Playing in first big tournament
Good morning, Antonio,
I have a question. I'm playing in a ladies' no-limit hold'em tourney at Harrah's in Lake Tahoe. I have played and won locally here in Carson City, but never at that level. My question is this: Should I only play cards that are strong, or should I push everything and come out aggressive? Any input from you would be appreciated. Thank you.
Shady Lady
Dear Shady Lady,
First thing, don't freak out just 'cause you're playing in a "big" tournament. Those ladies pull their panty hose on one leg at a time just like you do. Second, be in it to win it. Lots of people playing in their first big time tournament will play tighter than usual, more cautious than usual. Why? 'Cause they don't want to squander their big buy-in on an early exit. Well, you know what? That's not playing to win, that's playing not to lose, and all it'll get ya is a middle finish, way off the money.
I'm not telling you to go berserk from the first hand. You want to have good hand selection, especially while you're getting over your butterflies and figuring out who you're up against. But remember how you play when you play well: strong, confident, aggressive. That's the way to win at any level, whether at the WSOP or around the kitchen table.
· Antonio
