Barry Greenstein is an American poker pro and is affectionately known as "The Robin Hood of Poker". A member of Team PokerStars, Barry is one of the top tournament pros and a strong cash game player, as well.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Greenstein started playing cards at a young age. Beginning with gin rummy and hearts, he then later found himself playing against family members in poker. Honing his craft in his teen years, he was a semi accomplished player when he graduated high school and went to the University of Illinois.
Greenstein was so successful throughout his college career at poker that he paid his way through school. He graduated with a degree in computer science. Still doing well at poker, he kept up with his studies and spent a number of years pursuing a graduate degree in mathematics. During this time, he took a part time job at Symantec, a now famous company for anti-virus software. He also played in local games, in addition to working to pursue his graduate degree.
He decided to retire from Symantec in the early 90s and ultimately did not finish his graduate degree, but instead, decided to pursue poker. He worked hard honing his craft and is one of the world’s most recognizable and successful players.
Barry's tournament poker is only secondary to his cash game prowess; he regularly plays in the Bellagio's Big Game and has made millions in live cash games. However, he has become hugely successful on the tournament circuit. As one of the best players around, for a long period of time Greenstein donated all his tournament winnings to charity. He stopped this practice in 2006 but still donates his net earnings. He has donated millions of his winnings to several different charities.
Greenstein has amassed over $7.8 million in tournament winnings over his career. He is a two time World Poker Tour champion and has cashed in six events. He has three WSOP bracelets and has cashed 46 times in WSOP events, including a 22nd finish in the 1992 Main Event.
Barry also published a book called, "Ace On the River" a strategy book and help for players who are trying to break into the tournament circuit. He currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has two children from a previous marriage and four step children.
