Stanley Fujitake was not just any ordinary man; he was a legend in the world of casino gaming, particularly craps. His extraordinary feat at the craps table has cemented his place in gambling history, and his story continues to be an inspiration to both gamblers and those who love a good underdog tale. Here are five key things you should know about Stanley Fujitake the man with the Midas touch.
1. The Unbelievable Craps Streak:
Stanley Fujitake became a legend on May 28, 1989, at the California Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. On that fateful night, he achieved one of the most incredible feats in the history of gambling: he rolled the dice for three hours and six minutes without “crapping out” (rolling a seven, which would end his turn). During this time, he made 118 rolls. His streak is one of the longest in the history of craps, and it’s something that craps enthusiasts still talk about with reverence. This incredible run won him and other players at the table hundreds of thousands of dollars.
2. The Modest Beginnings:
Stanley Fujitake was not a professional gambler by any means. He was a Hawaiian native of Japanese descent who lived a relatively quiet life in Hawaii. Born in 1924, Fujitake worked as a parking lot attendant. Despite his legendary craps run, he wasn’t someone who frequently sought the spotlight. He would visit Las Vegas occasionally, as many Hawaiians did, due to the strong connection between the islands and the California Hotel, which catered to Hawaiian tourists. His big win happened simply because he was at the right place at the right time.
3. Impact on the California Hotel and Casino:
The California Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, affectionately known as “The Cal,” became synonymous with Stanley Fujitake’s incredible roll. After his streak, the casino saw a surge in popularity, especially among Hawaiian tourists. The event was so significant that it inspired the creation of the “Golden Arm” club, an exclusive group for players who managed to roll the dice for more than an hour without crapping out. Fujitake was, of course, the inaugural member. The casino continues to celebrate his achievement, making it a point of pride and a marketing tool for decades.
4. The Golden Arm Legend:
The term “Golden Arm” is now a well-known part of casino folklore, and it all started with Stanley Fujitake. His legendary status inspired the creation of tournaments and events celebrating those with extraordinary luck or skill at the craps table. The “Golden Arm” is more than just a nickname; it’s a badge of honor that craps players aspire to achieve. Stanley’s amazing feat continues to inspire a sense of possibility and excitement for every craps player hoping to emulate his success.
5. A Lasting Legacy:
Stanley Fujitake passed away in 2000, but his legacy lives on. His story is a reminder that sometimes, ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. His record-breaking craps roll is not just a moment of casino history; it is a testament to the unpredictability of life and the incredible potential of any given moment. His tale has been featured in documentaries, articles, and books about gambling history, ensuring that his legendary roll at the craps table will never be forgotten.
In the world of gambling, where fortunes are won and lost in the blink of an eye, Stanley Fujitake’s name stands out as a symbol of luck, perseverance, and the thrill of the game.
Photo: Freepik
