Strength Isn't the Point. A suit bid over a preemptive opener is not particularly strong.
It simply indicates a suit and a desire to compete. Strength requirements are approximately those of a two level overcall. You must overcall with a decent suit or else you will always be victim to preemptive bids, which are common in competitive play.
Example Overcalls of Preemptive Bids
N E
3§
???East's Hands:
ª Ax |
ª xx |
ª xxxxxx |
© KQJxx |
© AJx |
© Kxx |
¨ Qxxx |
¨ KQJxxx |
¨ KQJ |
§ xx |
§ xx |
§ x |
Bid:
3© 3¨ 3ª Flat Hand? With flatter but stronger (11+ HCP) hands, with at least a tolerance (3 cards) for unbid majors, double. Don't Be Fussy. Don't be too concerned about HCP or textbook shape -- preempts are good weapons, and you're under the gun because your opponent used one on you.