Introductory Remarks
by Spike Lay
The first article on the 2/1 system was written several years
ago, but still seems like a good starting point.
Candy Griffey remarked the other day that too many of the beginning
classes teach bridge that must be discarded as soon as you graduate
from tadpole to minnow. At tournaments these days almost everyone
plays some form of a 2/1 system and a forcing (or semi-forcing
notrump). It isn't that difficult; in fact, I think it is easier
than trying to bid playing "Goren" or whatever people call non 2/1
methods.
2/1 means many things. Some like to say "we play 2/1 with gadgets."
That just means they play a relatively modern system which includes
a game-forcing 2/1 bid, a forcing or semi-forcing notrump and any
number of other conventions, e.g. 4-suit transfers over 1NT; Bergen
raises; Drury; Inverted Minors, etc. etc.
For the next few months I will be writing on this subject. My first
objective is to cover the actual 2/1 bid itself along with a forcing
notrump. The one thing you must play if adapting a 2/1 system is
forcing or semi-forcing notrump. Most of the other stuff (like
Bergen, Drury, etc.) really has nothing to do with 2/1 per se and is
optional.
I have asked Larry Griffey and Candy Griffey to contribute and may
ask others. The purpose is to encourage interested developing
players to adopt a 2/1 structure and to give more experienced
players something to think about as
well.
There is quite a bit to cover. Also, it will do more harm than
good if you don't really understand what you are playing or try to
do too much too soon. On the other hand, an effective, active
bidding style can cover a lot of errors in play and defense. I
will also be glad to refer you to some other material.
And I think our web site has ways that you can ask questions via
email. That might be helpful.
E-mail Spike
(Posted April 27, 2005)
Last Updated:
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
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