Frank Labate Jr
United States
Frank Labate Jr is an American poker player from Dix Hills, New York, best known for his deep run in the 2013 Borgata Winter Poker Open Event 2, where he finished 5th for $16,152. With a career spanning small to mid-stakes events, Labate has accumulated over $88,000 in live tournament earnings and is recognized for his humorous, table-friendly personality.
Overview
Frank Labate Jr is an American poker player hailing from Dix Hills, New York. He has been active in live tournaments primarily on the East Coast, with notable results at Borgata in Atlantic City. According to available records, his career live tournament earnings total $88,158, and he currently holds a world ranking of #34529.
Major Tournament Performance
At the 2013 Borgata Winter Poker Open, Labate competed in Event 2: a $350 + $50 + $100 Black Chip Bounty No-Limit Hold'em (Re-Entry). He played deep into the tournament, eventually finishing in 5th place for a prize of $16,152. The event attracted a sizable field, and Labate's run was highlighted by several key hands, including one where he was eliminated after running A-3 into pocket kings during a blind-versus-blind confrontation. Despite the bustout, he was described as "a nice guy who added a lot of humor to the table and for the blog."
Personality and Style
Labate is known for his lighthearted and engaging presence at the tables. During the same Borgata event, he engaged in a fun side bet with another player, betting $50 that he could find the tournament chip leader within three minutes—a challenge he ultimately lost. He also displayed patience and skill during the bubble, helping to eliminate a short stack to burst the bubble and secure min-cashes for the remaining 81 players. While his playing style leans towards solid fundamentals, his ability to keep the atmosphere pleasant is frequently noted by live reporters.
Later Career and Legacy
After his 2013 result, Labate continued to play in smaller events, though no other major scores have been publicly recorded. His career trajectory exemplifies the journey of many regional pros who grind local tournaments and occasional larger series events. He remains a respected figure among those who have shared a table with him, appreciated for both his poker skills and his good-natured demeanor at the felt.
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