The Mid-States Poker Tour recently returned to Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells, attracting 349 entrants for a $349K prize pool as Ben Berlowski of Janesville earned the title and $90K. The event drew accomplished players from around the Midwest, including two-time MSPT-winner Jason Zarlenga, MSPT Team pros Kou Vang and Matt Kirby; Mark “P0ker Ho” Kroon and Wisconsin PPA director Steve Verrett. The final table was an eclectic mix, including Rob Wazwaz (10th, $4,364), who made the final for the second time in as many years, and MSPT Player of the Year contender Ken Payne (eighth, $9,902). However, in the end it came down to Berlowski and Andrew Rubinberg.
In the final hand, Rubinberg pushed his last 500K holding J-10 and Berlowski called with A-3. Rubinberg picked up flush and straight draws on the flop, but he bricked out and settled for second place ($50,351).
That left Berlowski hoisting the trophy, not too shabby considering he registered for the tournament at the last second on Day 1B.
Here’s the rest of the top 10: Nick Kost ($31,318), Michael Ross ($25,175), Nick Pupillo ($19,805), Anselmo Villareal ($16,280), Kraig Benson ($13,091), Ken Payne ($9,902), Erich Ponath ($6,713) and Wazwaz ($4,364).
— Chad Holloway is a senior news editor for PokerNews. Email him atanteupchad@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter @ChadAHolloway.
