Throughout history, the World Series of Poker – which was first celebrated in 1970 in Las Vegas at Binion’s Horseshoe, the renowned casino run by Benny Binion – has left its mark with many of poker’s most legendary hands – and some of the biggest losses – played during this prestigious tournament. And this year’s edition has brought with it thrilling moments.
The WSOP 2017 took off on May 30 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino and will run until July 17. We have seen legendary players like Joe Cada (winner of the 2009 Main Event), Daniel Negreanu (who ahas six bracelets) or the famous former eSports player Bertrand “Elky” Grospellier fight their way through the events – which include 74 this year- willing win a bracelet. On June 14, it was Canadian player Pablo Mariz who landed atop the annual Millionaire Maker event and was able to take home $1,221,407. This tournament, which had received over 7,700 entries, ended with an exciting heads-up duel between Mariz and Dejuante “D.J.” Alexander. The latter finished second with $754,499 and Mariz became the new millionaire at the World Series of Poker.
From his performance during this brief encounter there is much to be learned about how to win Texas Hold’em, and another great example to follow in this sense is Gaurav Raina, who on June 18 was able to beat James Calvo at the $2,500 No-Limit Hold’em, the 29th event of the World Series. The 33-year old player, who has now obtained his first gold bracelet, stated that this was unexpected and that he had joked with his friends about how many bracelets they would take home after this year’s tournament. But he had prepared himself and thoroughly studied his adversary’s techniques quite close, which helped Raina climb to the first place at the heads-up battle and earn as much as $456,822.
As for the $1,000 Seniors No-Limit Hold’em Championship, Mark Lillge has a 5,300,000 chip count, so it will be interesting to see how the event unfolds. However, all eyes will be set on the $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em Main Event, which starts on July 8, and The Little One for One Drop – $1,000+111 No-Limit Hold’em, which is celebrated from July 11-13. During last year’s edition, it was Michael Tureniec who won the first prize of $525,520 and a gold bracelet at this event, so we’ll have to wait and see who makes it to the top this time.
During the following weeks, we will surely be able to witness more exciting hands, but what is certain is that, if you are a pro or an amateur, the World Series of Poker is a unique tournament that gives you the opportunity to watch some unforgettable hands and learn some great moves.
