The World Series of Poker Europe is Under Way

The World Series of Poker Europe, or WSOPE as it is called, is under way in London as players compete for their shot at WSOPE gold. Held at the Empire Casino in Leicester Square in London from September 17 through October 1, this year's WSOPE continues Harrah's push into the European market as a number of top pros descend on London to take their share of the sizable prize pools. With only four bracelets available, the WSOPE offers players a highly sought-after prize as well as the prestige that comes with being a WSOPE winner.

Having attracted many of the game's elite, including Doyle Brunson, Johnny Chan, Annie Duke, Phil Hellmuth, David “Devilfish” Ulliott, Daniel Negreanu, John Juanda, Gus Hansen, Eric Seidel, Mike Matusow, Joe Hachem, Vanessa Rousso, Andy Bloch, David Benefield, Ivan Demidov, Sorel Mizzi and Jennifer Tilly, the WSOPE is arguably Europe's best chance to see these poker superstars in action.

Considering that 1,740 players have participated in the past two WSOPE series, generating £9,997,500 in prize money, plenty of money is to be made during this year's edition. Logging the lion's share of that money was 2007 WSOPE winner Annette "Annette_15" Obrestrad after she collected the £1 million ($2,013,102 U.S.) from the inaugural Main Event. She is followed closely by last year's champion Team Full Tilt pro John Juanda, who collected £866,800 for his win.

In addition to the four bracelet events, the WSOPE offers two other events that are sure to get the punters talking. The Caesars Cup pits North American players against Europe's best, while Betfair player Anestis Metsas already won a million-dollar freeroll after qualifying online. For many star-struck fans, the Caesars Cup will provide them with a healthy serving of no-limit actions when Team Americas players Daniel Negreanu, Phil Ivey, Phil Hellmuth, John Juanda, Doyle Brunson and Jennifer Harman battle Team Europe's Annette Obrestrad, Peter Eastgate, Dario Minieri, Bertrand "Elky" Grospeiller, Patrik Antonius and Ilari Sahmaies in this soon-to-be televised event.

With the million-dollar free roll in the books, the next event to get under way is a four-day no limit hold'em event that offers two Day-1 flights. Following that is a three-day pot-limit hold'em and pot-limit Omaha event, a three-day pot-limit Omaha double-chance event, the Caesars Cup and, of course, the WSOPE Main Event.

To follow all the action at Leicester Square as it happens, check out our extensive Live Reporting Coverage, and be sure to follow our live update Twitter Feed as well.