Players Headed to Merit Cyprus Classic For Hot Action and Even Hotter Beaches

August 02 2010, Elissa Harwood

Interested in a mix of high-stakes tournament action and high-luxury vacation? Then listen up. The Merit FullTilt Cyprus Classic kicks off on August 17 and promises to bring the heat both on the felt and on the beach. Running from the 17th to the 26th, the event will feature both a $10,000 main event and a $25,000 high-roller tournament.

The tournament takes place on one of the Mediterranean's favorite island vacation spots in the luxurious five-star Merit Crystal Cove Hotel & Casino situated between the Mediterranean and the Five Finger Mountains. It's tough to find a prettier spot to play poker. And if you happen to find yourself eliminated early, no problem. You just get to spend more time on the hotel's private beach.

FullTilt is running satellites to the event and expects a turnout of around 250 players to make the $10,000 main event the largest tournament the region has ever hosted. Full Tilt also expects 80 to 100 people to pony up $25,000 to play the high roller with about 15 players coming in from Lebanon and 25 from Turkey.

Last year, when the Merit Cyprus Classic was hosted by the WPT, the Main Event saw 181 runners, and the field produced an impressive group of finalists. French pro Thomas Bichon took the title and a sweet $579,165. Rep Porter finished fourth, Huck Seed seventh, and Jonathan Little and Nenad Medic followed in eight and ninth. Layne Flack, Kelly Kim, Antony Lellouche and Tommy Vedes also cashed.

This year's field is shaping up to be just as impressive with FullTilt Red Pros Jon Turner, Ben Roberts, and Eric Liu planning their Cyprus trips to include time for deep runs. Seed is expected to make a return appearance, and Antonio Esfandiari will bring his party to the island.

Want to join them and many other famous faces on the felt or on the beach in Cyprus. Qualify for a satellite package by opening up a Full Tilt Poker account today.

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Comments

 

Georgi
08-03-2010 15:51

sounds goooooooood

 

flintsword
08-03-2010 15:35

They moved the event up this year so I will not be able to make it. That said, this is a great event and I had a blast last year as a qualifier via FullTiltPoker. It was relatively easy to qualify (lots of satellites) and in the Saturday $322 event that I tied with Shaun Deeb to win one of two seats ... well ... it was rough sailing but if I can do it .... anyone can.

The hospitality of this resort is legendary. I travel the world on business and I have to say that the Merit Cove Resort is a great break from a hectic schedule.