What poker player doesn’t like taking a shot at a big score? Finally, we’re starting to get the opportunity closer to home thanks in large part to Horseshoe Cincinnati poker room manager Jason Newman. The Queen City Classic was a huge success, featuring two signature events in the series: Event 1: $260 no-limit hold’em ultimate re-entry, which went to Tony Dao, who defeated 2,647 entries for $100K, and the $1,500 main event, which Nick Guagenti won by defeating almost 530 players for $153,548.
In the main event, it was a battle of Ohioans as hometown heroes Guagenti and Keven Stammen dueled heads-up. Guagenti began the finale with more than 50 percent of the chips in play and Stammen, the most experienced player at the table with a WSOP bracelet and an EPT win, was but a blip on his radar.
As the tournament played out, player after player hit the rail with some chips heading Guagenti’s way and others finding a home in Stammen’s stack. Guagenti of Westerville and Stammen of Coldwater ($94,932) earned huge payouts for the Ohio poker economy.
This certainly was an impressive showing by tournament director Charlie Ciresi and Newman, who has a history of bringing big-time tournament action from his days in Hammond at the Horseshoe. He has wasted no time here in Ohio doing the same. We thank you for your hard work, your focus on our needs and the big guarantees.
MORE TO COME: The Pittsburgh Poker Open in April and the Hollywood Casino’s HPO series stop in May featuring Chris Moneymaker. Look for recaps in future issues.
CASH-GAME REPORT: Last month, we spoke of some specific games and times, but some of these have changed so be sure to check your Bravo app or call the poker podium to get all the information you can before jumping in the car. As the warm weather takes hold, the poker landscape is set to change, so if you’re looking for action, pay close attention to home sporting events and concerts at the casino. Many people feel games will start later and run longer so get ready and stay in tune with what’s happening in your region.
PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: Regional tournament and cash-game grinder Tim Bishop is on a tear. He started his run at Maryland Live Poker Classic, taking second in a big event for $35K and had a string of cashes and final tables at WSOP Circuit events, including most recently St. Louis. He’s a native of St. Clairsville, Ohio, and a regular at the Meadows and Rivers casinos. It’s always great to see good people trending upward and onward.
— Dan Harkenrider hosts the Division of Poker and Chris Moneymaker radio shows. Email him at anteupdan@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @DivisionofPoker.
