Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 1

Spring 2011 / Issue 36 THETHE ANDREWANDREW RROBSONOBSON BBRIDGERIDGE CCLUBLUB MAGAZINEMAGAZINE

Holidays for 2011 include: Sandbanks Dubrovnik Bonus Millstream weekend Includes Spring 2011 NEW Lesson Conventions flipper, and Playing Rules, Acronyms and Ditties book Schedules Defence book

t: 020 7471 4626 www.arobson.co.uk Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 2 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 3

Contents Sections Lesson & Playing Schedules Club Dates p 3 Beginning Bridge at ARBC p 14 Editorial p 4 - 5 Lesson Flow Guide p 15 Club Photos p 12 - 13 Lesson Information p 16 - 18 Lesson & Club Programme p 14 - 26 Course Form p 19 ARBC Holidays p 30 - 35 Membership Form p 20 Club Shop p 36 - 42 How to get to ARBC p 21 Lesson Schedule p 22 Features Playing Schedule p 23 Holiday to Malta p 6 Session Information p 24 - 25 ARBC at Notting Hill Harbour Club p 7 Standing Order Form p 26 Children’s Bridge p 7 Tournament Roundup p 8 - 9 Guide to p 10 Ideas for Christmas presents p 11 Rule of Eleven p 28 Poems p 29 Dates For Your Diary 4th - 5th December 2010 Beginner Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 11th - 12th December 2010 Advanced Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 17th December 2010 Christmas Chicago Party (Free) From 18.00 20th - 22nd December 2010 Children’s Bridge 10.30 -12.30 & 13.30 - 15.30 24th Dec 2010 - 3rd Jan 2011 Club Closed 4th January 2011 Club Reopens 15th – 22nd January 2011 Hotel Alpina, Klosters 19th January 2011 Open Evening 18.00 - 19.15 19th January 2011 Taster Session For Beginners 18.30 - 19.45 4th – 6th February 2011 Millstream Weekend 5th - 6th February 2011 Beginner Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 12th - 13th February 2011 Intermediate Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 26th - 27th February 2011 Next Step Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 5th - 6th March 2011 Improver Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 18th – 20th March 2011 Millstream Weekend 19th - 20th March 2011 Advanced Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 26th - 27th March 2011 Improver Play Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 2nd - 3rd April 2011 Beginner Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 12th - 15th April 2011 Sandbanks Midweek Break 27th April 2011 Open Evening 18.00 - 19.15 27th April 2011 Taster Session For Beginners 18.30 - 19.45 7th - 8th May 2011 Next Step Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 14th May 2011 Spring Teams Championship 11.00 - 16.00 21st - 22nd May 2011 Beginner Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 4th - 5th June 2011 Intermediate Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 11th - 12th June 2011 Improver Weekend 10.00 - 16.30 10th - 17th September 2011 Dubrovnik Summer Holiday

How to contact us : ARBC, 31 Parsons Green Lane, SW6 4HH T: 020 7471 4626 E: [email protected] W: www.arobson.co.uk Editor : Andrew, Design: Printalicious, Holidays: Jack Stocken Front Cover: Sandbanks, Dorset Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 4

Andrew’s Editorial As the year draws to a but if you wish to move up to Richard’s close we can reflect on concurrent ever-popular (and rightly so) Gentle many happy memories at Duplicate – where there is a ranking list and a ARBC and look forward to prize-winner each week, then Richard will be many more to come. delighted to have you. Thank you to all of you members for making 31 The only other small change to the Parsons Green such a schedule concerns the start-time of the happy environment; and I Tuesday afternoon duplicate. Because we are would like to take this playing 24 boards in our afternoon duplicates opportunity to thank my these days, we are bringing forward the start fantastic team for making it all possible. time from 14.00 to 13.30 when we reopen in January. This will mean that all our afternoon To Caroline, who is one-in-a-million with duplicates now start at 13.30 (bar Friday – her incredible energy and enthusiasm; to which starts at 13.00 to enable you to escape Paddy who has single-handedly made Friday London for the weekend before the rush hour). night Chicago into such a relaxed, friendly session people travel from miles around to I have devised a full programme of lessons attend; to Martin who’s genial presence is a for the new year, with all regular courses on huge calming influence; to Grazyna, who lights offer and every course (up to Advanced) with up any room; to David whose brilliant, clear both daytime and evening options. As usual, we teaching attracts such a devoted following; to are flexible and happy for you to change your Nick whose clear-headed organisational mind time slot within each course to suit your is invaluable; to Richard, natural-born teacher schedule, even come to the missed lesson on a and entertainer supreme; to Lorna H, whose future term. Highlighting a few options, presence both at the Club and at the many Richard is teaching the Big Four Conventions weekends and holidays she helps to run with on selected Mondays and also he is teaching a Jack, is such a positive one; to Natasha, who four-week Beginner in January on Tuesday has such a wonderful calm, positivity and the evenings for those (currently) non-bridge gift of communication; and to all the other staff friends to act early on a New Year’s Resolution. – Pip, Heather, Marina, Lena, Sergei, plus Exact class times, dates and all other details Nicky our fabulous bookkeeper, to name but are on pages 14-18. some – for their very important parts. I have been delighted with the fantastic Always seeking to offer more to you and in response to my new Conventions Flipper. I am response to the success of the Supervised biased, but I cannot think of many better Gentle Duplicate (SGD) on Thursday evenings, stocking fillers; even those experienced we are introducing a daytime Supervised bridge-playing friends of yours will I am sure Gentle Duplicate. This will take place on benefit from the eight-page section on winning Thursday afternoons 14.00 – 16.30 (alongside Duplicate Pairs tactics. Talking of stocking the Gentle Duplicate). SGD really is for all, a fillers, we are now selling two of our branded confidence-engendering session where you ARBC packs of cards in an elegant leather box can enjoy the challenge of Duplicate Bridge, – for just £15. Bookwise, in addition to my moving from table to table and meeting new recent books on & the Losing people, but in a supremely relaxed way, able to Trick Count plus the one on Defence, my new receive help with every bid and play, able to one is: “Rules, Acronyms and Ditties”. What play as slowly or quickly as you wish and with are the Rules of One to 20? How is learning the no pressure of an overall ranking list. The ditty Every Responsible Dad Cooks Supper dream team of Grazyna, Lorna and Martin will going to help your game? All this and much be there to ensure you have a fabulous and more (for a fiver). Finally, so many of you have rewarding time. You can play in the SGD for said so many nice things about my DVD Play months or years (we have no plans to stop it); Modern Bridge that a follow up – Improve your

4 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 5

cont.. Modern Bridge – is very much on the cards. All There is still much happening at the Club being well, there will be some filming early in before Christmas. Our free Christmas Chicago the year. For more information on our shop, Party is as usual on the last Friday before we see pages 36 to 42. close for Christmas (17th December) and I hope to see as many of you as possible for We have had our first year of bridge at the some fun bridge with party hats on. Then from Notting Hill Harbour Club; Natasha’s classes December 20th-22nd we will run our more and are flourishing; and in response to demand we more popular Children’s bridge. Natasha and I are making some changes to Wednesday’s look forward to welcoming any children from bridge – a Supervised Gentle Duplicate aged eight upwards, complete beginners plus (replacing the regular Duplicate) will begin in those who’ve played. I know my children January. We hope those of you and your friends Hannah (10) and Mimi (8) look forward to the who live in North and North West London will sessions (and being taught by Daddy – that take advantage. More details on page 7. may not last forever!). Then we break for Christmas and New Year as usual – and will be Jack, Annabel and Lorna H have tons of shut from 24th December, reopening on 4th exciting Holidays for you: Klosters, Dubrovnik, January. Sandbanks, returns to Bosham’s Millsteam including an extra weekend on March 18th- Thank you all again for your wonderful 20th. Demand for our holidays has never been support for the Club, for helping to make it greater and there are waiting lists for some. So such a uniquely happy place, don’t dally! Ring Jack today to book a place. Jack’s Holiday pages are from 30-35 and Lorna’s most amusing write-up of the (by all accounts epic) trip to Malta is on page 6.

With the days getting colder and Christmas fast approaching, it is time to start thinking about where to celebrate the Festive cheer.

The team at the White Horse would love to welcome you for a relaxed and filling lunch on Christmas Day.

If you have any questions, please pop in and pick up a Christmas Party Package, which details our Christmas Day Menu.

It can also be found at our website www.whitehorsesw6.com

We look forward to seeing you,

All the best,

The White Horse

1-3 Parsons Green London, SW6 4UL Tel: 020 77362115 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 6

Holiday to Malta By Lorna H

This year our summer holiday took us to the the old Capital Medina which was brilliant – A island of Malta – staying at the very comfortable delicious lunch accompanied both these tours – Raddison Blu Hotel about 20 minutes from the some of us finding it hard to leave for the second capital Valetta. We were 27 strong – some new phase of the day…. We now all seem to be well faces and many familiar which made for a very up to speed on the famous Knights of Malta – happy and fun group. Our guide was fantastic – charming and certainly knew her stuff.

The bridge was always well attended – and we had some fun testing lessons and hands compiled by Andrew. We found an outdoor patio/balcony to hold our Chicago bridge sessions overlooking the pool and sea which was lovely, and our bridge room for our duplicate and lessons was spacious and light.

There were numerous swimming pools to choose from – the newly formed ARBC swimming club chose the fresh water outdoor pool for our before breakfast swim – and then the beautiful clear sea for later on. There was such a large garden area that it was easy to find a quiet spot on one’s own with a book if that’s what took one’s fancy. Also a fun beach/pool restaurant – ‘The Edge’ featured strongly for a snack lunch between bridge sessions.

We were blessed with brilliant weather, but most of all terrific participants who really made it a memorable – enjoyable experience. I for one There were two optional excursions – one to would love to go again…….. the port of Valetta and one which took us up to

6 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 7

Harbour Club

We are much enjoying running Bridge here, Schedule for 2011 never wishing to take you away from ARBC Central in Parsons Green but offering those in Wednesdays Bridge Play North and West London a more convenient

alternative. It is a delightful playing area and 10.00-12.00 Supervised Bridge. (Note slightly later time). many happy times have been had. We are 13.00-15.00 Supervised Gentle Duplicate. continuing in the New Year, with a couple of Help with every bid and play in a non- minor changes – you have voted with your feet! competitive environment (no ranking list). All welcome, especially the less experienced.

Thursdays Lessons with Natasha

09.30 – 11.10 Intermediate Play 11.20 – 12.50 Intermediate 13.20 – 14.50 Beginner

Dates: January 20th – March 24th missing 10th and 24th February

Children’s Bridge with Andrew and Natasha Dates: 20th - 22nd December (times: 10.30-12.30 & 13.30-15.30)

• Suitable for eight years old and above Fulham Roofing • Complete beginners or those who’ve played before all welcome • Come to as many or as few sessions as you like • Biscuits and squash during sessions and lunch if they stay morning and afternoon All aspects of roofing • Andrew, Natasha and the other helpers will work undertaken. ensure your child has and fun and worthwhile time, learning a skill that will be invaluable throughout life. Free Quotation

Call Michael on 020 7371 0478

Cost: £20 per Session 101A Harwood Road, SW6 4QL Please book in with Lorna on 020 7471 4626

7 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 8

Tournament Round up By Andrew The Lederer – Victory for ARBC Not only did Alexander (2nd time in 3 years), East opened a heart, my partner doubled and David (3rd time in 8 years) and Andrew (7th time West raised to 2♥. Sensing that my partner in 13 years) – with Peter Crouch and Tony didn’t have five spades (with five he may have Forrester – win the prestigious Lederer overcalled), I opted for a bid of 4NT to show both Memorial Trophy; but also Martin and Pip won minor suits, drawing 5♣ from partner. Pip didn’t the Lederer Play with the Stars competition at take long to wrap up 11 tricks – he eventually ARBC’s heat...let Martin take over... took the club through West after the lead of a low heart to the Ace and the diamond Ace The Lederer at the ARBC 30th October 2010 was cashed. Needing East to hold the spade by Martin King, he put the club Queen with West to make The Saturday Afternoon game at the club has up the points for the raise to 2♥. In the club, grown considerably over the last couple of years making 5♣ was worth all the matchpoints. I thanks to Nick’s care and attention, and is now hope the complementary glass of champagne regularly attracting 9 or 10 tables. If you want to that we all enjoyed later was of some see Martin’s cappuccino making skills or try a consolation to Lesley and Cathy, our opponents salad Lorna Heaton style, then make 1.45pm on on this hand! Saturday a regular date in your diary. Whilst the big guns (including Andrew, David and We move to Tonbridge Wells – same weekend... Zia) were elsewhere playing in the main Whilst the Lederer was treating ARBC kindly, competition, the club takes part in the annual events a little further afield, in Tonbridge Wells satellite competition to enable us to pit our skills were being equally kind. Our own Nick, against the experts. partnering regular Club member Andrew Cairns, Playing with Pip, we were fortunate to run won the Pairs, a really fine achievement. They out winners of the Teltscher Cup, following on led from the front, playing at Table One from Denis Bennett and Patti Gamble’s success throughout the day. Here is a deal in which Nick last year. Judge for yourselves whether this hand as South made an instructive Five Diamond shows good judgement or the luck you always contract: need at the table to get a very high score. (ed. they got over 70%) Dealer South♠ A 8 6 5 3 Neither Vul ♥ 9 6 4 Dealer East♠ J 8 3 East-West Vul ♦ A 6 ♥ 2 ♣ A Q 2 K 9 6 5 4 ♦ K Q J 4 10 9 7 2 ♣ A J 7 6 ♠ ♠ ♥ 8 7 3 N ♥ A K Q 10 5 ♠ 10 5 4 ♠ K 7 2 W E N ♦ 5 3 ♦ 2 ♥ K 10 9 7 4 ♥ A Q J 8 6 5 ♣ J 9 4 3 S ♣ K 8 7 ♦ 7 3 W E ♦ A 10 8 ♣ Q 10 9 S ♣ 8 ♠ - ♠ A Q 9 6 ♥ J 5 ♥ 3 ♦ K Q J 10 9 8 7 4 ♦ Q J 2 ♣ 10 6 5 ♣ K 5 4 3 2

South West North East South West North East ♥ (Pip) (Martin) 1 (Nick) (Andrew Cairns) ♥ (1) dbl 2 4NT pass 4♦(1) pass 5♦ end ♣ 5 end (1)Weak hand with good eight card suit. (1) Showing both minors. Contract: 5♦, : ♠K Contract: 5♣ , Opening Lead: ♥10

8 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 9

Cont...

West led the king of spades, Nick winning South West North East dummy’s ace (throwing a heart) and ruffing a (Andrew) pass pass second spade (but not with the four). He then led 4♥(1) end that preserved four to dummy’s six and trumped (1)Unorthodox attempt to win points, with much a third spade. He crossed to the ace of trumps potential for egg-on-face. and ruffed a fourth spade, pleased to see both Contract: 4♥, Opening Lead: ♣ A opponents follow to reveal the 4-4 fit. He could cross to the ace of clubs and cash the promoted fifth spade, discarding the other heart loser. 11 As South the bidding went pass-pass to me. tricks and game made, losing just two clubs Normal would be to open 1♥ [I dislike opening when a late club to dummy’s queen lost to East’s my shorter suit in these situations, even if it will king. make rebidding easier; open 1♠ and rebid 2♥ Meanwhile, on Sunday in the Pairs, the team and you might find partner giving you false of our own David, regular Club members Nick preference back to spades and ending up in a Irens and Espen Erichsen, plus occasional visitor silly 5-2 spade fit instead of a 6-3 heart fit]. Norman Selway, won the Teams. Prepared to look ridiculous (not for the first time David had the very unusual distinction of I can assure you) if teammates were doing well, winning two events on the same day – having your columnist tried 4♥. played a vital role in the Lederer-winning team No one doubled (good!) and West naturally on the Saturday, before moving to Tonbridge led out two top clubs, declarer ruffing. It looks as Wells to apply the magic touch there too. though there are four tricks to lose. The only Now we rewind a couple of months... hope is to sneak past the king of diamonds. When to do it? Brighton Teams Now! At trick three I led the king of I will remember the 2010 Brighton Teams for diamonds, hoping it would appear that I was one deal – the very last of the qualifying rounds. trying to lose it to the ace, giving me access to It appeared as though we needed a good result; dummy’s diamonds and perhaps a chance to coasting to a place in the top eight “A” Final a finesse in trumps or spades. couple of hours earlier, we had lost our previous Look at things from West’s perspective. If I two matches 13-7 and 17-3 and, needing to win held ♠Ax, ♥KQJ10xxxx, ♦Kx, ♣ x or similar, this match about 14-6, things were not going too winning the king of diamonds with the ace would well. be fatal (access to two diamond winners). West, entirely reasonably, ducked. Dealer North North-South Vul Phew. I could now drive out the ace-king of trumps and make my vulnerable game, the ♠ Q 9 6 opposing South resting safely in a heart part- ♥ 9 5 ♦ Q J 9 5 3 score. ♣ 10 8 6 Another day my recklessness would have cost my team a place in the “A” Final, snatching ♠ 10 7 5 N ♠ 4 3 ♥ defeat from the jaws of victory. Here I am 7 4 W E ♥ A K 8 ♦ A 4 2 ♦ 10 8 7 6 pleased to say it was the . We won the ♣ S A K Q J 2 ♣ 9 7 5 4 match 13-7, scraped into the “A” Final on a split ♠ A K J 8 2 ♥ Q J 10 6 3 2 tie, then emerged victorious the following day. ♦ K ♣ 3

9 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 10

Guide to Duplicate Bridge Duplicate Pairs Key Idea Almost all Tournament and Club Bridge is Duplicate. It is mostly “Pairs”1, where you compete as a partnership. The principle of Pairs is ingenious: by the end of the session everybody will have played the same hands, thus reducing the luck element of the game.

1In “Teams” you compete as four players, one pair sitting North-South at one table, the other East-West at the other table. Playing a “” Pick out your cards (pre-dealt, typically by a computer) from the pocket closest to you and note the colour of your name (North, South, East or West): if green, your side is non-vulnerable, if red your side is vulnerable. Bid the deal, preferably using bidding boxes. Leave the bids out until the opening lead is made, then, as dummy is tabled, put the bids back, keeping the board in the middle of the table (reminding you who dealt, who is vulnerable and avoiding the temptation to throw your cards in the middle). Play each card just in front of you, turning the card over at the conclusion of the trick: vertically if your side has won the trick, horizontally if your side has lost the trick. [Think “stand up in victory, lie down in defeat”]. At the end of play, all four players return their cards to the appropriate pocket in the board/wallet.

The Traveller At the end of each board, North reaches for the “Traveller”2 – the piece of paper to be found at the back of the board. It is North’s job to enter the score correctly – and clearly – on the top available line of the Traveller. It should now be checked by East-West. 2Or Bridgemate / other electronic scorer The Movement After playing a “round” (of typically two or three “boards”, partnerships sitting “North-South” typically stay stationary (where they will remain for the session). “East-West” partnerships move to the next higher numbered table whilst the boards move to the next lower numbered table. [Don’t worry – the “Director” will look after everything]. Scoring Your score is compared to the scores of all other pairs sitting in your direction. You win two “matchpoints” for each score your beat and one matchpoint for each tie. Beat all scores – even by just 10 points – and you have a “Top”; conversely, lose to all scores and you have a “Bottom”. Beat as many pairs as you lose to and you have an “Average” or “Middle”. Calculating your Score Bonuses EXAMPLES Contract Made Non Vul Vul Tricks Part Score 3z + 1 = 80 + 50 : 130 Part Score 50 50 Tricks Game Game 300 500 4{ Non Vul = 120 + 300 : 420 Small Slam 500 750 Tricks Game Small Slam 6 Vul = 180 + 500 + 750 : Grand Slam 1000 1500 x 1430

Defeated contracts (undoubled or doubled) score as . Tip: The bidding boxes can help. For a contract made, look on that bid to give the score. For a contract defeated,look on the back of the Pass card (undoubled contract ) or the back of the Double card (doubled contract). Sample Travellers

Board One (Neither Side Vulnerable) Board Two (North-South Vulnerable, East-West Non Vulnerable) Pair No. Score Matchpoints Pair No. Score Matchpoints NS EW Contract By Tricks NS EW NS EW NS EW Contract By Tricks NS EW NS EW 1 1 3NT N 10 430 5 1 1 1 3x W 9 140 4 2 50 (part score) +90 (contract tricks) 2 2 3NT N 9 400 2 4 300 (non-vul game) 2 2 3{ N 8 100 6 0 +30 (overtrick) + 100 (contract tricks) 3 3 3{x1 N 8 200 0 6 3 3 3NT S 8 50 0 6 + 30 (overtrick) = 170 4 4 3NT N 10 430 5 1 4 4 3x W 10 170 2 4 = 430 1X = Double

Notice how important the overtrick is – NS Pair 2 got a “second Bottom”. E-W’s double of 3{ at Table 3 turned a Bottom (see EW 2) into a Top.

Z5REVRQ·V $QGUH WLRQV &RQYHQ ate Pairs Tactics Winning Duplicate Pairs tactics g Duplic %ULGJH)OLSSHU section on winnin Includes t k Coun ing Tric Los wood . yman Black 1 Sta ey Card 2. man K plus all Andrew’s favourite Conventions o R rs Warning 3. Splinte 2NT 4. Jacoby ame ids for G 5. Trial B Slam ids for ids 6. Trial B Cue B owing Duplicate 7. ce-sh A wos 8. Weak T All Andrew’s ers and how to play them sf onven- 9. Tran ouble e C 0. tive D g or 1 Nega it Forcin favourit ially f 11. urth Su ue Bid spec is Addictive Fo g C sumin s – e ers 12. as tion e Play 13. Undouble aises Duplicat 14. Reandy r-Suit R L d Mino 15. Inverte . haels 16 Mic otrump 7. al N 1 Unusu p n 8. ak Jum rventio 1 We ith Inte 9. ping w ing 1 Co e Bidd 20. Protectiv icks f Total Tr 21. Law o tion ment Evalua Judge 22. and idding ction -level B trodu 23. HHigh airs – In . ate P coring ble 24 plic airs – S to Dou . Du ate P When ce 25 Duplic s (1) – to Sacrifi g Tactic When Biddin 26. Pairs s (2) – tested £10 . Tactic Uncon idding 27 Pairs s (3) – sted B . Tactic Conte y 28 Pairs s (4) – rer Pla www.arobson.co.uk t:020 7471 4626 ctic cla 29. airs Ta ) – De P ctics (5 fence jors 30. airs Ta ) – De rd Ma £10 P actics (6 d Five-ca rew 31. Pairs T mp an y And NoTru pers b 32. Strong nd Flip ns ooks a nventio Copyright 2010 33. ther B 0 Co O ’s Top 1 34. ndrew 35. A

10 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 11

Three Christmas Bridgey Ideas

ARBC cards in leather case. Beautiful crafted leather case with two brand new ARBC packs. A lovely present for any player.

Conventions flipper. A real winner devised painstakingly by Andrew. A must for duplicate players.

Defence book. A real gem from Andrew, outlining the key strategies to revolutionise your defence. Andrew has been called the

best defender in the world. Defence Defence Assimilate his advice and catch him up.

11 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 12

Club Photos

ARBC Autumn Teams Winners with Caroline ARBC Autumn Gentle Teams winners with Caroline

Nick & Andrew Cairns Andrew & Kerrick Macafee

Iain & Nuala Mcgourty Francoise Sabharwal & Marion Barnard

Lucy & Shaun Paterson Sasha Balabanovic & Shirley Ingham

12 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 13

Club Photos

Tanny Gordon Hillary Fallon Martha Milliken & Ros Richards

Paola Nanni & Renee Medney Penny Burrough & John Eagle Nick Irens & Espen Erichsen

Tim Broughton Pipkin Jackie Stewart-Jones Lesley Turnbull & Barbara Calcutt

13 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 14

Beginning Bridge at ARBC

Why Learn Bridge? Whether aged 8 or 88, Bridge is the best way to keep your brain agile, whilst making new like-minded friends. It is an endlessly stimulating game and great to learn. Seize the moment – start now!

Why Learn at ARBC? Recognised leaders in our field, we specialise in teaching from absolute scratch, taking things slowly enough for everyone to get the hang of it, but keeping things moving, as you will be dying to get to the next stage. Andrew may be a World and European Champion, but he has taught many thousands of Beginners over the past twenty years. By making things practical, he knows exactly how to make the game as easy as possible to learn, and, most importantly, he and his team make it fun!

FREE Taster Sessions Next date: 18.30-19.45 on Wednesday 19th January £155 for our eight-class Beginner Course represents fantastic value – especially as it includes Free Club Membership, plus a folder and clear handouts with each class. But if you have any doubts, come to one of our optional three-times yearly Taster sessions. These sessions will give you a flavour - and we are sure you will not look back.

Beginner Course Starting from absolute scratch and assuming no knowledge, Beginner gives the perfect introduction to Bridge. After this course you will say a confident “Yes” when asked if you can play the game! Free Club membership until Easter 2011 included. The next course is Next Step. Beginner Courses coming up…

BEGINNER Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Tuesday 09.45 - 11.15 11.30 - 13.00 20.30 - 22.00 18.35 - 20.05 FOUR WEEK EIGHT WEEK David Natasha David Andrew Tuesday 1. Getting Started 25th Jan 26th Jan 26th Jan 1st Feb 19.00 - 22.00 2. Playing Bridge 2nd Feb 2nd Feb 8th Feb Richard 1st Feb 3. Introducing Notrumps 8th Feb 16th Feb* 9th Feb 15th Feb Lesson 1 4th Jan 4. The Play - Making Tricks 15th Feb 23rd Feb 16th Feb 22nd Feb Lesson 2 11th Jan 5. Finding Fits & Bidding Game 22nd Feb 2nd March 23rd Feb 1st March Lesson 3 18th Jan 6. Notrump Bidding 1st March 9th March 2nd March 8th March Lesson 4 25th Jan 7. Bidding 8th March 16th March 9th March 15th March (Includes Buffet Supper) 8. Overcalling 29th March** 23rd March 23rd March* 22nd March Beginner in a Weekend - Spring 5th - 6th February 10.00 - 16.30 (Richard) Spring 2nd - 3rd April 10.00 - 16.30 (David) Summer 21st - 22nd May 10.00 - 16.30 (David)

* please note these weeks are not consecutive Andrew’s team of teachers – the best in the land ARBC has an unrivalled strength in depth of teachers, both in their excellence as players and, most importantly, as teachers of the game. Apart from Andrew himself, Daily Bridge Correspondent of The Times and teacher extraordinaire, there’s David, who possesses a rare talent: one of the World’s Top 100 players with many international successes under his belt, his clarity and communication skills are exceptional, as his large and devoted following will testify. There’s Caroline, whose enthusiasm knows no bounds; a class with her will put a smile on your face for a week, plus you’ll learn tons of exciting new Bridge. As indeed you will from Richard, Nick, both with national successes, and Natasha. All have never-ending keenness to impart their wisdom.

14 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 15

Lesson Flow Guide

Beginner

Next Step

You can play an enjoyable social game

Intermediate

Intermediate Play

You’re confident with the basic moves... have you had a go at Supervised Gentle Duplicate yet?

Improver

Improver Play

You know all the basic conventions and strategies. Time for Gentle Duplicate and on... you’ll then be hungry for ...

Advanced

Advanced Play Advanced Defence

Caroline’s Conventions

David’s Delights

15 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 16

Lesson Information

Our Courses • All courses last for eight weeks (unless stated), once a week. • You must be a Club member to take a course. Free membership is included in the price for Beginner and Next Step. • All our weekly courses cost £155. • All courses are carefully constructed, fun, interactive and stimulating. • Whichever course you choose will make a huge difference to your Bridge, especially if it is backed up by practice in our many Supervised Rubber Bridge sessions.

Special Features • If you cannot make a lesson, come to that same lesson at another time (without letting us know). • You will receive clear handouts each week. • You will each receive a special ARBC folder, in which to put your notes.

Weekends • For those who prefer the intensive course, rather than the once-a-week approach, we teach the Beginner, Next Step, Intermediate, Improver, Improver Play and Advanced Courses in a weekend. Includes lunch both days, 10.00 - 16.30. Dates of all weekend courses now fixed until Summer 2011.

Next Step is an essential practical course, consolidating and extending the basic principles covered in Beginner. It is also suitable for those who have played some Bridge outside. Free Club membership until Easter 2011 included.

Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday NEXT STEP 09.45 - 11.15 18.45 - 20.15 12.00 - 13.30 20.15 - 21.45 Natasha David David Andrew 1. Notrump Play 26th Jan 26th Jan 27th Jan 1st Feb 2. Trump Play 2nd Feb 2nd Feb 3rd Feb 8th Feb 3. Bidding Unbalanced Hands 16th Feb* 9th Feb 10th Feb 15th Feb 4. Finding Fits 23rd Feb 16th Feb 17th Feb 22nd Feb 5. Overcalling 2nd March 23rd Feb 24th Feb 1st March 6. Opening Bids at the Three Level 9th March 2nd March 3rd March 8th March 7. The Opening Lead 16th March 9th March 24th March** 15th March 8. The Defence 23rd March 23rd March* 31st March 22nd March Next Step in a Weekend - Spring 26th - 27th February (David) Summer 7th - 8th May (David) Intermediate is our most popular course, Intermediate covers all basic aspects of the game. Many repeat it – and all say it was most worthwhile! Once you’ve finished Intermediate, give Supervised Gentle Duplicate a try – help with every bid and play whilst moving around meeting new people.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday INTERMEDIATE 20.30 - 22.00 11.30 - 13.00 13.00 - 14.30 18.35 - 20.05 David David Andrew Andrew 1. Bidding as Opener 24th Jan 25th Jan 2nd Feb 2nd Feb 2. Bidding as Responder 31st Jan 1st Feb 9th Feb 9th Feb 3. Making Tricks (1) with trumps 7th Feb 8th Feb 16th Feb 16th Feb 4. Making Tricks (2) without trumps 14th Feb 15th Feb 23rd Feb 23rd Feb 5. One Notrump 21st Feb 22nd Feb 2nd March 2nd March 6. Overcalling 28th Feb 1st March 9th March 9th March 7. The Opening Lead 7th March 8th March 16th March 16th March 8. The Defence 28th March** 29th March** 23rd March 23rd March Intermediate in a Weekend - Spring 12th - 13th February (Richard) Summer 4th - 5th June (Richard)

16 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 17

Lesson Information

Intermediate Play is the ideal follow-on from Intermediate. The play themes will link in with Intermediate, giving you the confidence to move forward. I’m sure this consolidation course will make a big difference to your game.

Monday Monday Tuesday INTERMEDIATE PLAY 18.35 - 20.20 14.00 - 15.45 11.00 - 12.45 David Richard Richard 1. Force 24th Jan 31st Jan 15th Feb 2. Length 31st Jan 7th Feb 22nd Feb 3. Position - The Finesse 7th Feb 14th Feb 1st March 4. Using Trumps 14th Feb 21st Feb 8th March 5. Overcalling and SQOT 21st Feb 28th Feb 15th March 6. Defending Notrump Contracts 28th Feb 7th March 22nd March 7. Defending Trump Contracts 7th March 14th March 29th March 8. Pot Pourri 28th March** 21st March 5th April

Improver features all the basic conventions to equip you for a decent game. I have noticed a huge rise in the level of those who have taken the course. There are six carefully constructed set deals per week.

Thursday Thursday Wednesday 10.00 - 11.45 18.35 - 20.20 14.45 - 16.30 IMPROVER David David Andrew 1. Uncontested Bidding Review 27th Jan 27th Jan 2nd Feb 2. Signalling in Defence 3rd Feb 3rd Feb 9th Feb 3. Stayman 10th Feb 10th Feb 16th Feb 4. Take-out Double 17th Feb 24th Feb* 23rd Feb 5. Penalty Double 24th Feb 3rd March 2nd March 6. Blackwood 3rd March 24th March** 9th March 7. Strong Twos 24th March** 31st March 16th March 8. Weak Threes 31st March 7th April 23rd March Improver in a Weekend - Spring 5th - 6th March (Richard) Summer 11th - 12th June (Richard)

Improver Play is a universally well-received course and practises the bidding themes of Improver, whilst introducing exciting and essential play themes to improve your game. Once you have completed the Improver Play course, you are well equipped to face the big wide world of ARBC Gentle Duplicate and beyond. Repeat viewing highly recommended, especially for course-junkies.

Tuesday Wednesday 13.15 - 15.00 20.15 - 22.00 IMPROVER PLAY Caroline Andrew 1. Signalling in Defence 25th Jan 2nd Feb 2. Finesse or Drop 1st Feb 9th Feb 3. Retaining the finesse position 8th Feb 16th Feb 4. Throwing Losers 22nd Feb* 23rd Feb 5. Setting up a long suit 1st March 2nd March 6. Trumps - draw or delay? 8th March 9th March 7. TOP Defence 15th March 16th March 8. Pot Pourri 22nd March 23rd March Improver in a Weekend - Spring 26th - 27th March (Richard)

* please note these weeks are not consecutive

17 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 18

Lesson Information

Advanced is suitable for duplicate Wednesday Thursday 10.15 - 12.00 20.30 - 22.15 players, or experienced social players, ADVANCED Caroline David I have thought very carefully about 1. Losing Trick Count 26th Jan 27th Jan the themes. They will surely illuminate 2. Uncontested Bidding Review 2nd Feb 3rd Feb and fascinate. 3.Coping with Intervention 9th Feb 10th Feb 4. 23rd Feb* 24th Feb* 5. More ways to 2nd March 3rd March 6. Unassuming 9th March 24th March** 7. More uses of Double 16th March 31st March 8. Notrumps 23rd March 7th April Advanced in a Weekend - Autumn 11th - 12th December (Richard) Spring 19th - 20th March (Richard)

Advanced Play has been recently Monday 16.00 - 17.45 rewritten, with new themes, new ADVANCED PLAY Richard deals and new handouts. I am sure 1. Principle of Restricted Choice 31st Jan you will find it really quite eye-opening 2. Suit Combinations 7th Feb and lots and fun. 3. Communication 14th Feb 4. Cooperative Signalling 21st Feb 5. Card-placing 28th Feb 6. Seven-card fits 7th March 7. Fun with trumps 14th March 8. Elimination and Throw-in 21st March

Advanced Defence: A good defender Tuesday is a popular partner – and a winner. ADVANCED DEFENCE 15.15 - 17.00 See 48% turn into 58% in a gem of a Caroline course. 1. Defending Notrumps 25th Jan 2. Defending Trumps 1st Feb 3. Second hand plays 8th Feb 4. Third hand plays 22nd Feb* 5. Attitude Signal 1st March 6. Discarding 8th March 7. Scoring Ruffs 15th March 8. Trump Promotions 22nd March Big Four Monday 19.30 - 21.30 [Pay by Session - £20] BIG FOUR Richard Four crucial conventions – say no more. 1. RKCB 10th Jan 2. Splinter 17th Jan Caroline’s Conventions 3. Weak Two 14th March*** 4. Transfers 21 March [Pay by Session - £20] Caroline invites you to learn some key Thursday 14.00 - 16.00 conventions that will improve your CAROLINE’S CONVENTIONS Caroline Bridge no end. With such a charismatic 1. Roman Keycard Blackwood 27th Jan teacher, how can you turn her down? 2. Splinters 3rd Feb 3.Trial Bidding 10th Feb David’s Delights 4. Ace-Showing Cue Bids 24th Feb* [Pay by Session - £20] 5. Jacoby 3rd March Some wonderful, instructive deals from 6. Weak Twos 10th March 7. Transfers 17th March our Bridge whiz, perfect for Duplicate 8. Negative Doubles 24th March players. 14th Jan, 28th Jan*, 4th Feb, 9. Michaels 31st March 18th Feb*, 25th Feb, 4th Mar, 25th Mar**. 10. Unusual Two Notrump 7th April

18 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 19

COURSE APPLICATION 2011 Andrew Robson Bridge Club, 31 Parsons Green Lane, SW6 4HH T: 020 7471 4626 E: [email protected] W: www.arobson.co.uk

Are you an existing member? Yes ❒ No ❒

The Andrew Robson Bridge Club is a members only club. Please see overleaf for membership details

Cost of Courses All weekly courses cost £155 2010 weekends cost £145 PLUS membership (except for Beginner and Next Step). 2011 weekends cost £155

SEE OVER FOR MEMBERSHIP Please fill in this course application form, and send it to the club with payment. Credit/Debit card payments will accepted over the phone. Cheques received by post will be acknowledged. Please make cheques payable to: The Andrew Robson Bridge Club Ltd

Course Required ......

Date & Time ......

Please use BLOCK CAPITALS

TITLE: (Mr/Mrs/Dr etc.) ......

FIRST NAME: ...... SURNAME:......

ADDRESS: (inc. Postcode)......

......

......

EMAIL: ...... TELEPHONE:......

The management reserves the right to refuse/ membership at any time without giving reason

19 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 20

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2011

Andrew Robson Bridge Club, 31 Parsons Green Lane, SW6 4HH T: 020 7471 4626 E: [email protected] W: www.arobson.co.uk

The Andrew Robson Bridge Club is a members, only Club. You must be a member to play in the Club or take a course.

N.B. If you are taking our Beginner or Next Step courses, Club membership is included in the price of the course and lasts until the start of the following term.

We offer two payment options, either by standing order or by cheque/cash/credit card. Membership is renewable on the 1st of January each year. If you join the Club mid-year, the cost of membership is proportionally reduced.

You will notice that membership is cheaper for those paying by standing order. This is because it reduces our administrative costs.

Standing Order Payment Cheque / Cash Payment

Month Joined: Cost: Month Joined: Cost:

January-March £52 January-March £65

April-August £36 April-August £45

September-November £20 September-November £25

December FREE December FREE

If paying by STANDING ORDER, please complete the separate Standing Order Mandate. If paying by CHEQUE, please make this payable to: THE ANDREW ROBSON BRIDGE CLUB LTD If you are paying for both course and membership, please write only one cheque.

If you are applying solely for membership, and have not completed the form overleaf, please provide your contact details below

TITLE: (Mr/Mrs/Dr etc.) ......

FIRST NAME: ...... SURNAME:......

ADDRESS: (inc. Postcode)......

......

......

EMAIL: ...... TELEPHONE:......

The management reserves the right to refuse/revoke membership at any time without giving reason Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 21

Getting to ARBC

How easy is it to get to the Bridge Club?... Very easy here’s how.

1. Our favourite way - walking - or like Andrew and many of his team - why not cycle? We actively encourage all our members to either walk or cycle into the Club. There is cycle parking located to the side of the Club, and also by the entrance to Parsons Green Underground Station.

2. Public Transport – another fine option and easier than you may think. Tube – Parsons Green Station is less than a minute’s walk from the club. The station is on the Wimbledon branch of the District Line and trains run every 10 minutes.

Bus – The No 14 stops on the Fulham Road, near the top of Parsons Green Lane. The service links Putney Heath to Tottenham Court Road Station. Daytime frequency is every 6-8 minutes and night time frequency is every 12 minutes. The 414 also goes down the Fulham Road up to Edgware Road. The No 22 stops on the New Kings Road, near the bottom of Parsons Green Lane. The service links Putney Common to Piccadilly Circus. Daytime frequency is every 7-10 minutes and night time frequency is every 12 minutes.

3. Taxis/mini-cabs The Club loves members using local taxi and mini-cabs rather than their cars. If you would like to book a cab, there are several numbers of local firms displayed on the notice board in reception; alternatively ask a member of staff.

4. Private Cars We would like to discourage you from driving to the Club. The local residents are understandably very concerned about increasing the number of cars in an already congested area. In particular, Scale please avoid parking on the Residents Bays that 100 m double up as Pay and Display in the streets between the Club and the Fulham Road. If you must drive, please try car-sharing. The Bridge Club has 12 of its own spaces in the yard just next to the Club (clearly marked).

• After 5pm you can park free on yellow lines in the side streets and on Resident Bays.

• After 6.30 pm you can park on the yellow line, on the far side of the Parsons Green Lane, from the chip shop opposite the club up to the Fulham Road.

• The remaining yellow lines on Parsons Green Lane are off-limit until 8pm.

21 TEACHERS A = Andrew D = David AndrewLesson Robson Schedule Bridge - Club Spring 2011 C = Caroline R = Richard N = Natasha Lesson Schedule - Spring 2011 COURSES (£155) Courses last for 8 weeks each. You can change from TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY one slot to another. See Course Planner over the page for all topics and dates. 09.45 - 11.15 09.45 - 11.15 10.00 - 11.45 10.30 - 12.30 OPEN EVENING (FREE) Beginner (D) Next Step (N) DAVID’S DELIGHTS 26th Jan Improver (D) Wednesday 19th January 18.00 - 19.15 25th Jan David creates stimulating All visitors welcome to the free session 27th Jan deals for Duplicate players 10.15 - 12.00 11.00 - 12.45 Special ‘have-a-go’ taster session Advanced (C) 12.00 - 13.30 for absolute beginners: Intermediate Play (R) Dates: 14th Jan, 28th Jan*, 4th Feb, 18th 26th Jan Feb*, 25th Feb, 4th March, 25th March**. 18.30 to 19.45 15th Feb Next Step (D) 11.30 - 13.00 27th Jan £20 a SESSION MONDAY 11.30 - 13.00 Beginner (N) NO BOOKING REQUIRED Intermediate (D) 26th Jan 14.00 - 16.00 14.00 - 15.45 25th Jan CAROLINE’S CONVENTIONS Spring 2011 13.00 - 14.30 Intermediate Play (R) 27th Jan - 7th April (missing 17th Feb) WEEKENDS 31st Jan Intermediate (A) 13.15 - 15.00 2nd Feb 1. Roman Keycard Blackwood 27th Jan (£155 including Lunch) Improver Play (C) 2. Splinters 3rd Feb Beginner (R) Feb 5/6 16.00 - 17.45 25th Jan 14.45 - 16.30 3.Trial Bidding 10th Feb Beginner (D) April 2/3 Advanced Play (R) 4. Ace-Showing Cue Bids 24th Feb* Next Step (D) Feb 26/27 Improver (A) 5. Jacoby 3rd March 31st Jan 15.15 - 17.00 2nd Feb 6. Weak Twos 10th March Intermediate (R) Feb 12/13 Improver (R) Mar 5/6 Advanced Defence (C) 7. Transfers 17th March Big Four (R) 18.35 - 20.05 8. Negative Doubles 24th March Improver Play (R) Mar 26/27 25th Jan 9. Michaels 31st March Advanced (R) Mar 19/20 19.30 - 21.30 Intermediate (A) 1. RKCB 10 Jan 10. Unusual Two Notrump 7th April Weekends run from 10.00 to 16.30 2nd Feb on Saturday and Sunday 2. Splinter 17 Jan 19.00 - 22.00 + Buffet Supper £20 A SESSION 3.Weak Two 14 March Four Week Beginner (R) NO BOOKING REQUIRED 4. Transfers 21 March 18.45 - 20.15 Planning ahead to £20 A SESSION 4th Jan Next Step (D) NO BOOKING REQUIRED 26th Jan 18.35 - 20.20 Summer 2011? 18.35 - 20.05 18.35 - 20.20 Improver (D) WEEKENDS (£155 inc lunch) Beginner (A) 20.15 - 22.00 Intermediate Play (D) 27th Jan Beginner (D) May 21/22 1st Feb Improver Play (A) 24th Jan 2nd Feb Next Step (D) May 7/8 20.30 - 22.15 Intermediate (R) June 4/5 20.30 - 22.00 20.15 - 21.45 20.30 - 22.00 Advanced (D) Improver (R) June 11/12 Intermediate (D) Next Step (A) Beginner (D) Weekends run from 10.00 to 16.30 24th Jan 1st Feb 26th Jan 27th Jan on Saturday and Sunday Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 22 Page 15:41 18/11/10 1 (issue36)L:Layout Layout Magazine Magazine Layout(issue36)L:Layout118/11/1015:41Page23

Green shaded sessions are suitable for beginners upwards. PlayingARBC Schedule Playing - Spring Sched u2011le 2011 Blue shaded sessions are for ALL (not complete beginners) Red shaded sessions are for gaining experience. Doors open half and hour before the start of play. No session requires a partner. See Lesson Schedule for details of lessons

10.30 - 12.30 10.30 - 12.30 10.30 - 12.30 SUPERVISED PLAY SUPERVISED PLAY SUPERVISED PLAY Suitable for Beginners upwards Suitable for Beginners upwards £10 with Natasha and Grazyna with Lorna, Heather and Martin with Natasha and Grazyna £10 £10 10.30 - 12.30 10.30 - 12.30 SUPERVISED PLAY SPECIAL HANDS 10.30 - 12.30 £10 with Caroline £12 with Caroline SUPERVISED DUPLICATE 14.00 - 16.30 with Caroline £12 GENTLE DUPLICATE 14.00 - 16.30 £10 with Richard SUPERVISED PLAY 14.00 - 16.30 14.00 - 16.30 NEW NOTE NEW START TIME £10 with Caroline SUPERVISED GENTLE SUPERVISED PLAY DUPLICATE £12 with Lorna, Grazyna and Martin 17.30 - 19.30 £10 with Caroline SUPERVISED PLAY 14.00 - 16.00 18.30 - 22.45 18.00 - 20.30 17.15 - 19.15 CAROLINE’S CONVENTIONS £10 with Caroline 27th Jan - 7th April (missing 17th Feb) SOCIAL ‘CHICAGO’ BRIDGE SUPERVISED PLAY SUPERVISED PLAY £20 19.30 - 22.45 Suitable for Beginners upwards Suitable for Beginners upwards £10 with Paddy 19.15 - 21.45 NEW RUBBER / SUPERVISED PLAY & DINNER £10 with Lorna and Grazyna £10 with Nick SUPERVISED GENTLE DUPLICATE £20 with Caroline Please Book 19.30 - 22.45 £12 with Grazyna, Richard and Nick 19.45 - 22.15 RUBBER / SUPERVISED PLAY & DINNER GENTLE DUPLICATE Suitable for Beginners upwards wth Grazyna, Richard and Martin £10 with Richard £20 Please Book Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 24

Which Session? By Andrew

Which session should I come to? • You do not need to have a partner for any session that we run. Many players arrive without partners. • We will always find you a suitable partner, and there are house players. • Please book for Monday or Wednesday Dinner & Bridge. For all other sessions, just turn up.

Supervised Rubber Play for Beginners upwards with Natasha, Grazyna and others £10 Never forget the three best ways to overcome the first hurdles in Bridge: practice, practice and practice! As you see from the green shading on the Playing Schedule, there are two mornings and three evening sessions for beginners upwards. Don’t be daunted - ARBC is gentleness itself.

Supervised Rubber Play £10 Bridge & dinner - £20 with dinner or £15 without Imagine playing relaxed Bridge with your friends in your living room, able to ask advice from friendly, expert supervisors. This is exactly what we aim to provide. Suitable for all levels, you will be seated with those of a similar level. On Monday and Wednesday evenings the supervised Bridge includes a delicious dinner, and booking is requested (though for no other session).

Supervised Duplicate with Caroline £12 Tuesday Morning 10.30 - 12.30 This session introduces the challenge and excitement of Duplicate by replaying hands from the previous week’s Duplicates, remaining at your table. Led by Caroline, we give on hand help with every bid and play.

Supervised Gentle Duplicate New! £12 Thursday Afternoon 14.00 - 16.30 Thursday Evening 19.15 - 21.45 Very supervised and very gentle, this new session is proving very popular, bridging the gap between Social Bridge and the addictive Duplicate Bridge. It is non-competitive with no overall ranking, but you have an opportunity to fill in mock Travellers (which include recomended bidding) and move around the room to get the full flavour of what lies ahead. Come on your own or with a partner and prepare to ask lots of questions and learn lots of answers.

Gentle Duplicate £10 Monday Evening 19.45 - 22.15 Thursday Afternoon 14.00 - 16.30 This session perfectly bridges the gap between Supervised and Duplicate Bridge. You will move around the room like regular Duplicates and there will be a winner (and a prize!). However the will be much gentler and less competitive. We have written recommended bidding for each deal (on the Travellers) and will be on hand to explain the scoring and give some tactical pointers, although we will refrain from actually telling you what to bid/play.

24 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 25

Which Session? By Andrew

Supervised Special Hands with Caroline £12 Friday Morning 10.30 - 12.30 We have a large base of instructive and challenging hands. Caroline and the team will enthuse and explain the key plays. Highly recommended.

Social Chicago Bridge with Paddy £10 (for the Susan Hampshire Salver) Friday Evening from 18.30 - 22.30 Held every Friday night, Chicago is the perfect relaxing way to start the weekend. Four hands, dealt at the table, are played against a couple. Then you move to another table and do the same thing again. The ever-genial Paddy will be delighted to give his friendly pearls of wisdom when asked. Chicago combines the excitement of playing dealt hands with the conviviality and friendly competition of playing different partnerships throughout the evening. Arrive any time from 18.30pm onwards. Bar snacks and drinks will, of course, be available throughout. Unmissable!

Duplicate £10 Duplicate Bridge is non-supervised and is the way Tournament Bridge is played. All our Duplicates are played in a friendly atmosphere. Bridge Mates are used and we provide hand records and immediate results. All Ladders and Trophies run three times a year: from January 1st - April 30th: from May 1st - August 31st: from September 1st - December 31st. Winner of our Top 10 Trophy wins a prize and a game with Andrew (no repeat games).

Daytime: We offer a hugely popular daily daytime Duplicate. Score Ladder Points - with a delicious hamper prize for the winner donated by club member Luigi Molinaro [of Luigi’s Delicatessen fame]. Our four weekday afternoon Duplicates always play 24 Boards, starting at 13.30 – except Friday at 13.00. The Thursday morning Duplicate plays 20/21 boards.

Evening: Two Duplicates: Tuesday 19.30 - 22.45 and Thursday 19.15 - 22.45 (24 Boards). Our Evening Ladder will combine both Tuesday and Thursday evening’s results. Enjoy Peter Stocken’s ‘special deal’ and take home his wonderful hand analyses. Winner of the Ladder will be the holder of the Stocken Cup.

Saturday Duplicate with Nick £10 13.45 - 17.00 Come for a stimulating weekend afternoon Duplicate, with points counting towards our Daytime Ladder and Andrew’s Top Ten Trophy. Not run on Bank Holiday Weekends or during August.

Winners!

Luigi’s Daytime Duplicate Ladder: Patti Gamble Andrew’s Top 10 Duplicate Trophy: Winner: Patti Gamble Game with Andrew: Kerrick Macafee Stocken Cup: Mike Shilling Susan Hampshire Chicago Trophy: Howard Leigh

25 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 26

Standing Order Form

26 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 27 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 28

Rule of 11 from Andrew’s New Book “Rules, Acronyms & Ditties” The : Subtracting the opening lead from In (A) you take the lead (♣ 7) from 11 to give eleven – when fourth from the top – tells you how four: four higher clubs than ♣ 7 between you, many cards higher than the lead are held by the dummy and East. Dummy has three higher and other three players (i.e. not the leader). As declarer, you have one higher. Ergo East has none higher. you can work out how many higher cards the Play ♣ 3 from dummy, safe in the knowledge ♣ partner of the opening leader holds; as that defender that your 8 will win the first trick. You can ♣ ♣ (“East”), you can work out how many higher cards then lead to 10 and, later, to Q. are held by declarer. In (B) there are six (11 - 5) higher hearts than ♥5. You and dummy have six, ergo East has (A) Dummy none. Play low from dummy, knowing West has ♣ A Q 10 3 led from ♥AQ105 and that you will win trick ♣ 7 led one in hand. If West had led ♥4, East would Declarer (you) have had one higher heart than ♥4. ♣ 8 5 2 (C) illustrates why the leader is happy to give (B) Dummy declarer all this useful information: because it helps ♥K J 9 2 his partner too. Here, East can work out that there ♥ 5 led are four higher spades than ♠7 between him, Declarer (you) declarer and dummy. Because he has three higher ♥8 7 6 and dummy has one higher, declarer has no spades (C) Dummy higher than ♠7. After ♠7, ♠2, East can leave his ♠ K 4 2 East (you) partner on play (for a further lead through ♠K) ♠ ♠ 7 led A J 9 6 by underplaying with ♠6.

Dealer: South Vulnerability: Neither ♠ 943 ♥ AQ93 S W N E ♦ J63 1NT Pass 2NT(1) Pass ♣ KJ9 3NT End

N (1) Might pass. Too flat for Stayman. ♠ Q 105 ♠ KJ862 ♥ ♥ J4 K 1075 WE ♦ K9 ♦ Q 1074 ♣ ♣ 76 8432 S

♠ A7 ♥ 762 ♦ A852 Contract: 3NT Opening Lead: ♥5 ♣ AQ105

On our deal West led ♥5 v 3NT. Using the Rule switching to ♠6. Winning ♠A, declarer could of 11, declarer knew there were six higher hearts now confidently lead ♥6 to ♥7 and ♥9, cash four than ♥5 between North (with three), himself (with clubs, then lead ♥7 to ♥10 and ♥Q. ♥A and ♦A two) and East (ergo one higher heart than ♥5). He made nine tricks. played low, East winning ♥J (so that was it) and Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 29

TheThe BridgeBridge StoreStore Anything and Everything to do with Bridge

Martin Lee Tournament Director

t: 07813 073 064 [email protected] www.thebridgestore.co.uk

Poems by Jane Box Grainger

A Bridge Problem Bridge

Are Bridge players bores? Many people enjoy a game of Bridge Why do you ask? It appeals to all types of natural instincts – Because I have friends who say they are The competitive instinct – I ask them why? The sociability instinct – Because they are fanatical about the game And the intellectual instinct – Which makes them boring in their obsession And now... Is it the game or only certain players? Many people enjoy Bridge holidays The fair answer would be – And, I’m happy to report “Only certain players” That they are on the increase They can irritate the average person Combining travel, sociability and the lovely With their obsessive and fanatical love pastime Of the great game! Of Bridge! Bridge! Bridge! Solutions 1) change your club 2) play with others And continue to while away pleasant hours Enjoying your game of Bridge

Read Andrew in Country Life Magazine every week

29 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 30

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php

Dear ARBC Members,

I have just had my busiest period ever, with record numbers at my Bridge school in Harrogate and good numbers at my new venue in Helmsley. I have also had various Bridge teaching days in North Wales, Lincolnshire and even Norfolk! We still haven’t moved back into our house but the builders assure us it will be any day now……..

Our Millstream weekends have been fully booked for months so we have organised an additional weekend, 18th – 20th March 2011, due to popular demand. The hotel has two AA Rosettes for excellent cuisine and is renowned for its friendly staff and warm hospitality. Do book immediately if you would like to join Lorna and me.

We are over half full for our midweek break to the 4* Haven Hotel in Sandbanks, Poole, in April. The hotel has two AA Rosettes for excellent cuisine and has spectacular sea views. The hotel is less than two hours from London by train or car.

Our Summer holiday to Malta in September was voted a universal success with excellent food, weather, Bridge and warm Maltese hospitality. The hotel even had a “Bridge Bar” which entertained our group into the early hours.

There has been great interest in our September 2011 Summer holiday to the 5* Grand Villa Argentina Hotel in Dubrovnik. This beautiful golden walled city is one of the most celebrated beauty spots of the Mediterranean and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lorna and I are both looking forward to our annual Klosters ski holiday which has been fully booked since August and has a long waiting list.

So a lot to look forward to in 2011 - remember that no partner is necessary on any ARBC Holiday and the Bridge is always friendly and relaxed.

Hope to see you on an ARBC Holiday very soon,

Jack, Annabel and Sophie

30 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 31

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php Sandbanks Midweek Break, Poole, Dorset The 4* Haven Hotel Tuesday 12th – Friday 15th April 2011

After the huge success of ARBC’s Easter All of the 77 rooms are non-smoking and trip to Harrogate, I am delighted to confirm are furnished with special care and great the 2011 midweek break to the 4* Haven attention to detail. The majority have Hotel. Idyllically located at the very tip of balconies and sea or harbour views across the exclusive Sandbanks peninsular on to the Purbeck Hills, Studland Beach or Dorset’s South coast and with Brownsea Island. uninterrupted views of Poole Harbour - the perfect base from which to visit the Purbecks and the Dorset’s famous Jurassic coast. The Haven Hotel offers award- winning luxury from its acclaimed restaurants to its heavenly Spa.

There is a Leisure Club which includes a heated indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and direct access to the beach. The Spa offers a wide range of beauty, aromatherapy and therapeutic We shall be dining in the critically treatments. acclaimed La Roche restaurant which has recently been awarded two AA red Rosettes Poole is less than two hours from London, for the sixteenth year in succession. With a either by car, or train from Waterloo. seasonal menu that reflects the finest local Further holiday details can be found in the produce accompanied by wines from a full information sheets in the club foyer or discerning and far-reaching cellar, served website. in the most breathtaking of locations, this water's edge restaurant offers a truly unique experience. Prices from £495

31 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 32

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php Dubrovnik 5* Grand Villa Argentina Hotel Saturday 10th - 17th September 2011

The golden walled city of Dubrovnik is one of the most celebrated beauty spots of the Mediterranean - a harmonious showcase of Venetian art and civil, religious and military architecture from the Renaissance and opportunity for quick trips into Dubrovnik, Baroque periods. to learn of its coloured history, or for shopping in the boutiques of the walled city. As ever, we will organise two interesting and cultural excursions.

The hotel offers various facial, beauty and body treatments, massages and therapies, a fully equipped gym and an indoor swimming pool, sauna and whirlpool to help guests relax.

The 5* Grand Villa Argentina Hotel is ideally situated at the most exclusive address in Dubrovnik and just a short walk from the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, constructed on a cliff and surrounded by ancient walls. The hotel has a prestigious seafront location offering spectacular sea views. Grand Villa Argentina is set in lush terraced gardens leading down to a private beach. Lorna and I do hope that you can join us for The Villa Argentina was built as a gilded a week of entertaining Bridge amongst the private residence at the beginning of the delights of this beautiful city. 20th century and converted into a hotel complex in the 1950s, thus creating an Prices from £1495 exclusive enclave just minutes from the gates of Dubrovnik’s old town. The location of Grand Villa Argentina offers guests the

32 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 33

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php

Dubrovnik Excursions

Excursion - Dubrovnik Sightseeing & Cavtat / Konavle

A professional guide will assist us in discovering the delights of Dubrovnik during a sightseeing tour, on foot, of the Old Town, surrounded by ramparts and fortresses. We will visit the Franciscan monastery with one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe and then travel to the old town of Cavtat where we will visit Vlaho Bukovac’s house, one of the most famous Croatian Secession/Impressionist painters.

Lunch will be served at the restaurant Leut in Cavtat which has a beautiful location and terrace, off the promenade. After lunch we continue to Konavle, the southernmost region in Croatia. We arrive at Ljuta and visit an authentic water mill dating back to the times of the Dubrovnik Republic, where we will be welcomed by girls dressed in traditional costumes. We will try dried figs and local drinks before returning to Dubrovnik.

Excursion - Elaphite islands

We will embark on a traditional Dalmatian boat for a cruise along the majestic City Walls, around the peninsula of Lapad and towards the Elaphite islands. On the island of Sipan, we visit one of the best preserved summer residences in Dalmatia – the Skocibuha Residence. Next stop will be the island of Lopud, the second largest and most developed of the Elaphite islands. With its mild Mediterranean climate, the lush Mediterranean and subtropical vegetation as well as its interesting maritime history, Lopud is an exceptionally attractive destination.

Lunch will be served at the restaurant Obala located just a stones throw from the water, serving some of the best fish and seafood. After lunch we slowly cruise back to the port of Gruz while making a last stop on the island of Kolocep. From the port of Gruz we will be transferred back to the hotel by bus.

33 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 34

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php Bosham, Chichester The Millstream Hotel Friday 4th – Sunday 6th February (Fully Booked)

and an extra weekend just confirmed: Friday 18th - Sunday 20th March

Officially ARBC’s favourite Hotel, we have been running Bridge weekends here for over seven years and it’s easy to see why:

• Delicious food from their restaurant which has two AA Rosettes • Friendly and relaxed Bridge with like minded people • Andrew’s excellent course material and set hands, taught by Jack • Lorna’s good humour and legendary bonhomie • Bosham is a charming sailing village, less than 90 minutes from ARBC • No tournament director within 100 miles!

The standard of Bridge is friendly Intermediate and please book early as we are often full. No partner necessary.

Prices from £379

ARBC holidays are great fun, and it is important to stress that they are not aimed at the type of player who likes a serious 24-board duplicate each night; instead the emphasis is on instruction, with a little gentle competition played in the friendly, social manner that so typifies the ethos of the Club. Details of how to contact Jack are above - we look forward to hearing from you. Andrew and the team

34 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 35

ARBC Holidays Contact: Jack Stocken Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07775 892 720 www.arobson.co.uk/holidays.php Holiday Highlights - Images from the last few years

35 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 36

ARBC Shop Andrew’s Bridge Lesson Booklets

A lesson and an illustrative deal per page, to perfect your Intermediate upwards understanding of ... Double • Slam • Finesse • Stayman & Transfer Weak Two • Opening Lead • Signal & Discard & Squeeze • Responder & Fourth Suit Forcing • Bidding as Opener • Hand Evaluation and the Losing Trick Count • Defence £5 each

Introducing Andrew’s NEW Lesson Booklet NEW ‘Rules, Acronyms Rules, Acronyms Rules, A and Ditties and Ditties’

cronym

s and D

itties

Available in the Club, by post using the order form or from our online shop where you can order and pay : www.arobson.co.uk

36 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 37

ARBC Shop Bridge Lesson Interactive CDs

Intermediate upwards Double Finesse Stayman & Transfer Overcall Opening Lead Weak Two Slam Signal & Discard Endplay & Squeeze

• Over 100 instructive deals per CD • Interactive quizzes and questions • Lots of fascinating insights to help you master these vital topics & the game in general • Play the deal afterwards and see if you can make the contract • Thought-provoking Post Mortems after each deal £25 each or buy all three for £60 Play Modern Bridge - DVD

Beginner upwards

£20

37 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 38

ARBC Shop Andrew’s Books

Common Mistakes - and how to avoid them. Andrew’s acclaimed first book, now in its third reprint. £10 Common Mistakes Arrow Packs £10

Intermediate upwards

Bridge Secrets Includes: Andrew’s life in Bridge told through his best and worst deals at the table. £13

Advanced upwards

Need to know? Bridge All Andrew’s core teaching material under Beginner upwards one cover. Perfect for beginners and upwards. £9

38 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 39

ARBC Shop

What Should Have Happened If you buy just one Bridge book, this must be it. Using 251 carefully constructed deals, Andrew covers all areas of the game in his clear logical way. ‘What Should Have Happened’ will soon become your Bridge bible. £13

Intermediate upwards

6 921 28 32 33

38 45 52 59 61 68 132 134 141 143 154 161

82 86 87 93 100 103 164 170 184 191 199 206

104 113 118 123 125 130 215 223 229 234 236 243 ANDREW ROBSON

What Should Have Happened 244 246 248 249 250 251

£13 130

125 ANDREW ROBSON 123

118

113 What Should Have Happened 104

103

100 £10

51 2

93

250

87

249

86

248

82

246

8

6

244

61

243

59

236

52

234

45

229

38

223

33

215

32

206

28

199 21

191 9

184 6

170

164

161

154

143

141

134 132 Arrow Packs These magic Arrow Packs will enable you to play 48 carefully selected deals from the book. Afterwards, refer to the deal. What should have happened? Interactive CD (see demo on the website) Play all 251 (+ two bonus) deals on the computer. Without the restriction of the page of a book Andrew - in collaboration with Lex de Groot - has elaborated on the themes. Lots of extra quizzes - £35 endless hours of instructive fascination.

39 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 40

ARBC Shop Bridge Flippers Beginner All the information to get you properly started.

Essential All the information you need to play a decent game of bridge. Now updated to include Improver themes such as Double, Stayman, Signalling and Slamming.

Conventions All Andrew’s favourite conventions - and how to play them.

NEW

£10 each

40 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 41

Please cut out and send to ARBC Order Form the Andrew Robson Bridge Club

Product Name Cost Qty Total Books & Arrow Packs Bridge- Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them £10 Bridge- Common Mistakes Arrow Packs (40 selected deals) £10 Bridge Secrets £13 Need to Know - Bridge £9 What Should Have Happened £13 What Should Have Happened Arrow Packs (48 selected deals) £10

Bridge Lesson Booklets Double £5 Finesse £5 Overcall £5 Slam £5 Weak Two £5 Opening Lead £5 Stayman & Transfer £5 Endplay & Squeeze £5 Signal & Discard £5 Responder & Fourth Suit Forcing £5 Bidding as Opener £5 Hand Evaluation & the Losing Trick Count £5 Defence £5 Rules, Acronyms & Ditties £5

ARBC Flippers Beginner £10 Essential £10 Conventions £10

Bridge DVD & Bridge Lessons - Finesse, Opening Lead, Signal & Discard £25 Bridge Lessons - Stayman & Transfer, Weak Two, Endplay & Squeeze £25 Bridge Lessons - Double, Overcall, Slam £25 Bridge Lessons - All Three CDs £60 Play Modern Bridge - DVD £20 What Should Have Happened - CD £35

Cards ARBC Playing Cards - two packs in leather case £15 ARBC Playing Cards - two packs £5 Arrow Cards - Selected Topics £10

Please add £1 per item for postage Del Total Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 42

Please cut out and send to ARBC Order Form the Andrew Robson Bridge Club

TITLE: (Mr/Mrs/Dr etc.) ......

FIRST NAME: ...... SURNAME:......

ADDRESS: (inc. postcode) ......

......

......

EMAIL: ...... TELEPHONE:......

PAYMENT METHOD: (please tick)

Credit Card

Card No: ......

Sort Code ...... Security Code: ...... Issue No: ......

Start Date: ...... /...... Expiry Date: ...... /......

Cheque - Please make cheques payable to: The Andrew Robson Bridge Club Ltd

Notes & other info.

Andrew Robson Bridge Club, 31 Parsons Green Lane, SW6 4HH T: 020 7471 4626 E: [email protected] W: www.arobson.co.uk

42 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 43 Magazine Layout (issue36)L:Layout 1 18/11/10 15:41 Page 44

winkworth.co.uk for thousands of properties to buy and rent

Quarrendon Street, SW6. 4 Bedrooms. £2,350,000

Doria Road, SW6. 4 Bedrooms. £1,850,000

Trust Winkworth to come up trumps with buyers and tenants for your property. Two Fulham offices: 793 Fulham Road, London SW6 5HD 40 New King’s Road, London SW6 4ST [email protected] Tel: 020 7731 3388