Gary "Bones" Berland

Defined as one of poker's inimitable legends, the memory of Gary “Bones” Berland is as fresh in the minds of his contemporaries now, as it was during the course of his short, yet eventful career. A stalwart of the 70's and 80's, Gary Berland is perhaps best known for his unwavering strength of character against even the hardiest of competition – a quality that would see him reign victorious with five WSOP 'first' victories during the course of a decade.

Born in May 1950, Gary Berland was raised on the outskirts of Gardena, California, for most of his childhood life. Dedicated to the achievement of his university degree, Berland attended the University of Las Vegas for around two years, before dropping out to concentrate upon his newfound skill – poker. He worked tirelessly within many an on and off-Strip casino, inflating his bankroll in the hope of securing entry to one of the major casino tournaments. Berland graduated to the ranks of WSOP player in 1976, shortly followed by his first big break in a 1977 $500 7-Card Razz tournament against Doyle Brunson. He came away with a second place victory, however, could not cash-in due to the “winner-takes-all format”.

Following the much speculated outcome of 1977, Gary “Bones” Berland went on to snaffle two World Series of Poker victories in 1978 – one during a $500 7-Card Stud event, and latterly the $1000 7-Card Ruzz. Berland's decade of victories saw him achieve five WSOP bracelets from 1976-1986, famously stealing the limelight again in 1979 with two consecutive top table wins and running in third in 1986. Gary Berland was reputedly an excellent mathematician, which some attribute as being a small factor in his overall success.

Gary Berland accrued over $300,000 from eleven cashes at WSOP events, although it is speculated he made far more than this from off-tour Vegas tournament events. He lived long enough to secure a respectable third in 1986, however, passed away shortly afterward due to complications of a rare blood disorder. Fans have often said if Berland were alive today, its entirely feasible he would now hold several world records for WSOP victories.