NHC - Finals

[Benny]

Originally Posted by pweizer

This is interesting. I would suggest the opposite. Playing the last chance just takes your focus away from what is really important, namely working on the Friday and Saturday races. If I could give one piece of advice it would be to start handicapping as early as possible so the night prior is far less stressful. There is also no rule that says you must handicap every race. I never look at Golden Gate other than a mandatory race. The overload comes from trying to cram too much into short of a period of time. Planning is key.

Finally, never worry about what anyone else has at nearly any point in the contest but the very end. Long shots will come in and some people will have them. This really has no impact on you. People tend to panic and reach way too early. The score needed to make the cut and to win is always pretty consistent. Last year, roughly $180 got you to day three. This year was a bit lower. But, I feel very certain that if I get to $180 next year, I will be playing on Sunday. Tune everyone else out and just focus on your own game.

Paul

- well said. Players also would be wise to play in a couple of live events too before attempting the big show. online is fine to qualify, but doesnot prepare you for the big event.

[NTamm1215]

Personally, I would never play in the Last Chance tournament, but I do agree with Dan's sentiment on the ballroom. I avoided sitting in the main ballroom for the very reasons Dan stated. It's crowded, loud and dealing with people going nuts for each race can be somewhat mentally taxing.

Whether you've qualified online or at a live site, nothing is going to prepare you for the NHC. It's unique and much more challenging than any other handicapping tournament.

[pointman]

Originally Posted by NTamm1215

Personally, I would never play in the Last Chance tournament, but I do agree with Dan's sentiment on the ballroom. I avoided sitting in the main ballroom for the very reasons Dan stated. It's crowded, loud and dealing with people going nuts for each race can be somewhat mentally taxing.

Whether you've qualified online or at a live site, nothing is going to prepare you for the NHC. It's unique and much more challenging than any other handicapping tournament.

Well said Nick, I agree completely. Hopefully the lessons learned from my first time in such a challenging tournament can be carried forward.