On the Schedule
Bridge Basics 2: Competitive Bidding
with Tom May
Have you ever passed after the opponents opened the bidding—and then watched them settle comfortably into their best contract? Competitive bidding gives you the tools to get into the auction and make life harder for the other side.
Bridge Basics 2: Competitive Bidding begins Wednesday, February 25, in an 8-week series taught by Tom May, known for his clear explanations and patient teaching style.
What You’ll Learn
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Preemptive opening bids
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Overcalls (suit and notrump)
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Takeout doubles and how to respond
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How competitive auctions change responder’s bids, including cuebidding and the Law of Total Tricks
Course Format
Four topics taught over two weeks each: one instructional session followed by a practice session for reinforcement.
Details
Dates & Time: Wednesdays, Feb 25–Apr 15, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 noon
Location: Fellowship Presbyterian Church, 2005 New Garden Rd, Greensboro
Instructor: Tom May, dtommay92@gmail.com, 336-210-2892
Cost
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Complete course (8 sessions): $200
Includes companion book or two free plays at a Triad Bridge Club game -
Any 2-session topic: $50
Registration
Judy Hellen
📧 Judy@learnbridgegso.com
📱 336-558-3613 (call or text)
Introduction to Declarer Play
with Cecelia Ray

Once the bidding is over and the opening lead hits the table, the real game of bridge begins. Declarer play is where hands are won—or lost—and where players can make the biggest leap in skill in the shortest amount of time.
Introduction to Declarer Play starts on Friday, February 27 for seven sessions led by the popular and supportive Cecelia Ray. It is designed for players who know the basics of bridge but want to feel more confident and in control when they become declarer.
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You’ll learn how to:
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Make a simple plan before playing to the first trick
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Count winners and losers
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Use common techniques such as promotion, establishing long suits and finesses.
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Eliminate losers by ruffing or discarding them.
Most importantly, you’ll learn how to think about the hand, not just follow rules. Declarer play isn’t about memorizing formulas—it’s about seeing possibilities and making smart, logical decisions.
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Dates & Time: Fridays, Feb 27–Apr 10, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 noon
Location: Fellowship Presbyterian Church, 2005 New Garden Rd, Greensboro
Instructor: Cecelia Ray, ACBL Life Master
Cost: $150 for complete course
Registration:
Cecelia Ray
📧 CeceliaRay@gmail.com
📱 336-601-5058 (call or text)
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No matter what level or style of bridge you enjoy, declarer play is the great equalizer. Strong declarer play wins tricks even when the bidding isn’t perfect—and makes the game more satisfying and fun.
Supervised Play and Learn with Martha Albertson
Here's what to expect. You will bid and play prepared hands. After each hand we will discuss the likely bidding, the lead, the play and the defense.
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Dates: Mondays, on-going
Time: 1:00-3:00 PM
Location: Georgia Taylor Recreation Center
1471 W. Clemmonsville,Rd, Winston-Salem
Cost: $10 each session
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Reservations are requested to Cindy Wright at crwbridge@yahoo.com so she can prepare enough boards for all tables in attendance.