Layne Flack's friends and fans will gather at a Las Vegas bar on Friday, August 20 to share stories and memories of the late great comedic poker pro who passed away last month.
The function, promoted by WPT Executive Tour Director Matt Savage, a friend of Flack, is scheduled to run from 5-8 p.m at Brooksy’s Bar and Grill, a spot Flack frequented.
Savage told PokerNews that he expects some of Flack’s closest friends in the poker community to attend. That includes Ted Forrest, Chip Jett, Todd Brunson, among others.
“I would love for Doyle Brunson to attend but don’t know for sure if he can make it,” Savage said.
“Texas Dolly” turned 88 on August 10 and doesn’t get out and about much these days, although he is contemplating competing in some WSOP events this fall. The poker legend’s wife, Louise Brunson, was briefly sent to the hospital last month. She was released later that day, but Doyle doesn’t like leaving the house when his wife of 59 years is ill. Hence, why his attendance at the Flack gathering is in question.
Brooksy’s Bar and Grill, owned by Flack’s good friend Kirk Brooks, is located at 9295 W Flamingo Rd in Las Vegas, near the 215 freeway and S Fort Apache Road, a few miles west of the Strip. Space is limited as Savage anticipates numerous friends of the late poker pro to show up to pay tribute to the man dubbed “Back to Back Flack.”
Leaving Behind a Legacy
Flack, who died at age 52, left behind quite a legacy in the poker community, and his friends will certainly have plenty of entertaining stories to share. Following the poker pro's death, Savage made a bold claim: Flack was the "best in the world in the early 2000s, and it's not even close."
Given that Flack racked up five WSOP gold bracelets from 1999 to 2003 (six total in his career), and was also considered a cash game crusher, Savage's comment is tough to dispute.
Flack was more than just a great poker player. He was a father first (his daughter Hailey is 26), an avid golfer and gambler, and considered by many of his peers to be one of the funniest characters in poker.
The Rapid City, South Dakota native, who spent most of his adult life in Las Vegas, finished his brilliant career with over $5 million in live tournament cashes, six WSOP bracelets, 63 cashes in bracelet events, one World Poker Tour title, and three WPT final table appearances.
