Final Gary/World Series of Poker Update

Jill's Journal: Rob’s poker BFF Gary has seen his amazing whirlwind week in the World Series of Poker’s Main Event – the equivalent of poker’s Super Bowl – come to an end. He had a tremendous day, but got knocked out late this afternoon and officially finished 568th. He more than exceeded his goal of finishing in the top 10% of players (players that can only be qualified as the best in the world). He earned $21,707 for his effort, more than doubling his buy-in.

Gary is sitting at the far right (in the black cap, next to a guy in a light-colored cap) in this photo. Can you  imagine the pressure of playing under the spotlight with the cameras filming and spectators all around? 

Gary clearly made several people sit up and take notice. He spent most of his day today at the same table as Daniel Negreanu, one of the most famous and top poker players in the world. This table was one of the ones ESPN decided to feature and film. They captured Gary not only beating Negreanu at a hand, but bluffing him! Later, as players were lost at the table and people reshuffled, Gary was moved to a table with actor Kevin Pollak. After his finish, a magazine interviewed him regarding his experience as an amateur competing against the pros. It’s been one amazing moment after another. Rob said Gary was absolutely thrilled to have made it so far yet understandably also disappointed the thrill ride didn’t last longer.

Rob’s been with Gary this entire week and has been keeping me updated with texts and phone calls. What fun the girls and I have had rooting him on from a few miles away and visiting once or twice. I think Gary should be so proud of himself. He not only made his dream a reality, but he took charge of it and made it a huge success! How many people can say that? Congratulations to Gary. I can’t wait to ask him if he’ll be back next year. I suspect I already know the answer. :)

An ESPN cameraman catches Gary in action!