Unfortunately, there is a bit of sad news in the poker world this week as Layne Flack has passed away. The poker pro was only 52 years old and details of his passing are currently unavailable. Flack was a six-time bracelet winner in the World Series of Poker and known as an all-around great guy among fellow poker pros as well as his friends and family.
Tributes to a Friend
After the news of Flack’s passing was made public, fellow poker pros took to Twitter to talk about their friend. Phil Hellmuth was among those posting about Flack, stating he was one of the biggest and best personalities in the game.
Jennifer Harmon also posted on Twitter about Flack, stating that poker has lost a legend. The two go way back and Harmon stated she would miss her friend, a person who could always put a smile on her face.
Daniel Negreanu also posted about the poker pro, stating that knowing Layne, he would want everyone to celebrate his life and share some laughs about the good old days.
Long Career in Poker
Flack was able to have a long career in the game of poker, despite his young age. He started playing cards with his grandparents but really became a fan of the game when he was working at a casino. He would go to other venues to play poker and he eventually met Johnny Chan, who helped him hone his skills.
The poker pro was also guided by Ted Forrest and eventually he was competing in major events around the world. By 2010, Flack had earned over $4.3 million in winnings from live tournaments. He has cashed out in more than 43 WSOP events and earned well over $2.7 million from the series.
He won his first WSOP bracelet in 1999 and then two in 2002, followed by another two in 2003. His last bracelet was earned in 2008. He was also a common face seen at World Poker Tour events, having cash out in several tournaments on the tour.
Over the years, Flack began to make a name for himself among the poker crowd as a fun-loving guy with quick comebacks at the poker table. Fans enjoyed watching him during televised events due to his personality. Flack was both talkative and friendly, which are two personality traits that served him well throughout his lifetime.
The poker pro will certainly be missed by all who knew and loved him.