The current year has almost been a grand success for most poker players. However, the one player, who will desire similar time to persist for the rest of his life, will be Marty Smyth. He has been an ‘ace’ in the huge pack of players throughout this period. Tomorrow, at this very moment he (Ulsterman) might be reflecting on the golden age of his poker career.

Some professionals believe that Marty only had winning hands during the course of this year. He almost made £750,000 with participations in two tournaments only. He scooped £250,000 from a pre-Christmas championship and had the other £500,000 during an Easter tournament.

While speaking to officials of popular news daily after being runner-up in the grand final of ‘Ladbrokes Poker Million VI’, there were mixed emotions visible on his face. The man from North Belfast only returned a week ago from London after the tournament got over. In the competition, he battled against some of the top talents in poker games of the country. Again, there were several celebrities also participating in the competition including the likes of Matt Dawson, Brian McFadden and Danielle Lloyd. The grand final took place on Friday December 21, 2007.

During his conversation to the reporter, he explained the entire rules and regulations. He said that it had 12 heats for competing in which included the much-awaited celebrity round. Only Brian McFadden, amongst the participating six celebrities, made it through to the next round. However, he too made an early exit in the succeeding round.

Although Marty has been cashing in big-time, he has no plans for buying flashy cars or quality tuxes for himself. The rumors say that he is currently investing mostly in mortar and bricks. He also admitted that he has been careful with his prize money and has bought a home in Green Island. Marty is more interested in laying foundation for himself, if he plans to move back to his work.

Not so long ago (only a decade), this popular player was involved with civil service. He then followed it up with studying Math in Queens. He confessed to the reporter that he never wanted to be a professional. Initially, he used to play it for winning small cash from his friends. However after a successful stint in casinos around Dublin, he chose to try it out in the game. He has been growing in stature and currently he belongs to the lucky bunch, which is getting sponsorship from Ladbrokes.