This will sound big headed but I win 99% of games of connect 4 I play in Phuket. Also I insist on playing the bar champion.
How did I pull of this minor miracle? Simple, I spent my first month playing relentlesly and losing constantly. If you play, play and play again you will start to recognize simple patterns that are repeated again and again by the best players. It's not rocket science but it does need complete attention and dedication.
I was playing for drinks and paid handsomely for my apprentiship. So, why on earth would I commit so much time and money to this?
It's because I have found that b/g's act completely differently to me when I can honestly beat them at this game. I can also engage in their head games by letting them win for a while then kick their @sses (metaphorically).
Dinner at the Y is always much better after you have had fun with your lady/ies for a few hours beforehand and they don't think you are a dummy!
So, how do you win? First lose 1,000's of times
Also for the perfect LOS evening, keep buying them drinks and never take their money no matter how much they bet and lose. Their kids need shoes and school books