Ted Lawson

Ted Lawson is an American professional poker player from Henderson, Nevada. He previously served as the CEO of FedNat Insurance Company, formerly known as 21st Century Holding Company. Born on October 5th, 1959, in Buffalo, New York, Lawson has amassed over $3 million in live tournament earnings, including one WSOP bracelet and one WSOP Circuit Ring. His largest cash prize of $500,000 was awarded when he won the 35th WSOP in May 2004, held in Las Vegas.

Ted Lawson: Early Life

Ted Lawson was born in Buffalo, New York on October 5th, 1959. He grew up in a family that embraced entrepreneurship, becoming involved in the family home and garden center business at an early age. During his early school years, Ted developed a passion for wrestling. In college, he became the captain of his wrestling team and earned national recognition at both New York Maritime College and the University of Buffalo. After graduating, he dedicated time to coaching wrestling before moving to Plantation, Florida, where he met his wife, Michele. In 1983, they took a leap of faith, turning their life savings of $10,000 into a publicly traded company, 21st Century Holding Co., which is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol TCHC.

By 2007, Ted decided to pursue poker more seriously. Recognizing that he couldn’t go pro while managing daily operations, he stepped down as Chairman of the Board and CEO of 21st Century Holding Co. and relocated to Henderson, Nevada. In 2012, the corporate name was changed to Federated National Holding Company. Ted learned poker in college and has a deep love for it. However, his first love will always be his family. He is proud of his two beautiful daughters, a wonderful son, a great son-in-law, four grandchildren, and his wife, who supports him at every tournament, cheering him on from the sidelines.

Ted Lawson: Live Tournament Participation

Ted Lawson began his poker career in March 2000. He participated in a £50 Pot Limit Hold’em event at the Scottish Masters in Glasgow. Lawson claimed 1st place and took home $3,157.

He captured his first WSOP bracelet in May 2004. Lawson competed in a $5,000 Pot Limit Omaha event at the 35th WSOP in Las Vegas. He secured 1st place, winning $500,000, his best live cash to date.

In March 2007, Lawson took part in a $10,000 + 200 No Limit Hold’em event at the Wynn Classic in Las Vegas. He finished 2nd and earned $384,120.

Later that month, in April 2007, he entered a $5,000 + 120 No Limit Hold’em event at the Fifth Annual Five Star World Poker Classic. He took 2nd place, netting $294,085.

He secured his first WSOP Circuit Ring in April 2008. Lawon played in a $2,080 No Limit Hold’em event at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. He finished in 1st place for a prize of $120,054.

Fast forward to December 2010, Lawson participated in a $10,000 + 30 No Limit Hold’em Championship Event. It happened at the 2010 Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic in Las Vegas. He achieved a 6th place finish, receiving $126,693.

In a recent appearance in April 2024, Lawson competed in a $3,200 + 300 No Limit Hold’em Championship Event. It took place at the WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown in Hollywood. He placed 201st, bringing in $6,400.

Conclusion

Ted Lawson’s impressive journey from a successful entrepreneur to a prominent figure in the poker world showcases his dedication and passion for the game. With over $3 million in tournament earnings, a WSOP bracelet, a WSOP Circuit ring, and a commitment to family, Lawson continues to make his mark both on and off the felt.