Play with the Pros

[Vito_Nuccio]

Lets talk about how great it is that poker stands out above the rest of all sports (yes it is a sport, look up sport at dictionary.com, many of the definitions fit) in the fact that an amateur can play against the very best in the world and sometimes win. Very few of us can ever say within a few years we will be teeing it up with Tiger (PGA), driving for Hendrick (NASCAR), running the ball for the Lions (NFL)(yes, I am a Lions fan, at least we have the Red Wings) or playing against any other professional for a title. But in poker if you have the cash or can win a satellite or two you can be playing at the big game for the title, prizes and possibly endorsements. It would be a true life changing event for many. How many other sports fans watch the game, and at the same time say, "I will be there someday", and actually have a chance? It may be a small chance, but much more then Tiger telling me, "Nice Eagle"!

[liladypokerpro]

I love this...such a good point for all to remember. I am pretty sure this is THE only sport where someone can win a seat to the Main Event in a FREE tournament, and possibly walk away with Millions. I think the only thing that might even come vaguely close might be something like tournament Chess or Scrabble and there aren't millions to be won at that...not in one sitting, anyway, and I surely wouldn't call those "exciting" LOL

[TheyNeverLearn]

I hope one day I will see lady play in a televised event. That is her dream to one day do that so I hope it comes true because I think she could make it far and maybe even win. She says she doesn't think she is advanced enough to win but that she would not count out making the final table.

[Vito_Nuccio]

I have to disagree with you on this one Lilady. Tournament chess could never be won by an amateur against a grand master. World class Scrabble players know all 300,000 words in the Scrabble dictionary and would crush any non-pro.

Poker is the only one where you can play in a major event against a world champion being a rank amateur player.

Thanks,

[liladypokerpro]

Yes Vito I agree...I was thinking in terms of someone who was not necessarily an amateur at Chess and Scrabble, but simply someone who had never competed, and was not known in the circuit. Just like a Poker player can learn and hone their skills at home, so could someone who was intent on winning at Chess or Scrabble. The no-name Poker player could enter an event and win, as could the no-name Chess or Scrabble player. Anything is possible if one's heart is set on it.