My First WSOP in Las Vegas Came With an Opportunity Cost: Priceless Inspiration

June 2 — June 9, 2018. The week I went for it. The week I went to Las Vegas to play in the annual World Series of Poker.

I should clarify, I have played in WSOP events before, but they were merely “circuit” events. By circuit events, I mean that they were smaller buy ins, at each state’s biggest casino, and instead of giving out hundreds of thousands of dollars and a bracelet, the circuit events give out tens of thousands of dollars and rings. Still, a very cool experience and a cheaper way to play and go for the WSOP glory! Back in February, I took a week off from being a funeral director (yes, I’m a death dealer — haha, dad joke, poker style). I played a few events and I could only muster a 19th place finish out of a few hundred for over $900. I also came within 20–30 players of the money in a couple other events and totally sucked in another one. It was a success in terms of experience and cashing, but not a success because I felt I could have played a little better in spots near the end.

Fast forward to the summer, the here and now. For those looking to catch up on my journey through poker so far and how I felt during the WSOP Circuit, check out these two blogs by clicking on the names: Life Is a Gamble and Playing in the World Series of Poker.

I booked my seemingly one way flight (which I later realized had layovers). Overpaid for the hotel (resort fees, am I right?). And was scammed into a rental car (with insurance I…