"Where's Waldo?" by Marti Ronemus

Is there anyone among us who hasn't gnashed their teeth in frustration looking at a "Where's Waldo?" puzzle? This year, Englishman Martin Handford's endearingly nerdy little guy is 30 years old, so let's celebrate! It takes Martin a minimum of eight weeks to complete a puzzle which has between 3-500 characters and 20 sight gags.

Waldo has world-wide fame. In fact, the 2011 Street Performance World Championships held in Dublin was won by 3872 people dressed as Waldo. Can you picture it? AND!! There's now a Google Earth game to find him.

The only thing harder to find than Waldo is the perfect bid. Let's get to work.

Question 1

Your Hand
♠ A J 10
♥ 8 7 6
♦ A 10 9 5 2
♣ K 8

Q: 1 - As South, what would you bid?

South	West	North	East
-	pass	1♦	4♥
?

A: 5♦: Normally we don't like game in a minor without a singleton, void or note from our mother. But we have no choice. We can't allow East's valiant attempt to steal our contract succeed. We have a partner who opened the bidding, at least a nine card trump fit, and an opening hand of our own.

Your result so far:

Open Question

Question 2

Your Hand
♠ A
♥ Q 9 6 5 3 2
♦ A J 2
♣ A Q 2

Q: 2 - As South, what would you bid?

South	West	North	East
-	1♠	2♥	pass
?

A: 6♥: While advanced players might cue-bid to find out more about partner's hand, we're a fan of direct action. You know Pard's overcall promises a Darn Good Suit, 5 cards and serious honors. He would never overcall a suit without the ace or king. You've got 17 HCP opposite Pard's opener, and you've got an 11 card trump fit. Plus, don't you just love that ♠A? Live a little!

Your result so far:

Open Question

Question 3

Your Hand
♠ 3 2
♥ K 5 3
♦ 5 4 3 2
♣ A Q J 10

Q: 3 - As South, what would you bid?

South	West	North	East
-	-	-	1♠
pass	2♠	3♥	pass
?

A: 4♥: Partner was willing to enter the auction at the three-level, after you passed. He's not only got an independent suit (one he's willing to play opposite a singleton), but a nice hand. He isn't expecting a hand as nice as yours, so take this to game. He'll thank you.

Your result so far:

Open Question

Question 4

Your Hand
♠ J 9 8 3
♥ Q J 10 9
♦ 2
♣ Q 4 3 2

Q: 4 - As South, what would you bid?

South	West	North	East
-	-	1♦	pass
1♥	2♣	2♥	3♣
?

A: Pass: Sometimes discretion is the better part of valor. You've got a hand that quacks, plus you already told your story. You have nothing extra. If this auction is to continue, it's not your job. Once you limit your hand, you should not (usually) bid again unless requested to or required to by your partner. If he has extra, he'll take action.

Your result so far:

Open Question

Question 5

Your Hand
♠ J 8 7 6
♥ 3 2
♦ 4 3 2
♣ K 4 3 2

Q: 5 - As South, what would you bid?

South	West	North	East
-	1♥	2♠	4♥
?

A: 4♠: The Law of Total Tricks enters into this bid. Your partner only has 5-9 HCP and you've got 4. Chances are the opponents have at least game, and likely slam. You and partner have a ten-card trumps fit. If ever there were a time to put your head on the chopping block, this would be it. Plus, "no contract is too high when your partner has to play it."

Ready for a hand with some tough choices?

Your result so far:

Open Question

Play this Hand

Now that you've bid five hands, let's see how your play goes.

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Overall Results

Your results: out of Average:

What next? You may enjoy playing our prepared hands series.
More informations on our website: www.VuBridge.com

Rate yourself:

0 - 40%	We applaud your effort. Review the subject and try again. You'll be surprised how much better you'll do. We're here for you!!
41 - 50%	Buy your mentor a cuppa and ask for clarification on the ones you got wrong. No mentor? Make finding one a priority!
51 - 60%	Nice improvement! One more review and you'll have this down solid!
61 - 80%	What a good job! All that's left is some fine tuning
Over 80%	Wow! It's time for you to become a mentor. Find someone who needs help and share your knowledge!