For Jack McClelland, being inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame was a truly humbling experience. “I didn’t expect it,” he admitted. “I’m honored to be in there with all of those other great people.”
When asked about his most formidable opponents over the years, McClelland replied with a smile, “They’re all tough,” and referenced a quote by Eric Baldwin: “Never let them see you’re scared.”
Among his most memorable poker experiences are making three final tables at the World Series of Poker. But one particular moment stands out in his memory, a $10,000 pot involving the legendary Berry Johnston. Johnston looked at his hand and saw the queen of clubs. With two queens already on the board, one being the queen of clubs, it became clear that the card had been duplicated. While many players at the time might have played it out, Johnston immediately recognized the misdeal, called it out, and ensured the pot was returned and the hand replayed. McClelland admires that act of integrity, noting how rare and meaningful it was in that era.
Today, McClelland plays when he can. His health has limited him in recent years, as he requires oxygen due to a pulmonary fibrosis diagnosis.
McClelland's legacy in poker runs deep. A former tournament director and cardroom manager, he began his career as a dealer and rose through the ranks to become WSOP tournament director in the 1980s. Though a heart transplant forced him into retirement, he made a triumphant return eight years later, reaching the final table of Event #23: $1,500 Eight Game Mix 6-Handed at the 2021 WSOP.
Despite his past health concerns, he is still putting time on the felt and made a deep run in this tournament last year. He won’t be giving up his bounty today without a fight.
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Berry JohnstonEric BaldwinJack McClelland
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