Jack Effel announced to the field, "This year, the WSOP turns 50, so even the WSOP can participate!"

He continued, "Without a doubt this is my favourite event because all of you are here for one reason - to play poker and have a great time, win or lose. You guys are the role models for all poker players."

He then introduced a special guest to announce the start of play: TJ Cloutier.

"Tied ninth place on the all-time WSOP bracelet list with six bracelets, $4.7 million in lifetime earnings, he pretty much wrote the strategy on tournament poker," Effel reminded the assembled players. Cloutier himself then took the mic.

"It's a real honour to be here. I have one question for you: when you play back home are you probably the oldest player in the game? Not here! Play hard; shuffle up and deal!"