Poker Hall of Fame Inductee Named

Poker News - October 16th, 2009 - Written by Glen

The stakes were high, fame was on the line, and a proud bunch was anticipating the decision with great suspense, as was most of the die hard poker fans. The talent was strong - Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu, and Barry Greenstein, Tom McEvoy, Scotty Nguyen, Erik Seidel, Men Nguyen, Dan Harrington, and Mike Sexton were all "seated" at this proverbial final table. Only one could take it, and only one did, and Mike Sexton was naked the 38th member in the Poker Hall of Fame.

It could not have been an easy decision for the 30 members who had to vote, including 15 media personalities and the 15 living Hall of Famers, but Sexton came out on top. Sexton's World Series of Poker career features 46 cashes and once bracelet, won in a seven card stud tournament in 1989. Named the "Ambassador of Poker" for his promoting of the sport, Sexton has even gone as far as donating large quantities of money to charities. In the World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions, back in 2006, Sexton won the $1,000,000 dollar prize, and subsequently donated half of his post-tax winnings to several charities - a pledge he has made with future winnings.

His contributions to the poker world were one of the main reasons he was selected. He has not only publicized the game, but also those who were persecuted - particularly five men in South Carolina who were arrested for playing a $20 dollar poker game - by appearing in court. His actions, gaming, and winnings prompted the panel to give him over 75% of the votes - the requirement for one player to be inducted into the Hall.

Though not present for the Final Table of the Main Event of the 2009 World Series of Poker, Sextant will be present to receive his glory. Next year will hold another voting, perhaps giving this year's runner-ups another chance at receiving their induction. Phil Ivey could very well be the next Hall of Famer, especially if he perseveres through the Final Table in November.

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