-forcing. Another 40% play
Precision or similar strong 1C systems, while some 20% play
Vienna. Information from Bjorgvin Runar Leifsson, Husavik, Iceland.

Irish Standard

Ireland has no clear national standard, but the most common system is
Acol in different variations. On club level, 12-14 notrump is most
common, and the two openings are either classical Acol, Multi 2D or
Benjamin. Five card majors with better minor also exist. On top level,
15-17 notrump is more common, and of the top 40 Irish pairs, 28 play
Acol variants, 8 play Blue Team Club, 2 play Precision, and 2 play
Carrot Club. Information from Mark Burke, Limerick, Ireland.

Jacoby Modern 1.64

This system was developed by Oswald Jacoby and uses 4+ card
openings. Note its similarity with the Nordic standard
systems. Information from Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge
Conventions.

Jacoby Modern Opening Bids
1C 12-21 4+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ forcing
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

Jacoby Modern uses Jacoby transfers after 1N and after 1H/S, 2N shows
game forcing support.

Kaplan-Sheinwold 1.89

A system developed by Edgar Kaplan and Alfred Sheinwold. Information
from Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge Conventions. Additional
information from Steve Willner, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Kaplan-Sheinwold Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 3+ diamonds
1H 11-21 5+ hearts
1S 11-21 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 7-10 6 hearts
2S 7-10 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

Kaplan-Sheinwold uses reverse limit raises in the minors, 1H/S-1N is
forcing for one round, and 2 minor over 1 major is game-forcing. The
system also uses controlled psychics.

Majeure Cinquieme 1.66

Majeure Cinquieme is the French Standard system. Information from Henk
Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Majeure Cinquieme Opening Bids
1C 12-22 3+ clubs
1D 12-22 3+ diamonds
1H 12-22 5+ hearts
1S 12-22 5+ spades
1N 15-18 balanced
2C 18+ 5+ suit
23-24 balanced
2D 23+ any shape
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

The 2C opening shows a strong playing and with some 8 or 9 tricks
based on a long suit, while 2D is a pure game force.

MamiC* 1.60

The MamiC, (Major minor Canape), system was developed in
1990. Information from the inventor, Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New
Jersey.

MamiC Opening Bids
1C 12-21 4+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 20+ balanced or forcing
2C 10-14 5+ hearts and 4+ clubs
2D 10-14 5+ spades and 4 + diamonds
2H 10-14 5+ hearts and 4+ diamonds
2S 10-14 5+ spades and 4+ clubs
2N 23-24 balanced

Four card majors are opened before five card minors, and four card
minors before five card majors.

Mock Swedish* 1.71

The Mock Swedish system was designed in 1993 and is based on MamiC
and, (loosely), Swedish Standard. The name comes from the language
supposedly spoken by the Swedish Chef in the Muppet Show. Information
from the inventor, Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey.

Mock Swedish Opening Bids
1C 12-15 5+ clubs
16-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-15 5+ diamonds
16-21 3+ diamonds
1H 12-15 4+ hearts
16-21 5+ hearts
1S 12-15 4+ spades
16-21 5+ spades
1N 12-15 balanced, no major
2C 20+ balanced or forcing
2D 11-15 4441
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 23-24 balanced

Reverse Benjaminised Acol 2.00

A version of Acol, where 2C is game-forcing, 2D shows an Acol
Two, and 2H/S are weak. Information from Ed Sheldon, Cambridge,
England.

Romex 1.42

Romex was developed by Doctor George Rosenkrantz of Mexico
City. Information from Paul Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota, Ed
Sheldon, Cambridge, England, and Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Romex Opening Bids
1C 12-22 3+ clubs or balanced
1D 12-22 3+ diamonds or balanced
1H 12-22 5+ hearts
1S 12-22 5+ spades
1N 19-22 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 22+ 5+ diamonds or 4441/5440
23-24 balanced
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 25-26 balanced

The Romex system is known for its invitational bids, for example,
after 1H-2H, when the relay is a puppet to showing a negative
invitation, (short suit), while a new suit shows a positive
invitation. Subsequent bidding is fairly standard with 1H/S-1N forcing
and 2-over-1 game-forcing.

There are several variants of the system, where 1N and some of the
two openings shifted meaning. The version shown comes from Rosencranz,
Bridge, the Bidder's Game, 1985. In the later book Rosencranz,
Bid to Win, Play for Pleasure, the 2D opening may show clubs,
and in another version, it shows a balanced 19-20.

Roth-Stone 1.55

A system developed by Alvin Roth and Tobias Stone. Information from
Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge Conventions.

Roth-Stone Opening Bids
1C 13-21 3+ clubs
1D 13-21 3+ diamonds
1H 13-21 5+ hearts
1S 13-21 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-12 6 diamonds
2H 8-12 6 hearts
2S 8-12 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

1H/S-1N is forcing for one round, 2-over-1 is game-forcing, and jump
shifts are weak. The system contains controlled psychics. Roth-Stone
is known for its solid opening bids, (no light openings here!). The
Walsh system, by Richard Walsh, is a modern version of Roth-Stone.

Rubber Bridge Acol 1.67

In Northern England, the current standard is Rubber Bridge Acol, which
uses a 15-17 notrump opening. Information from Ed Sheldon, Cambridge,
England.

Rubber Bridge Acol Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4+ hearts
1S 12-21 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 18+ 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

Science 2.60

This is a popular system invented by Tom Townsend and played by
members of the Cambridge University Bridge Club. It is similar to the
Forrester and Robson and the Hackett and Hackett natural
methods. Information from Robin Michaels and Ed Sheldon, Cambridge,
England.

The Science Opening Bids
1C 12-21 4+ clubs
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 10-21 4+ hearts
1S 10-21 4+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 22+ ny shape
2D 6-10 5 hearts or spades
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

The major openings may hide a longer minor. After 1x, 1N is 4-12
balanced, and opener will pass with 10-13 balanced only. A 2-over-1
is game-forcing, and 1x-2N is balanced and game-forcing.

Instead of the Multi 2D, you may use Flannery, which gives a mean
opening of 2.23.

The system style is to open as often as possible with 10+ points and a
4+ card major. Bidding sequences like 1S-1N; pass, and 1S-1N;
2N-3N are very common. Thus the system is aggressive, discloses
little information, and often preempts the opponents from good part
scores and games. The downside is that sometimes the bidding precision
is low, and the pair may land in 1N while there is a much better part
score or even a game. However, the Hackett twins, one of Britain's
leading junior pairs and part of the team that won the Junior European
Championships 1994, plays the Science at all vulnerabilities.

Standard American 1.70

This system is an average over what is commonly played in the United
States. It coincides fairly well with the Bridge World Standard
system, voted on by consensus by the readers of the Bridge World
Magazine, (and with Edgar Kaplan as a main driving
force). Information from the RGB archive.

Standard American Opening Bids
1C 12-21 3+ clubs
1D 12-21 3+ diamonds
1H 12-21 5+ hearts
1S 12-21 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

1N is usually followed by Stayman and Jacoby, i.e., transfers on the
two level, and 1H/S-1N is normally forcing for one round.

A large number of systems are either ancestors or variants of Standard
American, among others Aces Scientific, developed in the seventies by
Ira Corn's famous Dallas Aces Team, with Robert Goldman as the most
influential publisher. Eastern Scientific evolved in the Philadelphia
area with Robert Goldman and William Eisenberg as main constructors,
and is very similar to Aces Scientific. Information from Root and
Pavlicek, Modern Bridge Conventions.

Stayman 1.62

This is the system developed by Samuel Stayman, the inventor of the
famous major asking convention. Information from Root and Pavlicek,
Modern Bridge Conventions. Additional information from Paul
Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota and Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New
Jersey.

Stayman Opening Bids
1C 13-21 3+ clubs
1D 13-21 3+ diamonds
1H 13-21 5+ hearts
1S 13-21 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 19-20 balanced
20-24 major 1 or 2 suiter
2H 6-12 6 hearts
2S 6-12 6 spades
2N 21-23 balanced

The 1N opening is 12-14 when non-vulnerable, (mean opening 1.70), and
15-17 vulnerable, (mean opening 1.53). The Stayman system also has
controlled psychics, opening one of a suit on 3-6 hcp balanced.

In the version presented in Stayman, The Complete Stayman System
of Contract Bidding, 2D is an ordinary weak two opening.

Swedish Standard 1.69 (hcp)

This system was described by Mats Nilsland in his book Modern
Standard and became the most common bidding system in Sweden in the
mid eighties.

Swedish Standard Opening Bids
1C 11-20 4+ clubs
1D 11-20 4+ diamonds
1H 11-20 4+ hearts
1S 11-20 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 21+ forcing
2D 6-10 6 diamonds
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

With 55, the highest suit is opened, with 44 the order of preference
is H, C, S, D. After 1H/S, 2N is an artificial game force with trump
support, (Stenberg 2N), and 1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on
the two level.

Walsh 1.55

A modern version of the Roth-Stone system, invented by Richard
Walsh. Information from Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge
Conventions.

Strong 1C Systems

Strong 1C systems remedy the main disadvantage of the "standard"
systems, the wide point range of the one level openings. The opening
1C is used to show stronger hands, from around 16 points and
upwards. This allows the rest of the opening bids to be limited and
the subsequent bidding will become both easier and much more precise.

In essence, a strong 1C system will divide the opening bid point
range into three intervals, of 0-10, 11-15, and 16+. Of course, the
standard systems can be seen to use three intervals too, but the 20+
range is so rare that in practise, a standard system uses only two
intervals instead of three, (see Section 5 for some statistics).

In addition, the 1C bidding may contain asking bids and other
methods suited for finding slams. The main drawback is that the 1C
opening may be tactically weak, allowing the opponents to come in and
disturb the partnership. A strong 1C is no more sensitive than a
standard one of a suit, though.

Thus, it is the author's opinion that strong 1C systems are
superior to standard systems, especially if the opponents let the
partnership bid without interference after 1C. Goren has the
following to say about Precision and other strong 1C systems:

"Except for 1 Club opening, which is conventional, similar to 2 Clubs
in standard methods, almost all other Precision bids are also played
as part of Standard American. Therefore, it is easy to learn. But the
player who adopts the Precision System enjoys the enormous advantage
of knowning, often from the very first bid, whether the partnership is
in part score, game or slam territory".

Goren, C. H., Goren's New Bridge Complete, Doubleday, Garden
City, New York, p. 287, 1985.

William Root and Richard Pavlicek write the following:

"Some systems today employ the '1C forcing' concept, which prescribes
a 1C opening as the strong, artificial, forcing bid. It cannot be
denied that this gives them greater freedom in the bidding of strong
hands... if you roll over and play dead, that is".

Root, W. S., and R. Pavlicek, Modern Bridge Conventions, Crown
Publishers, New York, p. 169, 1981.

Maybe you should consider playing a strong 1C system?

Whether you do or not, opponents who play a strong 1C system against
you are going to have an advantage. Therefore it is important to use
an aggressive defense against such systems. If you bid something in
the 6-12 range against every 1C opening, the strong 1C opening will
loose some of its efficiency in the long run. Not because you "psych"
them, but because they must begin their constructive bidding at a
higher level. They may even be forced to start their slam
investigations as high as after the standard systems' forcing opening
2C...

Aces Club 1.50 (hcp)

The Aces Club was played by Hamman and Wolff in the American Aces
team, and is very similar to the Blue Team Club. Information from
Steve Altus, Palo Alto, USA, and Root and Pavlicek, Modern Bridge
Conventions.

Aces Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 11-16 3+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 13-15 3325/3334
16-17 balanced
2C 11-16 6+ clubs
2D 17-24 4441 or 5440
2H 11-16 5+ hearts and 4+ spades
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

After 1C, 1D is semipositive with 6+ points and 0-2 top controls, 1H
is negative 0-5, 2D is 4-7 hcp and a 6 card major, 2H is 9+ and 4441,
other responses show number of controls. Subsequent bidding is
generally natural. After 1D/H/S, a new suit is canape. The opening
3C is a constructive bid with a strong club suit.

Bernier Big Club* 2.15 (hcp)

This sixties system was developed by Jerry Bernier and Mike
Schmenk. It is based on Kaplan-Sheinwold and Schenken
Club. Information from Mike Hurt, who currently plays the system with
Jerry Bernier.

Bernier Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 4+ diamonds
1H 11-15 4+ hearts
1S 11-15 4+ spades
1N 12-16 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 10-16 4441 or 5440
2H 5-10 6 hearts
2S 5-10 6 spades
2N 5-10 55+ in minors

After 1C, 1D shows 0-7, any shape, 1H/S and 2C/D show 8-11 or 15+ and
a 4+ card suit, and 1N shows 12-14, any shape. After 1N, a modified
system with Stayman and transfers is used. The basic Bernier Club has
a mean opening of 2.01.

Except at unfavorable vulnerability, Bernier Club uses systematic
psychs of 0-5 points and 0-2 cards in the opened suit, and 333+ in
the other suits. Since the only forcing bid after one of a suit is a
new suit on lowest level, a psyching opener simply passes responder's
forcing bid. With consistent psyches, the mean opening is 2.19.

Blue Team Club 1.22 (hcp)

Blue Team Club was the main system of the Italian Blue Team before
they switched to Precision. It is one of the common systems in Italy
today. Several of the top Austrian pairs also play it, and many
different versions exist, (one can be found in the RGB archive).

BTC Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 12-16 4+ diamonds
1H 12-16 4+ hearts
1S 12-16 4+ spades
1N 13-15 3325/3334
16-17 balanced
2C 12-16 5+ clubs
2D 17-20 4441 or 5440
2H 12-16 5+ hearts and 4+ clubs
2S 12-16 5+ spades and 4+ clubs
2N 21-22 balanced

After 1C, responder shows his number of top controls with steps. BTC
uses canape throughout. Thus, all two-suited hands are opened with
the shorter suit. The opening 3C is constructive with a strong club
suit.

Cablecar* 2.98 (hcp)

This system was invented by Steve Altus, Palo Alto, California. The
information from Mike Fagan, Houston, Texas.

Cablecar Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 13-16 various shapes
1H 8-12 4+ hearts
1S 8-12 4+ spades
1N 10-12 balanced
2C 8-12 5+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ diamonds
2H 13-16 5+ hearts
2S 13-16 5+ spades
2N 6-9 55+ in minors

The openings 3C/D show 13-16 and a 6+ card suit with no other 4 card
suit. The 4 card major openings may contain canapes, as in the Mafia
system.

COBRA* 1.88 (hcp)

The COBRA system, optimized by computer and designed primarily for use
by computers, was developed by E. T. Lindelof. It is fairly similar
to Schenken Club. The system includes its own hand evaluation method
which sets precise limits for bids; the hcp ranges given are
approximate except for the 1N and 2D openings. Information from
Lindelof, COBRA, and David Grabiner, Claremont,
California. COBRA stands for "Computer Oriented Bridge Analysis".

COBRA Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 4+ hearts
1S 11-15 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs or preemptive club hand
2D 23+ balanced or game-forcing
2H 9-12 5-6 hearts
2S 9-12 5-6 spades
2N 11-15 55+ in two suits, 0-1 S

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative and other responses
natural. 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round. In third seat at favorable
vulnerability, distributional hands which would normally open 1D will
psyche 1N 50% of the time. After 2D, responder shows aces, and may
later show kings and queens. After 2N, the responses 3C/D and 4C show
0-3/4-7/8+ hcp. COBRA point requirements to open apply to all bids,
even preempts, except in third seat. Preempts often meet this by
counting 7 points for a good 7-card suit, but such a hand still
requires about 7 hcp.

Competitive bidding is based on the law of total tricks. A double of a
strong artificial 1C or 2C shows any strong hand. A cue-bid of a
natural opening is similar to a takeout double but shows a void; a
takeout double promises at least one card in the suit. Over strong 1N,
all overcalls are natural and preemptive; over weak 1N, 2C shows a
minor-major two-suiter and 2D both majors. COBRA uses optional
doubles over 3-bids, takeout doubles over 4C/D, and penalty
doubles over 4H and higher.

The designer clams that COBRA has a mean opening of 1.19. The big
difference between that statement and the computed mean opening is
probably due to additional suit quality demands not captured by the
mean opening calculation program.

Cranberry Club* 2.96

The Cranberry Club is a simpler version of Tangerine, where the 1C
opening is unambiguously strong. It was developed by Jan Eric Larsson,
Lund, Sweden.

Cranberry Club Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 4+ diamonds
10-11 exactly 3334 distribution
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced, no 5 card major
2C 10-14 5+ clubs
2D 5-9 5+ diamonds
2H 5-9 5+ hearts
2S 5-9 5+ spades
2N 5-9 55+ in minors

The responses to 1C are natural and Precision-like. After 1N, 2C is
invitational and 2D game-forcing Stayman. Cranberry uses reverse limit
in diamonds.

Crazy Diamond 1.65 (hcp)

The Crazy Diamond is a Dutch system developed by Arie van Heusden, his
wife Willy, Jaap Kokkes, Kees Kaiser, and others, and described in the
book G. J. R. Forch, Bieden voor gevorderden. Still popular in and
around Culemborg, Holland. Information from Alain Verberkmoes,
Utrecht, the Netherlands and Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Crazy Diamond Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 11-16 various shapes
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-16 4+ clubs and 5+ diamonds
2D 17-20 4441 with minor singleton
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

The opening 1D shows either a hand with maximum 2 cards in each major,
a balanced 12-14, or a twosuited major-minor with longer major and at
most 3 cards in the other major. 1H/S shows a 4+ major with a longer
minor, (canape), a major onesuiter, (6+ cards), or a 4441 with the
singleton in the other major. Finally, a major 5+ is also opened with
1H/S. The opening 3C shows 14-16 and an good 6+ card suit, (KQTxxx or
better), while 3D shows 14-16 and a solid 6+ card suit, (AKQxxx or
better).

After the opening 1C, responder shows the number of top controls
with steps, and after 1D, 1H/S shows 3+ cards and 0+ points,
and 1N shows 0-8 and max 22 in the majors.

Other versions use 2C to show an 11-16, 4441 and 2D for a 17+,
4441 multi 2D, while 2H/S are weak twosuiters.

Estonian Diamond 1.79 (hcp)

The information about the Estonian Diamond system is incomplete, (we
are not sure about the two level), but what is shown here comes from
Alain Verberkmoes, Utrecht, the Netherlands. The information on the
bids from 2D to 2N is uncertain.

Estonian Diamond Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 different shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 6-10 6 card hearts or spades
20-21 balanced
2H 6-10 55+ in hearts and minor
2S 6-10 55+ in spades and other suit
2N 6-10 55+ in minors

German Moscito* 1.88 (hcp)

German Moscito was developed by Nikolas Bausback, Jurgen Dueball,
Bjorn Janson, and Rene Steiner, and is based on a Moscito version
invented by Martin Buchen, Australia. It combines a strong 1C with
openings showing major holdings and complete relay responses. See also
the latest version, Moscito-D. Information from Rene Steiner,
Dusseldorf, Germany, and from the RGB archive.

German Moscito Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 max 33 in majors
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 10-14 balanced with 4-5 spades
2C 10-14 44+ in majors, unbalanced
2D 6-9 6 hearts or spades
2H 6-9 55+ in majors or minors
2S 6-9 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 6-9 55+ in roundeds or pointeds

Responses to 1C show major holdings and are followed by relays. All
other opening bids are followed by relays.

Honeymoon Moscito* 1.75 (hcp)

Honeymoon Moscito was invented by Peter Buchen of Australia, and is
based on the original Moscito system invented by Paul Marston, New
Zealand, (currently Australia). It combines a strong 1C with other
openings showing major holdings and complete but natural relay
responses. Information from the RGB archive.

Honeymoon Moscito Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 max 33 in majors
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 10-14 44 in majors
2C 6-9 6 hearts or spades
2D 6-9 55+ in majors
2H 6-9 55+ in hearts and minor
2S 6-9 55+ in spades and minor
2N 6-9 55+ in minors

Responses to 1C show major holdings and are followed by relays. All
other opening bids are followed by relays.

Hybrid Club* 1.85 (hcp)

The Hybrid Club was described by Ronald W. Vickery in his book
The Hybrid Club-An Action System. The information from Alain
Verberkmoes, Utrecht, the Netherlands, and Mike Fagan, Houston, Texas.

Hybrid Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 various shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 10-12 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 10-12 any 4441
2H 11-15 5 hearts and 4 spades
2S 6-11 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

The 1N opening may be semi-balanced, and can even contain a 6 card
minor when minimum. In third and fourth seat, 1N shows 13-15 balanced.

The responses to 1C show number of controls. After 1D/H/S, 2-over-1 is
game-forcing. After 1N 10-12 the system uses two-way Stayman, (both 2C
and 2D ask for majors), while after 1N 13-15, 2C is Stayman, and 2D/H
are transfers. The opening 2C may not contain a 4 card major, but
there may be a 65+ pattern.

Ice Relay* 2.61 (hcp)

Ice Relay was invented by Jon Baldursson of Iceland. It combines a
strong 1C with five-card openings on the one level. Information
from Bjorgvin Runar Leifsson, Husavik, Iceland.

Ice Relay Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 10-15 5+ minor or any 4441
1H 10-15 5+ hearts
1S 10-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 5-10 6 diamonds
5-10 54+ in majors
23-24 balanced
2D 5-10 6 hearts or spades
25+ balanced
2H 5-11 54+ in hearts and minor
2S 5-11 54+ in spades and minor
2N good preempt in minor

Responses to 1C show major holdings and are followed by relays. After
1D, 1N is a game-forcing relay, after 1H/S, the relay is 2C.

Match Point Precision* 1.31 (hcp)

Match Point Precision is a development of Precision, and was used by
C. C. Wei and Roy Andersson. It opens more hands with 1D, which may
contain as few as one diamonds. Information from Root and Pavlicek,
Modern Bridge Conventions.

Match Point Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 different shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

The responses to 1C are natural, but the subsequent bidding may use
asking bids. 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round.

Modern Standard Club 1.87 (hcp)

The Modern Standard Club is based on the Swedish Standard system with
a strong 1C opening.

Modern Standard Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 11-16 3+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-16 5+ clubs
2D 7-10 6 diamonds
2H 7-10 6 hearts
2S 7-10 6 spades
2N 20-21 balanced

The responses to 1C are Precision-like, including an impossible
negative. After 1H/S, 2N is an artificial game force with trump
support, (Stenberg 2N), and 1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on
the two level.

Moscito-D* 2.49 (hcp)

This is the latest version of the Moscito system, as developed by the
German Moscito team Nikolas Bausback, Jurgen Dueball, Bjorn
Janson, and Rene Steiner. Information from Rene Steiner,
Dusseldorf, Germany.

Moscito-D Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 max 33 in majors
1H 10-14 4+ hearts max 3 spades
1S 10-14 4+ spades max 3 hearts, unbalanced
1N 10-14 balanced with 4-5 spades
2C 10-14 54+ in majors, unbalanced
2D 10-14 5440 or 4441 with 44 majors
2H 6-9 5+ hearts
2S 6-9 5+ spades
2N 6-9 55+ minors

Responses to 1C show major holdings and are followed by relays. All
other opening bids are followed by relays.

Neapolitan Club 1.83 (hcp)

The Neapolitan Club was the main system of the Italian Blue Team
before they switched to its successor, the Blue Team Club. Information
from Paul Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Neapolitan Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 12-16 4+ diamonds
1H 12-16 4+ hearts
1S 12-16 4+ spades
1N 12-16 balanced
2C 12-16 5+ clubs
2D 8-11 6 diamonds
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N good preempt

After 1C, responder shows his number of top controls with steps. The
Neapolitan Club uses canape bidding throughout. Thus, all two-suited
hands are opened with the shorter suit. After the opening 1N, 2C is
negative, 2D transfer, and 2H/S natural and forcing.

Newlands Moscito* 1.77 (hcp)

Newlands Moscito was developed by D. A. Newlands and M. Willcox,
based on Paul Marston's original Moscito system. This version is not
played by its inventor anymore. See Moscito-D or Honeymoon Moscito for
the current versions of the opening bids. Information from the RGB
archive.

Newlands Moscito Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 44+ in majors
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 10-14 max 33 in majors
2C 10-14 6+ clubs
2D 10-14 6+ diamonds
2H 10-14 55+ in majors or minors
2S 10-14 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 10-14 55+ in pointeds or roundeds

Responses to 1C show major holdings and are followed by relays. All
other opening bids are followed by relays.

Nottingham Club 1.60

This is a British system from the thirties, but still flourishing in
the sixties. Information from Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey.

Nottingham Club Opening Bids
1C 16-21 any shape
1D 12-15 various shapes
1H 12-15 5+ hearts
1S 12-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 12-15 5+ clubs
2D 22+ any shape
2H 13-15 6+ hearts
2S 13-15 6+ spades
2N 21-22 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative, and after 2D, 2H is an
artificial negative. The opening 2D is game-forcing except after
2D-2H; 2N. In the defensive bidding, 1N is used as a weak takeout
double, and a direct double is strong.

Power Precision* 1.59 (hcp)

Power Precision is a variant of Precision. Information from Simon
Kuipers, Delft, the Netherlands.

Power Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 various shapes
1H 11-16 5+ hearts
1S 11-16 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs
2D 6-10 6 hearts
17-24 4441/5440
25+ balanced
2H 11-15 45xx/4414/4405
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N preempt in clubs

The responses to 1C are natural, but the subsequent bidding may use
asking bids. 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round.

Precision Club 1.34 (hcp)

Precision is the most popular strong 1C system, invented by
C. C. Wei, and used with great success by the Chinese national team.

Precision Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

The responses to 1C are natural, but the subsequent bidding may use
asking bids. After 1N, both 2C and 2D ask for majors. 1H/S-1N is
forcing for one round.

Reed-Horn Club* 1.67 (hcp)

This system was invented by Reed and Horn. Information from Mike
Fagan, Houston, Texas.

Reed-Horn Club Opening Bids
1C 18+ any shape
1D 13-17 3+ diamonds
15-17 balanced
1H 13-17 5+ hearts
1S 13-17 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 13-17 5+ clubs
2D 13-17 4414 or 4405
2H 8-12 6 hearts
2S 8-12 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

Relay Club* 2.18 (hcp)

This system was invented by S. G. Bose Mullic of New Delhi, India, in
1976. It is derived from the French Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Monaco and
therefore employs a lot of relays and canape sequences. Information
from Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Relay Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 10-16 4+ diamonds
15-16 balanced
1H 10-16 4+ hearts
1S 10-16 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 10-16 6+ clubs
10-16 4441/5450 with 4-5 clubs
2D 10-16 54+ majors
2H 10-16 5+ hearts and 4+ clubs
2S 10-16 5+ spades and 4+ clubs
2N 10-16 54+ minors

Schenken Club 1.79

Schenken club is an older American strong 1C system, also called
the "Big Club", which is often used to refer to any strong 1C
system. Information from Kearse, Bridge Conventions Complete.

Schenken Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 12-16 3+ diamonds
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 12-16 5+ clubs
2D 22+ balanced or game-forcing
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 12-16 55+ in minors

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative and other responses
natural. After 2D, responder shows aces, and may later show kings and
queens.

Super Mixed Precision* 1.75 (hcp)

This is a Swedish system based on the Precision Club, with light major
openings.

Super Mixed Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 different shapes
1H 8-15 5+ hearts
1S 8-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

After 1C, subsequent bidding uses asking bids. 1H/S-1N is forcing for
one round.

Super Precision 1.31 (hcp)

Super Precision is a development of Precision, developed by Benito
Garozzo and Georgio Belladonna, and used by the Italian Blue Team. It
opens more hands with 1D, which may contain as few as one diamonds,
and has a complex machinery of asking bids after 1C.

Super Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 different shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

After 1C, the subsequent bidding uses complex but very efficient
asking bids. 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round. The opening 3C is a
constructive bid with a strong club suit, while 3D shows a solid suit
with no side strength at all, (Sharif 3D).

Symmetric Club* 1.62 (hcp)

The Symmetric Club is based on Precision, uses relay responses, and
was developed by Roy Kerr and Paul Marston of New Zealand. Information
from the RGB archive.

Symmetric Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 2+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 12-15 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs
2D 11-15 6+ diamonds
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

The responses to 1C are natural with 4+ card suits, and the subsequent
bidding uses relays throughout.

Symmetric Relay* 1.53 (hcp)

The Symmetric Relay is based on Precision, but uses relay responses
throughout, nad was developed by Hugh Grosvenor and Ian Robinson of
New Zealand. Information from the RGB archive.

Symmetric Relay Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 2+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs
2D 11-15 6+ diamonds
2H 11-15 55+ in majors
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 6-10 55+ in reds or majors

The responses to 1C are transfers with 4+ card majors, and the
subsequent bidding uses relays throughout.

Torpedo Pairs* 1.71 (hcp)

This is a version of the Symmetric Club, developed and played by Dean
Eidler and Murat Genc, New Zealand. Information from Dean Eidler,
Dunedin, New Zealand.

Torpedo Pairs Opening Bids
1C 15+ any shape
1D 10-14 4+ hearts
1H 10-14 4+ spades
1S 10-14 44+ in majors
1N 12-14 no 4 card major
2C 10-14 6+ clubs
2D 10-14 6+ diamonds
2H 5-9 6 hearts
2S 5-9 6 spades
2N 5-9 55+ in minors

In third and fourth seat, the opening point ranges are 12-16 and
17+. The system uses symmetric style relays throughout.

Transfer Precision* 1.49 (hcp)

This version of Precision, with transfer positives, was invented by
Ian Wilson, Irvine, California.

Transfer Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 11-13 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

After 1C, the positive responses are deviced to make opener become
declarer.

Truscott Symmetric Relay* 1.31 (hcp)

A variant of Precision, which uses relay principles in the subsequent
bidding. Information from the RGB archive.

Truscott Symmetric Relay Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 8-10 6 hearts
2S 8-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

Ultimate Club 1.51 (hcp)

The Ultimate Club is an American strong 1C system. The information
from Kearse, Bridge Conventions Complete.

Ultimate Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 11-16 3+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 14-16 5+ clubs and 4+ in major
2D 8-10 6 cards in major
2H 14-16 5+ hearts and 4+ clubs
2S 14-16 5+ spades and 4+ clubs
2N 14-16 5+ diamonds and 4+ clubs

1C is followed by control showing responses, while the openings 1D/H/S
are followed by relay bidding.

Ultimate with Five Majors* 1.78 (hcp)

This version of the Ultimate Club was invented and played by Erich
Friedman. The information from Erich Friedman, De Land, Florida.

Ultimate Five Majors Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 11-15 4414/4405/4315/3415
2H 6-10 5+ hearts and 4+ clubs
2S 6-10 5+ spades and 4+ clubs
2N 14-15 5+ diamonds and 4+ clubs

1C is followed by control showing responses, while the openings 1D/H/S
are followed by relay bidding.

Vanderbilt Club 1.83

This system was invented by Harold S. Vanderbilt himself,
millionaire, flight pioneer, and the creator of contract Bridge as we
know it today. The Vanderbilt Club is the main ancestor of the
Schenken Club. Information from Paul Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Vanderbilt Club Opening Bids
1C 17+ any shape
1D 12-16 4+ diamonds
1H 12-16 4+ hearts
1S 12-16 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 12-16 5+ clubs
2D 22+ balanced or game-forcing
2H 6-12 6 hearts
2S 6-12 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative and other responses
natural. After 2D, responder shows aces.

Veejay System* 1.55 (hcp)

The Veejay System was invented by A. D. J. Victor of New Delhi,
India, 1983. It is essentially Precision with transfer responses to
1C and natural relays after all opening bids. Information from
Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Veejay System Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 12-15 4+ diamonds, unbalanced
1H 12-15 5+ hearts
1S 12-15 5+ spades
1N 12-15 balanced
2C 12-15 5+ clubs
2D 12-15 5440 or 4441 with 44 majors
7-11 64 or 55 majors
12-15 when vulnerable
2H 6-11 6+ hearts
2S 6-11 6+ spades
2N 8-11 55+ minors or 6+D and 4+C
12-15 when vulnerable

Viking Club* 1.86 (hcp)

The Viking Club is a strong 1C relay system from Norway, invented
by G. Groetheim, Norway. Information from Ken Are Astrup,
Kristiansand, Norway.

Viking Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 various shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 10-12 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs
2D 11-15 any 4441
2H 5-10 55+ without diamonds
2S 5-10 6+ spades or 55+ in minors
2N 5-10 55+ without clubs

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative and other bids
game-forcing. The subsequent bidding uses relays, asking bids, and
natural methods. The system uses relays throughout.

Volmac Precision* 1.59 (hcp)

Volmac Precision was developed by Benito Garozzo in 1978, for the
Dutch National Team sponsored by the Volmac software company. It was
played by Anton Maas and several partners from 1979 to 1985, and by
Elly Schippers and Marijke van der Pas from 1979 to 1994. Information
from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Volmac Precision Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 various shapes
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs
2D 11-15 6+ diamonds
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 7-11 55+ in majors

After 1C, 1D is negative, while 1H is either natural or shows 3 top
controls, 1S is natural, and other bids show controls.

Whimsical Club* 1.42 (hcp)

The Whimsical Club was invented by Steve Starkey, Pecs, Hungary.

Whimsical Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 3+ diamonds
1H 11-15 5+ hearts
1S 11-15 5+ spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs, not 4 diamonds
2D 7-10 55+ in minors
11-15 4441 or 5440, short in D
2H 7-10 6 hearts
2S 7-10 6 spades
2N 22-23 balanced

Yui-Bin-Had Club* 1.92 (hcp)

This system was invented and played by Steve Altus and Varis Carey on
the US Junior team. Information from Steve Altus, Palo Alto,
California. The system is named after Yui-Bin Chen, well-known player
of Blackjack, Poker, and comps, and a contributor to the Rec.gambling
newsgroup.

Yui-Bin-Had Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape
1D 11-15 4+ diamonds or balanced
1H 11-15 4+ hearts
1S 11-15 4+ spades
1N 10-12 balanced
2C 11-15 5+ clubs
2D 7-10 6 hearts or spades
2H 11-15 4+ hearts and 5+ spades
2S weak preempt in any suit
2N 7-10 55+ in minors

In third and fourth seat, 1C shows 18+ and 1N shows 16-18. Canape is
used after 1D/H/S. This system has a mean opening of 2.09. If the
destructive 2S bid is not allowed, 2S shows 11-15 and 4+ clubs and 5+
spades. When vulnerable against non-vulnerable, a different system is
used:

Yui-Bin-Had Club Opening Bids
1C 13-21 4+ clubs
1D 13-21 4+ diamonds
1H 13-21 4+ hearts
1S 13-21 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 22+ any suit except diamonds
20-21 balanced
26-27 balanced
2D 22+ 5+ diamonds
22+ any 4441
22-23 balanced
28+ balanced
2H 18+ 5+ hearts
2S 18+ 5+ spades
2N 24-25 balanced

The openings 2H/S are Acol two openings. This system has a mean
opening of 1.40.

Weak/Strong 1C Systems

The only weakness of strong 1C systems is the 1C opening itself. There
are two slightly different reasons for this. First, opponents using
systematic weak overcalls will decrease the precision in the
bidding. Secondly, many opponents use "psychic" overcalls. The latter
may not be a particularly good idea, but it will take away lots of
reliability in the bidding.

The idea of weak/strong 1C systems is to remove the reason for
destructive and psychic overcalls of the 1C opening. This opening now
shows either the strong variant, or a weak hand, typically a balanced
or semi-balanced hand around 10 points. If an opponent interferes with
a psychic bid, he may destroy the subsequent bidding for his own side.

Beta* 1.87 (hcp)

Beta was invented by Pierre Collet of France around 1969. Information
from Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Beta Opening Bids
1C 10-14 54+ with 5 card major
19+ any shape
1D 15-18 any shape
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 11-13 6+ clubs or minors
2D 10-16 6+ diamonds
2H 9-11 6+ hearts
11-13 5 hearts 332
2S 9-11 6+ spades
11-13 5 spades 332

Relays and canape sequences dominate further bidding. The opening
frequency of the weak 1C is 8.99% and of the strong 5.85%, i.e., it
is weak in 61% and strong in 39% of the cases.

Carrot Club 1.88 (hcp)

The Carrot Club, originally "Morotsklovern", (Swedish for Carrot
Club), was invented by Sven-Olof Flodqvist and Anders Morath in 1972
for use in the European Championships in Athens, Greece. It was the
system that won the European Championships in 1977, with two pairs
playing Carrot. In the European Championships the Carrot team placed
1st in 1987, 3rd in 1989, 2nd in 1991, and 5th in 1993. In the World
Championship they placed 3rd in 1987 and 1991, and in the Olympics 3rd
in 1988 and 4th in 1992.

Other members of the team were Hans Gothe, P. O. Sundelin, and
Tommy Gullberg. The rights of the Swedish name was bought by Eric
Jannersten when he published a book written by Sven-Olof Flodqvist in
1978, and the later variants of the system has been called Carrot
Club.

After playing SKalmar, (a Swedish weak/strong 1C system), for
two seasons with Jorgen Lindqvist in the early eighties, Sven-Olof
Flodqvist introduced a weak/strong 1C opening. It was first used
in the strong pass system Carrotti that was also created at the same
time. Sven-Olof Flodqvist and Hans Gothe qualified themselves to the
European Championships in 1985 using Carrotti. They were not allowed to
play it in the championships, so they used Carrot with a weak/strong
1C instead.

Anders Morath has later developed a new version of the system, called
Svan, with 5+ card major openings. The latest Carrot Club version,
O'Carrot, has kept the 4 card major openings, (they are always unbalanced,
though). Information from Sven-Olof Flodqvist, Stockholm, Sweden, Lars
Andersson, Stockholm, Sweden, (who currently plays Carrotti with Hans
Gothe), Niklas Mellin, Stockholm, Sweden, and Steffen Enni, Odense,
Denmark.

Carrot Club Opening Bids
1C 10-12 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 11-16 4+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 13-17 balanced
2C 11-16 6+ clubs
2D 7-10 6 hearts or spades
22-23 balanced
2H 13-16 5+ hearts, 4+ clubs
2S 13-16 5+ spades, 4+ clubs
2N 13-16 5+ diamonds, 4+ clubs

Carrot is known for its 1N opening, showing 15-17 and a standard hand,
or 13-14 and the distribution 3334, a hand which otherwise would
demand the opening bid 1D to be made on 3 cards. The Carrot 1N has
later been abandoned by the Carrot team, though. The opening
frequency of the weak 1C is 4.48% and of the strong 5.17%, i.e., it
is weak in 46% and strong in 54% of the cases.

Cloudberry Club* 1.97 (hcp)

Cloudberry was developed by Max Odlund, Sweden, in the late
seventies.

Cloudberry Club Opening Bids
1C 8-10 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 11-16 4+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 11-16 5+ clubs
2D 7-10 6 hearts or spades
20-21 balanced
2H 13-16 5+ hearts, 4+ clubs
2S 13-16 5+ spades, 4+ clubs
2N 13-16 5+ diamonds, 4+ clubs

After 1C, 1D is negative, 1H/S shows 5+ cards, and 2C is game-forcing
against the weak hand and slam-forcing (sic!) against the strong
hand. The opening frequency of the weak 1C is 13.60% and of the
strong 4.84%, i.e., it is weak in 74% and strong in 26% of the
cases.

Medium Club Relay* 1.84 (hcp)

This system was developed and played by Alex Franz of Indonesia. It
has been used in international competitions. Information from Henk
Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Medium Club Relay Club Opening Bids
1C 7-9 5+ clubs and 6+ major
12-14 6+ clubs
12-14 5+ clubs and 4+ major
15+ any shape
1D 9-14 4+ diamonds
1H 9-14 5+ hearts
1S 9-14 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 9-14 4441/5440
2D 15-17 4441/5440
2H 9-14 64+ in hearts and minor
12-14 7+ hearts
2H 9-14 64+ in spades and minor
12-14 7+ spades
2N 10-13 65+ in minors

The responses to 1C show point count with step responses. In third
and fourth seat, 1C is 15+ and 1N is 15-17 balanced. The opening
frequency of the weak 1C is 0.05%, of the medium 1.80, and of the
strong 13.75%, i.e., it is weak in 0.003%, medium in 12%, and
strong in 88% of the cases.

O'Carrot 1.40 (hcp)

This is the current version of the Carrot Club, developed by Sven-Olof
Flodqvist, who plays it with Svante Ryman, Hans Gothe, and Lars
Andersson. Information from Sven-Olof Flodqvist, Stockholm, Sweden.

O'Carrot Opening Bids
1C 11-13 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 11-16 4+ diamonds, 4441, or club canape
1H 11-16 4+ hearts, 4441, or club canape
1S 11-16 4+ spades, 4441, or club canape
1N 14-17 balanced
2C 11-16 6+ clubs or 54 in clubs and major
2D 5-10 6 hearts, 6 spades, or 55+ in minors
2H 13-16 5+ hearts, 4+ clubs
2S 13-16 5+ spades, 4+ clubs
2N 13-16 5+ diamonds, 4+ clubs

The responses to 1C are mostly natural. Note that the openings 1D/H/S
show 4+ card suits, but are always unbalanced, (which is one
reason for the 'o' in the name; unbalanced is "obalanserad" in
Swedish). O'Carrot may also use the weak openings bid system used in
Svan. The opening frequency of the weak 1C is 9.52% and of the
strong 5.32%, i.e., it is weak in 64% and strong in 36% of the
cases.

Svan 1.60 (hcp)

This is one of the newer versions of the Carrot Club, developed by
Anders Morath, Stockholm, Sweden. The system is currently popular with
Swedish junior elite, where it is known as Skrot, (Swedish for metal
junk). Information from Sven-Olof Flodqvist, Stockholm, Sweden, Niklas
Mellin, Stockholm, Sweden, and from Steffen Enni, Odense, Denmark.

Svan Opening Bids
1C 11-13 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 11-16 5+ diamonds, 4441, or club canape
1H 11-16 5+ hearts
1S 11-16 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 11-16 6+ clubs or 54 in clubs and major
2D 11-16 4414 or 4405
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 6-10 55+ in minors

Most of the responses to 1C are natural. The openings 1H and 1S show
5+ cards, and thus the club canapes are not opened with these
bids. The opening frequency of the weak 1C is 9.52% and of the strong
6.45%, i.e., it is weak in 60% and strong in 40% of the cases.

Swedish Precision* 1.38 (hcp)

This is another weak/strong 1C system, with inspiration from Carrot
and Precision. In spite of the name, the system was not invented in
Sweden. Information from Bruce Berris, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Swedish Precision Opening Bids
1C 10-13 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 12-16 various shapes
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 12-16 6+ clubs or 54 in clubs and major
2D 11-14 4414 or 4405
2H 8-11 6 hearts
2S 8-11 6 spades
2N 22-24 balanced

Most of the responses to 1C are natural, but after that, the
subsequent bidding uses relays throughout. The opening frequency of
the weak 1C is 13.26% and of the strong 6.27%, i.e., it is weak in
68% and strong in 32% of the cases.

Tangerine Club* 3.07

The Tangerine Club was developed by Jan Eric Larsson and Soren
Romare, Lund, sweden, and used in Sweden in the late seventies and
early eighties.

Tangerine Club Opening Bids
1C 8-9 balanced
15+ any shape
1D 10-14 4+ diamonds
10-11 exactly 3334 distribution
1H 10-14 4+ hearts
1S 10-14 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced, no 5 card major
2C 10-14 5+ clubs
2D 5-9 5+ diamonds
2H 5-9 5+ hearts
2S 5-9 5+ spades
2N 0-9 7+ suit

The responses to 1C are natural and Precision-like, with 2N as game
force against the weak variant and (almost) slam force against the
strong variant. The subsequent bidding can use Italian-style asking
bids or a relay system. After 1N, 2C is invitational and 2D
game-forcing Stayman. Tangerine uses reverse limits in diamonds. The
opening frequency of the weak 1C is 8.09% and of the strong 22.86%,
i.e., it is weak in 26% and strong in 74% of the cases.

Interestingly enough, there were two strong pass versions of
Tangerine. In one of them, Mandarine, the meanings of the opening bids
pass and 1D where exchanged, so that 1D showed 0-7 and pass
10-14 with 4+ diamonds. In the other version, the Diamond Heart, the
bids where changed around so that 1H was 0-7, pass showed 10-14
with 4+ diamonds, and 1D showed 10-14 and 4+ hearts. This was
some five years before the birth of Carrotti. The mean opening of
Mandarine is 3.13 and of Diamond Heart 3.12.

Universal Club 1.42

The Universal Club, (or Uniclub), system is an American system,
combining a strong 1C with a weaker hand with clubs. Information
from Kearse, Bridge Conventions Complete.

Universal Club Opening Bids
1C 13-16 4+ clubs
17+ any shape
1D 12-16 5+ diamonds
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 13-16 balanced
2C 12-17 4441 or 5440, short diamonds
2D 16-21 4441 or 5440, not short diamonds
2H 14+ 55+ in hearts and other
2S 14+ 55+ in spades and other
2N 20-21 balanced

After 1C, 1D is either 0-6 or 14+. The frequency of the weak 1C is
4.49% and of the strong 10.59%, i.e., it is weak in 30% and strong
in 70% of the cases.

Yovich's Carrot Club* 2.12 (hcp)

This is a Western-Australian version of the Carrot Club, as played by
Dennis Yovich and his partner, Perth, Australia. The weak two
openings, (called Optimal Twos), were invented by Avon Wilsmore of
West Australia, (now Sydney). Information from Dennis Yovich, Perth,
Western Australia. The Optimal Twos are described in the RGB archive.

Yovich's Carrot Club Opening Bids
1C 9-11 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 11-16 4+ diamonds
1H 11-16 4+ hearts
1S 11-16 4+ spades
1N 13-17 balanced
2C 11-16 6+ clubs
2D 6-10 6 hearts
6-10 55+ in C+D or C+S
2H 6-10 6 spades
6-10 55+ in H+C or H+D
2S 6-10 6 clubs
6-10 55+ in S+D or S+H
2N 13-16 5+ diamonds, 4+ clubs

The opening frequency of the weak 1C is 3.12% and of the strong
5.32%, i.e., it is weak in 37% and strong in 63% of the cases.

Artificial 1C/D Systems

So far, we have seen standard systems and strong 1C systems. Another
possible design principle is to use the openings 1C and/or 1D for a
mixture of hands, (not necessarily strong), while the rest of the
openings can be more precise, in points or in distribution. In this
way, the "nebulous" one of a suit is avoided. The drawback is, of
course, that the "catchall" opening, (1C and/or 1D), becomes nebulous
instead, and thus tactically weak, especially in competitive
situations.

Alpha* 1.68

Alpha was invented by Bertrand Romanet of France around 1968. It is
one of the early relay systems. Information from Rene Steiner,
Dusseldorf, Germany.

Alpha Opening Bids
1C 12-22 4+ clubs
15-18 balanced
1D 12-22 4+ diamonds
19-22 balanced
1H 11-16 5+ hearts
1S 11-16 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D strong 3-suiter, max 5 losers
2H 8-12 6+ hearts
2S 8-12 6+ spades
2N transfer to clubs

Further bidding involves relay and canape sequences.

Arno 1.30

Arno, (or Little Roman), is a version of the Roman system, with a
forcing 1N opening. It has been played with great success by several
Italian partnerships. Information from Don Varvel, Austin, Texas, and
the RGB archive.

Arno Opening Bids
1C 12-16 balanced
21-22 balanced
25-26 balanced
17-22 4 clubs and a 5+ suit
17-22 5+ clubs
1D 12-22 natural canape
17-22 balanced
1H 12-22 natural canape
1S 12-22 natural canape
1N 23+ any shape
2C 12-16 4441 or 5440
2D 17-20 4441 or 5440
2H 12-16 5+ hearts and 4 clubs
2S 12-16 5+ spades and 4 clubs
2N 23-24 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative while other responses are
natural. Arno uses canape, but the suit of the opening bid is always
4 cards, except diamonds, which may be short. After the openings 1D,
1H, and 1S, (all forcing for one round), the next bid, (the relay), is
an artificial negative with 0-9 points. After 1N, responder shows the
number of top controls with steps.

Bangkok Club 1.16

Bangkok Club is a version of the Vienna system, played by some
partnerships in the Thailand team in the sixties, for example the 1966
and 1967 Bermuda Bowls and the 1968 Oplympics, (the rest of the team
played Culbertson...). Information from Paul Friedman, St. Paul,
Minnesota.

Bangkok Club Opening Bids
1C 12-20 various shapes
1D 12-20 5+ diamonds
1H 12-18 5+ hearts
1S 12-18 5+ spades
1N 21-22 balanced
18+ 4 to 5 losers
2C 23+ natural, game-forcing
2D 23+ natural, game-forcing
2H 23+ natural, game-forcing
2S 23+ natural, game-forcing
2N 23-24 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative, 1N game-forcing, and other
bids natural. After the opening 1N, which is forcing for one round, 2C
is negative and other bids positive. The Bangkok Club uses Culbertson
asking bids extensively.

Big Diamond 1.49

The Big Diamond system is an American system which combines strong
1C and 1D openings. Information from Kearse, Bridge
Conventions Complete.

Big Diamond Opening Bids
1C 12-16 minors
17+ balanced
1D 17+ unbalanced
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 12-16 54+ in minors
2D 12-16 54+ in majors
2H 15+ 6+ hearts
2S 15+ 6+ spades
2N 20-21 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative, and after 1D, 1H is an
artificial negative.

Bowman-Hancock* 1.64 (hcp)

A system invented by John Hancock, Los Alamos, New Mexico, and further
elaborated by Allen Bowman of Green Valley, Arizona. Information from
Erik Fugelso, Los Alamos, New Mexico.

Bowman-Hancock Opening Bids
1C 11-20 3+ clubs
1D 11-20 3+ diamonds
1H 11-16 5+ hearts
1S 11-16 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 17+ 5+ major
2D 21+ no 5+ card major
2H 5-10 6 hearts
2S 5-10 6 spades
2N 19-20 balanced

1N is followed by Stayman and transfers on the two and four levels,
and 1H/S-1N is forcing for one round. After 2C/D the relay is an
artificial negative. The main idea behind Bowman-Hancock is to enable
the use of the constructive and descriptive 1H/S openings.

Breakthrough* 1.78

This system was invented by Robert Sundby and played by
Katz-Cohen. Information from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Breakthrough Opening Bids
1C 17-22 any shape
1D 12-22 4+ diamonds
1H 12-22 4+ hearts
1S 12-22 4+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 12-16 6+ clubs, 0-2 D, 0-3 H/S
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

Natural responses after 1C. 1D/H/S can be canape, and 1N is the only
forcing response.

DESY Polish Club* 1.65

This is a simple version of the Polish Club. Information from the web
site of DESY, Hamburg, Germany.

DESY Polish Club Opening Bids
1C 12-15 balanced
12+ 4441 or 4+ clubs
19-20 balanced
19+ any shape
1D 12-16 4+ diamonds
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 17-21 5+ diamonds
2H 17-21 5+ hearts
2S 17-21 5+ spades
2N 21-22 balanced

Deuces Scientific* 1.69

This system was invented and played by Don Varvel and Eric Taylor,
Austin, Texas. Information from Don Varvel, Austin, Texas.

Deuces Scientific Opening Bids
1C 13-21 4+ clubs
18-20 balanced
1D 13-21 4+ diamonds
1H 11-21 4+ hearts
1S 11-21 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 22+ any shape
2D 8-12 6 diamonds
2H 7-10 6 hearts
2S 7-10 6 spades
2N 21-22 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative with 0-6 hcp.

1D Example System* 1.94 (hcp)

This system was presented by Glen Ashton as an example of a system
which has a complex 1D opening but is still legal according to
ACBL. Information from Glen Ashton, Ottawa, Canada, and the RGB
archive.

1D Example System Opening Bids
1C 9-17 4 spades or 3 spades and 1 heart
15+ balanced
15+ max 3 cards in majors
18+ no 5 card major
20+ any shape
1D 9-17 4 hearts or 3 hearts and 1 spade
1H 10-19 5+ hearts
1S 10-19 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 10-15 6+ clubs
2D 10-15 6+ diamonds
2H 6-9 6 hearts
2S 6-9 6 spades
2N 12-14 55+ in minors

After 1C, 1D is a relay for clarification, and after 1D, 1H shows 4+
hearts and is forcing for one round.

Diamond Major* 1.77 (hcp)

The Diamond Major system was invented by Peter Oakley, New Zealand, in
1992. The information from Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Diamond Major Opening Bids
1C 11-19 not exactly 4 card major
1D 11-19 exactly 4 card major(s)
1H 10-15 5+ hearts
1S 10-15 5+ spades
1N 14-15 balanced
2C 20+ forcing
2D 6-10 6-card major
17+ 6-card minor
22-23 balanced
26-27 balanced
2H 6-10 5 hearts + 5 clubs
18+ 5 spades + 5 diamonds
2S 6-10 5 spades + 5 diamonds
18+ 5 hearts + 5 clubs
2N 6-10 6+ minor
6-10 5 spades + 5 clubs
18+ 5 hearts + 5 diamonds
18+ 5 diamonds + 5 clubs
3C 7-10 5 diamonds + 5 clubs

Feldspar* 1.73 (hcp)

The Feldspar system was invented by Gordon Bower, (who is a
geologist), during some less interesting college classes. The general
motivation was to avoid 2C as a "too high" forcing
bid. Information from Gordon Bower, Fairbanks, Alaska.

Feldspar Opening Bids
1C 13-18 5+ clubs
17-19 balanced
19+ one or twosuiter
23+ balanced
1D 13-18 4+ diamonds
1H 11-18 5+ hearts
1S 11-18 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 11-14 4441/5440
19+ 4441/5440
2D 11-14 44, 55, or 66 in majors
15-18 4441/5440
19+ 44, 55, or 66 in majors
2H 6-12 6 hearts
2S 6-12 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative with 0-5 points, and some other
hands, while other responses are natural. After 1N Feldspar uses
Stayman and transfers, after 2C, 2D is forcing and 2N game-forcing,
and after 2D 2N is forcing. Jump shifts are weak and 1D/H/S-1N is not
forcing.

Gamma* 1.93 (hcp)

The Gamma system was invented by Dr. E. Lachand of France around
1971. Information from Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Gamma Opening Bids
1C 12-19 various shapes
1D 12-19 3+ diamonds
1H 10-19 5+ hearts
1S 10-19 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 24+ any shape
2D 21-23 balanced
2H 8-12 6+ hearts
2S 8-12 6+ spades
2N transfer to clubs

Relays and canape sequences are employed in the subsequent bidding.

Imprecision Club* 1.61 (hcp)

This system was invented by Robin Michaels, Cambridge,
England. Information from the inventor.

Imprecision Club Opening Bids
1C 12-16 various shapes
1D 17+ any shape
1H 8-16 5+ hearts
1S 8-16 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 12-16 5 clubs and 4 card major
2D 12-16 5 diamonds and 4 card major
2H 12-16 5 hearts and 4 card minor
2S 12-16 5 spades and 4 card minor
2N 20-22 balanced

The responses to 1C are artificial and show strength, while the
responses to 1D are Precisionlike, with 1H as an artificial negative.

Kentucky Club* 1.65 (hcp)

The Kentucky Club system is an American system with a forcing 1C
opening. Information from Kearse, Bridge Conventions Complete.

Kentucky Club Opening Bids
1C 15+ balanced
game-forcing
1D 11-21 5+ diamonds
1H 11-21 5+ hearts
1S 11-21 5+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 11-21 5+ clubs
2D 11-14 4441 or 5440
2H 7-10 6 hearts
2S 7-10 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

After 1C, 1D is a positive response.

Lea* 1.57

The Lea system is an American system based on a forcing 1C
opening. Information from Paul Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota, and
Kearse, Bridge Conventions Complete. From a privately published
book by Robert H. Lea, Bridge is Easy with the Lea System,
1965.

Lea Opening Bids
1C 12+ different shapes
1D 15-16 6+ diamonds
1H 15-16 6+ hearts
1S 15-16 6+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 6-11 6+ clubs
2D 6-11 6+ diamonds
2H 6-11 6+ hearts
2S 6-11 6+ spades
2N 12-14 54 or 55 in minors

After 1C responder shows his strength with a step system.

Modern Polish Club 1.55 (hcp)

The Modern Polish Club is a newer version of the Polish Club. This
version was developed by Matula and played by Gawrys-Lasocki. Compare
with Polish Club. Information from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Modern Polish Club Opening Bids
1C 12-14 balanced
12+ 4441
16-18 5+ clubs
19+ any shape
1D 11-18 4+ diamonds
1H 11-18 5+ hearts
1S 11-18 5+ spades
1N 16-17 balanced
2C 11-15 6+ clubs or 5 clubs, 4 card major
2D 7-11 6 card hearts or spades
19-22 5+ diamonds, 4+ clubs or hearts
2H 7-11 55+ in hearts and minor
2S 7-11 55+ in spades and another
2N 7-11 55+ in minors

Monaco* 1.72 (hcp)

The Monaco system was invented by Pierre Ghestem of France around
1954. It is the grand father of all relay systems, and became (in-)
famous for, (supposedly), being complex and
incomprehensible. Information from Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf,
Germany.

Monaco Opening Bids
1C 13-23 2+ clubs (usually 3+)
1D 13-18 4+ diamonds
1H 10-17 5+ hearts
1S 10-17 5+ spades
1N 18-20 balanced
2C 24+ any shape
2D 19-21 5+ diamonds
2H 18-21 5+ hearts
2S 18-21 5+ spades

Monaco uses relay sequences throughout the subsequent bidding.

New South Wales 1.53

An old system from Australia. Information from Paul Friedman, St.
Paul, Minnesota.

New South Wales Opening Bids
1C 12-22 various shapes
1D 12-22 4+ diamonds
1H 12-22 5+ hearts
1S 12-22 5+ spades
1N 16-18 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 21-22 balanced
2H 6-12 6 hearts
2S 6-12 6 spades
2N 23-24 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative, new suits are forcing, and
jumps asking bids. A jump raise is a slam try.

Polish Club 1.45

The Polish Club is the standard system of Poland. Here is an older
version. Compare with Modern Polish Club. Information from Henk
Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Polish Club Opening Bids
1C 12-14 balanced
12-16 4+ clubs
17-22 any shape
1D 12-16 4+ diamonds
1H 12-16 5+ hearts
1S 12-16 5+ spades
1N 15-17 balanced
2C 23+ any shape
2D 7-11 55+ in major and minor
2H 7-11 6 hearts
2S 7-11 6 spades
2N 7-11 55+ in majors or minors

Power System* 2.28

Power System is related to Vienna, Roman, and Arno. Information from
Don Varvel, Austin, Texas, and the RGB archive.

Power System Opening Bids
1C 12-16 balanced
10-18 clubs
10+ 4441
19+ any shape
1D 10-18 5+ diamonds
1H 10-18 5+ hearts
1S 10-18 5+ spades
1N 17-20 balanced
2C 10-16 6+ clubs or 54+ in C+D
2D 7-19 6+ diamonds
2H 7-19 6+ hearts
2S 7-19 6+ spades
2N 23-24 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative while other responses are
natural.

PRO* 1.41

The Pattern Relay Organized system is an American system based on a
1C opening showing a balanced hand or clubs, and a complete relay
structure in the subsequent bidding. Information from Kearse,
Bridge Conventions Complete.

PRO Opening Bids
1C 12-20 3+ clubs
17-20 balanced
1D 12-20 3+ diamonds
1H 12-20 5+ hearts
1S 12-20 5+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 21+ 5+ clubs
2D 21+ 5+ diamonds
2H 21+ 5+ hearts
2S 21+ 5+ spades
2N 21-22 balanced

Protest* 1.69

The Protest system was developed in 1985, as a protest against the 5
card major openings promoted by Goren's Goren's New Bridge
Complete. In Protest, a major opening can be 4 or 6 cards, but never
5. Information from the inventor, Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New
Jersey.

Protest Opening Bids
1C 12-21 4+ clubs or 5 card major
1D 12-21 4+ diamonds
1H 12-21 4 or 6+ hearts
1S 12-21 4 or 6+ spades
1N 12-16 no 4 card major
2C 22+ any shape
2D 11-15 4441
2H 10-14 5-6 hearts and 4+ clubs
2S 10-14 5-6 spades and 4+ clubs
2N 20-22 balanced

The 1C opening can contain as few as zero clubs in a 5530 hand, and it
denies a 4 card major. After 1C/D, 1H/S shows a 5+ card suit, since
opener doesn't have a 4 card major.

Roman 1.56

Roman was played by Walter Avarelli and Georgio Belladonna of the
Italian Blue Team, and won them several world championships. It's
ancestor is the Vienna system. Information from Don Varvel, Austin,
Texas, and the RGB archive.

Roman Opening Bids
1C 12-16 balanced
21-22 balanced
25-26 balanced
17-20 4 clubs and a 5+ suit
game forcing
1D 12-20 natural canape
1H 12-20 natural canape
1S 12-20 natural canape
1N 17-20 balanced
2C 12-16 4441 or 5440
2D 17-20 4441 or 5440
2H 12-16 5+ hearts and 4 clubs
2S 12-16 5+ spades and 4 clubs
2N 23-24 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative while other responses are
natural. Roman uses canape, and the suit of the opening bid may be
three cards only, while the second suit is 5+. After 1D, 1H, and 1S,
(all forcing for one round), the next bid is an artificial negative
with 0-9 points.

Scientific Diamond* 2.46 (hcp)

This system was invented by Robin Michaels, Cambridge,
England. Information from the inventor.

Scientific Diamond Opening Bids
1C 9-16 various shapes
1D 17+ any shape
1H 9-16 4+ hearts
1S 9-16 4+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 9-12 5+ diamonds, no 4+ major
13-16 5+ diamonds and 4+ major
2D 6-10 6 diamonds
2H 6-10 6 hearts
2S 6-10 6 spades
2N 20-22 balanced

The system is a development of the Science. The responses to 1D are
Precisionlike, with 1H as an artificial negative, while after 1C the
bidding follows "standard" methods after a short club opening. After
2C, responder bids 2D with all weak and medium hands, after which
opener passes or bids a major, the latter with the stronger variant.

Vienna 1.20

Vienna is the ancestor of Arno, Roman, and other systems. It is still
one of the popular systems in Iceland. Information from Paul Friedman,
St. Paul, Minnesota, and Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey. See
Reese, Bridge Player's Dictionary, 1959.

Vienna Opening Bids
1C 12-18 various shapes
1D 12-18 5+ diamonds
1H 12-18 5+ hearts
1S 12-18 5+ spades
1N 19-20 balanced
18-22 unbalanced
2C 23+ natural, game-forcing
2D 23+ natural, game-forcing
2H 23+ natural, game-forcing
2S 23+ natural, game-forcing
2N 21-23 balanced

After 1C, 1D is an artificial negative, 1N game-forcing, and other
bids natural. After the opening 1N, which is forcing for one round, 2C
is negative and other bids positive. Vienna uses Culbertson asking
bids extensively.

Strong Pass Systems

A number of system uses pass as a strong or forcing bid. However, the
pass itself is not the most important property of these
systems. Instead, the main idea is usually to split the opening bids
into three different point ranges: 0-7, 8-12, and 13+, as opposed to
0-12 and 13+ for standard systems. The main idea behind this is to
construct systems that try to get a tactical advantage by opening as
often as possible. Thus, this section contains a number of artificial
systems. It just so happens that they all use pass for something
different than a weak hand...

Let's look at the frequencies for four different ways of assigning the
opening bid point ranges:

0-12 13-20 21+ 0-10 11-15 16+
73.21 25.99 0.80 56.24 34.00 9.76
0-9 10-14 15+ 0-7 8-12 13+
46.83 38.98 14.19 28.58 44.63 27.79

In this table, the upper numbers define a point range, and the lower
number is the percentage of hands that lie in this range.

As can be seen, the standard systems in practise use only two intervals.
The third, 21+, is very rare, while the lowest interval, usually opened
with a pass, is very frequent. Thus, it could be argued that a standard
system uses the available bids in a poor way to describe the point
strength of a hand.

The most interesting approach to strong pass systems has been taken
by the Polish players Lukasz Slawinski and Stanislaw Ruminski in their
book Introduction to Weak Opening Systems. Their idea is to use
the following base:

System Base
13+ pass
0-7 1D
8-12 other bids

This setup has been used to construct several interesting
systems. Another idea of theirs is to let opening bids show shortness
instead of length, see for example the Delta system.

In Slawinski's and Ruminski's base, the "responder" reopens with
similar bids after pass, using the ranges 0-5, 6-10, and 11+, where
1C shows either 6-10 or 11+, (and 11+ will be shown by bidding the
relay on the next round). After pass-1C, "opener" reopens, now
with the ranges 13-16 and 17+, and 1D shows either 13-16 or 17+,
(17+ to be shown with a relay on the next round). After an opening
bid the relay asks for more information, and the responder can find
out opener's distribution and top controls, while all other bids are
natural and non-forcing.

The main advantage of a strong pass system is the aggressivity. The
downside is the pass itself, which is tactically weak and easy to
disturb, (it is more sensitive than 1C in a typical strong 1C
system, since it may contain as little as 13 points). In competition
with standard systems, the pass system partnership will have shown the
strength for an opening bid but no suit or distribution. Thus, on 25%
of all hands, the pass system is at a disadvantage. On the other 75%,
though, it is at an advantage, when the partnership bids or preempts
more readily than a standard system. If you believe in weak 1N and
weak two openings, why not check out a strong pass system?

One feature of several strong pass systems is openings showing 3-4
cards in a suit, often hearts or spades, (see Major, Regres, etc.).
This gives valuable information to the partner, while the opponents
cannot assume that it is not their trump suit. Thus, it is very
difficult to defend against such openings. Users of canape systems
like Blue Team Club, Arno, and Roman have also discovered this, and
sometimes open on three card majors, and the same idea is used in the
Mafia system. The drawback is, of course, when partner has a four card
support and will be much more reluctant to compete, when all other
pairs know that there is an eight card trump.

Slawinski and Ruminski also introduced the idea of guessing
principles. For example, in the Lambda system, 1H shows 8-12 points
and a 54+ in either C+H or D+S. This is difficult to defend against,
since you don't know what the opener holds. His partner will guess
from his own holding and bid as high as he dares. If he guesses wrong,
the true distribution will be a nice surprise. This works very well in
practise.

Several systems use 1C and 1D as transfers to hearts and spades.
These bids are weak and give an advantage for the opponents, provided
that they have figured out a defense. Then they suddenly have both a
double and a low cuebid to use when showing their holdings. If the
transfer opening shows a 5+ card suit, as in Awkward and Aron-Rosa, it
is easier for the strong pass pair to compete, though.

The advantage of these transfer bids is that 1H and 1S can be
used for balanced and minor suit hands, which makes the system
tactically strong. It is like if the system contains a whole army of
weak notrump openings with which to preempt the opponents, see for
example Awkward.

Finally, most systems use 1D as the weak bid, while some use the
much more aggressive 1H or even 1S. The main advantage of
using 1D as the weak bid, instead of pass, is that you take away a
very important step for the opponents. If you play a standard system,
you may double to show either a 1C or a 1D opening, but what if
you play Precision? One bid is missing and your precision (!) will be
lower!

The 1H and 1S openings are even more preemptive and quite
difficult to defend against. Believe it or not, but this one or two
steps make a big difference. In practise, you are thrown back into
using a low precision, natural limit system. But luckily, there is an
downside of the coin too. If you and your partner hold some 20+ points
together against the 1H/S opener and all have balanced hands, you
may sit back and double on everything, and the strong passers will
have a bad board, whatever they try.

But once again, note that there is a very sensible reason to open
1D, 1H, or 1S on 0-7. If your opponents are playing, say, Super
Precision, and find slam after slam against you, your can't stop them,
and force them back to a standard system with less bidding
precision. Or can you? Yes, by a weak 1D, 1H, or 1S!

Certainly, if you don't understand the advantages of strong pass
systems, you may feel that they are constructed to confuse the
opponents. And if you don't care to figure out even a minimal
agreement about what to do against weak artificial openings, well, you
are at a clear disadvantage. But if it was that easy to get
points just by confusing the opponents, standard systems would never
have seen the daylight. No, Goren is profoundly wrong in his quote,
(see the Preface, page 2), and strong pass systems have definite
advantages which have nothing whatsoever to do with confusion.

Alpha* 2.80 (hcp)

Alpha was the first of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. It was invented by Slawinski in 1963, too early for it to
use the standard base. Information from Erich Friedman, De Land,
Florida.

Alpha Opening Bids
pass 12-18 any shape
1C 0-4 any shape
19+ any shape
1D 9-11 3+ hearts
1H 9-11 3+ spades
1S 5-8 any shape
1N 9-11 44+ in majors
2C 9-11 5+ clubs
2D 9-11 5+ diamonds
2H 9-11 5+ hearts in onesuiter
2S 9-11 5+ spades in onesuiter

Antidelta* 2.78 (hcp)

Antidelta is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. The Delta system uses shortness openings, which gives the
bidding very good precision. However, Slawinski and Ruminski felt
that Delta's mean opening of 1.60 was too low, and thus devised
Antidelta for the openings in first hand. Whenever there is a
shortness, (singleton or void), the opening bid is 1C; after a relay
opener uses the Delta openings to describe his hand. Information from
Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany and Erich Friedman, De Land,
Florida.

Antidelta Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 any singleton or void
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 4-5 hearts
1S 8-12 4-5 spades
1N 8-12 balanced without major
2C 8-12 5+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ diamonds
2H 8-12 6+ hearts
2S 8-12 6+ spades

After pass, the "responder" reopens with bids according to the Delta
system, his limits being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is
1N. After other opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid
while other bids are natural and non-forcing.

Aron-Rosa* 2.96

Aron-Rosa was developed in 1979, on the night between the name days of
Aron and Rosa, with Haa kan Fransson as the chief architect. It has
been played by several pairs in Sweden and won at least two pairs
competitions, in spite of its somewhat wild two level opening bids. It
also served as a main inspiration for the Awkward system.

Aron-Rosa Opening Bids
pass 13-19 any shape
1C 8-12 5+ hearts
1D 8-12 5+ spades
1H 8-12 balanced
1S 8-12 minors
1N 8-12 44+ in majors
2C 0-7 or 20+ 5+ hearts
2D 0-7 or 20+ 5+ spades
2H 0-7 or 20+ balanced
2S 0-7 or 20+ minors
2N 0-7 or 20+ 44+ in majors

After pass, the "responder" opens in a similar way, his limits being
6-12 for the one-level bids and 0-5 or 13+ for the two-level
bids. After 1H/S, the relay is strong and the next relay, (preference
of shown suit), is weak and signoff.

Aspro Symmetric Pass* 2.28 (hcp)

Aspro Symmetric Pass was developed by Nick Guoth and Peter
Foong. Information from the RGB archive.

Aspro Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 4+ hearts
1D 8-12 4+ spades
1H 0-7 any shape
1S 8-12 minor or minors
1N 9-12 balanced, no 4 card major
2C 3-7 6+ clubs
2D 8-12 4441 or 5440, short major
2H 8-10 54+ in S+H
2S 5-8 55+ spades + other
2N 5-8 55+ no spades

The subsequent bidding uses relays throughout.

Awkward* 2.85

Awkward was invented by Mats Berggren, Haa kan Fransson, Anders
Freij, Soren Romare, and Ulf Nilsson and played successfully in
pairs and team competitions in Sweden in the early eighties. One of
its ancestors was the Aron-Rosa system.

Awkward Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 5+ hearts
1D 8-12 5+ spades
1H 0-7 any shape
12-14 balanced
1S 8-11 balanced
1N 8-12 one 5 card minor
2C 7-11 6 diamonds
12-15 4441/5440
20+ 5+ clubs
2D 4-8 6 hearts
16-19 4441/5440
20+ 5+ diamonds
2H 4-8 6 spades
20+ 5+ hearts
20-21 balanced
2S 7-11 6 clubs
20+ 5+ spades
22-23 balanced
2N 0-10 weak preempt
24+ balanced

The subsequent bidding is fairly natural, but often uses a single
relay bid to show an invitation or a game-forcing hand. The system
also uses overcalls in the shortest suit to show two-suited
hands in the defense.

Beta* 2.30 (hcp)

Beta is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and Stanislaw
Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening Systems. It
was invented by Slawinski in 1964. Information from Erich Friedman,
De Land, Florida.

Beta Opening Bids
pass 0-7 any shape
17+ any shape
1C 8-12 balanced
13-16 a 4 card major
1D 13-16 no 4 card major
1H 8-12 4+ hearts, unbalanced
1S 8-12 4+ spades, unbalanced
1N 8-12 44+ in majors
2C 8-12 5+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ diamonds
2H 8-12 5+ hearts in onesuiter
2S 8-12 5+ spades in onesuiter

Big Beat* 1.83 (hcp)

Big Beat is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. It includes their idea of showing shortnesses, (singletons
and voids). Information from Erich Friedman, De Land, Florida.

Big Beat Opening Bids
pass 8-12 major shortness
13-17 any shape
1C 8-12 balanced
18+ any shape
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 minor shortness
1S 8-12 no shortness, 4-5 spades
1N 8-12 no shortness, 4-5 hearts
2C 8-12 no shortness, 5+ cards
2D 8-12 no shortness, 5+ cards
2H 8-12 no shortness, 6+ cards
2S 8-12 no shortness, 6+ cards

Carrotti 2.34 (hcp)

Carrotti is a strong pass system based on the Carrot Club. It is
currently played by Lars Andersson and Hans Gothe, who have
introduced a weak (0-7) 1H for use when
non-vulnerable. Information from Sven-Olof Flodqvist, Stockholm,
Sweden, and Lars Andersson, Stockholm, Sweden.

Carrotti Opening Bids
pass 12-16 unbalanced
15-17 balanced
1C 9-11 balanced
17+ any shape
1D 0-8 balanced
0-7 unbalanced
1H 8-11 4+ hearts
1S 8-11 4+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 8-11 6+ clubs or 54 in minors
2D 8-11 6 diamonds or 55+ in minors
2H 6-11 55+ in roundeds or pointeds
2S 6-11 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 6-11 55+ in majors or minors

When 1H shows 0-7, (non-vulnerable), the system is called Carrotti
with a Twist. It has a mean opening of 2.56 when non-vulnerable and
2.45 in average.

Delta* 1.66 (hcp)

Delta is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. It includes their idea of showing shortness instead of
length in suits. Information from Erich Friedman, De Land, Florida.

Delta Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 no shortness
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 short spades
1S 8-12 short hearts
1N 8-12 short diamonds, 5+ major
2C 8-12 short diamonds
2D 8-12 short clubs
2H 8-12 short clubs, 5+ hearts
2S 8-12 short clubs, 5+ spades
2N 8-12 short clubs, 55+ in majors

After pass, the "responder" reopens with similar bids, his limits
being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is 1N. After other
opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while other bids
are natural and non-forcing.

The following version of Delta is described by Pekka Viitalsalo, Espoo,
Finland. Its mean opening is 1.60.

Finnish Delta Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 no shortness
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 short hearts
8-12 short clubs, 5+ major
1S 8-12 short spades
1N 8-12 short diamonds, 5+ major
2C 8-12 short diamonds
2D 8-12 short clubs
2H 8-12 short clubs, 4441/5440
2S 8-12 short clubs, 5+ spades

Since it has a low mean opening, Delta has almost exclusively been
used for responses after pass in other systems, most notably Regres.

Diamond Heart* 3.12

This system is a strong pass version of the Tangerine Club, where the
bids pass, 1D, and 1H have been changed around, (see the
description of Tangerine).

Dutch Spade* 3.42 (hcp)

This system was invented by Max Rebattu in 1982, while sitting at the
beach one sunny day. The idea is simply to shift the openings from
pass to 1S around to make 1S the weak bid, while pass replaces
1C, 1C replaces 1D, and so on. This can be done with any
system as a base. The first version used Dutch Acol, and was played by
Maas and Rebattu. Information from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Dutch Spade BTC* 3.57 (hcp)

Another version of the Dutch Spade idea, based on the Blue Team Club
and played by Rebattu and Sint. Information from Henk Uijterwaal,
Hamburg, Germany.

Dutch Spade Volmac* 3.37 (hcp)

Yet another version of the Dutch Spade idea, based on the Blue Team
Club and played by Schippers and Pas. Information from Henk
Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Eclectic Symmetric Pass* 2.26 (hcp)

The Eclectic Symmetric Pass system, (ESP), uses relay bidding
throughout. Information from the RGB archive.

ESP Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 4+ hearts
1D 8-12 4+ spades
1H 0-7 any shape
1S 8-12 44+ in minors
1N 8-12 balanced, no 4 card major
2C 8-12 6+ clubs
2D 8-12 6+ diamonds
2H 5-9 6+ hearts
2S 5-9 6+ spades
2N 5-9 55+ no clubs

Lai Forcing Pass* 1.66 (hcp)

A system developed by Ruey-Gang Lai. Information from the RGB
archive.

Lai Forcing Pass Opening Bids
pass 0-8 any shape
15+ any shape
1C 9-14 1+ clubs
1D 9-14 5 diamonds
1H 9-14 5 hearts
1S 9-14 5 spades
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 6-9 55 in majors
8-11 54 in majors
2D 5-8 6 hearts or spades
5-8 55+ in minors
21-22 balanced
2H 12-14 5 hearts and 4 in a minor
2S 12-14 5 spades and 4 in a minor
2N any solid 7+ suit

After pass, 1C is an artificial elay, while 1D is 0-7. The subsequent
bidding uses relays and asking bids.

Lambda* 2.31 (hcp)

Lambda is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. It includes guessing of partner's distribution in free tempo
and has been played by Haa kan Fransson and Jan Eric Larsson,
Sweden. They later switched to Major, mainly because it seemed more
efficient to concentrate the bidding towards showing major holdings.

Lambda Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 balanced or 4441
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 54+ in C+H or D+S
1S 8-12 54+ in C+S or D+H
1N 8-12 54+ in C+D or H+S
2C 8-12 5+ C
2D 8-12 5+ D
2H 8-12 5+ H
2S 8-12 5+ S

After pass, the "responder" reopens with similar bids, his limits
being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is 1N. After other
opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while other bids
are natural and non-forcing. In free tempo, the responder guesses the
opener's distribution and bids based on this.

Major* 2.48 (hcp)

Major is one of the early systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. Major was played by Haa kan Fransson and Jan Eric Larsson
in Sweden in the eighties.

Major Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 3-4 H, 3-4 S
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 3-4 H, 0-2 S
1S 8-12 0-2 H, 3-4 S
1N 8-12 0-2 H, 0-2 S
2C 8-12 5+ H, 3-4 S
2D 8-12 3-4 H, 5+ S
2H 8-12 5+ H, 0-2 S
2S 8-12 0-2 H, 5+ S
2N 8-12 5+ H, 5+ S

After pass, the "responder" reopens with similar bids, his limits
being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is 1N. After other
opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while other bids
are natural and non-forcing.

Mandarine Club* 3.13

This system is a strong pass version of the Tangerine Club, where the
bids pass and 1D have been switched, (see the description of
Tangerine).

Modified ESP* 2.26 (hcp)

Modified Eclectic Symmetric Pass is a version of Eclectic Symmetric
Pass and uses relay bidding throughout. Information from the RGB
archive.

Modified ESP Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 4+ hearts
1D 8-12 4+ spades
1H 0-7 any shape
1S 8-12 44+ in minors
1N 9-12 balanced, no 4 card major
2C 8-12 6+ clubs
2D 8-12 6+ diamonds
2H 8-12 55+ in majors
2S 8-10 55+ in minors
2N 8-10 55+ in reds

No Name System* 2.12 (hcp)

No Name is one of the systems presented by Lukasz Slawinski and
Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to Weak Opening
Systems. It is an ancestor to the Suspensor system. Information from
Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

No Name Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 3-5 cards in both majors
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 0-2 or 6+ hearts
1S 8-12 0-2 or 6+ spades
1N 8-12 54 in SD or Hcl
2C 8-12 54 in HD or Scl
2D 8-12 45 in SD or Hcl
2H 8-12 45 in HD or Scl
2S 8-12 55+ in majors or minors
2N weak preempt in any suit

After 8-12 opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while
other bids are natural and non-forcing. In free tempo, the responder
guesses the opener's distribution and bids based on this.

Regres 2.21 (hcp)

Regres is the most successful of the systems presented by Lukasz
Slawinski and Stanislaw Ruminski in their book Introduction to
Weak Opening Systems. Additional information from Pekka Viitasalo,
Espoo, Finland.

Regres Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 any singleton or void
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 3-4 hearts
1S 8-12 3-4 spades
1N 8-12 5-7 card major
2C 8-12 5-7 clubs
2D 8-12 5-7 diamonds
2H 8-12 55+ in roundeds or pointeds
2S 8-12 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 8-12 55+ in majors or minors

After pass, the "responder" reopens with bids according to the Delta
system, his limits being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is
1N. After other opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid
while other bids are natural and non-forcing.

Sandgroper* 2.25 (hcp)

Sandgroper was developed by Ian Casselton and played by Ian Casselton
and Geoff Pocock, both "lads in their mid twenties, who have played
for Australia, (youth), a couple of times". Sandgroper is a
colloquial expression for a West Australian. Information form Dennis
Yovich, Perth, Australia.

Sandgroper Opening Bids
pass 0-6 any shape
7-12 4333/4432/4441
17+ balanced or 4441
1C 13-16 unbalanced
1D 7-12 5+ hearts
17+ 5+ hearts
1H 7-12 5+ spades
17+ 5+ spades
1S 7-12 5+ clubs
17+ 5+ clubs
1N 13-16 balanced
2C 7-12 5+ diamonds
17+ 5+ diamonds
2D 7-12 54+ in diamonds and another
2H 7-12 55+ without spades
2S 7-12 55+ with spades
2N weak preempt in clubs
sound preempt in diamonds

The same type of multi preempts are used on the rest of the three
level.

Schizo Club* 3.72 (hcp)

The Schizo Club was developed by Steve Starkey, Pecs, Hungary.

Schizo Club Opening Bids
pass 0-7 balanced
16-20 any shape
1C 8-11 unbalanced
21+ any shape
1D 0-7 unbalanced
12-14 balanced
12-15 4+ diamonds
1H 0-7 unbalanced, 4+ hearts
12-15 5+ hearts
1S 0-7 unbalanced, 4+ spades
12-15 5+ spades
1N 8-11 balanced
15-17 balanced
2C 12-15 5+ clubs
2D 8-11 5+ major
21-22 balanced
2H 8-11 44+ in majors
2S 8-11 any 6+ suit
2N 8-11 54+ in minors

Most responses are natural, but pass-1C, 1C-1D, and 1N-2C are
invitational relays.

Sigma* 2.80 (hcp)

Sigma is Ruminski's and Slawinski's "natural" system.

Sigma Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 4441 or 5440
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 4-5 hearts
1S 8-12 4-5 spades
1N 8-12 balanced
2C 8-12 5+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ diamonds
2H 8-12 6+ spades
2S 8-12 6+ spades
2N 8-12 55+ in majors

After pass, the "responder" reopens with similar bids, his limits
being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is 1N. After other
opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while other bids
are natural and non-forcing.

Suspensor* 2.12 (hcp)

This system is similar to the No Name system, and was invented and
played by Balicki and Zmudzinski. This is the version from
1990. Information from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Suspensor Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 3-5 cards in both majors
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 0-2 or 6+ hearts
1S 8-12 0-2 or 6+ spades
1N 8-12 54 in SD or Hcl
2C 8-12 54 in HD or Scl
2D 8-12 45 in SD or Hcl
2H 8-12 45 in HD or Scl
2S 8-12 55+ in majors or minors
2N weak preempt in any suit

After 8-12 opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while
other bids are natural and non-forcing. In free tempo, the responder
guesses the opener's distribution and bids based on this.

Swan* 3.39 (hcp)

The Swan system was invented by Jan Eric Larsson. The name means
"System With A Name" and was inspired by the Polish No Name system.

Swan Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 8-12 4441 or 5440
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8-12 3-4 hearts
1S 8-12 3-4 spades
1N 8-12 3-4 hearts and 3-4 spades
2C 8-12 5+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ diamonds
2H 8-12 5+ spades
2S 8-12 5+ spades
2N 8-12 55+ in majors

After pass, the "responder" reopens with similar bids, his limits
being 6-10 points. After 1D the only forcing bid is 1N. After other
opening bids, the nearest suit is a forcing relay bid while other bids
are natural and non-forcing.

Tape Relay* 2.01 (hcp)

This system was developed by Donald Evans. Information from the RGB
archive.

Tape Relay Opening Bids
pass 13+ any shape
1C 0-7 any shape
1D 8-12 4+ hearts
1H 8-12 4+ spades
1S 8-12 minors
1N 8-12 balanced, one 4 card major
2C 8-12 6+ clubs
2D 8-12 4441 or 5440, short hearts
2H 8-12 4441 or 5440, short spades
2S 8-12 55+ in minors
2N 3-9 55+ no clubs

The responses use relays throughout.

Torpedo Teams* 2.87 (hcp)

This is the artificial version of Torpedo, developed and played by
Dean Eidler and Murat Genc, New Zealand. Information from Dean Eidler,
Dunedin, New Zealand.

Torpedo Teams Opening Bids
pass 15+ any shape
1C 9-14 various shapes
1D 9-14 4+ hearts
1H 9-14 4+ spades
1S 0-8 any shape
1N 12-15 no 4 card major
2C 9-14 6+ clubs
2D 9-14 6+ diamonds
2H 5-9 55+ in majors or minors
2S 5-9 55+ in blacks or reds
2N 5-9 55+ in roundeds or pointeds

After pass, 1C is 6-8, any shape, 1D is 0-5, and other responses
artificial positives. The system uses symmetric relays throughout.

Tresboof* 2.41 (hcp)

Information from the RGB archive.

Tresboof Opening Bids
pass 14+ any shape
1C 8-13 4+ hearts
1D 8-13 4+ spades
1H 0-8 any shape
1S 9-13 balanced
1N 9-13 5+ diamonds
2C 9-13 5+ clubs
2D 5-8 6+ diamonds
2H 5-8 6+ hearts
2S 5-8 6+ spades
2N 9-13 55+ minors

The responses use Moscito relays.

Other Systems

Here is yet another group of systems. These systems have in common
the simple property that they don't fit anywhere else. Some of them
employ a fairly standard base, like pass 0-11, others 12+, but the
openings clearly differ from those of the standard systems, by being
either less natural than usual, or more!

Bludgeon* 2.57

Bludgeon was invented by Ian Wilson, USA. The idea is a system based
entirely on limit bidding with no forcing bids. Information from Ian
Wilson, Irvine, California.

Bludgeon Opening Bids
1x 11-14 4+ suit
1N 11-14 balanced
2x 15-18 4+ suit or 8 tricks
2N 15-17 balanced
3x 19+ 4+ suit or 9 tricks
3N 18-22 balanced

There are no forcing opening bid and no forcing responses. The only
conventions used are Stayman and Blackwood. The systems has produced
respectable results in pairs events at various levels.

Bondage* 2.52 (hcp)

The Bondage system was invented by Tom Jacob, New Zealand. It was
played at the Salismaggiore Olympiad 1992 and the Far East
Championships in Wellington 1994. Information from Tom Jacob,
Auckland, New Zealand.

Bondage Opening Bids
1C 12+ 4+ hearts
1D 12+ 4+ spades
1H 12+ 4+ clubs
1S 8-11 4(3)+ spades
1N 12-14 balanced
2C 17+ 4+ diamonds
22+ balanced
2D 12-16 4+ diamonds
2H 8-11 6+ hearts
2S 6-9 6+ spades
2N 20-21 balanced, no major

After 1C/D/H, the relay is an artificial negative and a bid in the
shown suit the starting point of a symmetric relay exchange.

EHAA* 4.06 (hcp)

EHAA is an American system from the fifties, and it is very natural;
so natural indeed that it is unusual. Because of its weak two
openings, it has a very high mean opening. The name means "Every Hand
An Adventure". Information from Eric Landau and Barbara Doran, Silver
Spring, Maryland, USA.

EHAA Opening Bids
1C 13+ 4+ clubs
1D 13+ 4+ diamonds
1H 13+ 4+ hearts
1S 13+ 4+ spades
1N 10-12 balanced
2C 6-12 5+ clubs
2D 6-12 5+ diamonds
2H 6-12 5+ hearts
2S 6-12 5+ spades
2N 20-22 balanced

After 1N, 2C is the only forcing bid. The responses after one of a
suit are highly natural.

Hole Transfers* 2.23 (hcp)

This is an English system. Information from Richard Lighton,
Wood-Ridge, New Jersey.

Hole Transfers Opening Bids
1C 13+ 4441
12-16 unbalanced
17+ balanced
1D 6-12/17+ 5+ hearts
1H 6-12/17+ 5+ spades
1S 6-12/17+ 5+ clubs
1N 13-16 balanced
2C 6-12/17+ 5+ diamonds
2D 6-11 hearts and minor
2H 6-11 majors
2S 6-11 spades and minor
2N 6-11 minors

Responder also uses transfers. For example, over 1D, 1H is for play
against 6-12, 1S is 5+ spades and forcing, 1N shows clubs, 2C shows
diamonds, and 2D shows heart support and game invitation against
6-12. Direct raises in H are final contracts, and jump shifts are
natural and game-forcing.

Little Major* 2.11

This system was devised by Terence Reese in the sixties to demonstrate
what could happen if artificial systems were to be allowed. It was
played by Reese and Shapiro and Reese and Flint in the mid
sixties. Information from Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey. See
Reese, Bridge for Tournament Players, 1968.

Little major Opening Bids
1C 12+ 4+ hearts
1D 12+ 4+ spades
16-19 balanced
1H 2-5 controlled psych
20+ any shape
1S 12-15 54+ in minors
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 12-15 5+ clubs
2D 12-15 5+ diamonds
2H 18+ 54+ in hearts and minor
2S 18+ 54+ in spades and minor
2N 7-11 6+ minor
18+ 54+ in minors

After 1C, 1D is either weak or strong, and after 1H responder uses a
step response scale to show aces and kings.

Little Saffle Spade* 2.09 (hcp)

This is the latest version of a system that was created in Sweden in
the late seventies, and then called Super Spade and later Super
Saffle, with Einar Berg and Pontus Svinhufvud as main driving
forces. Saffle is a small town in Dalsland, middle-west Sweden. The
system became very popular in the early eighties and is still played.
Information from Bertil G. Johnsson, Sweden.

Little Saffle Spade Opening Bids
pass 8+ 4+ spades
1C 8+ 4+ hearts
1D 0-7 any shape
1H 8+ unbalanced, no major
1S 8-12 balanced, no major
1N 13-18 balanced, no major
2C 8-12 5+ major and 4+ clubs
2D 8-12 5+ major and 4+ diamonds
2H 8-12 4+ hearts and 5+ spades
2S any solid 6 card suit
2N 19-21 balanced

Most responses are artificial and often similar to the opening bids,
for example, pass-1C show 8+ and 4+ hearts, pass/1C-1D shows 0-7, any
shape, etc.

Mafia Club* 2.45 (hcp)

The Mafia Club was invented by Kenneth L. Lindsay, 1981. Mafia stands
for Majors First Always, and the main idea of Mafia is to open
1H/S as often as possible. In principle, Mafia is a strong 1C
system, but since the openings 1H/S may be based on three cards
only, it was placed among the artificial systems. Information from
Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany.

Mafia Club Opening Bids
1C 16+ any shape, 16-19 if balanced
1D 11-15 different shapes
1H 10-15 3+ hearts, unbalanced
1S 10-15 3+ spades, unbalanced
1N 13-15 balanced
2C 16+ any 4441
20+ balanced
2D 11-14 solid 7-card minor
13-15 6M331, 6M4m21, or 6M4m30
2H 6-9 6+ hearts or
11-15 6 hearts 322 or
13-15 5 hearts 332
2S 6-9 6+ spades or
11-15 6 spades 322 or
13-15 5 spades 332
2N 6-9 6+ minor
3C 13-15 6-7 clubs, no major
3D 13-15 6-7 diamonds, no major
3N 11-14 solid 7-card major

If the openings 1H and 1S are made on 3 cards, the suit is at least as
strong as KTx.

Majeure D'Abord* 1.61

This system was invented by Jean-Rene Vernes. See Vernes, La
Majeure D'Abord, 2nd edition, 1973. Information from Rene Steiner,
Dusseldorf, Germany.

Majeure D'Abord Opening Bids
1C 12+ 4 spades
1D 12-21 max 33 in majors
1H 12-19 4 hearts
1S 12-17 5+ spades
1N 12-17 5+ hearts
2C 20+ 4+ hearts
2D 22+ max 33 in majors
2H 12-15 6+ hearts
2S 12-15 6+ spades
2N 20-21 balanced with 4+ hearts
3C 14-15 semi-balanced with 6+ clubs
3D asking bid

The system employs lots of canape sequences and relays.

Mini-Major* 1.69 (hcp)

This system was developed and played by Mats Nilsland and Bjorn
Fallenius, Sweden. Information from Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany.

Mini-Major Opening Bids
1C 14+ 3+ hearts
17+ 2+ hearts
1D 14+ 3+ spades
17+ 2+ spades
1H 8-13 4+ hearts
1S 8-13 4+ spades
1N 14-16 balanced
2C 8-13 5+ major and 4+ clubs
2D 8-13 5+ major and 4+ diamonds
2H 8-13 4+ hearts and 5+ spades
11-16 6 clubs
2S 11-16 6 diamonds
11-16 54+ in minors
2N 11+ 55+ in minors

The openings 1H/S can hide a canape.

Tranare '87* 0.98 (hcp)

Developed by D. and J. Hoffman. Information from the RGB archive.

Tranare '87 Opening Bids
1C 12+ 4+ hearts
1D 12+ 4+ spades
1H 12+ singleton heart
1S 12+ 6+ clubs
1N 12+ 6+ diamonds
2C 8-11 6+ diamonds
12+ 6+ clubs, freakish
20-21 balanced
2D 8-11 6+ hearts
12+ 6+ diamonds, freakish
22-23 balanced, not 4-5 spades
2H 8-11 6+ spades
12+ 6+ hearts, freakish
22-23 balanced, 4-5 spades
2S 12+ 6+ spades, freakish
2N 8-11 55+ minors

The responses use relays throughout.

WELOS* 3.37

WELOS was invented by Oren Webster/Eleaticus, and the name stands for
Webster's extra-light opener system. Oren played the system with Ted
Abbott, Don Lowry, Richard Holmes, and others. Information from Oren
Webster/Eleaticus, Nashville, Tennessee.

WELOS Opening Bids
1C/D/H/S 8-11 4+ card suit
16+ 4+ card suit
1N 13-15 balanced
2C/D/H/S 12-15 4+ card suit
2N 22-24 balanced

The responses are natural limits, where trump support is always shown
immediately. The three level openings are strong, and there is an
optional version of the strong openings where 2N is used as the
game-forcing bid.

Funny Systems

Here we present a few systems which are probably not to be taken
seriously. Anyway, there is not enough information about them to make
a full presentation or to calculate a mean opening. Read and enjoy...

Jehenger*

The Jehenger Transfer System popped up in a bar in Manchester, or so
the rumor goes. Not the whole system though, only the main idea that
every bid transfers to the next. Information from the RGB archive.

Jehenger Principles
pass transfer to 1C
1C transfer to 1D
1D transfer to 1H, etc.
X cannot defeat the contract
pass can defeat the contract

One possibility is of course that this is just a confused story about
some Dutch Spade version...

No Peek*

In the No Peek system you never look at your own cards. Instead you
try to deduce the correct contract from the opponents'
bidding. Information from the RGB archive.

No System at All*

In this "system", the paramount idea is to have no agreements with
partner, but just to bid. This does not mean that you must bid
naturally and quantitatively, like in Bludgeon. Instead you may bid
whatever you want, for whatever reason. Played with doubtful success
by Haa kan Fransson and Jan Eric Larsson.

National Standards

Most countries have one or two most popular systems, often because
some very influential Bridge personality and system inventor. For
example, Charles Goren has been instrumental in the development of
Standard American. Most of these national de facto standards are
simply named Standard American, Swedish Standard, etc. Some are not,
however, and the following table lists the system entry or entries for
each country, (note that the entry may or may not be a single system).

Australia Australian Standard
Austria Blue Team Club
Denmark Danish Standard
Danish Trend
Finland Finnish Junior Standard
Finnish Standard
France Majeure Cinquieme
Holland Biedermeier
Dutch Acol
Hungary Hungarian Standard
Iceland Precision Club
"Standard American"
Vienna
Ireland Irish Standard
Italy Blue Team Club
Neapolitan Club
Poland Polish Club
Sweden Swedish Standard
UK Acol
Cambridge Standard
Crowhurst Acol
Rubber Bridge Acol
USA Standard American

Mean Opening Summary

The mean opening has been calculated for all the systems presented in
this collection. The bids have been assigned values, (pass 0.0, 1C
1.0, 1D 2.0, etc.), and with the knowledge of the frequencies of
the different opening bids, it is possible to calculate a mean or
average opening bid.

It could be argued that a higher mean opening is better, since it has
a preemptive or aggressive effect on the bidding. Of course, if a
system has a high mean opening but a low bidding precision, this way
of evaluation will be misleading. However, it seems that most of the
systems presented in this report allow a high precision in the
bidding, and therefore, a ranking after mean opening bid is not
uninteresting.

Note, though, that aggressive opening bids will only pay off against
fairly good opponents. As Sven-Olof Flodqvist suggested, if your
opponents aren't afraid to overcall with less than 10 points and
little or no distributional compensation, it may even pay off to open
lower, to encourage the opponents to give you valuable information on
the overall distribution.

In the first group we have system with a mean opening of 3.00 or
more. This means that on average, the pair will open 1H or higher
in first or second seat, which makes for a difficult task for the
opponents, who very often are forced to bid using their less precise
defensive system instead of their standard constructive methods. As
expected, some of these systems are artificial, strong pass systems,
but EHAA and WELOS are natural systems, and Tangerine a standard
weak/strong 1C system. The EHAA system has the highest mean
opening of all, because of its weak two openings on 6-12 points and
5+ suits. It is unclear how efficient the constructive bidding is
after these, but it certainly seems to be a good alternative system to
investigate.

System Opening
EHAA 4.06
Schizo Club 3.72
Dutch Spade BTC 3.57
Dutch Spade 3.42
Swan 3.39
Dutch Spade Volmac 3.37
WELOS 3.37
Mandarine Club 3.13
Diamond Heart 3.12
Tangerine Club 3.07

In the group of systems with a mean opening between 2.50 and 3.00 we
find more artificial systems. However, the Science is a standard
system. If you like light opening bids, check it out! Also, Bludgeon
is a "supernatural" system with no forcing bids whatsoever, and
Cablecar, Cranberry Club, and Ice Relay are standard strong 1C
systems.

System Opening
Cablecar 2.98
Cranberry Club 2.96
Aron-Rosa 2.96
Torpedo Teams 2.87
Awkward 2.85
Sigma 2.80
Alpha (WOS) 2.78
Antidelta 2.78
Ice Relay 2.61
Science 2.60
Bludgeon 2.57
Bondage 2.52

In the mean opening range 2.25 to 2.50 we find several different
systems. Some of the artificial strong pass systems are here, as well
as some strong 1C systems, (Moscito-D and Mafia).

System Opening
Moscito-D 2.49
Major 2.48
Scientific Diamond 2.46
Carrotti with a Twist 2.45
Mafia Club 2.45
Tresboof 2.41
Carrotti 2.34
Lambda 2.31
Beta (WOS) 2.30
Power System 2.28
Aspro Symmetric pass 2.28
Eclectic Symmetric pass 2.26
Modified Eclectic Symmetric pass 2.26
Sandgroper 2.25

Between 2.00 and 2.25, we find a mix of systems. These can all be
recommended because of their aggressivity.

System Opening
Science with Flannery 2.23
Hole Transfers 2.23
Regres 2.21
Clement-Oliver 2.18
Relay Club 2.18
Bernier Big Club 2.15
Yovich's Carrot Club 2.12
No Name System 2.12
Suspensor 2.12
Little Major 2.11
Little Saffle Spade 2.09
Tape Relay 2.01
Reverse Benjaminised Acol 2.00

With the range 1.80 to 2.00 we have reached down to the standard
system range. Here we find a mix of reasonably aggressive
systems. Note that there are no artificial systems on this level.

System Opening
Benjaminised Acol 1.98
Acol with Multi 2D 1.97
Cloudberry Club 1.97
1D Example System 1.94
Gamma 1.93
Yui-Bin-Had Club 1.92
Danish Trend 1.89
Kaplan-Sheinwold 1.89
COBRA 1.88
German Moscito 1.88
Carrot Club 1.88
Modern Standard Club 1.87
Beta 1.87
Viking Club 1.86
Hybrid Club 1.85
Medium Club Relay 1.84
Neapolitan Club 1.83
Vanderbilt Club 1.83
Big Beat 1.83
Cambridge Standard 1.82

In the range 1.70 to 1.80 we find a similar mix of standard, strong 1
C, and artificial 1C/D systems.

System Opening
Estonian Diamond 1.79
Schenken Club 1.79
Australian Standard 1.78
Finnish Junior Standard 1.78
Ultimate with Five Majors 1.78
Breakthrough 1.78
Crowhurst Acol 1.77
Newlands Moscito 1.77
Diamond Major 1.77
Honeymoon Moscito 1.75
Super Mixed Precision 1.75
Dutch Acol 1.74
Feldspar 1.73
Acol 1.72
Monaco 1.72
Mock Swedish 1.71
Torpedo Pairs 1.71
Aces Scientific 1.70
Eastern Scientific 1.70
Standard American 1.70

In the range 1.70 to 1.60 we find more standard and strong club
systems. It is interesting to note that Ruminski and Slawinski judged
the Delta system, (with mean opening 1.60), as too passive to use for
first-hand opening bids. You can't expect to gain very much in the way
of aggressive opening bids with the following systems.

System Opening
Swedish Standard 1.69
Deuces Scientific 1.69
Protest 1.69
Mini-Major 1.69
BiederMeier 1.68
Bridge World Standard 1.68
Alpha 1.68
Rubber Bridge Acol 1.67
Reed-Horn Club 1.67
Majeure Cinquieme 1.66
Delta 1.66
Lai Forcing pass 1.66
Crazy Diamond 1.65
DESY Polish Club 1.65
Kentucky Club 1.65
Jacoby Modern 1.64
Bowman-Hancock 1.64
CAB 1.63
Finnish Standard 1.63
Stayman 1.62
Symmetric Club 1.62
Imprecision Club 1.61
Majeure D'Abord 1.61
Nottingham Club 1.60
MamiC 1.60
Svan 1.60
Finnish Delta 1.66

The following group of systems have mean openings from 1.50 to 1.60
and are thus even less aggressive.

System Opening
Danish Standard 1.59
Power Precision 1.59
Volmac Precision 1.59
Lea 1.57
Roman 1.56
Goren '85 1.55
Roth-Stone 1.55
Walsh 1.55
Veejay System 1.55
Modern Polish Club 1.55
Symmetric Relay 1.53
New South Wales 1.53
Ultimate Club 1.51
Aces Club 1.50

The following systems, in the range 1.30 to 1.50, are quite
passive. Thus, the advantage of using them, (if any), must come from
high bidding precision instead.

System Opening
Transfer Precision 1.49
Big Diamond 1.49
Polish Club 1.45
Romex 1.42
Universal Club 1.42
Whimsical Club 1.42
PRO 1.41
O'Carrot 1.40
Swedish Precision 1.38
Precision Club 1.34
Match Point Precision 1.31
Super Precision 1.31
Truscott Symmetric Relay 1.31
Arno 1.30

Finally, here are the systems with a mean opening lower than 1.30. It
could be argued that these systems are too passive. However that might
be, these systems use pass and 1C so often that these two opening bids
are bound to be nebulous, and thus difficult to use, especially in
competitive situations.

System Opening
Blue Team Club 1.22
Efos 1.21
Vienna 1.20
Bangkok Club 1.16
Culbertson 1.10
Goren 1.05
Tranare '87 0.98

Calculations

The mean openings of all these systems were done by a small C program
that I wrote one day. It also outputs the frequencies of the different
opening bids of the systems. The program uses independent tables for
the frequencies of hcp and distributions. For each system, a small
subroutine was written, to calculate the opening bid for each
combination of hcp and distribution, and then a simple loop was used
to compute the opening bid frequencies and the total mean opening.

In fact, hcp and distribution are not independent, (more unbalanced
hands are more likely to be close to 10 hcp), but some simple
investigations of Monte Carlo generated tables show that this effect
has no significance for the mean opening calculations. However, the
following factors do influence the mean opening:

o Opening bids over 2N have been excluded from the calculations.
o Several systems have demands on suit quality, which are
overlooked by the program.
o Different players use different ways of calculating distributional
points, and for devaluating singleton and doubleton honors.
o Finer points of, for example, in which order to choose between
different opening bids, may not have been described properly.
o Most probably, there are some programming errors in the system
descriptions.
o Players using a system vary in aggressiveness and personal style.

The reasons for excluding openings above 2N where threefold: first,
these opening bids are almost always preemptive, and thus fairly
similar from system to system; secondly, it simplified the work of
entering the system description subroutines; and thirdly, the higher
level opening bids are so infrequent that they have little influence
on the overall mean opening anyway, (for example, all 7+ card suits
with less than 9 hcp constitute no more than 1.51% of all hands, and
would thus add an extra 0.23 percentage units to the mean opening; and
far from all these hands are suitable for a preemptive bid.)

A main problem with calculating a mean opening concern distributional
points. In this report, two methods have been used. Some system, for
example, Precision, use hcp only. This has been indicated by adding
'(hcp)' after the mean opening figure. Otherwise, distributional points
are included, (calculated as 1 for a doubleton, 2 for a singleton, and 3
for a void), except for balanced notrump opening bids. No other
additions or deductions have been used.

It is also important to note that the mean opening is far from a
perfect indicator even of a system's aggressivity. For example, a
balanced 20-21 is more frequent than a 5-9 with 55+ in the minors.
Thus, the strong 2N adds more to the mean opening than the weak, while
in practise, the weak 2N is aggressive while the strong only preempts
partner, (when you hold 20-21 hcp, there is hardly any need for
preempting the opponents).

This means that systems which open strong hands fairly high, (for
example Bludgeon, EHAA, and WELOS), may sometimes preempt the
partnership's own constructive bidding, while with systems with weaker
two openings, (like Moscito-D and Tangerine), this will happen more
seldom. Still, for all these systems, the value of preempting the
opponents is probably greater than the risk of preempting yourselves.

In summary, the above means that the mean opening number is to be
taken as a general indication of a system's aggressiveness, but little
more. The Science, (2.60), is clearly more aggressive than the Little
Major, (2.11), but when comparing, say, Standard American, (1.70),
with Majeure Cinquieme, (1.66), factors like personal style, etc.,
certainly outweigh the calculated mean opening number.

A different side to this: if you want to design an aggressive system
with a high mean opening, here are some important points:

o The greatest impact comes from relatively balanced hands
around 10 points. If you open these, your system will be
aggressive, if not it will be passive. The Science, Tangerine
Club, Ice Relay, and Moscito-D all get their high mean opening
from opening on 10+ points. In the same way, a weak notrump
is more aggressive than a strong one.
o When designing weak two openings, frequency is important. For
example, 55+ distributions are rare, while 6 card suits are more
common, and 5 card suits abound. Thus, if you use 2D/H/S
for 6-10 and 5+ card suits, your system becomes aggressive,
while a whole army of weak twosuiters won't do very much. For
example, compare German Moscito, (1.88), with Moscito-D, (2.49)
to see the difference.
o The preference order of opening bids is also important. If you
open an 11 hcp 4333 with 1S you are more aggressive than if
you use a "prepared" 1C.
o Of course, five card major openings decrease the aggressivity
of a system, (and delay the finding of major fits). When you
have a five card major, they are an asset, but when you
don't, five card major openings are a liability.
o With some 15+ points, there is no point in opening high and
waste bidding space. Thus, the aggressivity in your system
should come from opening weak or intermediate hands.

Contributors

The following people have helped me to put this collection together. I
am deeply grateful to them all. If you are interested in knowing more
about a certain system, you may consider contacting them, (or me). A
'*' means that the contributor is either the inventor or the system or
one of its main users/proponents.

Steve Altus, Palo Alto, California, (altus@leland.stanford.edu),
Aces Club, Cablecar*, Yiu-Bin-Had Club*;

Ken Are Astrup, Kristiansand, Norway, (kastrup@hauk.adh.no),
Viking Club;

Lars Andersson, Stockholm, Sweden, (lars.andersson@eua.ericsson.se),
Carrot Club, Carrotti, Carrotti with a Twist*;

Glen Ashton, Ottawa, Canada, (ah335@freenet.carleton.ca), 1D
Example System*;

Bruce Berris, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, (berris@cris.com), Swedish
Precision*;

Gordon Bower, Fairbanks, Alaska, (fsgrb@aurora.alaska.edu),
Feldspar*;

Markus Buchhorn, Canberra, New South Wales, (markus@arp. anu.edu.au),
Australian Standard;

Mark Burke, Limerick, Ireland, (burkem@ul.ie), Irish Standard;

Bruce Clement, Wellington, Zew Zealand, (frey@alfheim.actrix. gen.nz),
Clement-Oliver*;

Barbara Doran, Silver Spring, Maryland, (barbd@netcom.com), EHAA;

Dean Eidler, Dunedin, New Zealand, (dean@jin.otago.ac.nz), Torpedo
Pairs*, Torpedo Teams*;

Steffen Enni, Odense, Denmark, (enni@imada.ou.dk), Carrot Club,
Danish Standard, Danish Trend, Svan;

Mike Fagan, Houston, Texas, (mfagan@cs.rice.edu), Cablecar, Hybrid
Club, Reed-Horn Club;

Erik Fugelso, Los Alamos, New Mexico, (efugelso@aol.com),
Bowman-Hancock;

Sven-Olof Flodqvist, Stockholm, Sweden, (sof@bull.se), Carrot
Club*, Carrotti*, Carrotti with a Twist, O'Carrot*, Svan;

Erich Friedman, De Land, Florida, (friedman@macs.stetson. edu),
Alpha, Antidelta, Beta, Big Beat, Delta, Ultimate with Five Majors*;

Paul Friedman, St. Paul, Minnesota, (paulnbr@netcom.com), Bangkok
Club, Lea, Neapolitan Club, New South Wales, Romex, Stayman,
Vanderbilt Club, Vienna;

David Grabiner, Claremont, California, (grabiner@abel.math.
harvard.edu), COBRA;

Mike Hurt, (hurt@elrond.sp.trw.com), Bernier Big Club*;

Tom Jacob, Auckland, New Zealand, (tomj@dslak.co.nz), Bondage*;

Bertil G. Johnsson, Malmkoping, Sweden, (100070.3163@compuserve.com),
Little Saffle Spade;

Simon Kuipers, Delft, the Netherlands, (simon@alex.xs4all.nl),
Power Precision;

Eric Landau, Silver Spring, Maryland, (elandau@cais.com), EHAA*;

Richard Lighton, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, (lighton@ios.com), CAB,
Hole Transfers, Little Major, MamiC*, Mock Swedish*, Nottingham
Club, Protest*, Stayman, Vienna;

Bjorgvin Runar Leifsson, Husavik, Iceland, (brl@ismennt.is),
Icelandic Standard, Ice Relay;

Niklas Mellin, Stockholm, Sweden, (f88-nme@nada.kth.se), Carrot
Club, Svan;

Robin Michaels, Cambridge, England, (rm10006@phx.cam.ac. uk),
Imprecision Club*, Scientific Diamond*, Science;

Ed Sheldon, Cambridge, England, (ejns100@phx.cam.ac.uk), Acol,
Benjaminised Acol, Cambridge Standard, Crowhurst Acol, Romex,
Rubber Bridge Acol, Reverse Benjaminised Acol, Science;

Steve Starkey, Pecs, Hungary, (starkey@btk.jpte.hu), Hungarian
Standard, Schizo Club*, Whimsical Club*;

Hans van Staveren, Amstelveen, the Netherlands, (sater@sater.
home.cs.vu.nl), Biedermeier;

Rene Steiner, Dusseldorf, Germany, (steiner@uni-duesseldorf. de),
Alpha, Beta, Diamond Major, Gamma, German Moscito*, Mafia Club,
Majeure D'Abord, Monaco, Moscito-D*, Relay Club, Veejay System;

Henk Uijterwaal, Hamburg, Germany, (henk@desy.de), Antidelta,
Breakthrough, Crazy Diamond, Dutch Acol, Dutch Spade, Dutch Spade
BTC, Dutch Spade Volmac, Majeure Cinquieme, Medium Club Relay,
Mini-Major, Modern Polish Club, No Name System, Polish Club,
Romex, Suspensor, Volmac Precision;

Donald A. Varvel, Austin, Texas, (varvel@cs.utexas.edu), Arno,
Deuces Scientific*, Power System, Roman;

Pekka Viitasalo, Espoo, Finland, (piv@cctap.carel.fi), Delta,
Finnish Junior Standard, Finnish Standard*, Regres;

Alain Verberkmoes, Utrecht, the Netherlands, (verberkm@phys.
uva.nl), Crazy Diamond, Estonian Diamond, Hybrid Club;

Oren Webster/Eleaticus, Nashville, Tennessee, (bridge_club@
sellers.infohaus.com), WELOS*;

Steve Willner, Cambridge, Massachusetts, (willner@cfa183.harvard.edu),
Acol, Goren, Kaplan-Sheinwold;

Ian Wilson, Irvine, California, (imw@microsim.com), Bludgeon*,
Transfer Precision*;

Dennis Yovich, Perth, Western Australia, (dyovich@iinet.com. au),
Australian Standard, Sandgroper, Yovich's Carrot Club*.