Barry Brideau wins Tournament Poker Club event

Those who would like to play a fun and friendly game of Texas Hold ‘Em for a $5 buy-in should make plans to join the Tournament Poker Club at its tournament on Saturday, Aug. 16. Regular tournaments are held on the first three Saturdays of every month and start with coffee and treats and registration at 10 a.m. Cards are in the air at 10:30. There is no late seating.

On Aug. 2, the club had a great turnout for its first game of August. As usual, there was a lot of excitement and some disappointment, but as the saying goes: “That’s poker!” Every week there are special prizes for particular hands. The week’s high hand winners were Joyce Smith (10-10-10-10-K), Franca Yeske (8-8-8-8-Q) and Guta Basner (4-4-4-4-K). Kathy Elliott won a prize for playing and winning with the promo hand of 3-10.

As the winners of their original table, the final table players were: Barry Brideau, first place; Rae Lim, second; Marvin Rolnick, third; Jeff Rolnick, fourth; Namil Shin, fifth; Chia Yao, sixth; Nita Doyan, seventh; and Erika Greenwood, eighth. It was noteworthy to have both Rolnick brothers at the final table.

Everyone enjoyed an exciting game, until it was down to the final two players. The heads up match was between Brideau and Lim. In the final hand of the match, Brideau was holding 4-2 and Lim had A-Q. The flop came 10-3-5, which unbeknownst to Lim, gave Brideau a long shot at a straight. With two big over cards, Lim went all in. Brideau called and hit a 6 on the turn to complete his straight, which made the river 10 irrelevant.

Brideau has lived in Leisure World and been a member of the club for nine years. This was his sixth final table win. Brideau helps the Poker Club in many ways by helping set up, selling raffle tickets, and often filling in as a dealer. He plays in several poker groups here in Leisure World. He also shoots pool, and plays pinochle and bocce ball.

The club congratulates all the winners.

—Deborah Barner

Barry Brideau