After 6 odd years of playing this crazy game with a so-called 'advantage', I am calling it a day. I shared with a member that I had a 'watershed' moment my last session, and that is I really hate losing more than I enjoy winning. My last four sessions have been so emotionally draining for me, and Im not even playing for money that matters.
My competitive nature, having played/coached hoops for many years makes losing in hi counts too much for me. I gave it an honest shot, working extremely hard to be, in my humble estimation, a very proficient counter. The consistency in which I lost big bet after big bet during hi to monster counts has led me to acknowledge this game is too crazy of a ride for me. Im not crying the blues and fully realize it is part of the game. I can walk away saying I at least broke even(obviously disappointed hoping to be up 5-10k at this point).
The main reason for sharing is to sincerely thank the many members that took the time to respond to questions and help along the way. Obviously by the responses, this forum is fortunate to have some of the quality people that it has. It was really interesting to learn about the math/theory of the game, and to just sit in a chat sometimes for example and read experienced AP's share.
The other reason for writing is to pass on what I hope is some sound advice to those hoping to start a serious AP career. And that is, it is not about finding good conditions; it is not about 'what count should I use'; its not even about being so diligent and committed to practice-which I constantly stressed to the few that I corresponded with. I believe it is about being brutally honest with yourself before you start, and find out what type of person you are. If you have an addictive nature, or cannot handle the wild swings this game will throw your way, than dont even bother to start.
This game is all about discipline-not only at the tables but at home practicing faithfully, and having a legit bankroll. I have had some interesting discussions with a fellow member about our common beliefs in regards to 'trip' bankrolls for recreational players etc. But, if you are not properly funded, and do not have the discipline, even the weekend trip can be a frustrating experience.
You are going to lose, and lose ugly. Do not let the drug of pos variance fool you-if you play long enough, lady luck is gonna mess with your head.
In closing, I would like to reiterate this is not a 'poor me' story. I fully accept that the game can and probably will happen like it has for me(damn that one shoe for climbing to +23rc from a IRC of -14 in first two decks-you know the rest fellas !)The brothers of the felt did a great job of preparing newbs like me
for what has happened.
And so it is with much peace that I say...good bye, good luck and good cards to all ! It has been a pleasure !
My competitive nature, having played/coached hoops for many years makes losing in hi counts too much for me. I gave it an honest shot, working extremely hard to be, in my humble estimation, a very proficient counter. The consistency in which I lost big bet after big bet during hi to monster counts has led me to acknowledge this game is too crazy of a ride for me. Im not crying the blues and fully realize it is part of the game. I can walk away saying I at least broke even(obviously disappointed hoping to be up 5-10k at this point).
The main reason for sharing is to sincerely thank the many members that took the time to respond to questions and help along the way. Obviously by the responses, this forum is fortunate to have some of the quality people that it has. It was really interesting to learn about the math/theory of the game, and to just sit in a chat sometimes for example and read experienced AP's share.
The other reason for writing is to pass on what I hope is some sound advice to those hoping to start a serious AP career. And that is, it is not about finding good conditions; it is not about 'what count should I use'; its not even about being so diligent and committed to practice-which I constantly stressed to the few that I corresponded with. I believe it is about being brutally honest with yourself before you start, and find out what type of person you are. If you have an addictive nature, or cannot handle the wild swings this game will throw your way, than dont even bother to start.
This game is all about discipline-not only at the tables but at home practicing faithfully, and having a legit bankroll. I have had some interesting discussions with a fellow member about our common beliefs in regards to 'trip' bankrolls for recreational players etc. But, if you are not properly funded, and do not have the discipline, even the weekend trip can be a frustrating experience.
You are going to lose, and lose ugly. Do not let the drug of pos variance fool you-if you play long enough, lady luck is gonna mess with your head.
In closing, I would like to reiterate this is not a 'poor me' story. I fully accept that the game can and probably will happen like it has for me(damn that one shoe for climbing to +23rc from a IRC of -14 in first two decks-you know the rest fellas !)The brothers of the felt did a great job of preparing newbs like me
for what has happened.
And so it is with much peace that I say...good bye, good luck and good cards to all ! It has been a pleasure !
