Ante-up for B-Town Poker

Gambling might be illegal in Bloomington, but that doesn’t mean you can’t win money playing cards.

B-Town Poker has two Texas Hold ’Em poker tournaments six nights a week at several Bloomington bars, where anybody can play free for real cash prizes.

“You’re not risking any money,” said Jay Nelson, B-Town Poker founder and president. “It’s just a really great opportunity to make new friends, socialize, play some Hold ’Em and maybe win a little cash.”

Throughout the 16-week season, the league keeps track of points earned by knocking opponents out and winning tournaments.

“Season two started Aug. 31,” Nelson said. “So there is still plenty of time to earn points toward this season’s Tournament of Champions on Dec. 5.”

The Season one Tournament of Champions paid out an assortment of prizes totaling $1,800, including $500 cash, a seat at a World Series of Poker circuit event at the Horseshoe Southern Indiana Casino in Elizabeth, Ind., gift cards and tickets to The Funny Bone Comedy Club.

Many enjoy keeping track of their points and standings, but anyone can play on any given night.

“I don’t really keep track of the points,” B-Town Poker regular Mickey Embry said. “I pretty much just play whenever I’m in the mood to play cards.”

B-Town Poker is a chance for beginners to learn the game in a no-risk atmosphere, but it can also act as a training ground of sorts for more experienced players to hone their skills.

“You can learn the basics, the odds online, but playing live is a brand-new game,” said Ben McClelland, B-Town Poker Season one points leader. “You can’t see the other guys’ faces through a computer screen. Playing with real people adds a whole new dimension. Where else can I get a chance to gain the hands-on experience by playing two Hold ’Em tournaments every day for free?”

While the cash prizes can be enticing, most of the regulars will say it’s not the money that keeps them coming out.

“It’s always fun to win tournaments and play for free money,” said Donnie VanMeter, Jake’s Nightclub bartender and winner of the recent Tournament of Champions. “But the best part is the players. You meet a lot of really good people and have a lot of fun. If you win, that’s just an added bonus.”

Hardly anyone thinks of B-Town Poker as a revenue booster, but instead as a place to have a good time.

“It’s nice because of the community,” McClelland said. “It’s kind of like summer camp. It starts with just playing cards, and that turns into real friendships. There are plenty of characters here, but the overall environment is very relaxed and inviting for anyone who wants to come out and play some poker.”