Alan Woods
Alan Woods (1945-2008) was a renowned Australian mathematical genius and software developer, whose contributions significantly impacted the gambling industry. Born in Murwillumbah, New South Wales, he made a significant name for himself both in Australia and Hong Kong, becoming one of the most successful professional gamblers of his time. His focus was on blackjack and horse racing, leveraging his mathematical prowess to gain an advantage in these areas1234.
Woods' mathematical skills were not just theoretical; he applied them practically, becoming one of the most profitable gamblers of his era. He used his knowledge to count cards in blackjack, a skill that requires both mathematical understanding and keen observation. In the world of horse racing, he made significant strides, developing software that could accurately predict race outcomes. This application of mathematical modelling and software development to the realm of gambling was a pioneering move, highlighting Woods' innovative spirit53.
Known as "Mr. Huge" in gambling circles, Woods' successful career led him to accumulate considerable wealth, with an estimated worth of $670 million USD at the time of his death in 2008. He resided in Manila, Philippines at the time of his death, which occurred in Hong Kong. Throughout his lifetime, Woods collaborated with other notable figures in the gambling world, including Bill Benter and Zeljko Ranogajec, further solidifying his influence and status within this industry34.
In summary, Alan Woods was a mathematical genius who used his skills in innovative ways, significantly impacting the gambling industry through his expertise in blackjack and horse racing. His development of predictive software for horse races was groundbreaking, showcasing the power of applying mathematical knowledge to practical, profitable ends. His achievements and the wealth he amassed are a testament to his mathematical and software development skills, marking him as one of Australia's notable figures in these fields.
His parents were involved in the management of Skinner and Lowe assets and he attended Murwillumbah Public School. Woods was an infamous Australian mathematician, gambler and software developer with many articles written about his life and business success. He was a longtime resident of the Philippines and lived in a penthouse condominium at the prestigious Rockwell development in Manila (Level 32 and 33).
Alan was born n 1945 in Murwillumbah and died in Hong Kong in 2008 at the prestigious Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital which overlooked the racecourse where his fortune was made. Alan Woods estate was valued at $939 million according to sources here and here. He had two children Victoria (Malvern Victoria) and Andrew (Hong Kong). The ATO made a claim against the estate but this investigation was unsuccessful with no further details released (click here)
Wikipedia page click here for Alan Woods and here and here and here
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Alan Woods was a direct descendant of Henry Skinner - see family tree here and here
