I racked my brain for a catchy intro line for this new little corner of the internet that I’m going to inhabit. Then I realized I could use any one of a thousand sayings, all familiar to any gambling connoisseur, which apply perfectly. “New player coming in.” “And they’re off.” “Bets please.” Having done my fair share of gambling over the years, I’m sure you will appreciate the stories, insights, wisdom (or lack thereof) that will appear here. I’m going to bring you a little bit of everything gambling related. The sights, the sounds, the bad beats, the improbable wins, the tirades, the handicapping, the plays, etc. I’ll even impart a little wisdom along the way that might help you enhance your financial situation (wink wink).
There aren’t many games I haven’t played. There aren’t many sports/events I haven’t wagered on (ping pong, cricket, American Idol, the Presidential election, a pogo stick hopping contest between my friends, just to name a few).
I’ve won and lost more money than the national debt (well maybe not that much considering its recent explosion). I’ve won with 2-7 off suit and lost with pocket aces. I’ve won on an intentional safety and lost on a balk.
I’ve played hold ’em with Jose Canseco and made the mistake of eating rodeo cheeseburgers from O’Shea’s Casino in Vegas at 3 a.m., four hours before my flight home to New Jersey (I’ll tell you this story down the line at some point, and it’s a doozy).
I’ve encountered so many interesting people along the way, people I would never have met if I wasn’t in the sports book at the Las Vegas Hilton or at the betting window at Monmouth Park. I’ll introduce you to some of them.
In gambling, there’s never a dull moment and I’ll explore it from all angles. It can be so exciting and yet so frustrating at the same time. I think that’s what makes it great. It’s an ever changing landscape that’s always evolving on the surface and yet the heart of it never changes.
It’s the swings, the highs and lows, the rush, the experiences that keep me coming back for more. You’ll read about it all right here. I’m stacking my chips and shoving them to the middle. Let’s shuffle up and deal!
