The WPT Western Poker Challenge returns to Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno (Sept. 13-23) and with a new manager at the helm. Mike Gainey, who left the Peppermill Casino in the winter and was brought on board as a poker host, has taken over the poker room in place of Daniel Chiu.
Gainey, a legend in these parts, was the first to bring a large tour to Reno (the WPT in 2001) so he has plenty of experience to make this tournament series a success. It features 28 events, including no-limit hold’em and pot-limit Omaha with buy-ins ranging from $120 to $1,650.
Players can compete for their share of $350K in guaranteed prize money, including Event 1, a $340 NLHE tournament with a $50K guarantee on Sept. 13. The series ends with the $1,650 main event on Sept. 23, featuring a $200K guarantee.
Each tournament will be in Atlantis’ distinctive tournament setting, where players can take in dramatic views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range and Reno cityscape. A schedule of events and structures are available at atlantiscasino.com/wpt.
Atlantis will offer a complimentary hotel room to players who pre-register for the main event online or in person by Sept. 13. In addition, players can book a special hotel rate by calling 800-723-6500 with the offer code SPOKR09.
— Leslie Pauls is an Ante Up Ambassador for Reno and a representative for Blue Shark Optics. Email her at anteupcali@gmail.com.
