Great Circle

by Matt Heale 

The film Rounders asks the question, “Why do the same bunch of guys make it to the final table of the World Series of Poker each year? Are they the luckiest guys in the world?” I say it’s partly luck, but most of all, it’s a skills game. 

After competing in pub poker tournaments for some time now, I just wanted to win one. Sure, the main reason I go is for the social factor and to have some fun, but come on, I want to win! Finishing 4th once, 3rd twice and 2nd twice, I began wondering how hard can it be to just cross the line?  

The road to victory is a great experience and learning curve. Learn from your mistakes, what could I do differently next time? Should I have folded then, should I have bet harder then? How can I change my strategy? 

So here I was on the final table, three people left with a healthy chip stack and a commanding position. Another guy was knocked out so it was now heads up, the part I really don’t like. I knew how much I wanted the title, but I didn’t know whether it was time to get serious, focus and concentrate or to just laugh about because it’s just a game.  Then I realised it’s not just a game, you’ve got to think of it as a war. 

My opponent didn’t have much left, so I was hoping that I had it in the bag. I didn’t want to look at my cards, I didn’t have to but I did. I raised on the big blind, he called, I bet what he had left on the flop and he called not sounding too confident. My pocket kings were holding, but it wasn’t over yet. The heart was pounding and I was praying, I had two more cards to agonise over, but they didn’t help him. 

The moment had arrived. The title was mine, finally! 

Someone said to me after the game, “it’s about time you won”. My brother also stated, “that must be a weight off you now…” 

Well it was a relief, but what was with the pressure? Poker really is war. 

It didn’t matter though, this victory was mine! 

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I go by the name of Matt. I reside in the town of Frankston in Melbourne. I make a dollar by working in a warehouse by day, and in the bar and kitchen of a restaurant by  evening. I’m an avid AFL follower and don’t mind a game of poker. Being a music fan, I get a kick out of going to live shows and reviewing them. I enjoy good food and the company of good people as well as maintaining my fitness. 

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Thanks Matt! This has been another installment in November’s Carnival of War…