Poker Nights

Have you heard of Poker? If you haven’t, you don’t live in this generation.

Poker has had a big media jump just recently with the coverage of large tournaments, featuring the world’s best and also celebrities for charities.

And now (well, if you haven’t heard) it’s big here in the Philippines too. No I’m not talking about regular playgroups with friends. I’m pretty sure most barkadas have one member who has that shiny metal case with ceramic chips sold at Fully Booked. I’m talking about professional Poker, playing in the big leagues like… The Filipino Poker Tour.

About a week ago, I got an invite to play Poker in the Media Freeroll tournament at the Metro Card Club. Needless to say, I had fun. Everyone was friendly, the staff was accommodating, the food was great, and the players were all quite interesting.

That’s Wits, Bim, and Cai! And Ithink Jayvee at the left side covered by the pretty dealer

Ended up being the first to leave, at least with someone. No wait, I didn’t mean it that way. After around 7 hands or so me and the other guy who left were just bleeding chips away to some lucky dude across the table. We ended up going all in and lost to a trio of Tens. Failure.

Regardless it was great experience, I’m pretty sure that the next time I go play in a professional table, I’ll be able to shake off some of the jitters.

Oh by the way, if you want to give this a whirl, check out www.pokerstars.com and download their client. You can play for free and later if yo’re feeling ambitious, put in some money and play for real cash.

My cousin from Canada does so and makes about $20 every other week. I need to get a credit card, and a job! It ain’t gambling after all, just another hobby.