Close, But No Cigar!

Almost nightly, I play in an online, multi-table Omaha H/L8 poker tournament called Stingray. Usually around 150 players participate, with the top 20 finishing in the money. Most nights I cash-out, but I've yet to win or to reach one of the coveted top three positions, where the serious cash resides. "Why can't I breakthrough and win this tournament?", I ask.

Like a Monday morning quarterback, after a defeat, I always examine my play post-game. I've discovered that I'm usually the short stack in chips when I've advanced to positions 5th to 20th. Why is this? Is my play too tight? Am I passing up winning opportunities and not getting the most out of certain hands? Am I just unlucky? Are the poker gods mad at me? It's a bit un-nerving to be a bridesmaid, but never a bride. Let's examine my play.

My starting hand requirements are usually as follows:

• I play any A-3 hand when the ace is suited.
• I play anyA-2 hand.
• I play any ace and two unpaired prime cards (2, 3, 4, 5) if no one raises in front of me.
• I play any four prime cards in late position in an un-raised pot.
• I play any 40-point hand (4 cards A-k-Q-J-10 in any combination).
• I especially play any of the above if my hand is double suited.

If the flop doesn't coordinate with my hand, I usually fold, and never chase. I'm always looking for sweeps and nut possibilities. I beleive Omaha H/L8 is basically a nut game and one shouldn't be in too many pots.

My aggressiveness leans toward the conservative side, as I almost never raise pre-flop, as the flop determines about 78% of one's hand. This may well be my shortcoming, as I have observed very aggressive players gambling, and winning pot after pot on speculative, gambling-type hands. These same players often exit early from the tourney or win the whole enchilada. It's an all or nothing mentality, which is contrary to my personality.

Essentially, I've described my style of play. Although conservative, I don't fear putting all of my chips in when I think I have the best of it. If I can discover the holes in my play, exploit more small edges. and arrive at the final table with a larger stack, I'm certain I will eventually win. Perhaps more heart, more bravery and improved technique will propel me to victory. Let me know readers, what you think. Tell me about your style of play and how you win. Perhaps we can learn from each other. See you online!

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