Michael Goodman won his Platinum Pass at the “Top Pair” Charity Event held in his native Toronto — a tournament that raised money for the Jack and Candee Klein Comprehensive Breast Health Clinic at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem. Chris Moneymaker was in attendance as Goodman came out on top of a competitive field, booking his trip to Barcelona in August and contributing to the very worthy charitable cause at the same time.
Chris Moneymaker hands Michael Goodman his Platinum Pass
Goodman is a 47-year-old metals trader, whose day-to-day work includes the buying and selling of thousands of tons of mainly recycled steel and copper. The Platinum Pass may be slightly more precious, but Goodman also has skills at the poker table and is not afraid to mix it with some established stars.
“I made Day 4 of the WSOP Main,” Goodman said, referencing his deep run in 2017. “I know Daniel [Negreanu] from Toronto, played with Hellmuth, played baccarat with Phil Ivey. I wouldn’t say I have a favourite, but I’m not intimidated by any of them. I bust Greg Raymer and Jeff Gross from the WSOP last year.”
Goodman learned poker about 25 years ago, playing initially in friendly home games, but more recently has been particularly taken by PLO. After a neighbour introduced him to the variant, he has enjoyed the swingy life at the PLO cash game tables and says he has been up “several hundred thousand on my best day”. It’s useful as Goodman has some expensive hobbies. In addition to golf and travel, Goodman said he enjoys modern art and has pieces of work by the British artist Damien Hirst.
For all that, he looks closer to home for his proudest achievement in life. “My kids, and being 22 years clean and sober,” he said. Those kids, both daughters aged 13 and 14, will accompany Goodman and his wife to Barcelona next year.
