Gaz Owen

Gaztafari Rolling Through Backgammon

Gaz Owen, born in Ashford, England in 1979, is a name synonymous with the thrill of backgammon. With a degree in Pure and Applied Mathematics with honors from Exeter University in 2002, Gaz’s academic prowess earned him his moniker, gaztafari, owing to his fondness for dub reggae.

Gaz journey into the world of backgammon began in the bustling staff rooms of casinos during his mid-20s. Quickly realizing the untapped potential of his skills, he made the audacious decision to leave his job as a roulette dealer, enticed by the promise of greater rewards awaiting him on the backgammon circuit.

Among Gaz’s illustrious victories stands the Merit Park Open 2015, a testament to his strategic brilliance and unwavering determination. His prowess on the board was further affirmed when he clinched the runner-up title in the Consolation of the World Championships in Monte Carlo in 2013, solidifying his status as a formidable contender in the backgammon arena.

A self-proclaimed aficionado of online speedgammon, Gaz eagerly anticipates the rise of electronic boards, driven by his disdain for pip counting. Beyond backgammon, Gaz finds joy in games imbued with a twist of luck, including football, tennis, and golf.

In 2015, Gaz set out to conquer new horizons, establishing ambitious goals for himself. With unwavering determination and relentless perseverance, he achieved remarkable success, including securing the WBIF Champions Cup 2018, the Merit Super Jackpot in 2022 and clinching the title of Bristol Open champion in the same year. Notably, in 2015 he set himself four lofty goals: to win a major tournament, to get on the giants list, reach the UK no.1 ranking, and become a Grand Master. Remarkably, just six months later, Gaz accomplished these formidable feats.

Gaz unique approach to the game defies convention, eschewing traditional mathematical strategies in favor of instinct and intuition. His ascent to Grandmaster 2 status without delving into match equity tables or intricate mathematical concepts serves as a testament to his unorthodox yet remarkably effective methods.

As Gaz Owen continues to carve his path through the dynamic landscape of backgammon, his indomitable spirit, strategic acumen, and unbridled passion for the game stand as a beacon of inspiration for players around the world. With each roll of the dice, Gaz reaffirms his status as a maverick backgammon maestro, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of enthusiasts everywhere.