Deal Me In -- Johnny Chan

In its pages are never-before-revealed details of the lives of some of the biggest names in poker. Phil Hellmuth’s new book profiles 20 of the biggest poker players in the world, giving the reader an intimate look at the game’s biggest celebrities.

Deal Me In, a collection of autobiographical accounts from many of poker’s elite, is now available to order online exclusively at www.pokerbrat.com. The book highlights the struggles, obstacles, and tragedies that 20 of the greatest poker pros have overcome in their journeys to the top.

CardPlayer.com is providing exclusive excerpts from the book each Sunday. This week’s passage focuses on Johnny Chan, 10-time bracelet winner and one of the most respected players in the game. Chan talks about his decision to move to Las Vegas — and how difficult that was for his parents to accept at the time — in this passage:

"When I turned 21, I quit school and moved to the city that never sleeps, determined to be a professional poker player. I didn’t want to work the rest of my life in the restaurant. I wanted to be my own boss. Besides, I liked the nonstop action and, of course, the lure of money. When I told my parents the news, they were devastated and angry.

“Johnny, Las Vegas is sin city,” they would say. “What are you thinking?” They didn’t want me to be a gambler. They loved me and were worried, although at the time it felt as if they were trying to control me. They knew that very few gamblers survived in Las Vegas. I remember my dad telling me, “Once you leave, don’t ever come back.” Those words really hurt. I knew he was trying to protect me from harm, but it always hurts to realize that you have disappointed your family.

“Deep down, I knew they could be right. Las Vegas has ruined the lives of more than one person. How many people go to Las Vegas each year with hopes of striking it rich, only to crawl back home, with their heads down and tails tucked between their legs? The number has to be in the thousands. Would I be another notch in the belt? It was possible. Still, I was determined to try. I believed this was my shot at the brass ring.

“There was no way I would’ve backed down from my parents at that point. “Dad, you’ll regret saying that,” I told him. “One day I’ll be a world champion and I’ll be rich. I’m going to make it. That’s what I want to do.” I hopped in my car and headed to Las Vegas, hoping my old Camaro would survive the trip. I never looked back.”

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