A last minute change of plans saw me make the effort to dust off the DJ and turn out suitably attired. It's not often poker is played in black tie these days, but perhaps it is an idea that Harrahs can investigate for the WSOP2009.
At 6:30, when I arrived, the club was quiet. But with champagne (labelled as Cava, but we could taste the quality) on tap at 7, the place was soon buzzing. In contrast to the often dishevelled appearance of some players, there was a high incidence of bow-ties and smart suits.
Even Nik Persaud was sporting full black tie attire - missing the actual black tie. I supplied the missing article from my ubiquitous "poker bag". He was wearing bowling shoes, but there you go.
On to the next course - the never-ending buffet. Very welcome. Then, hardly late at all, our honoured guest for the evening, Mr Barry Martin. As usual, delivering a consummate performance in front of the boisterous crowd.
The acceptance speeches were admirably short - and very witty in many cases - even if some were a little off-topic - Irish Noel treated us to his Elvis Paisley, for example.
Some of the awards were a little controversial. Notably the "Internet player of the year" award.
I was actually nominated for this. A diversionary tactic no doubt. The crowd was calling for "riverman" Lawrence Houghton to take down the prize. However, within the context of a gutshot.com internet poker universe, Phil King (aka Ostrich) was a worthy winner. Lawrence will have to seek consolation from his 7-figure winnings online this year.
I even picked up a GOSCAR myself. Forum Poster of the Year 2008. An award based, arguably, more on quantity than quality, but I'm very pleased with it.
Maybe I can take a run at "Most Improved Player" for next year!
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