Re: Newbie Acol Bidding Explanation

"Hans Georg Schaathun" <georg@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message 
news:slrng1dndt.mv2.georg@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> On Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:05:50 +0100, David Stevenson
>  <bridge2@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:
> Very well explained.  Thank you.
>
> It is not clear to me if OP refers to opener or to responder.
> In the first system(s) I learnt, the rule also applies to opener.
> I understand that most Acol players would prefer to open hearts
> with 4-4, and spades if they don't have hearts.  Does anyone have
> an opinion of the chief pros and cons with each approach?
>

I think it is best not to have a rule but to open whichever is best for
the 
hand you have and the way the bidding is likely to progress.

Generally I open the major as it has some pre-emptive value (more
difficult 
to overcall 2D or 2H than 1D or 1H) and also if the oppo pre-empt I prefer

to have told partner of my major rather than my minor.

However I open the minor first if any of these are true:
1. I have a very good hand and 6C/6D may be the best contract in a 4-4 fit

(you never miss the major fit doing this by can miss the minor fit if you 
start with the major)
2. I have a good minor and weak major and there is some chance we will
lose 
the auction (I want partner to lead my better suit)
3. I expect to win the auction in 3N a lot of the time and I am trying to 
mastermind the best lead.