“ClubWPT Corner” regularly appears in WPT Magazine and features an interview with a ClubWPT.com (WPT’s VIP subscription-based membership website*) qualifier
ClubWPT Qualifier: Billie Drake – From Nashville, Tennessee
Tournament Result: Knocked out on Day 1B (her first live tournament ever)
WPT Blog: Did you stay at the Borgata Hotel?
Billie Drake: Yes, I stayed at the Borgata and enjoyed it immensely. The restaurants were fabulous and the atmosphere was so East Coast.
WPTB: Were any famous players at your table during the tournament?
BD: By the luck of the draw, I didn’t get to play with any of the famous pros who were in the tournament. However, in all honesty, I would have felt rather inhibited to have done so as it was my very first live tournament. When I busted out I took advantage of the situation and walked around the poker floor, and like a fly on the wall, I’d just stop at a table and watch my favorite players at their best. Unforgettable treat!
WPTB: Do your friends or family play poker? We’re they excited for you?
BD: Cards have been a part of my family life, as skiing would be a part of others. I taught my children how to play cards, as my own father taught all 5 of his daughters, from the age of 5 years and beyond. My daughters were more shocked than I when I won the seat and were so excited for me that when I left for the tournament it was they who couldn’t sleep. My nephews called from LA to wish me luck and all yelled “Take pictures.”
WPTB: What was it like dancing with Mike Sexton at the WPT Kick-off Party?
BD: Dancing with Mike Sexton was like experiencing my own “Dancing with the Stars.” He was not only an amazing dancer but a gracious teacher as well. He taught me the Reggae and like the song says “I could have danced all night and still have asked for more.”
WPTB: What do you think of ClubWPT.com?
BD: Let me first say how shocked I was to have been the one who won the seat at the Borgata Poker Open. In my wildest dreams it was totally unexpected. From the moment ClubWPT contacted me I felt completely taken care of, which made not only the win more enjoyable but made my experience at the Borgata an unforgettable one. The thing that stands out and a part from all else was ClubWPT’s treatment of me. Everyone at ClubWPT, without exception, from the top executives, to Vince Van Pattan and Mike Sexton, and the news and camera crew made me feel a part of their family. Who would have thought that those beautiful creatures, ‘The Royal Flush Girls’ would have shown such kindness and courtesy to this 63 year old grandmother of 5, they too made me feel special. Now I am inspired to play in other ClubWPT tournaments and try to win another coveted seat. I can’t wait. Thank you all for showing me the time of my life.
*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO WIN. See Terms and Conditions for details.