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Brian HastingsAmerican poker player
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Biography of Brian Hastings
- Early Life and Education
- Television Appearance and Career
- Early Online Poker Journey
- Doubts and Becoming a Professional
- Influence of his Math Teacher
- Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Poker Players
- Epic Battle with Isildur1
- The Importance of Bankroll Management
Biography of Brian Hastings
Brian Hastings is an American professional cash game poker player. He gained recognition in December 2009 when he played against Isildur1, a Swedish high stakes player, in the most profitable session in the history of online poker. In just 5 hours of virtual play, Hastings won over $4 million from Isildur1. Card Player magazine interviewed Hastings to learn more about this historic battle, his development as a player, and his involvement in the poker community.
Early Life and Education
Born in Pennsylvania, Hastings is currently finishing his final semester at Cornell University, where he is studying economics. Despite his busy schedule, he manages to dedicate 10-15 hours per week to playing at the highest stakes tables in the world. He plans to focus solely on poker for a period of time after completing his university studies.
Television Appearance and Career
Hastings recently appeared on the popular television show "Poker After Dark," participating in high stakes Pot-limit Omaha cash games. He played against well-known players like Phil Ivey and Tom Dwan. Card Player caught up with Hastings during a rare break in his busy schedule to discuss the start of his poker career, his epic game against Isildur1, and to get his advice for novice players.
Early Online Poker Journey
When asked about his online poker journey, Hastings revealed that he made three $50 deposits to start playing. He began with micro-stakes cash games, such as $0.05/$0.10. He initially struggled at this limit but eventually built his bankroll up to around $500. After winning a tournament that earned him almost $1,500, he tripled his bankroll. However, he experienced a downturn and his bankroll became relatively small. Hastings used this time to work on his game and was able to increase his bankroll mainly through cash games.
Doubts and Becoming a Professional
Hastings initially did not plan on becoming a professional poker player. He saw the game as a form of entertainment and a distraction from his studies. In the beginning, he did not consider the money in his online bankroll to be real. It was only later that he realized poker involved serious money. He believes it is essential for beginners to manage their bankroll and avoid unnecessary risks that could lead to losing everything.
Influence of his Math Teacher
Hastings credits his math teacher for sparking his interest in poker. His teacher played online and had some success. They would discuss poker during breaks, and after these conversations, Hastings decided to give online poker a try. He started playing for real money and developed a clear understanding of how to convert playing hours into bankroll growth.
Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Poker Players
Hastings emphasizes the importance of having poker friends with whom he can discuss strategy and review hands. Having people to talk to about his game has helped him grow as a player. Most of his friends are fellow players he met while playing at the same limits.
Epic Battle with Isildur1
In the winter of the previous year, Hastings won over $4 million from Isildur1. He enjoyed playing against him because Isildur1 created a lot of action, which added excitement to the game. Hastings loves aggressive heads-up play, regardless of the impact it has on his bankroll. He believes it would be great to see more players like Isildur1 who are willing to play as actively. He also thinks Isildur1 has the potential to return to the high stakes, despite struggling with bankroll management.
The Importance of Bankroll Management
Hastings agrees that Isildur1's tendency to play with his entire stack is a negative aspect of his game. He believes it is crucial for beginners to avoid such impulsive behavior. Hastings, on the other hand, is known for his ability to be honest with himself and adjust his game according to the size of his stack. He knows when to stop playing even if he is on a winning streak. He compares poker to a long session, with ups and downs, and believes that continuing to play when things aren't going well or playing at tables that are too difficult can only shrink one's bankroll.
