My WSOP (or lack of)

As has been the case these last couple of years, I found very little to get excited about the WSOP. Perhaps the memory of the long lines for everything had scarred me for ever?. Or perhaps it’s because I simply loath the location? Either way, the negative thoughts seem to take away my drive and passion. However, as the last event before the big one was about to take place, I decided to at least go and see some old friends. In the end, I actually played the limit shootout. What surprised me, was the fact that I actually enjoyed playing live again.

Feeling driven, I also took in the first even at the Bellagio. And even though I got donked good style in the two hands I played, my newly found passion ensured that I would also play the second event. I also enjoyed this one. In fact, I found myself on a table full of conversation and fun. I also happen to get deep into it and bubbled just before the money. And even though I ran my Q-Q into A-4, I think a conspiracy was forming - one that was enticing me back to poker! Suddenly, I wanted to play the big one like never before.

With having made dinner, I joined the other 29 players for the Bellagio buffet. I know they all say this is the best buffet in Vegas, but I felt sick as a pig afterwards. I don’t know what it was, but everything just seems to smell of fish in that place. I guess that after 30 years in a chip shop, I should be used to the smell. But fish with everything?

Having to take the next day off to recover, I decide to stay at home. But then I get a phone call at 11.pm asking if I wanted to go to the Rio for some one-table action. I guess the temptation to win my seat was too great and off we went.

I see TK busy at work for Blonde. If ever I needed inspiration, TK was the man. I mean…how does he do it at his age? Anyway, I take my seat and join six other in a last-longer side bet. But an hour in, it doesn’t look good. Down to 3K from the original 5K, I would need to get lucky. What a lucky fish I was as my 8-8 made a straight against the J-J of Casey Castle. I love Casey, we have been friends for years. I loved him even more after that much needed double-up.

Down to three-handed, I again get lucky as I limp on the SB and flop two-pairs. The problem was, the BB had flopped a straight. But did I tell you just how lucky I was? Before I could say “what a set up“, the dealer fills me up on the turn. Great position now as I have 34K to Casey‘s 16K. Before long it was all over as my A-T held up against his J-K. Wow, I actually won with the best hand! In fact, wow, I actually had the best hand when the chips went in!

I don’t know what this bit of luck will do for me in the big one, but it certainly adds a feel-good factor. Who knows, if I can keep sucking out like this, I may just have a chance. I hope I go deep, as I do miss posting on this site.
But whatever happens, I should at least get one more post in!

GL to all the Brits!