[ggwhiz]

As a Bridge teacher, I used to play in these on occasion to keep in touch with the up and comers. I also recommended them to my students as a way to find compatible partners.

Since going to 4 minutes per hand, my instincts are that a lot of beginners and intermediates can no longer play. The standard of play from those that do beat the clock has become frightening.

I hope the stats are being monitored should a re-think be in order.

[jillybean]

ggwhiz, on 2011-April-04, 10:09, said:

Since going to 4 minutes per hand, my instincts are that a lot of beginners and intermediates can no longer play. The standard of play from those that do beat the clock has become frightening.

I think if you are wanting to improve your play you should just avoid speedballs, regardless of your skill level.

[ggwhiz]

jillybean, on 2011-April-04, 14:18, said:

I think if you are wanting to improve your play you should just avoid speedballs, regardless of your skill level.

The minutes allowed per hand used to be adequate for the beginner/intermediate crowd and now they (may) have nothing (ACBL) to play in.

[Bbradley62]

ggwhiz, on 2011-April-04, 16:02, said:

The minutes allowed per hand used to be adequate for the beginner/intermediate crowd and now they (may) have nothing (ACBL) to play in.

ACBL game #1684, to start in 15 minutes, is a pairs game with 12 boards in 84 minutes.

[jillybean]

ggwhiz, on 2011-April-04, 16:02, said:

The minutes allowed per hand used to be adequate for the beginner/intermediate crowd and now they (may) have nothing (ACBL) to play in.

I see your point however while some hands I'm sure can be bid, planned and played in 5-6minutes many are going to take more time. B/I's already play too fast and are often told to slow down, think, plan, re-plan and reevaluate, I can't do this while under the time pressure of a speedball. I think speedballs are fun but they don't promote good bridge habits.