Famous Gamblers – Doyle Brunson

Poker superstar Doyle F. Brunson is not only a winner of millions at the poker table but also a writer of books that are labeled classics in the field. He performed the remarkable feat of winning the World Series of Poker twice consecutively, 1976 and 1977, and what's even more amazing, with the same hand - a full house, 10's over 2's! His book Super / System, originally self- published in 1979, disclosed winning strategies for a number of different poker games. Because he wrote in detail about how professional players think, play, and win, he claims the book cost him a lot of money, since others used it as a training manual to improve their game. Brunson has worked tirelessly to popularize poker and turn it into a respectable profession.

This Michael Jordan of poker was born in Texas in 1933 and in high school played basketball and ran track. He performed at such a high level that he attended college on an athletic scholarship. As he finished his senior year, the Lakers drafted him. While working a summer job, he shattered his knee in an accident, which prevented him from ever playing in the NBA. His leg never healed properly, and you'll often see a crutch nearby when he plays poker.

Always competitive, Brunson started playing poker seriously after earning a bachelor's and master's degree. He started with five-card draw and found it easy. He carefully observed people, developed the skill of reading faces, and became an outstanding player very quickly. He headed a group of men called the Texas Rounders (because they made the rounds), who barnstormed Texas in the 1950s and '60s playing and winning at high-stakes poker games. In addition to keeping a few steps ahead of the law - since gambling was illegal, they had to look out for thieves who were out to steal their winnings. Brunson admits he was robbed and beaten several times. Seeing the success of their gambling adventure the Rounders took their bankroll and decided to tackle the main event - Las Vegas. They proceeded to lose every single penny of their six-figure stake in a short time. Brunson split from the group, didn't give up, and eventually settled in Vegas where he became a tourist attraction. Enthusiastic audiences lined up to watch him play.

Brunson got his nickname at a tournament where the announcer incorrectly introduced him as "Texas Dolly" instead of "Texas Doyle." The mistake stuck and now his friends simply call him "Dolly."

He suffered a crushing blow in 1962 when doctors diagnosed him with cancer and gave him three months to live. More than 45 years later he's still playing poker at a high level.

Some call him the best poker player ever. It's hard to disagree with them.

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Source by Joseph Starr