Freddie O’Connell Adds Poker Champion to His Resumé
Nashville – Freddie O’Connell, mayor of Nashville, has been known to jockey a turntable, but now he can add poker champion to his growing resume of skills. Earlier this month, he emerged victorious in the Nashville Poker Challenge, triumphing over 69 other participants in this annual charity event.
Maintaining a Poker Face
O’Connell, admired for his DJing talents, kept his winning strategy strictly a secret, refusing to comment on whether his poker performance was a result of skillful bluffing.
Defying Lady Luck
Times seemed tough for O’Connell in the beginning with the mayor losing in the first round at the charity event, which took place on February 4. Penguins might have had better luck on the unseasonably warm ice at Fat Bottom Brewing but O’Connell seemed unfazed. The mayor, taking advantage of the tournament’s rule permitting second chances, paid another $100 and jumped back in the game with renewed vigor.
A Remarkably Managed Campaign
“He played like he ran his campaign; aggressive and smart.” That’s how tournament organizer Bob Bernstein described O’Connell’s approach to the game. O’Connell was also noted for keeping his mobile device stored away during the tournament, instead choosing to engage with his fellow players on a variety of subjects — both light-hearted and serious.
Interesting Table Talk
O’Connell found himself sharing a table with state Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville. Last year, O’Connell triumphed over Campbell in their battle to become Nashville’s mayor. Campbell managed to take one hand from O’Connell during the poker game, leading her to quip that she, too, finally beat O’Connell at something.
Charity the Real Victor
In total, the tournament raised around $12,000 for local charities, surely a victory for Nashville’s non-profit sector. The annual event is sponsored by companies such as Bongo Java and MAFIAoZas, who rally the community together for a good cause.
O’Connell Gains More Than a Poker Win
Despite choosing to keep his winning poker strategy under wraps, O’Connell proved once again that he is a champion who gives back to his community, both by his participation in this charity event and in the bonds he continues to build with his constituents. The mayor’s victory in the Nashville Poker Challenge is yet another achievement added to an ever-growing list, making residents of the city all the prouder to call him ‘mayor.’
For questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to brad@tpc.com or call 615-259-8384.
