The big money in most poker tournaments is found in the top three spots. While making it that deep is an accomplishment in itself, coming so close and failing to win can be gut wrenching. That's something Tom West knows all too well after finishing third in the Heartland Poker Tour Thunder Valley Casino Resort back in January.
Fortunately for West, he didn't have to wait long for redemption. On Monday, West returned to the property and this time finished as the last man standing in the 464-entry field, a feat that earned him $154,590, the largest cash of his career.