Back to Basics

I think every player needs to take a look at their game every once and a while and make some tweaks.  Well, I'm doing that by going back to the basics - rereading Super System.  Lately, I've been playing aggressively, but mostly in the wrong spots and in the wrong way.  Texas Dolly is helping me go back to strong fundamental play, as well as reminding me of the wide range of playable hands, depending on position, that I typically undervalue.  Next up will likely be a reread of Harrington on Holdem.  

Watching last night's WSOP coverage also reminded me of the importance of mental and physical endurance, especially in MTT play.  The endurance needed to play almost a week straight is extraordinary.  I can think of the countless times where my play disintegrates during a tournament as I go into the deeper levels of play during a single day.  In fact, there was one time where I folded my hand in the big blind when everyone limped around.  If it's any consolation, even the best of them have mental and/or physical lapses.  See last nights WSOP's coverage of Ivey mucking his winning flush. 

Heading to Playa del Carmen (Mexico) next week for a little vacation with the fam.  If anyone knows of any poker rooms in that area, please drop a line.

Zen and the Art of Poker Maintenance

I was reading a blog prepared by Soupie on PocketFives.com, which discussed the qualities needed to become a pro player.  I found myself agreeing generally with his thoughts.  Technical skills aside, most good MTT players tend to have a even-keeled and patient approach to the game.  In my opinion, these are the most important qualities that a MTT player can have.  Few MTT players cash 50+% of the time.  As a result, "losing" is the "usual" result.  If someone is unable to handle the volatility of MTT play, success becomes an even greater challenge.  In addition, there may be long stretches between tourneys or hands before success is found.  When someone presses for action, that player works against the odds, needs additional luck, and has smaller margins for error. 

Not that I am looking to turn pro (at this time), I find that my online play is less patient than my live play.  This probably accounts for one reason why my live ROI is so much better than my online ROI.  At least I am fairly good at keeping my emotions in check and not going on tilt.  Since adhering to strict bankroll management guidelines, I have also been able to handle the volatility of MTT play much better.

Final thought, although there are many excellent books out there that talk about MTT strategy, Soupie prepared an interesting list which may be found at http://www.flopturnriver.com/phpBB2/forum/how-to-win-at-mtt-poker-t3027.html

First Post

Why have I broken down and set up a blog?  1. I believe that a blog will help me think more critically about my poker play; 2. I read many poker blogs - it is time that I give and not only take; and 3. I look forward to meeting other poker players online.

 

I have been playing NL holdem, off and on, since 2006.  This year, however, I have resumed playing regularly.  Most of my play has been online.  No big online wins (no >$1000 wins), but I am fine with that because I have faithfully been playing within my bankroll.  I rarely play live, but I have had 2 recent $1000+ cashes at Foxwoods with a win and a 4th place finish in the 180NL tourney.  My goal is to continue mixing in live tourney play at least once a quarter.

I feel that I have been close to turning the corner for quite some time.  I hope that this blog will help me focus.  I also look forward to some interesting discussions via this blog.