WPT Merit Cyprus Classic Championship Day 1b | 2009 WPT Merit Cyprus Classic

09-07-2009 13:22 UTC+3

Early Arrivals

[user75032]

Yesterday the field swelled over the course of three levels by about 50%. Thus we do not expect that today's starting field will be today's final field. With that caveat, here's who we've spotted so far: Praz Bansi, David Bach and Matt Glantz, all on Table 2; James Akenhead, Lee Markholt, Kelly Kim and Yuri Kerzhapkin, all on Table 3; Sassine Ghazaleh on Table 4; and Annette Obrestad and WPT champion Chris Karagulleyan on Table 6.

We're told that several members of Team Full Tilt are on the property and presumably will be joining the tournament in progress during one of the later levels.

Level: 1

Blinds: 50/100

Ante: 0

09-07-2009 13:13 UTC+3

Shufle Up and Deal!

[user75032]

After some introductory remarks, cards are finally in the air.

09-07-2009 12:41 UTC+3

Delayed Start

[user38449]

Tournament Director Jack McClellan just got on the microphone to announce that our start time has been pushed back to 1:00 p.m.

09-07-2009 11:42 UTC+3

Day 1b is Here

[user66118]

Good morning once again from the picturesque Merit Crystal Cove Hotel and Casino, and welcome back to our continuing coverage of this World Poker Tour stop in Cyprus.

Yesterday's Day 1a flight saw 91 players turn up to take their seats, and nearly 30 of them were shown the exit door when the first five levels were complete. Today will see a new flight of runners for Day 1b, and we figure to see a big increase over yesterday's field. There are only 16 players up on the big board so far, but that number is ticking its way up minute by minute.

We're scheduled for a 12:00 noon kickoff, but if yesterday is any indication, it's likely to be closer to 1:00 before the cards get in the air. Sit tight; we'll be back with the shuffle up and deal shortly.