[bixby]

Playing in an ACBL regional tournament this evening, my partner was the dealer and the bidding went:

P - (P) - P - (1S)
1NT - (2S) - 3C - (3S)
P -

At this point, opponents inquired about the meaning of my partner's 1NT. I explained that because partner was a passed hand, 1NT was unusual and showed the minor suits. Opponents suggested that such a 1NT bid is alertable. They bid on to 4S and then, after the auction was concluded, suggested again that 1NT should have been alerted.

I summoned the Director, who, to my considerable surprise, agreed with the opponents. He even went and checked with another Director and then returned and confirmed his ruling.

After play was completed, opponents did not claim any damage, so nothing came of the ruling.

Now, the "Notrump Overcalls" section of the ACBL alert chart states that no alert is required for "Conventional overcalls by a passed hand." Isn't that exactly what this is?

I would appreciate it if someone knowledgeable about the ACBL alert rules could comment on whether this call was alertable.

[blackshoe]

No alert. Send both directors to a reading comprehension course (although I wouldn't be surprised to learn that they "discussed" the question, but neither one of them bothered to read the regulation).

[peachy]

No alert. TD refresher course needed, they are supposed to read the regulation before ruling. I am sure they can read, and on this point the alert regulation is _not_ ambiguous or unclear (surprise, surprise ).

[bixby]

Thank you.