Hemish Shah (7 April 1968 – 5 September 2001) was a successful English stockbroker before he became a professional poker player, the winner of the World Series of Poker bracelet, and the Late Night Poker series 4, where he beat the champion Simon "Aces" Trumper in the final heads-up confrontation. Hemish Shah was known for his superstitions, often refusing green flowers and wearing red.

During the tapings of Late Night Poker series 5 (won by Padraig Parkinson) players would look up and say "Thanks, Hemish" when they hit a lucky draw. The final for the season was the same day as Hemish's funeral and the players all insisted on attending it, and he production company flew them to London by helicopter. In all, over 75 poker players attended his funeral.

His funeral was focused on his childhood, his professional success in the City, and his devotion as a son and brother. As a testament to his Poker success, at the back of the room 'stood 75 silent men in dark glasses and extravagant jewelled watches, flown in via helicopter, all thinking of the man who brought the 2001 World Series bracelet home to Britain'.

WSOP

He won a World Series of Poker bracelet and $312,340 in 2001 for winning the $5,000 Limit Texas Hold-em event. During the event he had to leave the table as he was suffering from stomach cramps. While sick, he continued playing, 'limping back' to his chair, winning the title and beating the Americans.

He went to hospital upon returning to England, but suffered a cardiac arrest at 03:00 GMT on 5 September 2001 and died, aged just 33.

The Guardian reported 'in a world of B&H, Jack Daniels, all-nighters and steak, Hemish didn't smoke, didn't drink, talked clean, ate vegetarian, lived with his mother, honoured his religion', and his death shocked the poker world.

References

  • Poker statistics on RankingHero
  • Card Player profile
  • Hendon Mob profile
  • WSOP profile