Scotty Nguyen $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. Champion

Congratulations to Scotty Nguyen, 2008 $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. Champion.
It took over 13 hours, 314 hands, and countless bottles of beer for Scotty Nguyen to vanquish his seven distinguished opponents at this $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. final table. An elated Nguyen bearhugged Layne Flack, kissed his wife, and even embraced WSOP Commissioner Jeffrey Pollack in the moments after his victory.

Some would say that Nguyen experienced one of the greatest "blow-ups" of all time at last year's Main Event, where he had the chip lead with 12 players to go, yet ultimately finished 11th. Coming back a year later to win arguably the most prestigious tournament in poker has got to put some of those demons to rest for the now five-time bracelet winner.

"The $50K H.O.R.S.E. event is the best all around player...#1 in the world. Nobody can walk up to me and say, Scotty, you're second, baby" said Nguyen in his post-game interview.



Nguyen also had kind words for runner-up Michael DeMichele. "He's a great up and coming young player. Everyone told me to watch out for him."

When Jeffrey Pollack presented an emotional Nguyen with the Chip Reese Memorial Trophy, Nguyen thanked his friends, his fans, and especially his wife for their support.

"This feels so good, baby. This is it!" he exclaimed with a smile.