Bidding Conventions >
Leaping Michaels
Leaping Michaels is a conventional
4
or
4
jump overcall of a
weak 2
or
2
to show a good two-suited hand (at least 5-5, frequently longer). It is an extension of the
Michaels cuebid, and gets its name from the "leaping" or "jumping" aspect of the overcall.
The 4 Jump Overcall
4
shows clubs and the unbid major after the opponents open
2 or
2.
|
|
|
|
Opponent 1
Pass
|
Partner
Pass
|
Opponent 2
2
|
Overcaller
4 (1)
|
(1) Leaping Michaels, showing clubs and spades (the other major).
|
The 4 Jump Overcall
4
shows diamonds and the unbid major after the opponents open
2 or
2.
|
|
|
|
Opponent 1
2
|
Partner
Pass
|
Opponent 2
Pass
|
Overcaller
4 (1)
|
(1) Leaping Michaels, showing diamonds and hearts (the other major).
|
Responses to 4
4 is artificial, asking partner to bid his major.
Responses to 4
4 asks partner to pass or correct to
4.
Other Considerations
- Playing Leaping Michaels, a 3 or 3 cuebid shows a strong balanced hand, and asks partner to bid a 3NT with a stopper in the enemy suit.
- See also Phillip Alder's column on Leaping Michaels in the New York Times.
