Courchevel, a dynamic and high-action variant of Omaha poker, offers a unique twist—the first community card is revealed before any pre-flop betting begins. This early exposure of one flop card changes the entire dynamic of pre-flop decision-making. Understanding how to react effectively to pre-flop action in Courchevel is essential to playing the game profitably.

In this article, we’ll break down how to approach pre-flop strategy in Courchevel, what factors to consider, and how to capitalize on the information that this unusual format provides.

Understanding the Courchevel Setup

Courchevel is similar to Omaha Hi, but with one key difference:

• Each player is dealt five hole cards

• The first flop card is exposed before the first betting round

• Players must use exactly two hole cards and three community cards to make their hand

This early peek at the flop creates more information-based decisions before the first bet is even made.

How the Exposed Flop Card Affects Strategy

The revealed flop card gives players a head start in analyzing potential hand strengths. For example:

• If the exposed card is an Ace, hands containing Ace-high combinations or Ace-suited cards become more playable.

• If it’s a low card like a 4, players may lean toward wheel draws (A-2-3-4-5).

• A coordinated card (like a Ten of Hearts) could encourage speculation with suited connectors or flush draws.

This one card narrows the possible flop textures and gives you an edge if you’re paying close attention to board development and your hole cards.

Adjusting Your Starting Hand Range

Because players have five hole cards, there are more possibilities for strong hands. However, not all five-card combos are equal.

Strong pre-flop hands in Courchevel include:

• Double-suited hands with high card strength (e.g., A♠ K♠ Q♦ J♦ T♣)

• Hands with coordinated values for straights and flushes

• Pairs with strong backup draws, especially if the exposed flop card connects

Weaker hands to avoid:

• Uncoordinated high cards with no suit potential

• Rainbow, disconnected hands with no synergy

• Low pairs without draws

Use the exposed card to help narrow your playable range, not to widen it carelessly.

Reacting to Pre-Flop Raises and Re-Raises

Since the game starts with more information, you’ll often see aggressive pre-flop betting, especially from players who hit the exposed flop card hard.

Here’s how to handle various scenarios:

1. If You Connect Strongly with the Exposed Card:

• Consider raising or 3-betting, especially in position.

• Protect vulnerable hands (e.g., top pair + nut flush draw).

• Don’t slow-play too much—players are more likely to call wide.

2. If You Miss the Exposed Card:

• Evaluate backup draws and position.

• Fold marginal hands that are easily dominated.

• Consider calling with disguised hands (e.g., hidden set potential or nut draws).

3. Against Early Aggression:

• Respect strong openers in early position—they likely connected with the flop card.

• Use your position to make more informed decisions.

• Don’t get attached to speculative hands without clear equity.

Importance of Position and Table Awareness

Position is even more valuable in Courchevel than in traditional Omaha. Acting later allows you to:

• See how others react to the exposed flop card

• Control the pot size based on hand strength

• Extract more value from made hands or avoid traps

Also, pay attention to opponents’ habits:

• Some players overplay suited hands just because of the exposed flop card

• Others might tighten up too much when the flop card doesn’t help

Exploit these tendencies accordingly.

FAQ

1. Should I play more hands in Courchevel than in Omaha?

No—despite having five hole cards and a revealed flop card, hand selection should be tighter, not looser. Focus on coordinated, multi-way value hands.

2. How much should I raise before the flop in Courchevel?

A standard raise (3x–4x big blind) is common, but you can size up with strong hands that connect with the exposed card. Be cautious of bloated pots without equity.

3. Is bluffing pre-flop viable in Courchevel?

Bluffing is less effective pre-flop since everyone sees part of the board. However, semi-bluffs with strong draws or blocker advantages can be used strategically, especially in late position.