Event Navigation
They say defense is the hardest part of the game, but Chris prefers defense to declarer play. Plus, you will be defending twice as much as you declare, so you better learn to love it!
In this class, Chris will share his love of defending with you. He will discuss the number one instinct every player should have on defense, the underlying logic that gives rise to this principle, and how our partnership must twist, turn, and maneuver to obey that principle in every way. Along the way, Chris will share real deals that reward this attack, as well as humorous stories of what happened at the table. The results may be shocking — you may break contracts far in advance of them ever getting off the ground, when a less incisive defense would allow declarer to do something nasty to you 9 tricks in the future! And the best part is, you don’t even have to know about declarer’s machinations. All we must do is follow the fundamental defensive principle.
Most of all, Chris wants the class to be full of fun and laughter. Declarer plays alone, but defense is a partnership game!
This course is intended for Intermediate level bridge players with at least one year of duplicate experience.
What you will learn
- The Fundamental Defensive Principle
- Return partner’s lead?
- Signaling and how to help partner
- No mercy!
How the class works
Lots of bidding and play of the hand (and a little bit of homework).
We will do exercises in class (homework outside of class) and conclude each evening by playing deals related to the topic. In-class deals are available in downloadable format so you can play the hands at home and receive commentary on the bidding and play (requires Bridge Baron Software).
Coffee, tea and snacks also provided.
Course Instructor
Chris Chung has been an avid social bridge player for most of his career, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t take the game seriously! 19th out of 204 in the Life Master Pairs in 2025, and NAP Flight A Championship in 2026, Chris not only plays at a high level, but knows that the game must be played for fun, not for obeying arbitrary rules session in and session out.
He has coached the Stanford bridge club for 7 years, taught people of all ages (9 to 80, seriously!), and is equally welcoming to beginner and advanced alike. When he was more active in the duplicate scene, a few players referred to him as “Mr. Smiles.” Chris will always meet you at your level and try to explain fundamental bridge concepts in an easy and sensical, digestible way.
Testimonial
Chris Chung has completely changed the way I think about bridge. Rather than asking students to memorize rules, he explains the logic behind the game, making bidding and play much easier to understand and remember. His enthusiasm is contagious, he’s approachable and encouraging, and he makes every lesson enjoyable. Thanks to Chris, I’m not only having more fun playing bridge—I’m also taking my game to the next level.
– Kelly H
| Syllabus | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Payment
After registering, below, you may pay by Zelle or check to hold your spot:
Zelle: Transfer $170 to either franklinsalias-bridge@yahoo.com or (408) 306-3901.
Check: Mail a check made out to Frank Smoot in the amount of $170:
Frank Smoot
15 Tagus Ct.
Portola Valley, CA 94028
