The "November 9"

OK, I know the final 9 players for the WSOP Main Event have been known to the world since July. I was in Las Vegas when they played down to this final 9. I haven't wanted to know who they are, which is rare for me, since I have known the winner of previous ME's based on staying up late, watching online coverage, and all that. This year, I chose not to find out who the final 9 were, knowing the final table will be played November 9th, and aired on Nov. 11th.

I finally broke down (today), and peeked, having an idea of who would be there, based on watching Tuesday's shows, and seeing most of them. I missed the final 15 minutes of the last show, and honestly didn't pay close attention to the 2nd hour, due to my job. There was one thing that made me very glad.

Seeing Tiffany Michelle go broke.

Now, before you get out your "he hates chick players," schtick, let me stop you in your tracks. I don't hate female players. Not in the least. Her run was one of good timing, in knowing when to push, knowing when to get out of hands, and all that. She made a lot of good decisions. Her worst decision came when she called for the clock when a player was making a decision for most of his chips. She was within her right, completely. I am within my right to pick my nose at the table. I choose not to, simply because it's not the right thing to do.

Calling the clock is something that I have never done (and meant it). I have called "clock" when a player is coming back from the restroom, and is within view, knowing full well the player has ample time to make it back, get seated and make a decision. I have never called for the clock when someone is making a decision for all, or most of their stack. The woman did that. The player ultimately made the call, had the lead, and got outdrawn on the end when the Ace of diamonds fell, pairing his opponent to a better hand.

Is she attractive? Yes, she's pretty. Is she a great player? I doubt that, based on the fact we never heard of her accomplishments at the table, until her run in the ME this year. What I find funny is her personal vignettes produced by ESPN. She was trying to portray herself as a serious player, with a lot of experience at the table. Truth is, she was a reporter for the WSOP website last year. She got involved in the poker scene that way, played some, learned some, and now feels she is an accomplished pro. I think the number of hands she's played compared to the number I have played is probably very close. I have no illusions about my ability. I'm average, at best. If I should be lucky enough to have a deep run, or a chance to win a WSOP bracelet (pipe dream, I know), I would hope I have the brains to keep things in their proper perspective.

If I don't, I would then hope that some poker blogger out there has the brains to call me out.

The only comparison I want between me and Tiffany would be a run, and payday from the Main Event. All other comparisons I will gladly sidestep.

Good luck and good cards,
~M