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 he Guardian G2 Poker Column |
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| Victoria
Coren |
| Monday July 2,
2007 |
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Last night, in one of those surreal scenes that crop up during the
World Series, I watched a group of poker players high-rolling on roulette with
Vinnie Jones. Personally, I steered clear. I often indulge in unwise table
games in Vegas, but I wasn't keen to hang out with Vinnie. I'm a bit squeamish
about a man with an assault conviction becoming a macho movie hero, and I
remember (though Vinnie naturally doesn't) that we have met before anyway. I
interviewed him when he was promoting a range of men's moisturiser, and he
explained to me earnestly: "If you're in the public eye, you have to look good.
I mean, if you yourself was a model or an actress, you'd take a bit better care
of yourself." Charming. |
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Anyway, the sight of these poker
professionals playing roulette for footballer-sized stakes reminded me how
dangerous casino culture can be. Everyone knows the financial risk of playing
crazy table games - which is why it's ridiculous that pure poker clubs like the
Gutshot in London and Dusk Til Dawn in Nottingham (both safe alternatives to a
casino environment) are having difficulty getting licences. But there is an
extra hidden hazard to casino gaming: it can seriously damage your poker play.
The adrenaline rush of big swings on roulette or dice can create a general
impatience which ruins the discipline required for cash poker and the early
stages of tournaments. You can simply lose the ability to play small, slow
pots.
This is also a risk for anyone playing too big on the internet. If
you have recently increased your poker stakes online, my advice is to keep your
hand in with the small games too. If you have a bad run, you'll be back there -
and you mustn't forget how to care about the smaller sums.
Your can
read more byAnthony Holden at his website
www.biggerdeal.com |
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