skjaeran

1♣-1♦ 1NT-2♥ 3♥-4♣ 4♦-4♥ p 4♦=last train

Over here it's popular to play 2NT as GF with 55+ in the minors. I've also played it at a transfer to clubs.

An obvious 1♥ opening IMO. Just winning bridge tactics in my experience.

You might find something interesting on Christoffer Abel Arntzen's system page: http://home.broadpark.no/~carntz/sys_it.htm

Ehh? East has the 6430 hand. Whether 3♦ is right or not depends on what kind of diamonds you prefer it to show - and how many.

They do coplay with EBL/WBF rules, so there's no problem. The problem in the Italian Teams Championships was that someone gave Angelini's team clearance for breaking the rules.

Helgemo and Helness are full time bridge players. They are moving to Monaco. They've already applied for citizenship, which it seems they will get from 2010. This is a requirement for them to be able to represent Monaco in 2012 (Monaco rule). In addition, the first three years they can't stay in Norway for more than a short time (I'm not sure how much, 60 or 75 days per year I think) to avoid paying tax to Norway. As a Norwegian, I think it's a pity they've decided to leave Norway and represent Monaco in the future. But it's their own decision, and a decision I respect. With the amount of money involved, I doubt many (if anyone) would have decided otherwise in their position.

You can also read it here: http://bridgetopics.com/news/2010/dec/helgeness-and-fantunes-immigrate-monaco

Or play transfers over 1♠-1NT instead?

Clear pass IMO. Without interference, 3♣ would be invitationan for me. With interference it's only competitive.

North made an obvious rebid IMO. South took a very conservative view, I'd prefer a false preference to 2♥ with such a strong hand. Passing might of course be the winning decision.

4♥ for me.

1. I'd open 1♥ 2. 2NT now, inv+ with 4-card support 3. I'd not consider any other call.

North could have bid to 5♣ in a different way, showing values on his way. Bidding it this way sounds more like a gamble. And though I'm absolutely maximu,, with very nice controls, I'm afraid my trump queen is of dubious value. And I haven't got any trick source. So I'm passing.

1♠ for me. The suit is ok for the 2-level for me, but I've got too much potensial to make a weak bid.