Bridge | 5 July 2018

The Hubert Phillips is a knockout tournament unlike any other. First it is mixed — there has to be at least one male and one female playing at all times. Second, the scoring is total points (honours count). And lastly everyone plays a set with each of his/her teammates. Rubber bridge, in effect. This year’s final was between Susanna’s team (captained by Paula Leslie) and Brian Senior’s. Brian’s squad — four internationals — were probably favourites, and not just because they knocked us out! Susanna was playing with lovely Graham Orsmond when they bid and made slam on this hand. It doesn’t require any fancy squeezes or coups but it does need care and thought to guarantee bringing it home safely. Susanna did just that:
 
North’s 2NT was Jacoby (GF with at least 4 spades) and South’s 3♣ showed shortage — music to Graham’s ears. He bid RKC Blackwood and they were off to the races.