Big Easy XIII

The Thirteenth in a continuing series of fun, mayhem, and camaraderie. And it didn't matter if it ended in defeat or victory, because once again, upon purchase of a beer coozie, you were given the guarantee of a good time.

The day started with 20 people vying for the title of the Big Easy Tournament Champion. 20 people dedicated to the cause of serious poker playing, along with serious food eating, and serious drinking. 20 dreams, all shattered, except for one skillful player.

Did the food get mentioned? Mr. Pete wasn't available, but we did get the BBQ Man, best known by his slogan, "You don't need no teeth to eat our meat." Pulled pork, brisket, pork tenderloin, sausage, steak, broccoli and potato casserole, baked been and green beans. Combined with sandwiches, stuffed artichoke, and snacks galore; it makes for a very enjoyable day... and mix that with beer, liquor, and 'Frank Shots' and you have an exceptional evening.

And on top of that, we played poker. The same 5 games of the past were allowed. After a 3 year hiatus, Carlos re-joined the men of poker, and dominated the pack by winning the prestigious first out award. This was the second year we allowed a re-buy.

With the exception of 3 people out, the game started back with 18 people following the dinner break. After dinner, the game started to heat up... unlike Europe, there wasn't any Germany to bail them out... The final table formed around the same time as last year, 9:00.

The final Table: We had some new and some familiar faces at the Final Table this year. Kevin, John M, John B, John K, Robert, Al S, and Glen, started off playing at the final table. Chip lead was Al S, but 2^nd^ place was easily Kevin, who reminded everyone they were playing for second place since he would win. A possible Babe Ruth moment? Read on to see!

Robert goes out, followed by Glen. John M makes it to the Number 5 spot. Then, with a flourish, Kevin goes out with a big bang., only 3 spots away from his decree of the number one spot. John K, a Sunday night regular, makes it to #3. Heads Up! John B, winner of 2 previous years, and Al S battle to win the coveted title. Each player cautiously going back and forth. The antes and the adrenaline kept rising... 1:30AM, and the ante goes to $150. 2:00 and the ante goes to $200.

The Moment! The game is Omaha, the flop had a 6,7,10. John B goes 'all in' with a pair of aces in his hole cards. Al calls, with a pair of 7s in his hole cards. Turn card is a 7... Al has 4 of a kind. River turns up an ace. Al manages to pull out a win and becomes the Big Easy Tournament Champion. (Beating the two time winner John B.) The ceremonious kiss by Frank and Kevin marked the sad end of the Big Easy Tournament XIII Championship.