WHAT DO SOME PLAYERS NEED TO HAVE TO BID A GRAND ?

The answer it seems is a combined 40 count with at least two long running suits....... and no communication problems ?

Why just the other day I was dealt the North hand only to hear partner ( no surprise there ) open 1S. I quietly bid 2C showing 10+ points,  and partner responded with a strong 3D hoping no doubt to hear a 3H bid from me with no trumps in mind. . Instead ,  I went straight to 4NT , then 5NT , confirming  1 ace and 3 kings opposite ......and so bidding the grand was a formality. 

On a heart lead 14 quick  tricks were on view ( 6D, 3H, 3S and 2C ) and so this had to be the flattish board of the session....... BUT NO.

In a small mixed ability field, two inexperienced pairs did not venture beyond game. Five pairs settled for the small slam ....heaven knows why . And so there we were ....bidding the obvious on a combined 35 count , with a long running 6 card suit of real squeezing potential......for a fortutious top.

Clearly , caution , timidity , fear , self-doubt and  cowardice still continue to inhibit many players , who ought to know that bold bidding and playing with the odds is what this game of bridge is all about .