Oh! How I long for the splendor of winter sports — the breathtaking ski jumps; the thrilling bobsled runs; the emotional finals in ladies figure skating; and, of course, the greatest spectacle of all, Paul Soloway on opening lead. That’s right, folks. Bridge is now recognized as a sport and may soon become an official medal competition in the Winter Olympics. Incredible. Not only is bridge a sport, but it’s a winter sport.
Hello-o-o? Am I alone in finding this ridiculous? By any logical reasoning, a sport is a physical activity, so bridge is no more a sport than knitting or collecting stamps. Nonetheless, what I believe has no bearing on the powers that be. Further, living in Florida puts me at a great disadvantage, so I will move to Alaska to prepare for the 2006 Winter Games. Rest assured; I will never go down in an ice-cold contract again!
While millions (billions?) had their eyes on the Salt Lake Winter Games in February of 2002, these problems were presented as a contest with a mere 754 entrants from 102 locations.
The contest is now closed, but you can still challenge yourself and find your score immediately. As West, choose your opening lead from the options offered. Each option is rated on a 1-to-10 scale per my judgment.
Bidding is standard (unless noted), and you use standard leads and signals.For a reference see Standard American Bridge. Assume all players are experts.
So, what are you waiting for? Warm up your leading arm and aim for the gold! You might win a valuable prize.*
*Prizes include a pair of gold figure skates, a sterling silver Olympic torch, and a bronzed Jamaican bobsled.Winners must meet eligibility requirements of at least 18 years of age and a resident of Antarctica.Employees of PavCo-on-Ice and their immediate families are ineligible.
Your lead? 8 2 10 3 9 Q
Your lead? K J 6 J 4 K
Your lead? J 3 2 A 6 4
Your lead? J 5 9 2 J 3
Your lead? 4 J Q 3 A 5
Your lead? 2 4 K 9 5 10
Click to see how you did
© 2002 Richard Pavlicek
by Richard Pavlicek by Richard Pavlicek