2014 Borgata Winter Poker Open

Event 1: $2 Million Guarantee Big Stack NLHE Re-Entry
Day: 1bc
Event Info

2014 Borgata Winter Poker Open

Event Info
Buy-in
$500
Prize Pool
$2,325,835
Entries
4,812
Players Left
27
Average Chip Stack
3,564,444
Total Chips
96,240,000

Event 1: A Sit Down With Vince Alonge, Director of Poker for the Borgata

We sat down with Vince Alonge during the recent break to discuss the current state of affairs when it comes to the Borgata’s poker operations. Alonge made sure to let us know that the Borgata is “the undisputed leader in Atlantic City gaming, combining the most modern facilities, gourmet restaurants and other non-gaming experiences with the most comprehensive poker action in the state.”

Asked about the ongoing $2 million guaranteed tournament, Alonge expressed supreme confidence that the pledge will be met, mentioning the incredible turnout through the first two flights.

Alonge continued by saying “we expect to meet and exceed our guarantee, just as we did in September during the Borgata Poker Open, as well as our seasonal events. For the Fall Poker Open, we needed 2,000 entries to satisfy the $1 million guarantee, and we had 2,900 or so.”

During our discussion, Alonge continually expressed his view that the Borgata remains “the premier property in Atlantic City, having built a recognized brand and a sterling reputation among the poker community.” With over 28 years in the gaming industry, Alonge would know better than most, and his passion for the Borgata’s poker offerings was evident in his every word.

“We reward our players here at the Borgata better than anywhere else, from comping rooms to providing superior customer service. The non-gaming aspect of our property really pushes us over the top, because players can come for a game of poker, and even if they run bad at the tables, they can have a great time at one of our world class restaurants or take in a show at our comedy club.”

Alonge was also quick to point out that players at the Borgata can also “play while they play,” as the casino’s newly launched online gaming venue allows them to pull out an iPad and hit the virtual felt while still competing in live cash games or tournaments.

All told, poker at the Borgata is healthy and thriving, combining New Jersey’s emerging online gaming industry with what has been the best live poker venue in the state for over 10 years.