There are some small changes in announcing and alerting that come into force on 1st August 2013.
The following is a brief summary of the changes most likely to affect Windermere players.
Announcing
An opening bid of 2NT is henceforth to be announced (e.g. by saying '20-22')
As a response to an opening bid of 2NT, simple Stayman and transfers are also announced. For example:
2NT – 3§ is announced 'Stayman'
2NT – 3¨ is announced 'Hearts'
(Note: 5-card Stayman must be alerted)
Alerting
The only real change is that now some calls above 3NT are alerted.
The one most likely to affect Windermere players is as follows:
Artificial suit bids above 3NT made on the first round of the auction are alerted.
(The first round of the auction is defined as the first bid and the next three calls).
e.g. 1ª - pass - 4§ (splinter) or pass - pass - 1ª - pass - 4§ (splinter). In both cases 4§ is alerted.
Regular partnerships needing more detailed information should consult the new Blue Book (Handbook of EBU Permitted Understandings) – this replaces the Orange Book. The Blue Book can be downloaded from the EBU website:
http://www.ebu.co.uk/laws-and-ethics/publications
Reminder
Assuming you play transfers then:
1NT – 2¨ is announced as 'hearts'
1NT – 2© is announced as 'spades'
Please note that you only say the one word. You must not say anything else. It is wrong to say 'transfer …'
Also, remember that you do not announce artificial bids, such as Benji 2§ or 2¨. These are alerted.
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