- According to WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart, approximately 15,000 Las Vegas newcomers will migrate to Sin City to participate in the 2014 World Series of Poker.
- As a result of the massive influx of poker players, Stewart announced during a Media Conference Call that the WSOP expects to eclipse 70,000 entrants and $200 million in prize money for signature events alone.
Approximately 15,000 Las Vegas newcomers will migrate to Sin City to participate in the 2014 World Series of Poker, predicts WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart.
Speaking during a Media Conference Call, Stewart said he expects 2014’s summer series to attract more than 70,000 entrants and pay out over $200 million in prize money in signature events alone.
If the numbers prove true, it should also result in a massive spread of poker tournaments and side games both within and around the Rio property this summer.
Alongside bracelet events, the Rio will be running the usual “Daily Deepstacks” side series, which itself could also take in more than 70,000 entries.
Roughly 100 cash games of various disciplines will be taking place during peak times.
“Generating a Showcase”
Accommodating so many poker players in one general area can be a daunting task.
In the past, WSOP players have filed complaints on issues ranging from an inability to secure late registration to a lack of restaurants and restroom areas.
This year, Stewart outlined how the Series will revamp its offering through additional cage staff, new chairs in every playing area and fresh carpet.
Players will also be able to deposit directly onto its online poker room, WSOP Nevada, at designated cage areas.
“Our job is to generate a showcase for the game that must be experienced,” Stewart explained.
Other entertainment will include a zipline attraction, live music and indoor blimps.
The Making of Millionaires
Stewart also made reference to the amount of millionaires who have earned their status via WSOP competitions: 303 in all.
“This summer will make more [millionaires] than any year in WSOP history,” proclaimed Stewart, who is working his ninth year with the marquee franchise.
Events expected to hit these prize highs include the opening day $25,000 buy-in “Mixed Max” No Limit Hold’em event and the Poker Players Championship, a $50,000 buy-in Mixed Games tournament beginning on June 22.
There is also the aptly-named Millionaire Maker event over the inaugural weekend, the $1 million buy-in “Big One for One Drop,” and, of course, the 2014 Main Event—with a guaranteed payout of $10,000,000 to the eventual world champion.
The World Series of Poker has come a long way since switching venues to the Rio a decade ago. This year’s WSOP action is less than one week away, with final preparations are being made to take on the large crowds.
