[mycroft]

I would have pulled to hearts with North's hand after the double, which in my case is "we don't let them play 2 of a fit, partner". I will admit I would have expected something flatter than 5=5 minors, but I understand; and it's obvious from my hand partner has a singleton.

I have two minuses to go with my nice spades: the sixth heart into what is likely a good heart fit and a sub-minimum opener. Also, as my pass was forcing - is double here penalty in your partnership? - South's double is the "only" flexible call.

Having said all that I don't mind, at MPs, going for the jugular. Sure you give up -470 sometimes - more than sometimes, even - but if you do catch a 300 into partscore or 500 into game, you own your opponents going forward; even if you give up -470, they'll still remember that you will try to catch them speeding, and may not speed as much in future (which sure helps your constructive bidding). There's just too many risks on this hand; next hand, I'll have another Ace.

I think I, too, would have doubled the first time in South; but I can see KQxxx T9xxx as not being 5=5 pick'em.

[bacca2002]

Not only that, but south also had the strength to force to game..