Neil Channing

Neil Andrew Channing, known as “Bad Beat,” is a British professional poker player and author from Maida Vale, London. He was born on December 9th, 1967, in Reading, Berkshire. Channing has accumulated nearly $4 million in live tournament earnings, with his best live cash of $1,263,260 earned after winning the 2008 Irish Poker Open.

In addition to his tournament achievements, Channing writes a regular column for Bluff Europe Magazine and co-founded Black Belt Poker. In 2014, he became an ambassador and author for Sky Poker and also serves as an ambassador for Betting Emporium.

Neil Channing: Early Life

Neil Channing was born on December 9th, 1967, in Reading, Berkshire. Growing up near the famous Ascot and Windsor racecourses, he developed a love for horse racing early on. After studying economics at the City of London Polytechnic, he became a bookmaker at various UK racecourses. He gained valuable insights into betting. After facing some challenges in his late twenties, he joined City Index, an online spread betting firm, and quickly made a name for himself by winning £140,000 in just nine months before his account was closed.

Neil initially played poker for fun but turned serious around 2007, focusing on live tournaments. His early success at the Grosvenor Victoria Casino inspired him to take the plunge and play poker full-time. Over the years, he racked up millions in tournament winnings while exploring other betting ventures. Although he briefly attempted to launch a poker site, his passion for the game kept him at the tables, earning him respect within the poker community.

Neil Channing: Live Tournament Participation

Neil Channing began his poker career in May 2000. He participated in a £100 Pot Limit Hold’em event at the South of England Poker Festival in Southampton. Channing finished 4th and took home $1,492.

He achieved his best live score in March 2008 by winning the €4,200 + 300 Main Event at the PaddyPower Irish Poker Open in Dublin. Channing secured a first-place prize of $1,263,260 along with a trophy.

In March 2010, he competed in a £1,500 + 90 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the Grosvenor UK Poker Tour in London. Channing took 2nd place and earned $129,604.

Later that year, in June 2010, he took part in a $5,000 No Limit Hold’em Shootout at the 41st WSOP in Las Vegas. Channing finished as the runner-up, netting $273,153.

In August 2010, he claimed victory in the £1,000 + 70 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the Grosvenor UK Poker Tour. He finished first and walked away with $101,958.

Fast forward to June 2012, Channing secured another 2nd place finish in a $1,500 No Limit Hold’em event at the 43rd WSOP. He earned $406,409.

In a recent appearance in August 2024, Channing entered a £220 + 30 No Limit Hold’em event at the Sky Poker Tour in Manchester. He finished 19th and walked away with $1,068.

Conclusion

Neil Channing, known as “Bad Beat,” exemplifies the spirit of a true professional gambler, drawing from his rich history in betting and poker. As an accomplished player, author, and ambassador, he proudly represents UK poker on the global stage, inspiring both newcomers and seasoned veterans alike.