Last night’s chop had me finally put down on paper, what I have been thinking about since the first chop reared its ugly head (I believe it was ScottMc). Please take these thoughts as an opinion, they are not intended to insult anyone or start shit. I am not here to start shit. I hate shit starters, but I do value opinions. We are allowed to disagree, so I encourage you to either agree or disagree (or be a fag and sit on the fence if that's your thing). Everyone has their own personal reasons for doing what they do (9 times out of 10, it’s all about the money). To me though, it’s all about having the least amount of players possible in the TOC, and that’s the bottom line, because Schaubs said so!
Here is the scenario:
You have already won your TOC seat (great job… you played your ass off, got some timely luck and now you have a very very coveted seat that is disgustingly tough to win!). You decide to continue to play in the BBT3 for various reasons such as side bets, monthly points (2k prize packages), year to date points (everyone wants a jersey right?), bragging rights, dead money etc.
You get down to the final two (wow you made it heads up again, you ARE good!) and the person you are heads up with is a very good player (let’s call him someone who is generally feared in the BBT and someone who should eventually win a TOC seat on their own merit).
In fact, you are very certain that over the long haul (the life session of poker), he (or she, but I will use he from now on) would beat you more often than you would beat him. He is just that good. You know this because he has numerous victories and cashes supporting this and he plays at levels that you rarely, if ever, participate in.
This player does not have a TOC seat yet, but you figure eventually it should happen based on the fact that he has won other BBT2/BBT1 events or other blogger events in general… along with various success in other MTT’s and cash games.
He is better than you. You know this.
Do you chop?
Why?
Here are my thoughts:
I don’t chop, no matter what. I don’t want to have this player playing in the TOC if I can help it (and neither should you… tell me why and I will listen). I would risk that chop buyout money just to keep that player out of the TOC. That is just me. I am competitive, and I want to win. What’s that extra money really going to do for you anyway? Afford you another two weeks of BBT3 tournaments? Why not just ask all the other TOC qualifiers to ship you 5 bucks each instead?
What about the points? What if those first place points that you gave up now cost you a top 18 overall? Ok, if you don’t give a shit about an ugly jersey (when are they going to give that thing an overhaul??) then what about the player of the month? Or was your goal just to get in, and screw all the extras that could be included if you won 2-3 more seats on your own.
I want to beat the best and strike fear into every other TOC participant. I want each and every one of them to know that I beat a player better than me and I want them to be thinking about this when we get involved in a hand. So that if I somehow get heads up with a player that is better than me, and I already have a TOC seat, then they are going to have to go through me to get it. They are going to have to EARN it and prove what I, and mostly everyone else, have though all along. They are that good.
If I beat him, then I probably got lucky, he got unlucky, my game was on, or his game was off that day. I got the better of him, and he is still not in the TOC.
Now I have two seats and he has none. Now there is one less person in the TOC and every seat is now actually worth more to everyone who has qualified.
I am sooooo confused as to why anyone would chop and give up a seat, knowing full well that when they get to the TOC, that very same person you chopped with could be the person that knocks you out and ruins your chances of actually winning the TOC and going to the WSOP (isn't that the goal here? Isn't that what Full Tilt wants?).
Unless you are colluding? That might be a reason, but I just don't see that happening. In theory though I guess two chances at the money are better than one, and you could always split the money if one of you won the TOC... which would in turn piss off a lot of bloggers because the underlying assumption is that the winner will actually represent the blogging world at the WSOP and not puss out and take the money that we've all technically chipped in for (ok it's Full Tilt's money, but still, you know what I mean... man I hope this is making sense).
Why make it to heads up again, and then just give it away. Were you playing for second when you signed up? Were you thinking that you could get first place money without even actually winning it? If it’s all about money, then you DO want fewer players in the TOC, no matter what. We are all smart here, so there is no need to explain why.
Ok I’m listening… and I don’t mind if you start your answer with “it depends.” It seems like that is the precursor to every poker answer anyway…
Again, I am not pointing fingers and I am not saying what anyone did, or will do in the future, is wrong. I am just saying I would never do it.
Would you?
I want to win the TOC, not just get in it. Get it?
Asssss iffff...........
One can dream can't they...
Good luck to all of you who have qualified so far, and to all of you like me on the oustide looking in... don't just try and win one... try and win as many as you can!
29.4.08
23.4.08
NHL Playoff Round 1 results, Round 2 Predictions, other randomness (poker?)
Not doing so shit hot in either pool so far. Although my 1st round picks were right for the most part, I still am somehow way behind in both pools. Donkey picks always seem to come through for the less knowledgable...? Who knows, maybe they are experts, or just knew that the Ducks were going to lose in the first round to the Stars. I know I had a feeling about that one, but just never ended up pulling the trigger. I guess it was because I heard that Cory Perry was coming back, who knows. Anyway...
Let's recap:
Eastern Conference:
My correct picks: Montreal (although in 7 not 6), Pittsburg (in 4 not 5) , Rangers (in 5 not 6)
(Go Rangers!)
Maggie the Monkey's correct picks: Montreal, Pittsburg, Philidelphia
Western Conference:
My correct picks: Detroit (in 6 not 4), San Jose (in 7 not 6), Colorado (wow in 6, my only bang on pick)
Maggie the Monkey's correct picks: Detroit & San Jose (Go Sharks!)
Cup Finals are still looking good with the Sharks beating the Rangers in game 6.
Here are my Round 2 Predictions:
Eastern Conference:
(1) Montreal vs (6) Philadelphia
My Pick: Montreal in 7
(2) Pittsburgh vs (5) NY Rangers
My Pick: Rangers in 6
Western Conference:
(1) Detroit vs (6) Colorado
My Pick: Colorado in 7
(2) San Jose vs (5) Dallas
My Pick: San Jose in 6
Maggie the Monkey (from TSN) hasn't made her picks just yet, so I will try to update those later (like it matters, she's a fucking monkey! still interesting to me for some reason though).
----
The fact that I leave for a long awaited golf trip tomorrow should have no effect on how I played last night, so I will not use it as an excuse. I really don't have any explanation as to why I flamed out so early last night in the Skillz tournament (oh wait, yeah I do... no patience!)
I don't know why, but everytime I get a big hand early, I try to play it a bit trickier telling myself that I need to try and trap someone. Well last night I was dealt pocket aces early on and decided to only call the POT size bet in LP. I knew I was ahead after the flop, raised it POT and was called by Swimmom (top pair is gold right?). When another King came on the turn I knew (I just fucking knew!) I was now behind. It was just one of those nights. I finally went out in omadraw when Loretta8 turned a set and I pushed with TP and the nut flush draw. Didn't hit my club and I went home VERY early.
Tonight will be a different story, time to suck it up and move on! Mook Day!
I'll officially be on holidays for two whole days (plus weekend) after tonight. This will be the first time I have had time off since I went to Vegas in December. Man do I ever need it. Can't wait to play golf everyday. It's gonna be a blast. Gotta hit the range after work today (before the Mook) and work on a few things, but overall I am ready.
Have a good weekend everyone and good luck tonight.
Let's recap:
Eastern Conference:
My correct picks: Montreal (although in 7 not 6), Pittsburg (in 4 not 5) , Rangers (in 5 not 6)
(Go Rangers!)
Maggie the Monkey's correct picks: Montreal, Pittsburg, Philidelphia
Western Conference:
My correct picks: Detroit (in 6 not 4), San Jose (in 7 not 6), Colorado (wow in 6, my only bang on pick)
Maggie the Monkey's correct picks: Detroit & San Jose (Go Sharks!)
Cup Finals are still looking good with the Sharks beating the Rangers in game 6.
Here are my Round 2 Predictions:
Eastern Conference:
(1) Montreal vs (6) Philadelphia
My Pick: Montreal in 7
(2) Pittsburgh vs (5) NY Rangers
My Pick: Rangers in 6
Western Conference:
(1) Detroit vs (6) Colorado
My Pick: Colorado in 7
(2) San Jose vs (5) Dallas
My Pick: San Jose in 6
Maggie the Monkey (from TSN) hasn't made her picks just yet, so I will try to update those later (like it matters, she's a fucking monkey! still interesting to me for some reason though).
----
The fact that I leave for a long awaited golf trip tomorrow should have no effect on how I played last night, so I will not use it as an excuse. I really don't have any explanation as to why I flamed out so early last night in the Skillz tournament (oh wait, yeah I do... no patience!)
I don't know why, but everytime I get a big hand early, I try to play it a bit trickier telling myself that I need to try and trap someone. Well last night I was dealt pocket aces early on and decided to only call the POT size bet in LP. I knew I was ahead after the flop, raised it POT and was called by Swimmom (top pair is gold right?). When another King came on the turn I knew (I just fucking knew!) I was now behind. It was just one of those nights. I finally went out in omadraw when Loretta8 turned a set and I pushed with TP and the nut flush draw. Didn't hit my club and I went home VERY early.
Tonight will be a different story, time to suck it up and move on! Mook Day!
I'll officially be on holidays for two whole days (plus weekend) after tonight. This will be the first time I have had time off since I went to Vegas in December. Man do I ever need it. Can't wait to play golf everyday. It's gonna be a blast. Gotta hit the range after work today (before the Mook) and work on a few things, but overall I am ready.
Have a good weekend everyone and good luck tonight.
18.4.08
A tough start
You know it's gonna be a long night when you get a hand like this early on. I limped KK UTG. Two hands in a row right before that I was dealt AQ back to back... so I figured I would limp this monster. Only the blinds called. SB checks (obv) and I bet. By the time the river got there it was a raising war. Thankfully, it was so early I lost less than 500 chips of my starting 3K stack.
Finished 31st I think. Limit is so tiring, yet requires a lot of skill. My limit game needs a LOT of work if I am ever going win one of these non-NL riverchaser games... and boy do those RC'ers love to chase. Maybe I should just join their crew...
Finised 5th at the LeCheese II. Went out in a very dissapointing manner (not as bad as Kat though who bubbled in 4th (QQ vs. 10c-8c called all in preflop against Matt Matros... is he a pro?) when my AK was no good against the eventual winners KJo (not Matt, but a customer of Rakebrain.com). It is a wonder how some people can think they are good there when you fold for 20-25 minutes straight (5 handed). Anyway, I owe you all a buck (maybe two?) now.
Poker is now officially on the back burner (except for this Sunday). I'll still try to make it out to the NL games when I get the opportunity, but I don't see that happening too often with Golf and ball gearing up very shortly.
Have a good weekend everyone.
Finished 31st I think. Limit is so tiring, yet requires a lot of skill. My limit game needs a LOT of work if I am ever going win one of these non-NL riverchaser games... and boy do those RC'ers love to chase. Maybe I should just join their crew...
Finised 5th at the LeCheese II. Went out in a very dissapointing manner (not as bad as Kat though who bubbled in 4th (QQ vs. 10c-8c called all in preflop against Matt Matros... is he a pro?) when my AK was no good against the eventual winners KJo (not Matt, but a customer of Rakebrain.com). It is a wonder how some people can think they are good there when you fold for 20-25 minutes straight (5 handed). Anyway, I owe you all a buck (maybe two?) now.
Poker is now officially on the back burner (except for this Sunday). I'll still try to make it out to the NL games when I get the opportunity, but I don't see that happening too often with Golf and ball gearing up very shortly.
Have a good weekend everyone.
17.4.08
Le Cheese Stands alone
I've gotta bust my ass home today to play in this.
Finished 12th in the Mookie last night. Not happy with the way I went out since I knew that Buddy Doosh is only raising his button with premium cards. I didn't go with my gut and fold my AQo and pooooshed instead. He called with his AKo (after some thought...) hoping that I didn't have KK or AA. He was right. IGH.
So tonight it's the RakeBrain.com Le Cheese revenge tourney. Pot limit HA which is actually my second favorite game of the poker variants... It's just that it starts at 3pm my time! Cough cough... my head hurts. LOL. Fortunately, I can sneak out of here on time. Sometimes it does actually pay to be the numbers guy in a small company...
Golf tournaments the next two weekends will keep me away from the felt, so I've gotta step it up tonight.
Riverchasers is limit holdem tonight... which is my third favorite game... let's do some damage!
Oh and while you are on Full Tilt tonight... sign up already!! What are you waiting for?
Finished 12th in the Mookie last night. Not happy with the way I went out since I knew that Buddy Doosh is only raising his button with premium cards. I didn't go with my gut and fold my AQo and pooooshed instead. He called with his AKo (after some thought...) hoping that I didn't have KK or AA. He was right. IGH.
So tonight it's the RakeBrain.com Le Cheese revenge tourney. Pot limit HA which is actually my second favorite game of the poker variants... It's just that it starts at 3pm my time! Cough cough... my head hurts. LOL. Fortunately, I can sneak out of here on time. Sometimes it does actually pay to be the numbers guy in a small company...
Golf tournaments the next two weekends will keep me away from the felt, so I've gotta step it up tonight.
Riverchasers is limit holdem tonight... which is my third favorite game... let's do some damage!
Oh and while you are on Full Tilt tonight... sign up already!! What are you waiting for?
15.4.08
KK vs. KK vs. AA
Busy times, call for short posts.
Played in the Math, donked out in spectacular fashion when I tried to steal the blinds (rare) from the button and got called. C-bet (terrible push when I whiffed) and the BB flips up trip 7's (79s). GG, finished 24th.
This hand was interesting, it's been a while (if ever) since I've seen this:
I just need to be patient and not make stupid blind steals with 20BB in my stack. There is still time to make moves and wait for good cards. Suck it up and move on.
Don't forget to sign up.
----
Hockey playoffs are in full effect. I still like most of my picks. The GM of the Canucks just got fired yesterday... I am not surprised as the new guy will have 20 million in cap room to spend. Let's blow this team up!
Played in the Math, donked out in spectacular fashion when I tried to steal the blinds (rare) from the button and got called. C-bet (terrible push when I whiffed) and the BB flips up trip 7's (79s). GG, finished 24th.
This hand was interesting, it's been a while (if ever) since I've seen this:
Obv I folded.
----
The Masters was... awesome. As usual. I laugh at those who think it was boring. Just because Tiger couldn't putt, it was boring? Watching someone else finally win was boring? Please. It was only a matter of time before T.A. won his first major (more to come).
My chances of winning a TOC are dwindling. With golf tournaments just around the corner, and ball season starting up, I am going to have a tough time trying to get a game or two in per week to win my seat... I'll keep grinding though. You just never know when it's going to be your time.
I just need to be patient and not make stupid blind steals with 20BB in my stack. There is still time to make moves and wait for good cards. Suck it up and move on.
Don't forget to sign up.
----
Hockey playoffs are in full effect. I still like most of my picks. The GM of the Canucks just got fired yesterday... I am not surprised as the new guy will have 20 million in cap room to spend. Let's blow this team up!
9.4.08
NHL Hockey Playoff predictions - Round 1 & Cup Finals
Each year I am in one pool or another, often two. This year I running one at work (little money), and I am also in one at Astin's work (big money).
TSN.ca has a monkey do their picks. It's pretty funny actually because a lot of the times "Maggie the Monkey" has been pretty spot on. I listed Maggie's picks along with mine for the first round. Surprisingly, when Maggie spun the big wheel this time, she picked mostly favorites, so our picks don't really differ much.
Here are my predictions for round 1:
Eastern Conference:
(1) Montreal vs (8) Boston
My Pick: Montreal in 6
Maggie's Pick: Montreal
(2) Pittsburgh vs (7) Ottawa
My Pick: Pittsburg in 5
Maggie: Pittsburg
(3) Washington vs (6) Philadelphia
My Pick: Washington in 7
Maggie's Pick: Philidelphia
(4) New Jersey vs (5) New York Rangers
My Pick: NY Rangers in 6
Maggie: New Jersey
Western Conference:
(1) Detroit vs (8) Nashville
My Pick: Detroit in 4
Maggie: Detroit
(2) San Jose vs (7) Calgary
My Pick: San Jose in 6
Maggie: San Jose
(3) Minnesota vs (6) Colorado
My Pick: Colorado in 6
Maggie: Minnesota
(4) Anaheim vs (5) Dallas
My Pick: Anaheim in 5
Maggie: Anaheim
Stanley Cup Finals:
New York Rangers vs. San Jose Sharks
Winner: San Jose Sharks
I love this time of year. Hockey games every single night. The first round is great because usually there are two games back to back every single night for a week straight. Good times, lots of beers. Damn you Canucks! But hey, at least they get 10th pick in the draft now... what a deal.
I forgot to mention that I actually went to the last game of the season on Saturday night. Got super hammered, and cheered on Trevor Linden as it will most likely be his last game. Rookie of the year in 1989 and 20 years of hockey later, it's time to finally hang'em up. GG T-rev.
See you at the Mook.
Somehow I have inspired a family member to start a blog. Who knew!
Masters Weekend is upon us... so I'll be planting myself in front of the tv for a good 12-14 hours over the weekend. PVR mania! This is probably the most anticipated weekend of the entire year for me. Time to dust off the green jacket from the closet again.
TSN.ca has a monkey do their picks. It's pretty funny actually because a lot of the times "Maggie the Monkey" has been pretty spot on. I listed Maggie's picks along with mine for the first round. Surprisingly, when Maggie spun the big wheel this time, she picked mostly favorites, so our picks don't really differ much.
Here are my predictions for round 1:
Eastern Conference:
(1) Montreal vs (8) Boston
My Pick: Montreal in 6
Maggie's Pick: Montreal
(2) Pittsburgh vs (7) Ottawa
My Pick: Pittsburg in 5
Maggie: Pittsburg
(3) Washington vs (6) Philadelphia
My Pick: Washington in 7
Maggie's Pick: Philidelphia
(4) New Jersey vs (5) New York Rangers
My Pick: NY Rangers in 6
Maggie: New Jersey
Western Conference:
(1) Detroit vs (8) Nashville
My Pick: Detroit in 4
Maggie: Detroit
(2) San Jose vs (7) Calgary
My Pick: San Jose in 6
Maggie: San Jose
(3) Minnesota vs (6) Colorado
My Pick: Colorado in 6
Maggie: Minnesota
(4) Anaheim vs (5) Dallas
My Pick: Anaheim in 5
Maggie: Anaheim
Stanley Cup Finals:
New York Rangers vs. San Jose Sharks
Winner: San Jose Sharks
I love this time of year. Hockey games every single night. The first round is great because usually there are two games back to back every single night for a week straight. Good times, lots of beers. Damn you Canucks! But hey, at least they get 10th pick in the draft now... what a deal.
I forgot to mention that I actually went to the last game of the season on Saturday night. Got super hammered, and cheered on Trevor Linden as it will most likely be his last game. Rookie of the year in 1989 and 20 years of hockey later, it's time to finally hang'em up. GG T-rev.
See you at the Mook.
Somehow I have inspired a family member to start a blog. Who knew!
Masters Weekend is upon us... so I'll be planting myself in front of the tv for a good 12-14 hours over the weekend. PVR mania! This is probably the most anticipated weekend of the entire year for me. Time to dust off the green jacket from the closet again.
I was just reading HighOnPoker and he noted a new tourney coming up in the near future. Check it out and sign up!
8.4.08
Golf, Golf, Poker
Golf has now taken over poker as a priority. It seems that I have more success at golf these days (although as I begin this post I just crashed out of the MATH with a 6 place cash - my first of the year). Mentally, I am a bit spent when you combine the amount of focus that is required to play either golf or poker really, really, well. It's such a grind.
And I love it.
When I am in the moment, it's a blast. Trying to drain an eagle putt on the 17th hole to go 3 under was certainly the highlight of the weekend. It led to my best round of the year - 68 (4 undie). I had another eagle putt on 18 to shoot 67, but left it a tad short as it double broke down the hill from about 30 feet. I tapped in for birdie and it hit me. I love that feeling.
I wish I had that feeling at the final table tonight. It's funny (not really) how one or two mistakes can really crush your chances of winning. Very similar to golf, once again, in that way.
I was pretty nervous over my tee shot on 17. It's a 281 yard par four with water along the front right of the green (I've mentioned this hole in previous posts I believe). You basically have three choices. Either puss out and lay up with a 5 iron (also known as the smart play for the bunts), take a 3 wood or driver down the left side towards the bunkers, or pull out the driver and give it a go. If you can carry the water then the reward is big (you will be putting for a 2 on a par 4). Which is nice.
I was hitting it well, and gave it a rip. the ball never left the flag and carried over the water. Rolling at the pin, Penski yelled "go in!"
I am not sure how far right of the stick it was, but it ended up 5 feet behind the pin.
Throw in the fact that this was a tournament (the monthly medal) and it made for an excellent day. Results are still pending so I am not sure if I did any damage. It was a net tournament (use your handicap) so it is usually pretty tough to win this thing when you don't get strokes (ok 1).
Anyway, sometimes it pays to just give it a shot.
The Math actually paid off. My last post I stated that there were no exceptions about getting a token... well I didn't even try. I just didn't really find time, or even give it a thought.
So I bought in, and it paid off. I gave it a shot, and I'll keep grinding.
TOC woulda been nice, I'm not gonna lie.
----
NHL playoffs are just a day or two away, I'll be back soon to make my 1st Round and Stanley Cup predictions. Will the Ducks defend? Will an Eastern team win this year? Are the Red Wings going to take it? Crosby's turn?
And I love it.
When I am in the moment, it's a blast. Trying to drain an eagle putt on the 17th hole to go 3 under was certainly the highlight of the weekend. It led to my best round of the year - 68 (4 undie). I had another eagle putt on 18 to shoot 67, but left it a tad short as it double broke down the hill from about 30 feet. I tapped in for birdie and it hit me. I love that feeling.
I wish I had that feeling at the final table tonight. It's funny (not really) how one or two mistakes can really crush your chances of winning. Very similar to golf, once again, in that way.
I was pretty nervous over my tee shot on 17. It's a 281 yard par four with water along the front right of the green (I've mentioned this hole in previous posts I believe). You basically have three choices. Either puss out and lay up with a 5 iron (also known as the smart play for the bunts), take a 3 wood or driver down the left side towards the bunkers, or pull out the driver and give it a go. If you can carry the water then the reward is big (you will be putting for a 2 on a par 4). Which is nice.
I was hitting it well, and gave it a rip. the ball never left the flag and carried over the water. Rolling at the pin, Penski yelled "go in!"
I am not sure how far right of the stick it was, but it ended up 5 feet behind the pin.
Throw in the fact that this was a tournament (the monthly medal) and it made for an excellent day. Results are still pending so I am not sure if I did any damage. It was a net tournament (use your handicap) so it is usually pretty tough to win this thing when you don't get strokes (ok 1).
Anyway, sometimes it pays to just give it a shot.
The Math actually paid off. My last post I stated that there were no exceptions about getting a token... well I didn't even try. I just didn't really find time, or even give it a thought.
So I bought in, and it paid off. I gave it a shot, and I'll keep grinding.
TOC woulda been nice, I'm not gonna lie.
----
NHL playoffs are just a day or two away, I'll be back soon to make my 1st Round and Stanley Cup predictions. Will the Ducks defend? Will an Eastern team win this year? Are the Red Wings going to take it? Crosby's turn?
4.4.08
Friday Pimpage and Opinion Linkage
Simon needs some gutter love to get his traffic up. Go click his ad so he can get paid... while you're at it, click mine too. FCPC is probably the place I play the most live poker at right now.
Gcox is taking a break from the BBT. What is your opinion? Be true to yourself is what Goat says... sounds like Joshua from BB... waffles.
Pauly is on a writing tear, go read his shit (like you aren't already).
Waffles is... well waffles. Always putting his foot in his mouth and up his own ass. So gay.
Biggestron said it best.
My opinion - It doesn't fuckin' matter. You pay your $10 (or $12 or $24 or $69), you get to do and say what you want... you're probably a douche-bag to start with anyway if you are wasting your time in the chat and not watching and learning instead. Just chiiiiiilll.
What the WTF?
Most likely, you'll be on the fence soon enough (I mean really, what are the chances you or I are going to actually win a TOC seat) trying to justify your play instead of looking at the big picture and trying to get better... think about it, and do something about it.
Note to self: listen to self.
Donkament tonight? Not sure. I think I'll check out a movie instead. Any suggestions? It's been a few months, so anything is fair game.
GL at the tables this weekend. Go get that token for the Math. No excuses.
Gcox is taking a break from the BBT. What is your opinion? Be true to yourself is what Goat says... sounds like Joshua from BB... waffles.
Pauly is on a writing tear, go read his shit (like you aren't already).
Waffles is... well waffles. Always putting his foot in his mouth and up his own ass. So gay.
Biggestron said it best.
My opinion - It doesn't fuckin' matter. You pay your $10 (or $12 or $24 or $69), you get to do and say what you want... you're probably a douche-bag to start with anyway if you are wasting your time in the chat and not watching and learning instead. Just chiiiiiilll.
What the WTF?
Most likely, you'll be on the fence soon enough (I mean really, what are the chances you or I are going to actually win a TOC seat) trying to justify your play instead of looking at the big picture and trying to get better... think about it, and do something about it.
Note to self: listen to self.
Donkament tonight? Not sure. I think I'll check out a movie instead. Any suggestions? It's been a few months, so anything is fair game.
GL at the tables this weekend. Go get that token for the Math. No excuses.
2.4.08
RNG thought of the day
Just thinking psuedo out loud here so bear (corrected) with me. Maybe someone can shed some light on what seems to be an obvious statement of fact...
Question:
Are there multiple RNG's or is there just one RNG for a poker client?
In other words - At Full Tilt is there an RNG for the $0.50/1 6 max NL, and then another for the $1/2 6 max NL... and then another for $3/6 limit, and another for Fuel's $25/50 Matasow punishing?
Further to that is there another RNG that is for other PLO, Razz, Horse, PL Cap and so on and so on (insert hundreds of variations we see everytime we fire up a poker site).
How many RNG's is that then?
How random can it really be? Or is that more random? Now I am confused.
If I was a swindling type, I would invent a program that could recognize the situation, and "randomly" set them up for a sick beat once in a while. Determine where the donkey's are, and exploit them for even more profit. Who the hell is going to figure that out anyway? RNG my ass.
I am sure the answer is a simple "YES you moron!" but who knows, I sincerly hope the fix isn't in and we aren't all being set up for a big screw job one day. Two days in a row now I have tried to make a withdrawl from FT and both times it "jammed" and didn't make it to the withdrawl request screen. I am not sure what the deal is. Are the poker gods telling me not to take out this money? Or is Full Tilt just saying screw you pal, you are stuck here so just deal with it.
I was thinking I could put it to better use in Vegas in May or July during a 3am binge...
I have no idea what made me think of all this as I down my clubhouse wrap with a side of corn chowdaaaaaa. Wash it down with a can of iced tea and you've got yourself a kickass lunch baby!
Speaking of baby... Lola posted that she was preggo on her facebook yesterday... you should have seen the number of "Oh my god, congrats!!!!" type of comments or "Why do I have to find out through facebook!!" angry type of comments. People, please. Smarten the fuck up on April 1st will ya!
See ya at the Mook!
Question:
Are there multiple RNG's or is there just one RNG for a poker client?
In other words - At Full Tilt is there an RNG for the $0.50/1 6 max NL, and then another for the $1/2 6 max NL... and then another for $3/6 limit, and another for Fuel's $25/50 Matasow punishing?
Further to that is there another RNG that is for other PLO, Razz, Horse, PL Cap and so on and so on (insert hundreds of variations we see everytime we fire up a poker site).
How many RNG's is that then?
How random can it really be? Or is that more random? Now I am confused.
If I was a swindling type, I would invent a program that could recognize the situation, and "randomly" set them up for a sick beat once in a while. Determine where the donkey's are, and exploit them for even more profit. Who the hell is going to figure that out anyway? RNG my ass.
I am sure the answer is a simple "YES you moron!" but who knows, I sincerly hope the fix isn't in and we aren't all being set up for a big screw job one day. Two days in a row now I have tried to make a withdrawl from FT and both times it "jammed" and didn't make it to the withdrawl request screen. I am not sure what the deal is. Are the poker gods telling me not to take out this money? Or is Full Tilt just saying screw you pal, you are stuck here so just deal with it.
I was thinking I could put it to better use in Vegas in May or July during a 3am binge...
I have no idea what made me think of all this as I down my clubhouse wrap with a side of corn chowdaaaaaa. Wash it down with a can of iced tea and you've got yourself a kickass lunch baby!
Speaking of baby... Lola posted that she was preggo on her facebook yesterday... you should have seen the number of "Oh my god, congrats!!!!" type of comments or "Why do I have to find out through facebook!!" angry type of comments. People, please. Smarten the fuck up on April 1st will ya!
See ya at the Mook!
1.4.08
Instant Tragedy's Top 5
Instant Tragedy has asked me to list my top 5 Americans and top 5 American bloggers, so here we go:
Top 5 Americans:
Tiger Woods (easy one, and a bit of a cop out...). No doubt he is my top 5 though, I talk about him, discuss him and try to emulate him on the golf course at some point each time I tee it up.
Michael Jordan. When it comes to team sports, he is the king of it all. He was the first "leader" I really looked up to as a teenager.
Abraham Lincoln. Say no to slavery.
Elvis Presley. A real American King, if one ever exisited.
Bill Cinton. I am serious. No joke. Bring back peace and economic prosperity already!!!
Top 5 American Bloggers (not including Instant Tragedy and anyone else that might have slipped my mind while whipping this up):
HighOnPoker
BuddyDank
RecessRampage
Bayne_S
Lawchica
Getting to meet these 5 American Bloggers last winter opened my eyes about the people who live and breath American culture. It's always a challenge to meet new people for me because a lot of people don't really "get" me when we first meet. However, the reward is worth it when you can make new friends that you know you can count on... even if it's only to get some honest poker insight and feedback.
Nothing better than meeting a new person (in person) and being able to talk to them open and honestly like you've known them forever... and they actually listen and respond with kindness.
Top 5 Americans:
Tiger Woods (easy one, and a bit of a cop out...). No doubt he is my top 5 though, I talk about him, discuss him and try to emulate him on the golf course at some point each time I tee it up.
Michael Jordan. When it comes to team sports, he is the king of it all. He was the first "leader" I really looked up to as a teenager.
Abraham Lincoln. Say no to slavery.
Elvis Presley. A real American King, if one ever exisited.
Bill Cinton. I am serious. No joke. Bring back peace and economic prosperity already!!!
Top 5 American Bloggers (not including Instant Tragedy and anyone else that might have slipped my mind while whipping this up):
HighOnPoker
BuddyDank
RecessRampage
Bayne_S
Lawchica
Getting to meet these 5 American Bloggers last winter opened my eyes about the people who live and breath American culture. It's always a challenge to meet new people for me because a lot of people don't really "get" me when we first meet. However, the reward is worth it when you can make new friends that you know you can count on... even if it's only to get some honest poker insight and feedback.
Nothing better than meeting a new person (in person) and being able to talk to them open and honestly like you've known them forever... and they actually listen and respond with kindness.
Schaubs' Shootout Special Saturday's
I'm still not giving up on FSL Hockey (click the link on the right damn it!... yeah scroll down, do it!).
I know someone out there will give it a shot.
If not, oh well I guess it will just fade away just like my poker game these days. I've played Alan two nights in a row now in $.15/$.30 deep stacks. Some funny hands came up which I am sure I could recap at some point. Some lucky, some unlucky as per.
Ok so I finally had a win in FSL... It's been a while.
Buffalo66 is on this thing like mad. He really is some good competition and I haven't faired to well against him overall. Check out his blog, he claims he's undefeated? I didn't mean to start Buffalogate, but... I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and say that he isn't including this past Saturday in those stats:
I know someone out there will give it a shot.
If not, oh well I guess it will just fade away just like my poker game these days. I've played Alan two nights in a row now in $.15/$.30 deep stacks. Some funny hands came up which I am sure I could recap at some point. Some lucky, some unlucky as per.
Ok so I finally had a win in FSL... It's been a while.
Buffalo66 is on this thing like mad. He really is some good competition and I haven't faired to well against him overall. Check out his blog, he claims he's undefeated? I didn't mean to start Buffalogate, but... I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and say that he isn't including this past Saturday in those stats:
24.3.08
Back to back Donakaments, Blogger weekend domination
** edit** I just got through some of the blogs and realized what a crazy weekend of cashes took place. Go check out LJ, Smokkee and Bayne for the real money stories!**
The masses said it couldn't be done...well, just call me the back to back donkey slayer:
In all seriousness, I am pretty happy with the way I played the final table. I used a completely different strategy i nthe early goings this week. Last week I played a full first hour trying to accumulate chips early and often so that I could have a massive stack heading into the 2nd hour and sit out. This time I had people over and planned to not play a single hand for the first half hour (all I missed out on was one pocket pair). I didn't get much going at all during the last half hour but I kept pushing and rebuying. I finally pushed Q3o in the last hand before the add-on and won that to get a 10K starting stack (plus another 1500 for a buck) heading into hour two. From there, I just played my normal game and made it to the final table with a semi-short stack.
The one key hand that sticks out is when I had 99 in the BB and Hoy raised me UTG for the third or fourth time. Once or twice I folded, and I think I might have re-raised once. This time I elected to call. The flop came 9-6-4 with two diamonds. I checked, he led out. I pushed. He called... with pocket sixes. The ol' set over set. That didn't bust him, but he would go out shortly after that.
That set me up to make the final three, and from there we were down to two handed in a matter of minutes. Donkette pushed for a shit load of chips and I called. She had 10's and I had AQs. I won that race. Heads up, lasted about 30 minutes and in the end I just wore down Peacecorn as she admitted that she was very tired (Thanks Kat).
I call it the left coast advantage.
So my roll is now higher than ever (first time into a fourth digit) and it is primed and ready for another week of the BBT. I also won a $75 token with RecessRampage yesterday. Are you in the Big Game yet?
Of course, none of this compares to Dave's big score. Go and give him some high fives!
No Math tonight (sister's bday). There are rumours that Fuel maybe coming to BDR soon, so look forward to him ripping on anything and everyone all night long.
See you at the Mookie and make sure to hit up BDR for some laughs.
----
Golf - well golf was also a success on Saturday. I finally broke par this year for the first time, which is timely. I shot two under (70) when I finished birdie-par-birdie-birdie. If it wasn't for one putting the first 7 holes for par (two fringies) then it wouldn't have been possible. I was draining everything early on and it helped me get around the front 9 in 1 over (I missed a 3 footer on 8 for my only bogey). So close to bogey free (which is always my goal everytime I tee it up). Bogey free 33 on the back nine.
I won $41 from my various matches, so that was a nice plus and afforded numerous rounds in the lounge later that night.
The masses said it couldn't be done...well, just call me the back to back donkey slayer:
In all seriousness, I am pretty happy with the way I played the final table. I used a completely different strategy i nthe early goings this week. Last week I played a full first hour trying to accumulate chips early and often so that I could have a massive stack heading into the 2nd hour and sit out. This time I had people over and planned to not play a single hand for the first half hour (all I missed out on was one pocket pair). I didn't get much going at all during the last half hour but I kept pushing and rebuying. I finally pushed Q3o in the last hand before the add-on and won that to get a 10K starting stack (plus another 1500 for a buck) heading into hour two. From there, I just played my normal game and made it to the final table with a semi-short stack.
The one key hand that sticks out is when I had 99 in the BB and Hoy raised me UTG for the third or fourth time. Once or twice I folded, and I think I might have re-raised once. This time I elected to call. The flop came 9-6-4 with two diamonds. I checked, he led out. I pushed. He called... with pocket sixes. The ol' set over set. That didn't bust him, but he would go out shortly after that.
That set me up to make the final three, and from there we were down to two handed in a matter of minutes. Donkette pushed for a shit load of chips and I called. She had 10's and I had AQs. I won that race. Heads up, lasted about 30 minutes and in the end I just wore down Peacecorn as she admitted that she was very tired (Thanks Kat).
I call it the left coast advantage.
So my roll is now higher than ever (first time into a fourth digit) and it is primed and ready for another week of the BBT. I also won a $75 token with RecessRampage yesterday. Are you in the Big Game yet?
Of course, none of this compares to Dave's big score. Go and give him some high fives!
No Math tonight (sister's bday). There are rumours that Fuel maybe coming to BDR soon, so look forward to him ripping on anything and everyone all night long.
See you at the Mookie and make sure to hit up BDR for some laughs.
----
Golf - well golf was also a success on Saturday. I finally broke par this year for the first time, which is timely. I shot two under (70) when I finished birdie-par-birdie-birdie. If it wasn't for one putting the first 7 holes for par (two fringies) then it wouldn't have been possible. I was draining everything early on and it helped me get around the front 9 in 1 over (I missed a 3 footer on 8 for my only bogey). So close to bogey free (which is always my goal everytime I tee it up). Bogey free 33 on the back nine.
I won $41 from my various matches, so that was a nice plus and afforded numerous rounds in the lounge later that night.
23.3.08
Another $2k Package!
WOW! Another reason why Al is the man!
Brought to you by the
Online Poker Room Full
Tilt Poker and the
Dead Money Poker Blog by
AlCantHang
19.3.08
Brackett Madness
Well it's that time again where we glue ourselves to the TV all weekend and watch all the nail bitting action. Where one kids hopes and dreams are crushed at the drop of a last second free throw.
I've always been a big fan of March Madness. My favorite team is Gonzaga (the bulldogs) for reasons that stem way back to before I was a teenager. My old camp councilor played for them way back in the day, and I still remember the time when he challenged the entire camp to score a single basket on him. If you did, you earned yourself a chocolate bar.
Not a single kid scored a point. No hail mary's, no fluke shots off his tipped block. Nothing. As a young kid this amazed me to no end. It seemed like such a simple thing. Yet, no one could pull it off.
I am in two pools so far:
1. Corron10 is hosting one and we are trying to get a little money involved as well. So far, the turnout hasn't been that great, so get over there quickly and sign up:
http://bloggermadness.mayhem.sportsline.com/e
Our Group password is: bloggermadness
2. Tao of Poker - Just go there and sign up. You can win free shit! Or go directly to it here.
My final picks: NC vs. Duke
Go Zags!
No Mookie for me tonight since my Thursday dinner got moved to tonight. Which just means I'll be at the Riverchasers tomorrow night instead. See you there.
I've always been a big fan of March Madness. My favorite team is Gonzaga (the bulldogs) for reasons that stem way back to before I was a teenager. My old camp councilor played for them way back in the day, and I still remember the time when he challenged the entire camp to score a single basket on him. If you did, you earned yourself a chocolate bar.
Not a single kid scored a point. No hail mary's, no fluke shots off his tipped block. Nothing. As a young kid this amazed me to no end. It seemed like such a simple thing. Yet, no one could pull it off.
I am in two pools so far:
1. Corron10 is hosting one and we are trying to get a little money involved as well. So far, the turnout hasn't been that great, so get over there quickly and sign up:
http://bloggermadness.mayhem.sportsline.com/e
Our Group password is: bloggermadness
2. Tao of Poker - Just go there and sign up. You can win free shit! Or go directly to it here.
My final picks: NC vs. Duke
Go Zags!
No Mookie for me tonight since my Thursday dinner got moved to tonight. Which just means I'll be at the Riverchasers tomorrow night instead. See you there.
18.3.08
Donkeys and Quads and Tiger... oh my!
Dwal took me out of the Math when I short stack pushed for another 5-8 BB's over his button raise. He called with J9o and spiked a Jack to beat my KQ in the BB. Such is poker I guess. It turned out to be his night after all, so congrats.
Let's go back a few days. Friday started out with a few beers and the Donkament. There were only 13 players, however that didn't stop TwoBlackAces from donating about $100 to the cause. He was all in 8/9 times per orbit for the first hour. It was nuts. My bud Willy was in town from San Fran and he was heading over shortly. My plan was to get a big chip lead in the first hour, sit out the second hour and then play the rest of the tournament while we drank our faces off. Once that was over, we were going to head to the casino for some 1/2 donkey time. It seemed to be the theme of the night.
Willy played for me for a while. He is actually the guy that gave me my first poker book. He's a good player and still plays, but not as much as the average blogger. I ended up getting HU with BuddyDank. It was a great time, as we continuously called each other the usual names. He was my bitch, I was his, yadda yadda. I don't have any HH's, the one big hand that took place was a bit of a set up. I limped with pocket 10's, he raised. I called. The flop came 10-7-4. He bet. I called. We got it all in on the turn. He had.... pocket 7's. Booom.
Let's go back a few days. Friday started out with a few beers and the Donkament. There were only 13 players, however that didn't stop TwoBlackAces from donating about $100 to the cause. He was all in 8/9 times per orbit for the first hour. It was nuts. My bud Willy was in town from San Fran and he was heading over shortly. My plan was to get a big chip lead in the first hour, sit out the second hour and then play the rest of the tournament while we drank our faces off. Once that was over, we were going to head to the casino for some 1/2 donkey time. It seemed to be the theme of the night.
Willy played for me for a while. He is actually the guy that gave me my first poker book. He's a good player and still plays, but not as much as the average blogger. I ended up getting HU with BuddyDank. It was a great time, as we continuously called each other the usual names. He was my bitch, I was his, yadda yadda. I don't have any HH's, the one big hand that took place was a bit of a set up. I limped with pocket 10's, he raised. I called. The flop came 10-7-4. He bet. I called. We got it all in on the turn. He had.... pocket 7's. Booom.
It was a blast.
Then Willy, Lola and I went over to the nearby casino and goofed around in their new sportsbar - Schanks. This place is massive. They've got a putting course that goes around the bar! We got onto a 1/2 table pretty quickly. I won $107 with QUAD 3's (runner runner lol) which was nice. They have a 23 high hand payout system instead of a bad beat.
Saturday I teed off at 11am with Penski and a couple of others. Actually our fourth was the new General Manager. He was my partner and was getting 11 shots, which a shit load compared to what we are used to based on playing with guys that are usually around the same handicap.
Anyway I make a NINE on the first hole (Quad bogey on a par 5). Nice partner eh! I hit four trees on four individual shots on the first hole alone (no warm up stinks). It was pretty gross. From there I made par on every hole until 12, except for 5 which was a birdie. I made a TRIPLE bogey on 13 when I hit it into the water and then three putted. Good job. So yeah, 7 over on two holes and I was 7 over for the day. Still managed to birdie the 18th to keep my "shoot under 80 every single round this year" goal alive.
More beers after the round, then the Canucks beat up the Dallas Stars and then almost gave it away in the third. After that, we watched the Manny Pacquiao fight on PPV. That was probably the most entertaining boxing match I have seen in years. Just awesome.
And of course, what would a weekend be without watching Tiger pull off something extraodinary... again! I don't think I even need to explain just how clutch this guy is week in and week out. All I know is, this is the year that we will see something great. This is the year that he will shatter all of his own records and blow everyone out of the water. Mark my words.
I've played the last two blogger tournies from someone else's house. Doing this, while drinking beer and other activities, watching hockey and whatever else there was on the PVR makes it an interesting grind. I couldn't really get anything going at all. All I know is Dwal kept raising my BB with air and was getting away with it. I just didn't have a hand to resteal with. When I did, it was the almighty J9o that took me down. Regardless of how many times I folded in a row before that, he still called. GG me.
12.3.08
My Top 25 yet to win
First things first. A HUGE "WAY TO GO SMOKKEE !!" for taking down the PLO skillz tourney last night to earn the 7th TOC seat of the 55 available. I just find it so ironic how Smokkee could potentially win his WSOP seat from Full Tilt when all he does is pimp and play at Bodog now. I wish I could play at Bodog... If you can, I suggest you do because their 2 table SnG for a WSOP seat is about as good as it gets... you don't even have to win a single tournament. Just fold to the points!
I haven't played a blogger tournament for a full week now. However, I plan on making it to the Mookie as usual. It's a tournament that I don't plan on missing much at all this year if I can help it. I'd like to say I'm doing everything I can to chase down that player of the month prize, but I'm not. I just don't seem to be able to commit to these tournaments. Every. Single. Night. (Almost).
So after some not so careful consideration, I have come up with my own top 25. The top 25 bloggers who I think will eventually win a TOC seat at some point before this is over. So here we go in no particular order (sorry no linkage):
1. Hoy - there is no way this guy can't win one of these sooner or later. He is on fire.
2. Bayne - his luckbox skills will activate sooner or later
3. Fuel55 - this one I am not sure of, he might get one outtered right before HU. He's yet to even earn a single point... but he is the type of player to either win it or gigli all series long.
4. Cracknaces - If he can make it to a final table with a stack, he will be tough to beat.
5. CMitch - I just feel like he will win one, maybe even two.
6. Recess Rampage - sooner or later this donk has to get lucky...
7. LJ - her game is coming along fast and furiously and should all the pieces fall into place at the right time it will be a breeze.
8. AlCan'tHang - so close last week, if he drinks enough, he could win one and not even remember playing.
9. Astin - same as Bayne - he just needs Aces about 6 times at the final table.
10. Miami Don - if he shows up as much as I do, then I am not sure if the planets will align. It'd be nice if he won his own tourney to get in though.
11. PokahDave - I think he has a new FT account? not sure. If not, get on it!
12. Lightning36 - If he doesn't get sucked out on at the final table bubble, look out!
13. Kuro Kitty - just a hunch.
14. ScottMc - even if someone doesn't back him, he'll be playing with no fear at all.
15. BuddyDank - just because he is a lucky dooosh bag.
16. GCox - If he sticks to his game, he is very tough.
17. Julius Goat - I never said you couldn't win with your writting skills... and this guy is the cream of the crop.
18. Blinders - if his wife let's him play.
19. JoeSpeaker - I can't see how he won't win one of these sooner or later.
20. Drizz - I see him winning one of the non NL games, but that is not to discount his NL game, it's just as good if not better.
21. HighOnPoker - Again, he's gotta show up more than once a week. I should take that advice.
22. Jamyhawk - as long as he can lay down AK when it's time...
23. Riggstad - another hunch. Boooooom.
24. Surflexus - I said he was the Tiger Woods of the Mookie... I just wonder if he will be able to pull it off when it counts!
25. Mookie! - I mean seriously, he's gotta win sooner or later, and why not his own tournament? That would bring me 5 big ones from Tragedy if that was the case.
Wow that went quick! I thought 25 would be tough, but now I think I'll have to list 5 more honorable mentions:
The Rooster - non NL is my guess.
Katitude - why the hell not!
JustanotherDonkey - he won the mookie a little while back. Now it's time for the big show.
Waffles - I really should include him in the above list, but it's too late. I still think he can win one soon though. Do it.
RaisingCayne - in the points 3 times, money twice. You just never know.
Keep in mind I have not factored in how many tournaments each will play in. I am just pulling these names from the top of my head and really wrote this post in a matter of minutes, ok 20... (although its something I have been thinking about for a week or so now). The players that I listed above are the ones that I think have the game, have the track record and have the skills to win something somewhere at somepoint.
It's just a matter of when... luck will obviously be a big factor, so timing is really everything.
If I haven't mentioned your name above then you take it one of two ways. Either I just don't think you'll ever win a TOC seat (prove me wrong), or I intentionally left your name off the list because I didn't want to jinx you (Bammmmmmm)! I think the latter is a good excuse for you to just step up to the plate and win one of these things.
Notice that I have left plenty of room for the luckbox donks to come out of the woodwork and take one down. There will be at least 20 people (like "hotpants", "hellroy" or gadzooks64) that will earn their seats that I know nothing about. I can guarantee that. I didn't mention any of Lucko's "gbif's" as I am sure they will take a seat or two (Loretta8 for example).
I also think that Summer_Babe (the blogfather), Dr. Pauly and Change100 have a good chance too... if they found the time.
That is the problem when I was trying to make this list. Should I list some of the old crew that might not show up much? Or list a few of the new crew like Corron10 (already won) who have already made a splash in the top 15 on the TLB.
It looks like TwoBlackAces is leading the way for the player of the month. It's a close race though so make sure you get your ass out there, and often. There's only 11 events left in March...
Do it and good luck.
I haven't played a blogger tournament for a full week now. However, I plan on making it to the Mookie as usual. It's a tournament that I don't plan on missing much at all this year if I can help it. I'd like to say I'm doing everything I can to chase down that player of the month prize, but I'm not. I just don't seem to be able to commit to these tournaments. Every. Single. Night. (Almost).
So after some not so careful consideration, I have come up with my own top 25. The top 25 bloggers who I think will eventually win a TOC seat at some point before this is over. So here we go in no particular order (sorry no linkage):
1. Hoy - there is no way this guy can't win one of these sooner or later. He is on fire.
2. Bayne - his luckbox skills will activate sooner or later
3. Fuel55 - this one I am not sure of, he might get one outtered right before HU. He's yet to even earn a single point... but he is the type of player to either win it or gigli all series long.
4. Cracknaces - If he can make it to a final table with a stack, he will be tough to beat.
5. CMitch - I just feel like he will win one, maybe even two.
6. Recess Rampage - sooner or later this donk has to get lucky...
7. LJ - her game is coming along fast and furiously and should all the pieces fall into place at the right time it will be a breeze.
8. AlCan'tHang - so close last week, if he drinks enough, he could win one and not even remember playing.
9. Astin - same as Bayne - he just needs Aces about 6 times at the final table.
10. Miami Don - if he shows up as much as I do, then I am not sure if the planets will align. It'd be nice if he won his own tourney to get in though.
11. PokahDave - I think he has a new FT account? not sure. If not, get on it!
12. Lightning36 - If he doesn't get sucked out on at the final table bubble, look out!
13. Kuro Kitty - just a hunch.
14. ScottMc - even if someone doesn't back him, he'll be playing with no fear at all.
15. BuddyDank - just because he is a lucky dooosh bag.
16. GCox - If he sticks to his game, he is very tough.
17. Julius Goat - I never said you couldn't win with your writting skills... and this guy is the cream of the crop.
18. Blinders - if his wife let's him play.
19. JoeSpeaker - I can't see how he won't win one of these sooner or later.
20. Drizz - I see him winning one of the non NL games, but that is not to discount his NL game, it's just as good if not better.
21. HighOnPoker - Again, he's gotta show up more than once a week. I should take that advice.
22. Jamyhawk - as long as he can lay down AK when it's time...
23. Riggstad - another hunch. Boooooom.
24. Surflexus - I said he was the Tiger Woods of the Mookie... I just wonder if he will be able to pull it off when it counts!
25. Mookie! - I mean seriously, he's gotta win sooner or later, and why not his own tournament? That would bring me 5 big ones from Tragedy if that was the case.
Wow that went quick! I thought 25 would be tough, but now I think I'll have to list 5 more honorable mentions:
The Rooster - non NL is my guess.
Katitude - why the hell not!
JustanotherDonkey - he won the mookie a little while back. Now it's time for the big show.
Waffles - I really should include him in the above list, but it's too late. I still think he can win one soon though. Do it.
RaisingCayne - in the points 3 times, money twice. You just never know.
Keep in mind I have not factored in how many tournaments each will play in. I am just pulling these names from the top of my head and really wrote this post in a matter of minutes, ok 20... (although its something I have been thinking about for a week or so now). The players that I listed above are the ones that I think have the game, have the track record and have the skills to win something somewhere at somepoint.
It's just a matter of when... luck will obviously be a big factor, so timing is really everything.
If I haven't mentioned your name above then you take it one of two ways. Either I just don't think you'll ever win a TOC seat (prove me wrong), or I intentionally left your name off the list because I didn't want to jinx you (Bammmmmmm)! I think the latter is a good excuse for you to just step up to the plate and win one of these things.
Notice that I have left plenty of room for the luckbox donks to come out of the woodwork and take one down. There will be at least 20 people (like "hotpants", "hellroy" or gadzooks64) that will earn their seats that I know nothing about. I can guarantee that. I didn't mention any of Lucko's "gbif's" as I am sure they will take a seat or two (Loretta8 for example).
I also think that Summer_Babe (the blogfather), Dr. Pauly and Change100 have a good chance too... if they found the time.
That is the problem when I was trying to make this list. Should I list some of the old crew that might not show up much? Or list a few of the new crew like Corron10 (already won) who have already made a splash in the top 15 on the TLB.
It looks like TwoBlackAces is leading the way for the player of the month. It's a close race though so make sure you get your ass out there, and often. There's only 11 events left in March...
Do it and good luck.
8.3.08
Fantasy Sports Live Schaubs Shootout
Blinders and I wanted to promote Fantasy NHL to all you bloggers out there who think they know a little about hockey... so take a SHOT at beating me to win some cashola.
We'll run it for the rest of the regular season and into the NHL playoffs. The bragging rights alone are worth more than the weekly $18 first prize.
I'm on fantasy tilt right now, so your chances of beating me are actually pretty good...
Do it.
7.3.08
I am a pushfest pro... duh
I've finally found what I am good at. Pushfests! Maybe there is some lucksackery in this here soul of mine afterall... big smile!
On Wednesday night, after my 17th place exit in the Mookie, I jumped into one of those 50 FPP on Full Tilt with the likes of CK, Fuel, BuddyDank, Numbono, twoblackaces, schleppy, donkette. I can honestly say that it was the most fun I've had playing poker in a long time. So much fun that I think I will play in the Donkament tonight and give back a little (ok as much as possible in the first hour) of the $70 I won from the above said pushfest.
I hit runner-runner the first two pushes of the 54 person SnG. Split the first pot with Buddy when I held 47o and he held something like K7o. We both hit rivered straights and we were off and running. I don't have any screen shots but shortly after that (maybe three pushes later) there were only two of us bloggers left in the prop bet. I push with AA, everyone folds. The VERY NEXT hand I get AA again, I push. Knock out someone else.
I think I finished somewhere around 24th. The record is 14th. But man, was that ever fun! Ship it!
We played one more after that and CK was the big winner. She dominated the thing for about 20 straight hands and had 15 times (I'm actually just guessing) as many chips as second place. It was so hilarious and so fun. I was listening to BDR at the time and couldn't help but sign on and re-live the fun on the air. That show rocks!
The best part about these pushfests is pissing off all the other unsuspecting non-blogger types. The ones who have put up their 50 hard earned points and have real hopes of winning the super-sat. into another satellite to the 750K. Pipe dreams I tell ya. Especially when they run into 7-10 pushmonkeys with more money on the line than the actually cost of the entry, and the next combined.
So fun, I'm smiling.
Make sure you smile today, it is good for the poker soul.
I didn't play in the 4 card PLO bingo tourney last night, in fact I don't even know who won the Riverchasers. Whoever it was, congrats on the TOC seat!
I guess I'll go searching now.
Have a good weekend everyone.
On Wednesday night, after my 17th place exit in the Mookie, I jumped into one of those 50 FPP on Full Tilt with the likes of CK, Fuel, BuddyDank, Numbono, twoblackaces, schleppy, donkette. I can honestly say that it was the most fun I've had playing poker in a long time. So much fun that I think I will play in the Donkament tonight and give back a little (ok as much as possible in the first hour) of the $70 I won from the above said pushfest.
I hit runner-runner the first two pushes of the 54 person SnG. Split the first pot with Buddy when I held 47o and he held something like K7o. We both hit rivered straights and we were off and running. I don't have any screen shots but shortly after that (maybe three pushes later) there were only two of us bloggers left in the prop bet. I push with AA, everyone folds. The VERY NEXT hand I get AA again, I push. Knock out someone else.
I think I finished somewhere around 24th. The record is 14th. But man, was that ever fun! Ship it!
We played one more after that and CK was the big winner. She dominated the thing for about 20 straight hands and had 15 times (I'm actually just guessing) as many chips as second place. It was so hilarious and so fun. I was listening to BDR at the time and couldn't help but sign on and re-live the fun on the air. That show rocks!
The best part about these pushfests is pissing off all the other unsuspecting non-blogger types. The ones who have put up their 50 hard earned points and have real hopes of winning the super-sat. into another satellite to the 750K. Pipe dreams I tell ya. Especially when they run into 7-10 pushmonkeys with more money on the line than the actually cost of the entry, and the next combined.
So fun, I'm smiling.
Make sure you smile today, it is good for the poker soul.
I didn't play in the 4 card PLO bingo tourney last night, in fact I don't even know who won the Riverchasers. Whoever it was, congrats on the TOC seat!
I guess I'll go searching now.
Have a good weekend everyone.
5.3.08
It's none of your business what other people think of you...
So here we are heading into event 4 tonight and I already see the blogger drama starting to build like a runaway snowball downhill. I really hope that people just relax and enjoy this unique ride that we are all lucky enough to be a part of. No need to stress about other bloggers hand analysezzzzz and what people are saying. I was chatting with another blogger a few nights ago and he asked me if I noticed anything different lately in the blogs. My response was: not really. At first I didn't really know what he was talking about since I had been behind in bloglines and hadn't had a chance to confirm what he was saying.
He noted that he is not seeing very much content in terms of hand analysis out there lately. His theory is it because the BBT3 started up, and thinks that people are afraid of what others will say if they post a HH (that would abviously include other bloggers and how they played) or ask for advice on what they think went wrong in the hand (whether they are in it or not). I tend to agree that there isn't much out there lately, but really it doesn't matter to me either way. Sure I like to get into a hand and go through the details and read people's comments, that is just part of the learning process. But if people don't find it necessary to get feed back from the blogs, or better yet - don't want to help others because of the fear of being wrong... well then that is their problem.
How many times have you asked a question (let's say in high school, university, or a group meeting of some sort) that you already knew the answer to, but asked anyway - just for the benefit of others?
That is how I feel about the blogs sometimes. It creates discussion. Interesting discussion and analysis. I don't think people should be afraid to post HH's because it "might give away to much information" either about the game of poker in general, or more specifically, about the writer's game. The fear of either being critizied, or allowing people to openly figure out your style of play (if you read a blog and the HH's long enough you can definitly figure out a person's style and how they play big hands etc) seems to have an effect on poker blog content.
The bottom line is, do whatever you want, play your cards however you want, and write whatever you want after (or before if you are some sort of visionary psychic). If there is backlash and negative comments, then so be it. That is a function of a good post, to encourage opinions and critical thinking.
The most important thing for me is to have fun, if I'm not having fun then what is the point! Oh and winning, winning is important... it's a self-fulfilling prophecy!
Be honest with yourself, and good things will happen.
He noted that he is not seeing very much content in terms of hand analysis out there lately. His theory is it because the BBT3 started up, and thinks that people are afraid of what others will say if they post a HH (that would abviously include other bloggers and how they played) or ask for advice on what they think went wrong in the hand (whether they are in it or not). I tend to agree that there isn't much out there lately, but really it doesn't matter to me either way. Sure I like to get into a hand and go through the details and read people's comments, that is just part of the learning process. But if people don't find it necessary to get feed back from the blogs, or better yet - don't want to help others because of the fear of being wrong... well then that is their problem.
How many times have you asked a question (let's say in high school, university, or a group meeting of some sort) that you already knew the answer to, but asked anyway - just for the benefit of others?
That is how I feel about the blogs sometimes. It creates discussion. Interesting discussion and analysis. I don't think people should be afraid to post HH's because it "might give away to much information" either about the game of poker in general, or more specifically, about the writer's game. The fear of either being critizied, or allowing people to openly figure out your style of play (if you read a blog and the HH's long enough you can definitly figure out a person's style and how they play big hands etc) seems to have an effect on poker blog content.
The bottom line is, do whatever you want, play your cards however you want, and write whatever you want after (or before if you are some sort of visionary psychic). If there is backlash and negative comments, then so be it. That is a function of a good post, to encourage opinions and critical thinking.
The most important thing for me is to have fun, if I'm not having fun then what is the point! Oh and winning, winning is important... it's a self-fulfilling prophecy!
Be honest with yourself, and good things will happen.
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