Poker Walk of Fame honours poker greats past and present
Thursday 26th February 2004
The world of poker paid homage to some of the greatest stars of the game this week by unveiling The Poker Walk of Fame on the doorstep of the Commerce Casino, C.A – its very own answer to Hollywood Boulevard’s hallowed salutation to the movie stars. In association with the World Poker Tour, the first three gold embossed plaques were laid in commemoration of “the men and women who have played the game at its highest level; contributed to its evolution and popularity; celebrated poker in film, television and literature; and who are making the game appealing for a new generation of poker fans.”
Doyle 'Texas Dolly' Brunson, nine times world champion and author of poker players’ bible 'Super/System: How I Made Over $1,000,000 Playing Poker,' was the first to press his hand into the cement. He was followed by Gus 'The Great Dane' Hansen who, as a young, successful relative newcomer represents the future of the sport. Lastly came actor James Garner who helped popularise the game through his role as the unflappable card shark Brett Maverick in the late fifties TV series.
Steve Lipscomb, WPT founder and CEO, who sees himself as a caretaker of the poker tradition, said the Walk of Fame is necessary to “preserve the history of the game and pay tribute to those who are creating its new history.”
“We need to recognize those players and individuals who are contributing to the game's storied past and insuring its continuity as The Great American card game, he added.'
