Humberto Brenes, known for his charm, is among the best-liked poker players on the tournament circuit. Along with Jos?© Rosenkrantz, he is a member of the "Costa Rica Connection," a group of expert Central American poker players who frequently advance to the final table in major tournaments. Humberto is strictly a tournament player and considers poker a hobby.

How long have you been playing poker?

I have been playing poker all my life, but I came out to Vegas for the first time in 1987. I am in the nut business in Costa Rica where I still live, I just go traveling to all the tournaments. Poker is my hobby not my main source of income.

Do you play online poker?

No, I don't play online.

What is your favorite poker game?

No-Limit Hold'em.

How many WSOP tournaments will you play this year?

I will play in about 20 events or so, mainly Hold'em tournaments.

How is your tournament strategy different now compared to before the great poker boom?

The tournaments today are too big I think. The difference is that they require more patience than ever before.

Why do you play poker?

I am bad at soccer (laughs). No, I am a very competitive guy and I need to win, so competition is the main factor.

You have been playing in the $1,500 No-Limit Hold'em Shoot Out today. How have you been doing?

Very good, I won my table and soon I hope to win my next one.