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 he Guardian G2 Poker Column |
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| Victoria
Coren |
| Monday February 26,
2007 |
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A
couple of weeks ago, we filmed the second Poker Nations Cup in Cardiff. This is
a national team event, perfect for TV. There is only one representative per
country per match, to avoid any risk of collusion, but each player accrues
points for the whole group. The traditional will to win is made more electric
by the extra elements of peer pressure and national pride.
I should
admit that I wasn't playing on the British team, just doing the commentary.
Naturally, I can't reveal any results until the tournament is screened on
Channel 4 later this year; but it reminded me of a salutary lesson I learned
while watching the first Poker Nations Cup in 2006. |
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In that event, the best team spirit was
undoubtedly shown by the Swedes. Their captain took them out for group dinners
to discuss strategy, and gave individual advice to each player. The Danes were
another tight-knit group; the Americans were bonded by their patriotic fervour;
and the Irish certainly did a good job of drinking together in the bar. All
teams made a point of turning out in force for each match, to watch their
compatriots in action and cheer them on or cheer them up as
required.
Except, that is, for the Brits. On good days, a couple of them
straggled in to support their fellow players. Usually (if not playing that day
themselves), one of them was in his hotel room betting on sports, another
sleeping off a hangover, another out shopping, a fourth playing online. They
were also the only team to decide against splitting the money won in individual
heats: dog eat dog, each British player kept his own winnings.
And what
happened? They cruised to victory with barely a ripple. Their solo instincts
were a strength, not a weakness. Group hugs don't win poker trophies; not even
in team events. You may have many friends in the bar, but you're always alone
at the table.
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