Life ain't all bad for PKR Live I fourth place finisher callmebabe
Danski: Ray, you were the catalyst for action at the very first PKR Live Main Event final table, with all the chips and all the moves. Tell us what you did to arrive at that final table with the big stack, and how you approached the final table.
Ray: Well Dan, to get to the final table with chips I played my premium hands aggressive and fast, took no chances with them, if I ran into a hand then so be it. My approach was kind of odd really, as there was a party atmosphere around the whole event, I had fun at the final table and enjoyed myself; putting no pressure on myself whatsoever.
D: You had all the chips with four left, but went out fourth for $6,500. If you could turn back time and play that final table again, what (if anything) would you do different?
R: Good question and one I think about often. Having such a chip lead when down to the last four, maybe I could have put my foot on the brake a small bit and let the other three fight it out. My final hand was a rush of blood to the head, too eager to cross that finishing line I think. I have my small regrets.
D: You were up against fellow Team PKR Pro Pokey85 at that final table – what was that like?
R: Yes, Pokey85 was in the last four with me, and I knew at the time what he was capable of. He played a very solid game, he was short stacked and didn’t have the chips to play at his best. I'm looking forward to meeting him on this year’s final table - I’m sure he will be there or there abouts.
D: How did you get on at the PKR Live II Main Event?
R: Disaster, the less said the better. Ultra, super aggressive if that means anything.
D: Give us some advice for those players who may have never played a live event, let alone a two-day $1K buy-in live event, before?
R: Relax, have fun, be patient. It’s a great blind structure, giving you plenty of time to sit tight and get a feel for the live game, so don’t rush into things. Also, don’t be intimidated, if your gut instinct says call or fold, go with it.
D: How have you improved since last year, and what do you think about your chances for PKR Live III?
R: My game has improved a lot I hope. I pick my spots more carefully and I think I can spot weakness in other players more easily. This year I hope to go the whole way, without a doubt!
D: Ray, thanks and best of luck in November – we’d love a Team PKR Pro to take it down!
Read champion discomonkey's own take on succeeding at PKR Live III, or runner up tigerwing's thoughts.
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