Talking Stick Resort has named Thomas Young as director of poker. With more than 20 years of experience in gaming, Young took the reigns as the Arena Poker Room celebrated the 10-year anniversary of its Arizona State Poker Championship (Aug. 11-19).He joined Talking Stick in February, bringing his vast experience in large gaming facilities (Foxwoods and Venetian) to the largest poker room in Arizona. Young has spent time getting to know the staff and regulars.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting with the players, and finding out what they want and what they are looking for in games,” he said. “It’s a very busy room with great clientele.”
Robert Tanita won the main event for $257,690, a trophy and a bracelet. This year’s event also featured 13-time WSOP bracelet-winner Phil Hellmuth emceeing the final table. Other celebrities were pros Tiffany Michelle, Ryan Reiss, Joe Cada, David Williams, Dennis Phillips, Kenna James, Matt Affleck and Chip and Karina Jett.
FT. MCDOWELL: There are 15 tournaments each week here. Cash players can win $100-$300 for getting aces cracked. The amount you win depends on the time of day you begin playing so check with the poker room for details. There’s also a $60 ladies-only tournament Sept. 21.
CLIFF CASTLE: Robert “Red” Wooten has joined the Cliff Castle team as gaming director. The Club 52 cardroom also now has the Bravo System and players can earn $1 comps per hour for using their players card. Possible tournament changes are in the works as well, so please check with the poker room this month.
BUCKY’S: NFL Splash Pots will be Sundays starting Sept. 7. Every live table will be splashed for every score during morning, afternoon and night games. It will be 50 cents per yard for each field goal, $1 per yard for each touchdown and $50 for a safety. There is no limit to the amounts splashed during a game or day.
HON-DAH: John DeLong captured the Tournament of Champions title and the Tournament of Queens winner was Pat Paul Ryan. Pat won $1,055, and additional money-winners included Kaye McDonald, Macie Laughlin, Glenda Hicks, Sharon Wachter and Martha German.
This month at Hon-Dah, the Heads-Up Championship is Sept. 7 at 11 a.m. Also, the winner will play heads-up with the “Boss” for a $200 bonus. The Big Bounty Bash on Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. offers progressive bounties, $2K added and includes a buffet lunch. There are limited seats so get there early.
— Email Chris at cronin@anteupmagazine.com.
