Tournament Poker Club growth fuels full tables at tournament

Those who would like to play a fun and friendly game of Texas Hold ‘Em for a $5 buy-in should make plans to play with the Tournament Poker Club on Saturday, Oct. 14 . Tournaments are held on the first three Saturdays of every month and start with coffee/ treats and registration at 10 a.m. Cards are in the air at 10:30.

The club had a great capacity turnout on Sept. 13. Every week there are special prizes for particular hands. The week’s high hand winners were Renate Watkins with a straight flush (4-8 hearts), Donna Hernandez (KK- K-K-J) and Cleo Looney (KK- K-K-10). 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: Erika Greenwood, first place; Mary Holder, second; Wendy Wu, third; Marvin Rolnick, fourth; Roger Montero, fifth; Tony Canfora, sixth; Jeff Rolnick, seventh; Earick Ward, eighth; and Kathy Elliott, ninth. This final table was noteworthy in several respects: nine players represent the increase in club membership; two brothers played; and there were four women players at the final table. Everyone enjoyed an exciting game until Greenwood and Holder were head’s up. In the final hand of the match, Greenwood had A-7 of spades, and Holder had K spades and Q clubs. The flop came 6 of spades —6 of hearts— J of spades, which gave Greenwood a flush draw. With two big over cards and possible straight draw, Holder went all in. Greenwood called and the turn card was an 8 of hearts, which was no help to either player. The river card was the Q spades, which Greenwood needed to complete her flush and win the match.

Greenwood has lived in Leisure World and been a member of the club for 31 years. This was her fifth final table win. Greenwood helps out at the tournaments in many ways, especially at the end of a tournament when there is a lot of cleanup to do. She plays in several poker groups here in Leisure World as well as Mexican Train Dominoes. Her other hobbies include bowling and fishing.

—Debbie Barner The club has always had a no late seating policy for tournament play. This has become even more important in the last few weeks since games are now at seating capacity. Those who arrive late have a good chance of not being able to play.

Erika Greenwood