Poker Profiles: Barry Greenstein

If most players turn to Poker for the money and popularity, Barry Greenstein is different. He turned to Poker just for the love of it. In fact, donating 100% of his winnings to charity at one point of his career was a non-issue. Mostly, his beneficiary is Children, Incorporated.

Barry Greenstein started young at Poker. His Army card player father taught him the tricks of the game at a very young age. But he did not delve into it until much later when he is stable enough, probably knowing that he cannot let his future rely on chance. Born on December 30, 1954 at Chicago, Illinois, Barry has a bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a phD in Mathematics. Both of which were earned from the University of Illinois. He previously worked for Symantec but found out later on that the calling of Poker is becoming much stronger. He finally decided to give in at the age of 36, after filing an early retirement.

Since 1991, Barry started riding the ups and downs of a Poker career. He gained two World Series of Poker bracelets, one in 2004's No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw and another in 2005's Pot Limit Omaha. He was also equally successful at the World Poker Tour, earning two titles. His winning streak, which started picking up in 2000, accounts for his $5 million live tournament cash ins.

Barry is not only a tough competitor at the Poker table but also a great mentor. He has authored a self-help book on the ins and outs of Poker in 2005 titled Ace on the River, which was considered by many Poker professionals as the key to their success. One great fan of Barry's book is WPT Season 3 champ Tuan Le. He claims that Ace on the River helped him reach the stars. Barry distributes autographed copies of his book to every opponent who eliminates him. What a nice and humble gesture from a Poker pro.

Barry is currently residing in Rancho Palo Verde, California with two children and four stepchildren. He remains active in circling around the circuit, joining tournaments with every opportunity. He also plays at PokerStars.com along with other distinguished Poker professionals who keep the game exciting for the worldwide fans of the card game. Looks like Barry is not stopping to earn respect from the world he has loved so well anytime soon. His no nonsense type of play coupled with a very positive attitude makes for a presence you will like looking up whenever there's a Poker game.