Six Players Win Two Events Each at the World Series

In the last issue, I mentioned that Chris Ferguson had won two bracelets at this year's World Series of Poker. Each year, one player stands out at the WSOP, getting more than his fair share of wins. Last year, Phil Ivey won three events and Layne Flack won two. This year, Chris Ferguson, Layne Flack, Johnny Chan, Phil Hellmuth, John Juanda, and Men Nguyen each had won two events as the championship event was about to begin. In fact, Chris Ferguson broke the record for the most in-the-money finishes in one year at the WSOP. Good job, guys, many players are jealous.

I am writing this column on the first morning of the championship event. I have played in many championship events and have had decent results, but I have not won one yet. It is safe to say that championship events play much differently than other events, and here are some thoughts on preparing yourself mentally for these events:

Make a game plan - After you make a game plan, remind yourself of it many times while playing. For example, if your game plan is to play tight, play tight and remind yourself to do so. However, at times a game plan must be altered. You may go into an event wanting to play tight, but your table won't allow you to do so, for some reason. If that is the case, readjust, but at least tell yourself why.

Play like it is a championship event - Championship events usually have more chips and allow players time to play slowly. Thus, take your time. You can't win the tournament on the first day of the championship.

Leave problems at home - When you make the journey to play in one of these events, focus on the event. Don't think about work or your girlfriend. Think about what you will do in different situations if they come up.

It is not a social function - Poker is usually played in a fun atmosphere, where players talk and have a good time with each other. It is OK to talk at the table, but to win, one must treat it like work.

Focus - Pay attention to what is happening. You may accidentally pick up on why someone is doing what he's doing.

Be confident - Play the event with thoughts of winning. It is hard to win when you don't even give yourself a chance.

On a different note, I am sad to report that Byron "Cowboy" Wolford passed away recently. Cowboy was one of the original road gamblers and had a very lovable personality. See Dana Smith's tribute to him on Page 66. We have been running excerpts from his book during the last year, and will continue to do so; that is what he would want. Cowboy, our thoughts are with you.