An 88-year-old grandmother recently turned a casual visit to Mississippi’s Beau Rivage Casino into a memorable poker milestone, cashing for $10,100 in her very first tournament.
Linda Hammons, who usually favors slot machines, decided to join the $500 event in the casino’s “Heater” series after finding her favorite slot occupied. That spontaneous decision paid off—she finished 14th out of 2,628 entries in the $1 million mystery bounty tournament, earning $8,400 for her placement and an additional $1,700 in bounties.
“I didn’t realize it was so big,” Hammons told the Gulf Coast Poker Tour, noting that her fellow players were incredibly welcoming.
From Slots to the Final Table
Hammons has always had a love for gaming, going back to her childhood. “After the adults got through playing dominoes, the kids would get to play,” she recalled.
Her unexpected run drew plenty of online encouragement, with fans cheering her on via social media: “Go get ’em, gramma!” Hammons also earned the distinction of top female finisher in the event.
When she was finally eliminated, both players and spectators applauded her efforts. “I tried to play my best and make a nice impression,” she said, encouraging aspiring players to “do it before you get old like I am.”
The casino later surprised Hammons with a free entry to the next poker event, prompting her delighted response: “Oh my goodness… I’ll be over there at 4 o’clock!”
Poker Knows No Age Limit
Hammons isn’t the first senior to shine at the felt. Poker legend Doyle Brunson played high-stakes games well into his 80s, citing the game as a way to keep the mind sharp. Last year, 63-year-old Lonny Weitzel triumphed in the $1,000 Super Seniors WSOP event for players 60 and older. Remarkably, Eugene Calden holds the record as the oldest WSOP participant, entering the 2023 Main Event at 100 years old.
Hammons’ story is a heartwarming reminder that in poker, it’s never too late to take a seat at the table—and maybe even walk away with a win.
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