Ken, how was your WSOBJ experience in general. I know you can't talk about the specifics, but did you get a chance to meet some of the other players and chat with them? If so, what stands out about some of them? Micky Rosa was very different from what I imagined he would be after reading "Bringing Down the House". Everyone wants to talk about the technical stuff on the different forums and sites, which is fine, but I'm also interested in the people who are playing the game. You came across as very low keyed and knowing your stuff. Like a hunter waiting for the strike. Thanks for your replys on CCC group. I enjoy your writings and look forward to more. Thanks, ME
The experience was great all around. For me, it was an opportunity to meet players whose name and reputations were familiar. I didn't know who would be there until I arrived, and I was really surprised at the first-rate list of participants. We all ended up hanging around the filming area for the duration of the weekend, even into the wee hours of the morning while other rounds were filmed. The conversations in the green room were wide-ranging but always entertaining. Basically, it was a group of highly intelligent, highly motivated people who love to play games. It was impossible to have a five minute conversation with anyone without learning something new. There was a lot of joking and laughing, liberally peppered with inside jokes among some of the former teammates. When the rounds got interesting, everyone in the green room would crowd in front of the video feed, some lying on the floor, others on the sofa, and still others standing on all sides. Aside from tournament strategy, there wasn't a lot of tech talk going on. After all, we were still deep inside the casino, and caution prevailed. My ability to characterize personalities leaves a lot to be desired. Perhaps another participant can pick up the slack. I'd love to have Regina participate in this question. I think she probably captures more detail than I do, despite her lack of sight.
How were the selections made? It looked to me that the producers of GSN decided in advance WHO to invite to the tournament. Is that the case? Obviously, it is not like the Hilton's BJ tournament where anyone could participate. Was this done because of it's initial showing and will they have another one next year? Curious as to how you'd get a chance to compete against you guys. Thanks and good luck in the finals. Radar
Yes, the selection process for WSoB was not at all democratic. But, future events were mentioned in some press releases shortly after this one filmed, and one of the ideas mentioned was qualification by winning a seat in satellite events. A big part of the appeal of these events is the fact that anyone can play and have a nice shot at winning. I'm guessing that if the "World Blackjack Tour" comes about, it will be an event where anyone can qualify, at least that's what I hope. As soon as I hear anything about a potential qualification process, you'll hear about it here.
Looks Very Possible I know the Travel Channel will be filming the Las Vegas Hilton Finals, but word has it that some GSN big shots will be at the Hilton finals and Stardust tournaments in May. Might be worth showing up for them, I know I am!
Anthony Curtis Review of WSOBJ Here is a link to Anthony Curtis' review of the WSOBJ. http://snipurl.com/5y0b He gives a run down of the hands and his impressions of some of the players. Watching the shows, Hollywood Dave came across as pretty brash and arrogant, but according to Anthony, away from the table he was very nice to be around.
