Drama at the 1982 WSOP: When all seemed to be lost
Jack Straus, a six-foot-tall man nicknamed "Treetop", was a familiar figure in poker circles when he entered the 1982 WSOP Main Event in Las Vegas - the most prestigious tournament in the world.
Although Strauss had made it all the way to the final table twice before in the Main Event, this time it looked like it would be over rather quickly. According to legend, in one hand Treetop bet his stack, got a call, but the cards weren't in his favor. Thinking he was eliminated from the tournament, he got to his feet and was about to walk away. But as the dealer began to clear the table, he discovered one last 500 chip under his napkin. Since Jack didn't announce all-in, the rules allowed him to continue in the tournament. While this would have been a short-lived loss for most players, it was a challenge for Jack Straus.
From one chip to the championship
If this story had ended with Straus staying in the game for a while and busting out a few hands later, no one would likely remember it. But his incredible streak of wins and comebacks from a single chip is what forever etched him into poker history.
One double-up followed another, and Jack rose steadily up the ranks. The tournament lasted a total of six days, but by the end of the third day, Straus had more chips than anyone else in the tournament. With relentless grit, he worked his way to the final table, making what was shaping up to be the greatest comeback in poker history.
Straus continued his sprightly ride and was not stopped by former winners Doyle Brunson (finished 4th) or Bryan Roberts (8th). Eventually, Jack made it to heads-up play against Dewey Tomko, and it took just 15 minutes to defeat him, after which he was crowned the 1982 WSOP Main Event champion. Jack Straus took home $520,000 and made poker history. He summed up his tournament victory with the phrase: "All you need is a chip and a chair." His amazing story gave birth to the immortal saying "A chip and a chair", which is still used today as an encouragement to players who find themselves in a critical situation.
Jack Strauss' legacy
Jack "Treetop" Straus was not only a poker champion, but also a legendary figure. His ability to never give up and fight to the last chip remains an inspiration to players around the world. We saw that Jack fought to the last minute at the poker table in 1988 when his heart stopped during a game. He died at the poker table at the Bicycle Casino in Los Angeles at the age of 58. But his legacy lives on to this day.
Today, when players find themselves in a seemingly hopeless situation, they are often reminded of this iconic story. As long as you have at least one chip and a chair, you still have a chance to turn your fortunes around and win. Just as the legendary Jack Straus did.
Sources - Wikipedia. WSOP, GGPoker, PokerRed
