It was an absolutely stunning, positively gorgeous afternoon in beautiful Burbank. The temperature could not be more perfect, and the big door was open as 12 hard-core degenerate gambling folk gathered round for a shot at a seat in the World Series of Poker!
With deep stacks and a slightly flatter structure than usual, there was plenty of play to go around. We had one bust out before the break I believe, Mr. Sean L. Got a bit unlucky and had to say goodbye. Four other players also busted but chose to re-enter.
And then after another level or two, it was already final table time. We went from two tables of six to a single table of nine in just under three hours.
It seemed like everyone was solid and deep, until suddenly they weren’t. After another hour and a half of uneventful play, suddenly the dam broke and the bust outs flew like crazy.
When the dust settled there was four people left, including yours truly. I had built up quite a stack and played well, but another 90 minutes of grueling four handed play took its toll on my stack and I found myself flipping with pocket sevens against a suited Jack Queen. My pocket pair did not hold and the chips went to Mr. Joe S. And then there were three…
It was the battle of the Jeff and the Joes. Joe S in particular was relentless with his enormous stack of chips, and leveraged them expertly to put the pressure on both of his opponents.
I was tidying up the garage and had my back turned when the chips went in, it was Jeff versus a Joe, Jeff had a AK and Joe had TT, flop was AK8, the turn Q brought a gut shot and also left another 10 as an out. With a burn and the river, Jeff’s fate was sealed.
And so that was that. Our WSOP Representatives were set!
Both Joe S and Joe F received $1150, to use on a 1K bracelet seat in the event of their choice. Plus $150 each to help with travel expenses.
I am excited for both of them, as the WSOP is always awesome and this year promises to be Batshit crazy fun. Plus I’m also happy because they are both darn good players, well deserved the both of you!
Keep your eyes peeled on this blog, we will definitely update here with both Joe’s results. Joe S says his event will either be the seniors or the super seniors. Joe F hasn’t decided yet. Can’t wait to see what happens, whatever the result I know they will do us proud!
