[Dean]

Hi

A long time ago I read of opening of 2NT to show a limited hand with diamonds.
All I can remember is that
2NT
3♣ ®
3♦ = min, now 3♥ relays
3♥ and higher = max exact shape.

Anyone have anymore details?

Thanks
Dean

[straube]

I'm assuming 2N denies a 4-card major. Is that right?

My guess is that...

2N-3C
.....3D-weak
...........3H-shows 5 hearts (not a relay)
...........3S-shows 5 spades (not a relay)
.....3H-max, 3 spades
..........3S-five hearts
.....3S-max, 3 hearts, denies 3 spades
.....3N-denies a major suit fragment

2N-3M-shows 6-cards and is forcing

After 2N, you don't have enough room to relay all of opener's shapes before 3N. Aside from the logic of not wanting to pass 3N, the system drafters gave you a big clue that they're less interested in opener's shape than his strength because this is the first question that is addressed. It's the right first question.

You basically have to use an ask and not so much a relay, and your ask has to emphasize strength and major suit holdings.

I think this is a bad use of 2N because you've preempted yourself from adequately describing a good hand.

As an aside, I have friends who use 2D (showing diamonds)-3C as an asking bid. They hate their results but won't be persuaded to use 2H as an asking bid.

[paulg]

Garvey and Cooke play (or used to play)

3♣=relay with inv+ values, then
.....3♦ = minimum
.....3M = splinter
.....3NT = max balanced or 3361

3♦ = to play
3M = invitational, non-forcing
4♣ = to play

Their convention card can be seen on the BGB site (PDF).