A cunning plan

By Djanwar Madjolelo

JAKARTA (JP): About 150 pairs from 30 nations entered a three session qualifier to a three session final of 28 pairs, in the 43rd European Bridge Championships at Montecatini Terme, Italy, from June 14 to June 28.

The winners, Germany's Sabine Auken and Daniela von Arnim, are the world's leading women's pair. They retained the title they won in Vilamoura, and are the reigning Venice Cup champions.

In a deal from the Ladies Pairs final, Sabine Auken hoodwinked her opponents:

Dealer: South

Game : East-West

NORTH

(S) A Q J 9 8 5 3

(H) 10

(D) A K 2

(C) 10 6

WEST EAST

(S) 7 4 (S) K

(H) Q J 6 4 (H) A K 8 7 3

(D) J 4 (D) Q 10 8

(C) A Q 8 7 3 (C) K J 9 2

SOUTH

(S) 10 6 2

(H) 9 5 2

(D) 9 7 6 5 3

(C) 5 4

WEST NORTH EAST SOUTH

- Auken - von Arnim

- - - Pass

Pass 4S Double Pass

4NT Double 5C Pass

Pass Double Pass 5S

Double All pass

Von Arnim had a tough decision to make when Auken doubled 5 Clubs. Her holding in Spades meant it was very likely there would be no trick in that suit for the defense, so she took out insurance by bidding 5 Spades.

East started with her top Heart, so Auken ruffed the second round and cashed the Ace of Spades. When the King of Spades appeared she continued smoothly with the two of Diamonds.

West won with the Jack, and taken in completely, returned the suit!

Now, after unblocking the Diamond, Auken was able to reach dummy with the ten of Spades and discard her losing Clubs.

Ladies Pairs final ranking: 1. S. Auken-D. von Arnim (Germany) 1207.5 2. C. Golin-G. Olivieri (Italy) 1180.9 3. N. Cohen-H. Zuccareli (France) 1178.9