6 Tips for Future Show Low Card Sharks

Did you know Show Low was named after a marathon poker game played between two early settlers? They decided there wasn't enough room for both of them in the community and agreed to let a game of cards decide who was to get the 100,000-acre ranch and who was to move on. Appropriately, many Torreon members also love to play cards, from kids Bingo games in the summer and holiday weekends, to bridge groups on Monday or members gathering for a lively game of hand and foot – a variation of Canasta –  in the clubhouse when they get the urge for some friendly competition. 

While summer is peak card-playing season for Torreon members, those looking to improve their skills can practice year-round by following a few tips.*

1. Know the Rules
   Learn the rules of the game you are playing first before you do anything else. Rules vary from game to game and are designed to prevent cheating. 
2. Practice
   Playing more card games will passively, often without you even realizing, equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to win. The more hands you play, the better you’ll become at making strategic decisions.
3. Strategies
   One strategy is the counting of cards. Since there is always a set number of cards in a deck, you can develop card awareness and determine what cards your opponents have.
   Another strategy is knowing when to fold. Some games allow players to forfeit hands to minimize losses. Know when to hold them, know when to fold them.
4. Keep a Cool Head
   It’s important to stay calm and focused. Emotions can cloud your judgment and lead you to rash decisions. Take a break if you need to. Pay close attention to your opponents’ emotions as well.
5. Bluff When Necessary
   Bluffing is a way to trick your opponents into thinking you have a better or worse hand than you actually do. Use caution, though, bluffing can be risky and cause you to not only lose the game, but also the respect of your opponents.
6. Patience
   Strike a balance between being patient and being aggressive. If you’re impatient, you’ll make rash decisions. If you wait too long, your opponents might take advantage of you. This takes time and practice.

Winning a card game takes more than just luck and the knowledge you gain by playing more card games is the key to success. Regardless, you’re sure to lose from time to time, it’s just in the cards! However, these six tips will take you one step closer to becoming a card shark for your next game at Torreon, in Show Low, or wherever your travels take you.

Located just three hours from Phoenix in Show Low, Ariz., Torreon is a luxury golfing community nestled in the White Mountains. It offers convenience, world-class recreation, and amenities for the entire family. Offering everything from a sprawling outdoor pool, expansive fitness center to award-winning food at Torreon Grille as well as a family and game center, fishing pond and endless trails throughout the community, every member or guest is sure to enjoy time at Torreon. Learn more at https://torreon.com/

Contact Linda Cedarblade, designated broker for Torreon Realty at (928) 532-3030 or lrc@torreon.com for more information on gorgeous, high-country lots or move-in-ready Golf Villas nestled in the White Mountains. 

*https://www.gamesver.com/skills-needed-to-be-good-at-most-card-games-become-a-better-card-player/