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French Fancies

In 1989 the late lamented French Congress, the Cino del Duca, coincided with the 200th anniversary of the Eiffel Tower which Paris celebrated with festivities and fireworks. The bridge produced it's own share of the latter. France took the first two places with an Italian Pair third - things haven't changed much for these two countries are usually contesting the medals in most European events.

The hand which produced the fireworks was good for the overnight French leaders, Aujaleu and Adad who eventually finished 7th.

North/South game. Dealer East

			J 8 4
			10
			A K 5 4 3
			Q 6 5 4
	9 7	N W E S			K 10 3
	Q 9 5 3				J 8 6 4 2
	J 10 9 2				8 6
	K 7 2				J 8 3
			A Q 6 5 2
			A K 7
			Q 7
			A 10 9

Aujaleu played this in 6 from the South hand and he ran the diamond lead to his jack. He tried a small trump towards table, East took the jack with his king and switched to a club. Rising with the ace, declarer played three round of hearts, ruffing his loser and then ran trumps. This squeezed West in the minors earning 1430 and most of the matchpoints. The outright top came at our table where East psyched 1 and partner played 3NT. This was not only doubled by West but this player also ducked a club in the end game and partner emerged with 13 tricks for 1550! Fireworks indeed.