... is again on tap at the World Series of Poker. The last Saturday prior to the Main Event itself promises to have the Rio Convention Center bulging at its seams. Space considerations will keep the total number of entrants lower than last year's 3,151, which ultimately resulted in Chandrasekhar Billavara taking home a $722,914 first-place prize. It's also the next-to-last $1,500 no-limit event on the '08 WSOP schedule.
The frenzy begins at noon, in the Amazon, Tropical and Brasilia Rooms, adjacent to Buzio's Restaurant, and even in the Rio's own poker room. It'll be a busy day at the WSOP.
On the first hand of today's tournament one player in the Amazon room concluded his tournament as his K-K lost to his opponent's set of sixes. Another tablemate held queens, but folded them after seeing the flop. With the field at maximum capacity, it should make for some fireworks early and often!
Nolan Dalla just asked for a moment of silence before kicking off today's event for the late John Bonetti. Bonetti passed away last night at the age of 79 and held three bracelets, two for 2-7 NL Lowball, and one for Pot Limit Hold'em. Bonetti had over 90 cashes and had tournament earnings over 2.6 million.
We've heard confirmations that this event has been sold out. Currently the clock in the room reads 2,699 players and we're scattered throughout the Rio. Today we have players in the Amazon room, the Brasilia room, outside of Buzios, and in the poker room.
Only six minutes into the first level and we've already heard the famous words, "Seat open!". Now that that players tournament has come to an end, he has the entire rest of his day to look forward to.
Chris Grigorian, the Armenian Express, has arrived and dropped off some of his gear here near media row. However, there appears to be a mixup with his seat assignment. He's currently working out where he's supposed to be sitting with floor staff. He is carrying his portable fan, which shows he's certainly anxious to take his seat.
Also spotted in the Amazon room section of today's tournament are: Curtis Early, Juha Helppi, Shannon Shorr, Jeff Williams, Bill Chen, Jennifer Tilly, Young Phan, Beth Shak, Alex Kravchenko, and Allen Kessler.