The Muck
Card Guards
Bernard Lee
George Lind III
Maverick Movie
Off the Felt
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MAY 10
A Look at Some of the Rarest Card Guards in the World w/ Gerald ‘SKULLMAN’ David
Protecting your hand in poker is of the utmost importance—just ask Estelle Denis—and the best way to do so is to cap your cards. To accomplish this, players either use a chip off their stack or bring their own card guard. While the former group tend to frown upon the latter, card guards can be found at almost every poker table.
Card guards have been around for about as long as the game has existed, but they really took off after the poker boom in 2003. That is when players began to get creative by using pretty much anything under the sun to protect their cards. Some of the more famous card guards throughout the years have been Greg Raymer’s trademark fossil, Steven Dannenmann’s globe and Doyle Brunson’s Casper the Ghost (which was actually the Ghostbusters logo) lighter.
While you might see a card guard or two every time you sit down at a poker table, you might not realize the sheer variety that exists in the world today. Enter Gerald "SKULLMAN" David, who has taken it upon himself to establish a collection of card guards that he shares with the world on www.cardguardgallery.com.
PokerNews recently sat down with Gerald, who resides in the United Kingdom, to talk about his enthusiasm for card guards, his extensive collection and which are the most prized in his assemblage.
PokerNews: Why are you enthusiastic about card guards?
Gerald ‘SKULLMAN’ David. Picture courtesy of PaddyPowerPoker blog.Gerald: Whilst playing in a high-value freezeout tournament at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, Iwas in Seat 1 and was under the gun with pocket tens. I raised preflop, there was a caller in Seat 6, and the small blind reraised. I flat-called the reraise, as did the player in Seat 6. The flop was
. Again the small blind made a bet of approximately 75% of the chips that were already in the pot. I just flat called, as did Seat 6.Whilst I had been intently watching what action was taking place by the other two players, after having placed my bet, I had not noticed the dealer muck my cards, as they were unprotected and did not have a card guard on top of them. Unfortunately, the rules of poker state that once your cards hit the muck, your hand is dead. I declared my annoyance to the dealer, but there was nothing further I could do. If I had protected my cards with a card guard, the likelihood is that my two cards would not have been taken by the dealer and I would have gone on to win a very large pot as the other two players placed large bets on the turn and river.
How did your card guard collection start?
I have been fortunate enough to play in various tournaments that have included players from almost every continent, and as a result of players seeing my card guard or me seeing players using legitimate or other items as guards, a conversation has been struck up between us on the subject. That is how the collection started six years ago.
Almost anything goes for a card guard, from miniature lucky charms, sharks, cartoon characters, animals, framed photos of the family, musical instruments, pebbles, various modes of transport, coins, medals, etc.
While leisurely looking on eBay at card guards, I came across many unofficial card guards but few that were from officially run tournaments and casino poker rooms. It was at this juncture that I decided to see if I could gradually build up a collection of card guards from past and present poker tournaments, poker rooms, leagues and sponsors. In my quest to build up the collection, which now exceeds 700 items, I have managed to obtain a variety of examples, a few of which are the only ones that I have come across.
Aside from protecting cards, what other value does a guard have?
I believe a card guard is an instrument that every poker player should use; it also acts as a very good tool for advertising purposes. As a result of poker players using them on the table during live games and also with the popularity of poker being seen regularly on the TV and with live streaming on the Internet, they all give their sponsors and casinos fantastic free exposure.
It is quite apparent that some poker sponsors and poker rooms have realized the importance of this form of advertising more than others. Many poker websites offer specific card guards in their stores, which can be purchased with player points. Meanwhile, the live poker tournament sponsors also produce card guards for specific tournaments and give them out in a variety of ways.
Can you tell us a little more about your collection?
I have been fortunate enough to make some very interesting contacts since I started collecting and I have come across and acquired a very wide variety of card guards. The World Series of Poker has issued various card guards for their WSOP Circuit tournaments and also card guards and dealer buttons for their Las Vegas tournaments, even individually numbering some for events held at the Rio Casino.
In my opinion, to date PokerStars has produced the best range of card guards and recognized their importance to the player more than any other poker organization and produced ones that are both heavy enough to act as a true card guard and in most instances, also give details of the tournament that they represent on both the front and reverse sides.
It is amazing how quickly the collection has mushroomed over a period of just six years, as I initially set up the website with the intention of displaying the collection only and finding out as much information as I could about each one of the card guards shown. If any of you can assist me and fill in the spaces with information about any of the displayed card guards, I would really like to hear from you? Please contact me on questions@cardguardgallery.com.
What are the most prized pieces in your collection?
The most prized card guard in my collection is the First Annual World Series of Poker 1970 Horseshoe Casino Legendary (Silver). Other Card Guards of interest on www.cardguardgallery.com are:
Legendary Horseshoe Casino: Commemorates the First Annual World Series of Poker in 1970
2006 WSOP DEALER Button, Numbered 0001
2007 WSOP DEALER TOURNAMENT CERTIFIED, Numbered 001
POKER STARS 2004, 2005 & 2007 (Silver) Card Guards, given out to Winners of their On-Line Satellite’s for the WSOP Main Event.
The ORLEANS 2000 Tournament of Champions of Poker (Silver)
FITZWILLIAM Casino & Card Club (SILVER) dating back to 2005 – The Fitzwilliam commissioned a Silver Smith in Dublin to manufacture these especially for them.
CAESARS PALACE Las Vegas 2007 – The first one issued by the Casino Poker Room
AUSTRALIAN POKER LEAGUE - Tournament Winner 2007, Ace of Spades (Silver in Colour) – Issued prior to the APL ‘Royal Flush’ series of Poker Card Guards.
To peruse even more rare card guards, visit www.cardguardgallery.com.
*Lead photo courtesy of shop.pokermedia.cz.
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MAY 09
Bernard Lee Celebrates Sixth Anniversary of Poker Radio Show; Signs with RunGoodGear
Bernard Lee, who you may recall finished in 13th place in the 2005 World Series of Poker, has been busy this year serving as the “Voice of the WSOP Circuit” during their Main Event final table live streams. Well, things are about to get even busier for Lee as this month he’ll celebrate the sixth anniversary of his radio show, The Bernard Lee Poker Show. In addition, Lee has signed on as a part of Team RunGoodGear for the 2013 World Series of Poker.
“I’m honored to be a part of the RunGood team, and look forward to working with the company as it becomes the premiere apparel company in the industry,” Lee said.
RunGoodGear.com, an Oklahoma-based poker apparel company, has also signed on as a sponsor of The Bernard Lee Poker Show.
“We are thrilled to have Bernard be part of the RunGood team this year. His addition brings a veteran element for on and off the felt. Plus, we hear he’s pretty good on a mic too,” said Tana Karn, the chief executive officer of RunGoodGear.com.
Before he heads to Vegas to represent RunGoodGear, Lee will be celebrating the sixth anniversary of The Bernard Lee Poker Show, which airs from 7-8 p.m. EST on Tuesdays in Massachusetts and is simulcast on Rounders Radio, throughout the month of May. He’ll do so with four special guests:
- Chris Moneymaker, the 2003 WSOP Main Event champion (who will discuss the 10th anniversary of his epic victory)
- 2012 WSOP Main Event fifth-place finisher Jeremy Ausmus
- 2012 WSOP bracelet winner Brent Hanks
- 2008 World Poker Tour (WPT) Player of the Year Jonathan Little
For more information, check out The Bernard Lee Poker Show website.
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MAY 01
George “Jorj95” Lind III Tackles Difficult Three-Part Challenge on PokerStars
If it had been announced on the first day of April as opposed to the last, you’d no doubt think that the new challenge from George “Jorj95” Lind III of PokerStars Team Online was an April Fool's Day joke. As it happens, Lind is serious about his new three-prong challenge in which he will attempt to make a pre-rakeback profit, earn enough PokerStars VIP Player Points to become a Supernova Elite — and also lose ten pounds.
Lind made the announcement on his blog at jorj95.net:
This will not be easy by any means, and a lot depends on how often the high-stakes games run, but I think I have a decent shot at it. By making it a public goal, hopefully it will entice more people to play the games too. My plan is to wake up around 7AM PST every day and play every sit & go satellite with a $300 or higher buy-in (and some lower ones if the higher ones aren’t going that day) and almost all of the SCOOP events. Last May I earned over 870k VPP while only playing the first 20 days of the month since I left for the WSOP right after SCOOP was over.
Lind also gave his thoughts on his chances of success:
- 1 Million VPPs (odds of succeeding: 60%). I think my odds of getting this are pretty close to 100% if the games go as much as they did last year but it's so hard to say how much the high stakes games will go off.
- Profit pre-rakeback (odds of succeeding: 70%). There is a lot of variance in one month of games, especially when a big portion of my results come from a few high stakes games.
- Lose 10 pounds (odds of succeeding 50%). I think I'm pretty much a lock to lose at least 6 or 7 pounds as I just naturally eat less when I am playing a lot of poker, but 10 pounds is a lot to lose in one month. I do expect a few pounds to come off in the first few days though just from not eating all the sodium-rich food I was eating on the cruise ship.
George Lind III"I like to do challenges like this because it keeps me motivated to play, although during SCOOP I would likely be putting in a ton of hours regardless of whether I was doing a challenge," Lind told PokerNews while grinding sit-and-gos on Wednesday. "My main goal is obviously to make money but if I can get a million VPPs in a month by just putting in a few extra hours, then, hey, why not do it?"
Obviously it's going to be a jam-packed month for Lind, and we couldn't help but ask whether or not he felt such an undertaking would exhaust him headed into the 2013 World Series of Poker.
"I won't be at WSOP until mid-June at the earliest," Lind admitted, "and there's a decent chance I don't go at all this year."
For more on Lind’s challenge, check out his blog here. PokerNews will also try to keep you abreast of Lind's progress throughout the month.
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APR 30
Poker Movie Magic: Maverick's Charitable Endeavor, Cameo Appearances & More
Way back in the 1950s, James Garner popularized the character Maverick in a popular TV show by the same name. Known as a gambler who’d rather con than fight, Maverick became the early personification of a poker player. In 1994, that character was revisited in the Richard Donner motion picture Maverick, which starred Garner alongside Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster.
I’ve always enjoyed Maverick, and that’s why I was compelled to pick up a copy of its soundtrack for $2.50 at a thrift store a few weeks back. Paging through the CD’s pamphlet, I actually learned a couple of interesting facts that inspired me to write this piece for PokerNews’ The Muck. First, did you know that the film was filled to the brim with cameo appearances? Likewise, were you aware that dozens of movie stars and country musicians, aptly called The Maverick Choir, joined forces to record an "Amazing Grace" track that was used to raise money for charity? If you're as interested as I was, then keep on reading.
Maverick’s Cameos Galore & Other Facts of Interest
The Maverick Soundtrack features 12 tracks from some country greats, and it only makes sense that many of them would be offered the chance to appear onscreen. For instance, Carlene Carter, who sang "Something Already Gone" in the film, appeared as a waitress on the riverboat, and Hal Ketchum, who sang "Solitary Travelers", was a bank robber. Here are some other country music cameos to keep a lookout for the next time you watch the film:
- Vince Gill, who sings "Ophelia", was a spectator at the poker game.
- Clint Black, who sang "A Good Run of Bad Luck" and also appeared on Season 2 of Celebrity Apprentice alongside Annie Duke, played the sweet-faced gambler who gets tossed off the boat for cheating.
- Waylon Jennings and Kathy Mattea were the couple caught with guns on the riverboat.
- Reba McEntire was an extra in the opening poker scene.
- Restless Heart, who sang "Maverick", is the band playing on the riverboat.
- Alice Cooper had a cameo as the town drunk, but unfortunately his scene was cut.
Musicians were not the only ones to have cameo appearances in Maverick. A number of classic television western stars appeared as players in the tournament including Denver Pyle from The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, Henry Darrow from The High Chaparral, William Smith from Laredo and Robert Fuller from Wagon Train.
In addition, some “friends” from Gibson’s past had bit parts in Maverick. One was his Lethal Weapon (also directed by Richard Donner) costar Danny Glover, who played a bank robber. There was also another appearance by a Lethal Weapon alum. Here’s how IMDb describes it:
"Steve Kahan (dealer during the poker tournament) also plays Mel Gibson's (Martin Riggs') captain in the "Lethal Weapon" franchise. In that series, Gibson is a constant irritation for Kahan throughout. As an inside joke, near the end of the tournament you see Kahan give Gibson a terse handshake (barely acknowledging his presence) before quickly exiting the table. This happens right after Gibson's character knocks out the last player before reaching the final table. In actuality, Kahan gets stuck in his chair, and as he stands up his chair comes with him. His handshake with Gibson is cut short because he wants to remove the chair. Notice Gibson's expression as he chokes back a laugh just before the scene changes.
Here are some other interesting facts from the 1994 film:
- The $25,000 buy-in for the film’s tournament, which took place in 19th century America, would equate to more than $600,000 today.
- Meg Ryan was originally cast as Annabelle instead of Jodie Foster.
- The role of Zane Cooper, played by James Garner, was originally offered to Paul Newman. He turned it down.
- The character The Commodore, played by James Coburn, repeatedly slow rolls his opponents.
- On the final hand of the movie, Maverick is drawing to the
and dramatically pulls the 
to make a royal flush. What often gets overlooked is that he could have also won with the 
.
The Maverick Choir Raises Money for the Pediatric AIDS Foundation
In this day and age, using poker as a vehicle to raise money for charities is common (check out our piece on Phil Hellmuth and the upcoming Derby Poker Championship for evidence of that), but it’s hard to dig up such charitable endeavors from twenty years ago. While it wasn’t poker per se, the Maverick Choir, which consisted of many of the aforementioned country music artists, got together to record an ensemble rendition of "Amazing Grace".
The Maverick Choir: John Anderson, Randy Archer, Clint Black, Suzy Bogguss, Gary Chapman, Billy Dean, Radney Foster, James Garner, Mel Gibson, Amy Grant, Noel Haggard, Faith Hill, Waylon Jennings, Hal Ketchum, Tracy Lawrence, Kathy Mattea, Reba McEntire, John Michael Montgomery, Michael Omartian, Johnny Park, Eddie Rabbitt, Restless Heart, Ricky Van Shelton, Danny Shirley, Larry Stewart, Joy White & Tammy Wynette.The song was recorded at Amy Grant’s farm, and all 27 of the artists involved (many on different record labels), as well as Icon Productions and Warner Bros., donated all of their record royalties from “Amazing Grace” to the Pediatric AIDS Foundation.
Here’s a look at the "Amazing Grace" video by the Maverick Choir:
*Lead photo courtesy of swotti.starmedia.com.
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APR 08
Off the Felt with Nick Schulman: The Future, Stu Ungar, and More
Off the Felt is interviewing your favorite poker players to find out a little bit about their lives off the felt. New York native, two-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner and World Poker Tour champion Nick Schulman recently sat down with PokerNews to tell us a little bit about his hopes for the future, Stu Ungar, and his love for no-limit hold’em.
What is your favorite tournament spot?
Las Vegas is probably my favorite location, but within Las Vegas, I would say Bellagio Poker Room. Just in general, I really enjoy playing there. The atmosphere is great, some of the biggest games in town are at Bellagio, the staff is top notch. Just overall it’s a great vibe.
You’re good friends with Eugene Katchalov, right? He travels a lot; do you ever travel with him?
No, I don’t really play in Europe all that often. Maybe one or two times a year, so I haven’t seen him all that much because that is where he has focused his game.
What is your favorite vacation destination, and what activities do you like to do while on vacation?
Unfortunately, I don’t vacation often. Although, Hawaii would be at the top of my list, specifically Kona, Hawaii. The beaches are stunning with pearl white sand and clear ocean waters. The sites are fantastic with waterfalls, volcanoes, lush greenery and vibrant tropical colors. It’s just a beautiful place. I’ve been twice, and it’s just a great place to relax, but I do enjoy snorkeling also.
What are some of your hobbies away from the table?
I’m currently trying to learn golf. I took a few lessons in San Diego, but for the most part I’m just learning from a few friends of mine who teach me while out on the course. I read a lot and just like to relax when I can. I don’t spend as much time away from the table while in Vegas as I’d like to, but during downtime, just relaxing at home is great for me. In New York I own a piece of a pool hall and I used to play a lot of pool myself, so pool still remains an avid hobby. I’m not part of a pool league myself, but I do gamble sometimes against people like Jean-Robert Bellande and John Hennigan.
Can you tell me the most ridiculous prop bet you have ever initiated or been involved in?
It was a no-shaving bet with Huck Seed. The bet was supposed to be who could resist shaving for a full year, but we both gave up like four months in. If I recall, $20,000 was on the line, but we both couldn’t take it so no money was lost. It was hilarious because Seed’s facial hair just grows straight out so it wasn’t pretty (laughs). Mine was just really bushy, and my hair is jet black. It wasn’t a good look for me and just got too thick for my comfort.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can play pool really well. There’s even a few trick shots I can pull off that tend to be real crowd-pleasers. I can also play the trumpet, but I hardly play anymore.
If you could pick anyone to play you in a movie, who would it be?
There is an actor named Adam Shulman who made some television appearances on “The West Wing” and “American Dreams.” He is a fellow Shulman, tall, goofy and Jewish. I’ve been told I slightly resemble him, but I’m going to go with Denzel Washington. I mean he’s ‘Zel,’ he’s a badass. The "Nick Schulman Story starring Denzel Washington," I can just see it now.
What is your greatest poker achievement?
I think it was winning the same tournament twice. In 2009, I won the [WSOP] $10,000 2-7 Lowball event and then won it again in 2012. Winning it the second time is what I am most proud of so far.
What would you be doing if you weren’t playing poker?
I’ve actually given it a lot of thought, but haven’t come up with anything in particular. Poker just took over my life as a teenager without any indication as to where my life would have gone without it. I’m interested in a lot of things, but nothing else seems right. My father was a writer, and I thought I wanted to pursue that when I was younger, but I have a tough time maintaining a schedule. I don’t know if a structured job would have worked for me.
Alongside of that, you’ll soon be 30. What do you wish to see yourself doing in the next 10 years?
I just want to maintain balance in my life and keep growing as a player. If I can do that, I think good things will happen in poker. I am goal-oriented, but it’s not necessarily to win a certain amount of money or win this tournament or do this or that. I just want to keep growing and continue being a student of the game. I don’t think I’ll ever fully quit playing, but to continue to stay competitive requires a lot of mental fortitude and work away from the table. So if I ever felt like I wasn’t competitive anymore, then I would start playing quite a bit less.
What is next on your poker calendar?
I’m really gearing up for the World Series of Poker this summer. I really focus on the cash games and a few tournaments. I’m not yet certain of which events I’ll be playing because I prioritize my schedule around the cash games being played. The stakes will be bigger over the summer, so I’ll be seen playing any stakes from $150/$300 to $1,000/$2,000, just depending what the games bring. There isn’t any stake I wouldn’t play if the game was good. Before that, I think I will go to Monaco for the EPT Grand Final.
You play quite often in Bobby’s Room at Bellagio. What is your favorite game to play?
In general, no-limit hold’em is still my favorite game. Despite the variety that is played in Bobby’s Room, no-limit hold’em is more of an artistic game than any of the other games. There is so many different ways to play, and you can just always change your game and adapt and try so many new things that it just makes it more fun for me.
What advice would you give to anyone about anything?
Confidence is a good quality, but when it becomes arrogance, it doesn’t work out. So try to remain humble, look at the big picture and keep being passionate, and continue trying to learn about whatever it is you are pursuing. From a work standpoint, never be satisfied.
If you were looking for a business partner, whom within the poker community would you want to partner with?
John Hennigan. He is one of my best friends, and I fully trust him.
Who within the poker community do you enjoy conversations with?
Again, John. I spend a lot of time with him. David Oppenheim is also a good friend of mine. I don’t really have too many poker friends, but those two are just the best.
Which poker player can calm you down after a bad beat?
I did so much complaining throughout my 20s about bad beats that I’m really working on that. I’ve had at least two or three months where I haven’t complained once, and I’m hoping to keep it going. I really try to calm myself down instead of looking to someone help calm me down. Discipline and patience within yourself is important.
You’re usually sporting your headphones. What do you typically listen to?
Lately, I’ve been listening to the new Kendrick Lamar album titled, “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City.” The album is just awesome; I really love it and recommend it to everyone. I like everything though from 60s, 70s, rock and current hip-hop.
In Las Vegas, what is your favorite place to eat?
It’s The Henry at the Cosmopolitan. They have a really great breakfast, I know the staff well, and it’s just a great place to sit and enjoy some quiet time. I usually go alone to read the paper while drinking my morning coffee. It’s just become a regular spot for me.
What is your favorite daily wear attire?
Poker-wise, comfort is key. Shorts, sweat pants and T-shirts are a staple of mine.
If I came to your home and looked inside the refrigerator, what would I find?
You would find Greek yogurt, a half-eaten can of cat food, some vegetables, almond milk and eggs. I typically don’t cook, but I really prefer breakfast, and once in awhile I’ll have an urge to make fish or a steak.
Do you have any bad habits?
I really had a habit as a degenerate gambler back in the day, but I really don’t think I am anymore. I think I have rid that habit from my life after making some poor decisions. I’m more disciplined today now than I was back then.
If you could meet anyone in the world dead or alive who would it be and what would you say to them?
Good question. I would say Stu Ungar although I don’t know what I would say to him. He was considered to be a very powerful no-limit player really ahead of his time, and I would just like to have lunch with him. Gandhi would also be on the list, but honestly, with Stu, I would just love to pick his brain a bit and really see what he was like. Those who knew him are very fortunate.
Who is your inspiration or role model?
I had a role model when I was a teenager who unfortunately passed. His name was George San Souci. He was a world-class pool player, but more than that, he taught me a lot about life and gambling. He was just a big influence in my life. My parents also fit the title. They’ve done so much for me, supported everything I’ve ever done, and I appreciate them very much.
Last, what is the best part of your work?
Simply put, the freedom. I like being my own boss.
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APR 05
Bet Raise Fold Deleted Scenes: "Ivey is God"
On Wednesday, the makers of Bet Raise Fold launched a new website that includes a brand new trailer and information about the movie, which will be released in June.
In anticipation of the release, the makers will be releasing deleted scenes on the website, and the first one popped up on Thursday. Titled "Ivey is God," the 74-second clip takes a look at the immortal Phil Ivey.
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MAR 29
Off the Felt with Greg Mueller: Sporting Events, Steaks, and Advice
Off the Felt is interviewing your favorite poker players to find out a little bit about their lives, you got it, off the felt. Two-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner and former professional hockey player Greg Mueller recently sat down with PokerNews to tell us a little bit about his love of sporting events, his appreciation of a great steak, and more.
What is your favorite tournament spot and why?
I want to say Las Vegas and Los Angeles. In both places I can go to sports events like hockey and basketball. There are cash games I can play and sports books where I can take my bets. Both places offer things to do aside from playing poker.
Where is your favorite vacation destination?
I honestly don’t take many vacations because I am so spoiled through poker. I know that I can go play a tournament anywhere I want that I actually don’t go to any one specific place just to vacation. I used to play hockey in Europe, and at the end of the season guys would go holiday somewhere in Europe, but I couldn’t wait to get home. I would never go because I knew that through hockey and poker I could travel anywhere to play tournaments. It’s a catch-22. I don’t enjoy going somewhere because I’m always going somewhere. For example, I’ll go to the Bahamas and I don’t even see the sun because I’m playing poker.
How has your hockey background helped with playing poker?
I would say both are competitive and require discipline. In hockey, you have to train really hard and stay fit and watch what you eat. Poker is the same sort of thing. You can’t — or at least you shouldn’t — get drunk the night before a big tournament or while you’re playing a cash game. You have to take bad beats in stride and not go on tilt. As an ex-professional athlete, you are just taught to always be disciplined. So to me, it’s natural whereas others have to practice to be disciplined. The competitive nature is the same — you don’t like to lose, and you are battling for pots.
Do you still play hockey today? If so, who do you like playing with?
I play ice hockey between three and five times a week when I’m back at home in Vancouver. It helps me keep fit and I really enjoy it every time. It’s funny because I play with 19-year old kids that are buzzing around so they keep me active while I’m home.
What are some of your hobbies away from the table?
I love to go to sporting events. So wherever I’m at, I make it a point to watch some type of sports game. For example, when I was in San Jose, California I went to a Golden State Warriors game and sat on the floor with Phil Hellmuth. When I am in Los Angeles, I usually go to the [Anaheim] Ducks, [Los Angeles] Kings, [Los Angeles] Dodgers and [Los Angeles] Lakers games.
I would like to go to Brazil to watch World Cup soccer in Rio in 2014. When we were in Australia in January for Aussie Millions, I went to the Australian Open to watch the finals — to watch Novak Djokavic and Andy Murray. I love to have greats seats and take in all the action.
Can you tell me the most ridiculous prop bet you have ever initiated or been involved in?
You know, I am always in some kind of dumb prop bet. I make my buddies do dumb things all the time back home. One friend of mine, we could be walking down the pier out by my place off the beach and I would ask, “How much to jump in the ocean?” Before you know it, I have a certain amount of money on the line, but the rule is he has to jump in with only his underwear on and do a belly flop. I mean, just dumb stuff. It becomes more about me having fun and betting small amounts of money.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Nothing I guess is hidden — I’m a pretty open book. I’m pretty good at sports betting, gambling and most sports. Although I do suck at basketball, even though I’m super tall.
What is something you want people to know about you?
Not to sound overzealous, but I can’t eat a normal steak anymore. By that I mean my favorite steak has become Japanese wagyu from Prime Steakhouse at the Bellagio. It has nothing to do with money, although it is expensive, but the meat is just so tender that it melts in my mouth. It’s the best thing I have ever eaten, and I want it all the time. It’s just that good.
If you could pick anyone to play you in a movie, who would it be?
I’m definitely a big Will Ferrell fan, so I would say him. He would be funny, and he would be up to all my mannerisms.
What is your greatest poker achievement?
I would say winning two World Series of Poker bracelets 10 days apart. I won my first bracelet in June 2009 in the $10,000 World Championship Limit Hold’em event. Then 10 days later, I won my second bracelet in the $1,500 Limit Hold’em Shootout. The whole experience was just really rewarding.
What would you be doing if you weren’t playing poker?
I don’t know, and it is time I found that out because I don’t want to be playing poker forever. I love to play tournaments and cash games, but the grind can be tough to deal with sometimes.
What is next on your poker calendar?
I’ll be going home soon to Vancouver to play in my hockey team's playoffs. After that, my next stop will be the WSOP this summer. Some cash games in between, but mostly hockey and spending time with my nieces.
The weather is heating up a bit; do you have any beach trips planned in the future?
I love water skiing and doing other water activities, but I’ve been in Las Vegas for almost three weeks now and I haven’t stepped into the sun once. It’s terrible. So no, nothing planned.
You play quite often in Bobby’s Room at Bellagio. What is your favorite game to play?
We don’t play no-limit hold’em at all because we just stick to mixed games. My favorite mixed game then would be 2-7 triple draw.
What advice would you give to anyone about anything?
In relation to poker, always play within your bankroll. The key to being successful is to play, be jovial and have a good time, and to not the let money affect you. Obviously, you are playing to win, but you need to be okay with the bad beats. It’s part of the game, it’s going to happen, and you need to not let the emotional part of the game get to you. That gives you the edge. As a professional poker player, you should learn to play when the games are good and to stop when the games are bad. Be disciplined with your game selection and play within your means.
If you were looking for a business partner, who in the poker community would you want to partner with?
I would say Shawn Buchanan in a heartbeat. He’s my roommate on the road, the greatest guy and my best poker friend. He is honest, so I don’t have to worry about him screwing me over, but he’s not very business savvy (laughs and smiles).
Who within the poker community do you enjoy having conversations with?
I like listening to Doyle Brunson. It’s not so much a two-way conversation, but I just enjoy listening to his stories. He’s experienced and always has some kind of entertaining stories. I also liked listening to Jerry Buss when he was alive. He was a very wise man, and when he spoke, you listened.
Which poker player can calm you down after a bad beat?
I’m pretty good at calming myself down, but my buddy Buchanan also helps. On my way to winning my second bracelet, I was a little flustered. I had the chip lead, but my opponent started running good so he took the chip lead. I was visibly upset and irritated so Shawn just talked some sense into me and really made a difference in my mental game. It helped me turn it around and win a bracelet.
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MAR 27
Phil Hellmuth's Grand Entrance to WPT Venice
Phil Hellmuth is known for his outbursts at the table and elaborate entrances to events. It was yet another case of the latter at the World Poker Tour Venice Grand Prix on Tuesday.
Hellmuth made a grandiose entrance via one of the historic Venice gondolas. Hellmuth, dressed in festive Carnevale di Venezia garb, floated to the dock of the famed Casino di Venezia, stepped onto the walkway and strolled into the poker room. Along the way, the 13-time World Series of Poker gold bracelet winner was flanked by the WPT's Royal Flush Girls.
Upon taking his seat at the table in the tournament room, Hellmuth was served a sparkling glass of champagne from a stunning female before getting to work. His performance on the felt wasn't as memorable, though. Hellmuth busted before the end of the day and was off to take a few more gondola rides.
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MAR 26
Seven-Time WSOP Bracelet Winner Billy Baxter Wins $400,000 on Tiger Woods Bet
Billy Baxter is considered one of the true legends of gambling. The seven-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner and Poker Hall of Famer has more than $2.3 million in live tournament earning and is known for making “professional poker player” a legal career in the eyes of the government. He was also the backer for all-time poker great Stu Ungar.
In addition to his poker prowess, Baxter also has a flair for prop betting. On Monday, Baxter's friend Doyle Brunson tweeted that Baxter won a $400,000 bet that Tiger Woods would regain the No. 1 golf ranking in the world. Woods hadn't been in the No. 1 spot since October 2010 following a scandalous year during which his marital troubles and infidelities were revealed.
Woods' ranking dropped as low as 58th in November 2011, and many pundits wondered whether he'd ever regain the form that made him a 14-time major championship winner. Baxter apparently had faith that Woods would rebound, and he capitalized in a big way this week (although the identity of the other bettor is unknown). On Monday, Woods won the Arnold Palmer Invitational by two strokes, putting him back on top of golf’s rankings ahead of Rory McIlroy.
Congrats to my pal Billy Baxter. He bet Tiger Woods would be #1 again in the world when Tiger was at his lowest point.#400KmoreforBB
March 25 2013FollowThis is just one of many prop betting stories floating around about Baxter. In 1975, shortly after Baxter was sentenced to jail time for running an underground casino in his home state of Georgia, Baxter bet Brunson and Jack Binion $5,000 each that he could lose 35 pounds during his jail term. He lost 38, and collected $10,000 from his friends after his release.
In 2006, Baxter reportedly gave Sean Sheikhan 1,000-to-1 odds on $1,000 that motocross rider Mike Metzger would perish within 24 hours of his jump over fountains at Caesar's Palace. Metzger completed the jump unharmed, and Baxter collected from Sheiky.
Despite all of his success, Baxter's not a household name in the poker world. Much of that can be attributed to his low-key personality. As Brunson once put it, “He gives you that country-bumpkin smile and that good old Georgia-boy accent and gets you laughing and having a good time, and you look up and he’s got your money.”
For more on Baxter's illustrious betting talents, check out this story at PokerWorks.com.
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MAR 24
Follow the PokerNews MSPT Ho-Chunk Main Event Action Here (Updated 22:00 CT)
This article is dedicated to coverage of this weekend’s PokerNews Mid-States Poker Tour Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells, which runs from March 22-24. The page will be updated regularly with updates, chip counts, and pictures from the event, which kicks off at 17:00 PM CST on Friday. Please scroll down for the latest posts.
This weekend the PokerNews Mid-States Poker Tour Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells in Baraboo, Wisconsin culminates a week of festivities with an $1,100 Main Event. Located just minutes from Wisconsin Dells – one of the top tourist and waterpark towns in the nation – Ho-Chunk proved to be a tremendous success in its inaugural year on the MSPT schedule.
It was in September of last year that the MSPT event at Ho-Chunk Gaming, the first ever in Wisconsin, drew 244 runners generated a prize pool of $243,600—the largest ever in the state. Joe Illingworth of Iowa emerged victorious in the event and took home $65,742 for his effort.
Of course PokerNews will keep you abreast of all the MSPT Ho-Chunk happenings throughout the weekend, but we also recommend you check out the following outlets for even more information
Mid-States Poker Tour
Twitter: @msptpoker
Facebook: www.facebook.com/msptpoker?fre f=ts
Website: www.msptpoker.comHo-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
Twitter: @hochunkgamingwi
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Ho-Chun k-Gaming-Wisconsin-Dells
Website: www.ho-chunkgaming.com
Season 4 of the MSPT will stop in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Here’s a look at the remaining stops:
March 16-24, 2013: Ho-Chunk Gaming in Baraboo, Wisconsin, had so much fun last year that it has signed on for two events this season! Located in the Wisconsin Dells, Ho-Chunk is fun for the whole family and offers a player-friendly environment. You won't find players who are more fun to play and have a drink with than Mark "PokerHo" Kroon and the always-entertaining Reggie Mims.
March 30 - April 7, 2013: The Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel in Tama, Iowa, is one of the biggest stops on the MSPT. This stop drove nearly $1 million in prize money during the 2012 season, with a $300,000 guaranteed prize pool at every MSPT Meskwaki event. This event is becoming known for its huge fields and soft players, though pros like Jamie Gold, Kevin "BelowAbove" Saul, Amanda Musumeci, and others were seen at Meskwaki last season.
April 20-28, 2013: The MSPT returns to Canterbury Park expecting a massive field after its record-setting event last season where retired truck driver James Gibson won over $95,000 after surviving a field of 376. This season's event at Canterbury is a chance for the tour to break 400 players, as well as the six-figure mark for first place. Players are expected to travel from around the Midwest to join the hunt for the bracelet and cash.
May 11-19, 2013: Northern Lights Casino in Walker, Minnesota, is the northernmost stop on the tour, and also a favorite among players who follow the tour. A beautiful resort town on a lake in May? With friendly staff and a relaxing lake shore atmosphere, many players see this event as a vacation where they can win thousands of dollars in between kicking back on the balcony and watching the waves.
July 20-28, 2013: After a summer break, the MSPT returns to Tama, Iowa, for another $300,000 guaranteed event at Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel.
August 10-18, 2013: The Grand Falls Casino Resort in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, welcomes the MSPT back after a fantastic inaugural event last season. Players loved this stop last year, with great staff, beautiful rooms, and a nice turnout, Grand Falls has everything a poker player could want, including an MSPT event.
August 17-25, 2013: By the time the MSPT rolls back into FireKeepers, the new event center will be finished and potential unlimited seating should mean a huge field. We'll see you in Battle Creek this summer.
Aug. 30 - Sept. 8, 2013:The MSPT is back at the Downstream Casino Resort in Quapaw, Oklahoma for another great event, the second of the season.
Oct. 26 - Nov. 3, 2013: The third visit to Meskwaki in Tama, Iowa, and the third $300,000 guarantee. The MSPT may give out a million dollars this year at a single venue!
Nov. 2-10, 2013: Back at Ho-Chunk in the Wisconsin Dells, the MSPT looks forward to a venue, and players, that can turn a poker tournament into a party.
Nov. 30 - Dec. 8, 2013: Once again Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota, hosts the final event of the season, and every MSPT season ends with a bang! The huge prize pool from Canterbury Park makes for a great holiday for a few skilled players.
For more information, and a complete schedule, visit MSPTPoker.com.
Updated 18:45 CST: Two levels are down on Day 1a of the MSPT Ho-Chunk. The tournament clock states that 113 players have re-entered thus far, but late registration is open for two more levels. Some notables in today's field are two-time MSPT champ and recent World Series of Poker Circuit Choctaw runner-up Matt Kirby; 2012 WSOP Event #5 champ and two-time WSOP Circuit ring winner Nick Jivkov; Wisconsin Poker Players Alliance representative Steve Verrett; and local grinders Dan Almerli, Michael Stick and Reggie "Great Ooohhweee" Mims, just to name a few.
Also in the field is Thomas Ryan, who won last weekend's MSPT Downstream Casino and Resort in Quapaw, Oklahoma, which attracted 143 entries and created a prize pool of $143,500. Thomas, who won $39,243 for that victory, is looking to capture back-to-back titles, a feat only Dan Sun has accomplished on the MSPT. Not too shabby for the young man whom finished fourth in the record-setting event at Canterbury Park in Minnesota back in December, which earned him a $23,597 payday.
Thomas Ryan, winner of the MSPT Downstream Casino and Resort.Updated 01:45 CST: Day 1a Recap
Day 1a of the PokerNews MSPT Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells attracted 121 entries, and even more are expected for Day 1B on Saturday. After nine 50-minute levels of play, just 33 players advanced to Day 2 with Daniel Bekavac and his stack of 231,700 leading the way. Coming in second in chips is local pro Dan Almerli with 176,800.
There were plenty of notables in action on Day 1a, but many hit the rail including two-time MSPT champ and recent World Series of Poker Circuit Choctaw runner-up Matt Kirby; 2012 WSOP Event #5 champ and two-time WSOP Circuit ring winner Nick Jivkov; Wisconsin Poker Players Alliance representative Steve Verrett; local grinders Dan Almerli, Michael Stick and Reggie "Great Ooohhweee" Mims; MSPT Downstream Casino and Resort champ Thomas Ryan; 2012 Minnesota Player of the Year Erick Wright; and PokerNews’ own Chad Holloway.
While many fell, a few notables managed to advance including Kou Vang, John “JohnnyGstaks” Hayes, Melissa Verrett, John Taylor, Kevin Humphrey, John Orr and Eddie Blumenthal.
Here’s a look at the Day 1a Chip Counts:
Daniel Bekavac. Image courtesy of MSPT.Player Count Daniel Bekavac 231,700 Dan Almerli 176,800 John Orr 156,600 Kevin Boskey 138,000 Dave Grandin 112,200 Justin Filtz 109,400 Mark Soik 106,700 Jared Koppel 104,900 Joe Serratos 89,900 John Hayes 87,400 Kou Vang 82,200 Robert Keating 79,000 Andrew Stott 78,000 Eddie Blumenthal 74,900 Jack Ranallo 73,100 Jurate Bilar 71,700 Pat Steele 69,700 Kevin Humphrey 62,800 Tim Belstner 61,200 Tim Broeckert 57,100 Jason Mirza 47,500 Judy Simonsen 43,000 Tim Dunse 42,400 John Taylor 40,600 Alex Hahn 36,800 Nathan Frey 32,200 Craig Sharkus 32,200 Steve Lauson 28,900 Joanie Dovekas 27,100 Claudiu Aionesei 24,200 Melissa Verrett 22,000 Eric Winkle 11,100 Phil Koteski 9,800 Day 1b is set to kick off at 17:00 PM CST. PokerNews will be sure to bring you updates and pictures from that flight, so be sure to check back then. In the meantime, check out some photos from Day 1a courtesy of the MSPT. For more photos, visit MSPT's Facebook gallery.
MSPT Ambassador and noted poker author Chris "Fox" Wallace mans the booth
Local player Dan Almerli
Reggie "Great Ooohhweee" Mims
Thomas Ryan
Pamela Wilson
Eddie Blumenthal
Steve Verrett
Melissa Verrett
Larry OrmsonUpdated 13:45 CST: Why Does the MSPT Love Ho-Chunk?
Last year the MSPT visited Wisconsin for the first time with an event at Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells. The stop proved so successful that both parties opted to extend the relationship to two visits in Season 4. According to Chris 'Fox' Wallace, Ambassador for the MSPT, it was a great way for the tour to introduce itself to the Wisconsin market.
"Ho Chunk is one of our favorite stops on the tour," Wallace explained. "The hotel rooms are beautiful, the room is well run, and they treat us really well, but the real key to this event is the players. These fields are laughing, talking, smiling, having a beer, and enjoying themselves more than any other place I have played."
Fox was at the final table of the last event here in the Dells, and while he no longer plays MSPT main events because of his commentary duties, he said this is the event he will miss playing the most. "The final table here was a lot of fun, with some really strong and well known players like Mike 'Wisco' Murray and a mix of talkative players including the most entertaining player in MSPT history, Reggie Mims. I'm hoping Reggie makes the final table again, that would make my ob doing commentary a breeze."
Updated 02:20 CST: Day 1b Recap
Day 1b of the MSPT Ho-Chunk attracted 179 entries, which combined with Day 1a’s 121 brought the final total to 300 and created a prize pool of $300,000—a record in the state of Wisconsin. "We love it here at Ho-Chunk and with this huge increase in field size we are even more excited to make Ho-Chunk a major stop on the tour for the foreseeable future," said MSPT Founder Bryan Mileski.
After nine levels of play, Stuart Davidson emerged as the Day 1b chip leader with 152,400 in chips. Just 65 players survived the day, and that means with the 33 survivors from Day 1a 98 players will return at 10 a.m. CST for Day 2 action. Only 36 players will earn a payday, and just nine will make the final table, which will be live streamed right here on PokerNews.
Others who survived the night included Larry Ormson, Steve Verrett, Doug Redman, Ben Smith, Chuck Kohler, Jon Tepp, Jeremy Dresch, Everett Carlton, Dan Sun and PokerNews’ own Chad Holloway, just to name a few.
Here’s a look at the MSPT Ho-Chunk payouts:
Payouts
Place Prize 1st $76,668 2nd $41,949 3rd $27,773 4th $18,805 5th $14,465 6th $11,572 7th $10,126 8th $8,679 9th $7,233 10th-12th $5,786 13th-15th $4,050 16th-18th $2,893 19th-27th $2,314 28th-36th $1,447 Also, here's a look at the Day 2 chip counts:
Player Count Daniel Bekavac 231,700 Dan Almerli 176,800 John Orr 156,600 Stuart Davidson 152,400 Doug Redmann 145,400 Kevin Boskey 138,000 James Snyder 136,100 Paulin Karakikov 132,400 Larry Ormson 114,600 Dave Grandin 112,200 Justin Filtz 109,400 Daniel Vankorn 106,800 Mark Soik 106,700 Jared Koppel 104,900 Chad Holloway 101,800 Joe Serratos 89,900 Steve Anderson 89,500 John Hayes 87,400 Mavlik Shah 84,800 Kou Vang 82,200 Edward Ochana 80,400 John Tepp 79,200 Robert Keating 79,000 Andrew Stott 78,000 Nicholas Blumenthal 74,900 Jack Ranallo 73,100 Sam Desilva 73,000 John Reading 72,100 Jurate Bilar 71,700 Judi Gumila 71,000 Pat Steele 69,700 Charles Kahler 68,100 James Maxey 66,400 Jeff Petronack 65,100 Kevin Humphrey 62,800 Tim Belstner 61,200 Dale Wolf 61,200 Ryan Hartmann 59,900 Jason Smith 59,600 Brian Schumann 58,600 Michael Reynolds 57,400 Tim Broeckert 57,100 Steve Verrett 56,500 Darrin Roth 55,200 John Livingston 53,500 Harvey Lewis 53,500 Harry Finnimore 53,300 Rob WazWaz 51,500 Ed Janezich 51,000 Pao Vang 49,800 Mark Hodge 49,500 Jason Mirza 47,500 Jeremy Dresch 47,400 David Murray 46,300 Adam Wilkins 45,900 Winston Ackerman 45,700 Jeff Jelinek 45,600 Brian Zupancich 44,900 Dustin Schmitt 44,600 Michael Hartman 44,000 Judy Simonsen 43,000 Tim Dunse 42,400 John Taylor 40,600 Anthony Walter 39,600 Gary Velleman 39,600 Blake Luther 38,900 Everett Carlton 38,800 Ryan Ethridge 37,900 Shawn Quinn 37,200 Alex Hahn 36,800 Daniel Buckley 36,800 John Streblow 35,600 Gary Herstein 35,200 Dan Sherman 35,000 Tyler Sweeney 34,000 Saeed Ghasemimehr 33,700 Tin Quach 33,600 Reg Powell 33,300 Ping Lau 33,000 Nathan Frey 32,200 Craig Sharkus 32,200 Cory Zbinden 30,900 Dustin Panoff 30,600 Steve Lauson 28,900 Dave Watters 27,600 Joanie Dovekas 27,100 Alex Klatte 27,100 Russell Meyer 26,600 Harry Behling 26,200 Scott Wray 26,100 Ben Smith 25,800 Thomas Kubly 25,400 Claudiu Aionesei 24,200 Melissa Verrett 22,000 Dan Sun 16,300 Matt Alexander 11,500 Eric Winkle 11,100 Phil Koteski 9,800 Updated 09:15 CST: Photos from Day 1b
Check out there photos from Day 1b courtesy of the MSPT. For more photos, visit MSPT's Facebook gallery.
The MSPT Ho-Chunk Day 1b field.
Everett Carlton
Chuck Kohler
Jeremy Dresch
Doug Redman
Larry Ormson
MSPT Season 3 Player of the Year Dan Sun
"Cowboy" Ben Smith
Jon Tepp
Harvey Lewis
Steve VerrettUpdated 16:15 CST: Day 2's March to the Final Table
Day 2 began with 98 hopefuls looking to make the top 36 and secure a payday, which meant 62 players left empty handed. Among them were Ben Smith, Kou Vang, Mike Reynolds and PokerNews' own Chad Holloway.
Reynolds was crippled with approximately 60 players remaining when he got his last 70,000 or so all in on a low flop holding. Larry Ormson called with 
, and a third on the turn put a dagger through Reynold's heart. The river was a blank, Ormson doubled through, and Reynolds was eliminated on the vey next hand.Despite their eliminations, both Reynolds and Holloway will be joining the MSPT's Chris "Fox" Wallace as commentators at the final table, which will be live streamed right here on PokerNews.
Updated 18:15 CST: The Final Table
The Mid-States Poker Tour Ho-Chunk final table will be live streamed on at 7:30 p.m. EST. Our very own Chad Holloway will be commentating alongside Chris "Fox" Wallace. Watch the action by clicking here.
Here's a look at the final table:
Seat Player Hometown Chip Count 1 Patrick Steele Chelsea, Michigan 780,000 2 Judi Gumila Palis Hills, Illinois 1,012,000 3 Jeremy Dresch Fridley, Minnesota 700,000 4 Daniel Bekavac Chicago, Illinois 1,368,000 5 John Orr Middleton, Wisconsin 175,000 6 Ryan Ethridge Madison, Wisconsin 544,000 7 Jon Tepp Waunakee, Wisconsin 362,000 8 Ryan Hartmann Minneapolis, Minnesota 406,000 9 Craig Sharkus Oconomowoc, Wisconsin 388,000 10 Larry Ormson Elroy, Wisconsin 275,000 Updated 22:00 CST: MSPT Ho-Chunk Final Results
Daniel BekavacPlace Player Hometown Prize 1 Daniel Bekavac Chicago, IL $76,668 2 Ryan Hartmann Minneapoliss, MN $41,949 3 Patrick Steele Chelsea, MI $27,773 4 Jeremy Dresch Fridley, MN $18,805 5 Larry Ormson Elroy, WI $14,465 6 Judi Gumila Palos Hills, IL $11,572 7 John Orr Middleton, WI $10,126 8 Ryan Ethridge Madison, WI 9 Jon Tepp Waunakee, WI $7,233 10 Craig Sharkus Oconomowoc, WI $5,786 11 Robert Keating Windsor, WI $5,786 12 Ulysses Wray La Valle, WI $5,786 13 Pao Vang Wausau, WI $4,050 14 Jeff Petronack Hugo, MN $4,050 15 Mark Soik Stevens Point, WI $4,050 16 John Hayes St. Paul, MN $2,893 17 Maulik Shah Madison, WI $2,893 18 Dan Almerli Reedsburg, WI $2,893 19 Alex Hahn Hartford, WI $2,314 20 Harry Finnimore Platteville, WI $2,314 21 Harry Behling Forest Lake, MN $2,314 22 Justin Filtz Stevens Point, WI $2,314 23 Stuart Davidson Arlington Heights, IL $2,314 24 Jared Koppel Mpls, MN $2,314 25 Gary Velleman Neenah, WI $2,314 26 Sam De Silva Austin, MN $2,314 27 Edward Ochana Elgin, WI $2,314 28 Kevin Humphrey Tomah, WI $1,447 29 Brian Schumann Kaukauna, WI $1,447 30 Eddie Blumenthal Madison, WI $1,447 31 John Streblow Wisconsin $1,447 32 John Taylor Wisconsin $1,447 33 Doug Redman Illinois $1,447 34 Pavlin Karakikov Illinois $1,447 35 James Maxey Minnesota $1,447 36 Brian Zupancich Wisconsin $1,447 Get all the latest PokerNews updates on your social media outlets. Follow us on Twitter and find us on both Facebook and Google+!
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