help a beginner out....

[jwvdcw]

My situation:

-After subtracting money I'll need for bills and routine living, I have about $40,000 that I can do whatever I want with.

-I'm a young 23 year old with no investing experience.

-I am a successful semi-pro poker player, so I do have a good logical mind.

-I would be willing to risk and possibly lose about $5000 in the early going, as long as I feel like I'm getting better at investing while doing it.

-I don't want any super long term investments. I'd like to have access to my money.

-If I truly feel as if I can be a successful investor, then I'd definitely be willing to put in the time and effort in order to learn.


So where to begin?