On Friday 26-June 2009 a responder held:
AJ
109xx
Jx
KQ10xx
and heard partner open 1C in first seat. The next hand over-called 1D. Apparently there are THREE differing opinions about what to do with this. The actual responder made a negative double with only AJ in spades, poor hearts, and a great club fit. This might have worked but is totally flawed. Terry opines that 1H is best ... despite the lack of any top heart honor which will usually denote 5 or more H or heart strength. I feel that a 2D cue bid showing a sound raise to 3C (which is the hand you have) would never preclude partner from showing a secondary heart suit with 2H, and thus you would never miss a heart fit. You decide. A good 6C was missed at every table.

The range of opinions and methods when opening 2C and responding to it is so varied it defies description. I've seen balanced 18 counts opened 2C and in the face of opposition bidding rebid 3H on AJ10x! (By chance??? he found his partner hold SIX hearts!) Some of the things I have heard have me reaching for the Tylenol (Paracetamol) bottle. When during a practice session at Janne Roos's home a responder passed after 2C, 2D, 2S (opponents passing throughout) holding Qxx of spades and an 8 count of reasonable strength it was all I could do to keep from falling off my chair! Naturally the contract made 5. The other opinion of this particular responder was that with a positive response one must go through 2D first. WHY? Get it in early and allow for more bidding room to explore the best game/slam! Positive responses guarantee game at least and the partnership can use sensible auctions to explore further options. Unless of course you open 2C on balanced 18s.

Grumpy Paul