| Byron Wolford | |
|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Cowboy |
| Born | September 14, 1930 |
| Died | May 13, 2003 (aged 72) |
| World Series of Poker | |
| Bracelet(s) | 1 |
| Money finish(es) | 10[1] |
| Highest ITM Main Event finish | 2nd, 1984 |
Byron Wolford (September 14, 1930 – May 13, 2003), also known as Cowboy Wolford,[1] was an American rodeo cowboy and professional poker player, who was the winner of a World Series of Poker bracelet in 1991 and runner-up in the 1984 World Series of Poker Main Event.[2]
Wolford cashed in various events at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), including the Main Event. He achieved his highest Main Event showing in 1984 when he finished as runner-up to Jack Keller. For his second-place finish, Wolford won $264,000. Over the years, Wolford made the final tables in other events at the WSOP, finishing in second place on several occasions.[3]
He won a WSOP bracelet in 1991 in the $5,000 limit Texas hold 'em event, defeating fellow professional Erik Seidel. His career winnings were $1,012,500,[4] with his nine cashes at the WSOP accounting for $782,410 of his lifetime winnings.[1]
Wolford also won the $10,000 No Limit Deuce-to-Seven Draw at the inaugural Super Bowl of Poker in 1979.[5]
As a rodeo champion, Wolford set the all-time speed record for calf roping at Madison Square Garden in the 1950s. He also won back-to-back championships at the Calgary Stampede.[3][6] Wolford was the author of the book, "Cowboys, Gamblers & Hustlers: The True Adventures of a Rodeo Champion & Poker Legend".[7]