Hey, poker players!
It is father’s day and we are bringing you a father’s day special. Jay Lubas and Gerardo Lubas.
Jay Lubas
Jay Lubas is one of the veterans in poker in Manila and Asia. A billiard player before poker became hot in Manila. He is one of the few Filipino players that have played in the WSOP.
The earlier leaders of the poker scene in Manila were not really a leader but more like an elder brother. Everyone moves independently but when they meet, they would respect Jay like an elder brother for the players in Malate.
If any of those who consider him a brother was to do something wrong, he would definitely call their attention and advise them.
Jay Lubas was an active player both local and international. An active cash game grinder but would never miss good value tournament.
Although he had won a few events. What he did way back in 2012 was an amazing feat. In the biggest event in the world, the WSOP main event. He was the chip leader in multiple days and had the pleasure of being in the featured table.
Gerardo Lubas
Gerardo Lubas has also been making a name for himself, his last win was at that Red Dragon 2020 held at Okada Manila by finishing 5th place. He is currently the 6th place in this year’s GPI.
His dad can clearly be seen cheering him in the back. A great father and son team that has achieved a lot of great things.
If the pandemic did not hit Manila, he would have gone to the WSOP with his dad. For now, he is grinding online and this father day did not fail to celebrate Father’s days.
We ask a few questions to Gerardo Lubas in order to know more about the father and son team.
Photo credit Pokernews
Who was Gerardo Lubas before poker?
I was an employee before in a 5-star hotel as a front office associate, I was a BS Tourism Management graduate and it was a nice job.
What inspired you to play poker?
My dad was a poker player and I have always idolized him. I have seen him play and was intrigued. But I was not really confident if I could do it yet.
It was the event in 2012 that really pushed me to chase after a new dream, I saw my dad in the headlines of Pokernews that was covering the WSOP Main event that really lit my passion to play poker.
In the news, he was the 2nd overall chip leader of the main event, and the chance to take down and win the was 8 million U.S. dollar prize money.
My dad making headlines because he was the chip leader? It is always inspiring to hear that someone you know is making it big but this one was my dad. From that point on I wanted to be just like my dad and to become a full-time poker player.
How was your first step in playing poker? Did your dad support it?
At first, I was not confident in playing poker, I was scared like everyone. I ask my dad if I could play poker full-time like him.
His reply boosted my confidence, he told me “Of course, you are my son! if I can do it so could you!”
I started studying the game and play small.
The first tournament that I have won was a small game organized by my dad. he was always there for me and supported me.
He would always give me advice and that I should be a gentleman on the table. The things you should do and not do on the table like table courtesy and respect.
How to study your opponent, the cards you can play in position. It is nice to have a great dad and a mentor that would always be there for you.
Like if I have a question about a hand I was not confident if I played it right. I know I have one person I can always run to and ask his opinion.
How is the journey so far? do you always play where your dad plays?
We do not play together on normal days, but it is great to have him as a dad. We go separately in normal days and I grind my own. He respects my privacy and lets me grind on the places I prefer but we would share info if there a good table.
Thanks to him, I was able to play in some of the biggest events in the world. From Macau to Las Vegas, I was fortunate to play them. It was because of my dad that I was able to experience all of it.
The best is that since he has been there, he would give us advice base on his experiences on the felt.
Like how different players are in Macau compared to the U.S. The Macau tournament and the WSOP main event is so different. I am grateful to have played on those events.
Any message to your dad?
“Dad thank you for everything. You’re the only reason for my success in life. Thank you for being my father, poker coach, a mentor in life, my staker, and of course my number 1 supporter. Thank you for everything. Everything that’s happening to my life is all because of you. I love you.
Any other messages to other people?
Happy father’s day to all the best dad’s out there. If you want to succeed in life always remember to respect and love your parents. They are the main reason why we are here in this world.
if you pay respect and love your parents. For sure 100 percent God will provide for you
See you at the felt.
