Phil Laak sets poker world record

Posted by Steve Ruddock on Jun 06, 2010 Posted in Poker Player News, World Poker News | No Comments »

Poker pro Phil Laak has set the poker endurance record after playing 80 hours of live poker! Laak bested not only the record of Larry Olmsted, which stood at 72 hours, from the Guinness Book of World Records, but also the unofficial record of 78 hours set by Paul Zimbler and has beat his own goal of 80 hours and is slowly going towards the 100hr mark. And more importantly he did it for a great cause. Like Zimbler before him, Laak took on the challenge to raise money for charity, and will donate his winnings to Camp Sunshine –a summer camp for terminally ill children and their families. Laak also tweeted his epic 80-hour session and asked his followers to donate to Camp Sunshine by texting SUNSHINE to 20222.

Laak admits his record is unlikely to stand for very long, but what is important is that Camp Sunshine can help a few more families in need.

Poker is a world full crazy characters and it’s unlikely you’ll come across a poker player who is quirkier than the man known as “The Unabomber”, Phil Laak. Laak’s trademark Unabomber-style hoodie that covers his dyed blonde hair is only the tip of the iceberg; Laak is known for crazy behavior –showing up at the WSOP in full Hollywood makeup to appear as an old man—his relationship with actress Jennifer Tilly, and bizarre antics at the table like doing pushups, running around the table, or talking to himself –or nobody in particular. But the quirks are only part of the man, and his marathon session to help a charity in need shows us once again to reserve judgment on a person. Good job Phil.