Christopher Mecklin

Christopher Mecklin is an American poker player who made a notable impact at the 2014 World Series of Poker. While he is primarily recognized for his cash game prowess, his most publicized tournament result came in WSOP Event #36.

In June 2014, Mecklin entered Event #36: $1,500 No-Limit 2-7 Draw Lowball at the WSOP. This tournament attracted 241 entrants, creating a prize pool of $325,350. Mecklin navigated the field deep into the final day, ultimately finishing in 4th place for $24,908. The event was won by Steven Wolansky ($89,483), and Mecklin was eliminated at the hands of Joseph Cheong when he moved all in drawing to a 9-8-6-4-2 but lost to Cheong's perfect 7-5-4-3-2.

Throughout the tournament, Mecklin was involved in several key hands. On Day 2, he doubled through Joseph Cheong by standing pat with a 9-8-7-6-4 and inducing a call from Cheong who drew one and paired. In another hand, he three-bet Steven Wolansky and pat-checked showing a nine-eight low to win the pot. He also lost a pot to Samuel Touil when he stood pat with a 10-9-7-6-2 against Touil's better low.

One of the most notable stories involving Mecklin from the 2014 WSOP concerns Christian Pham, who accidentally signed up for the same 2-7 Draw Lowball event instead of No-Limit Hold'em. Mecklin was seated next to Pham and initially suspected an act but quickly realized Pham genuinely had no experience with the game. Despite this, Pham went on to win the entire event, earning a gold bracelet and $81,314. Mecklin later remarked on Pham's skill, noting his strong tournament acumen.

Based on available hand histories from the 2014 WSOP, Mecklin demonstrated a willingness to three-bet and stand pat with marginal holdings, suggesting an aggressive and read-heavy approach. He was comfortable putting opponents to tough decisions even in a variant he may not have specialized in.

Christopher Mecklin remains a respected figure in the poker community, particularly among those who follow high-stakes cash games. His 2014 WSOP run remains his most documented tournament achievement, and his association with the Christian Pham story has cemented his place in WSOP lore.