2007 WSOP Diary: Day 36, July 6th

  As the first day of World Series of Poker Main Event wound to a close, writers from all over the sport were sprinting to their computers and trying to come up with clever quips to describe the participation of "Everyone Loves Raymond" stars Ray Romano and Brad Garrett. Some of the more annoying ones that have appeared across the web were "Opponents Hate Raymond" and "Lady Luck Doesn't Love Raymond". We're surprised that somebody just didn't write "Lady Luck Kicks Raymond in the Nads" and left it at that.  Ignoring the fact that journalists who can't describe Raymond and Brad's WSOP participation without working the name of a sitcom into the headline should be beaten with their own laptops and forced to have a good cry with Dr. Phil, these two stars did participate. They played the event as we would expect amateur celebrities to do when stepping up into a professional sport. For those who can't figure out that this means they played badly, just imagine Gary Coleman showing up as the Middle Linebacker for the Oakland Raiders, and apply that visual to the game of poker.  Ray Romano's adventure into Championship poker looked a lot like a Toyota Prius at a Monster Truck Rally: the good intentions were there, but he was simply squished under the giant tires of better competition. Despite his loss, a side bet he had with his former co-star ensures that the Maximum Hope Foundation for families with terminally ill children is a little richer today. Ray and Brad had a $2000 side bet about who would last longer. The winnings would be donated to the charity.  Ray should not feel bad - he is in a good company in the losers lounge. Michael "The Grinder" Mizrachi has been busted along with David "Devilfish" Ulliott, and Liz Lieu. Doyle Brunson had also been punted from the tournament, but Doyle taking a first day exit from a high profile event has become a rather common site. If Doyle ever wants to shock the poker world, he can show up next year at the WSOP wearing nothing but his Stetson and a creatively placed championship bracelet, or make it past the opening volleys of the WSOP Main Event.  Brad Garrett has played the tournament like he was a bull shopping for crystal and fine china. Despite his bludgeoning style and antics that would prompt Carrot Top to suggest he take it down a few notches, Brad is still holding on in this tournament. As of this point in time he is among the top 25 players. It should be interesting to see what Day 2 of the Main Event has to offer.