By Sean Chaffin
The Zynga Poker WPT500 Las Vegas is set for June 21-27 and offers plenty of bang for the poker buck. The event at ARIA Resort and Casino features eight starting flights (June 21-25) with payouts beginning in each flight.
The event brings a great atmosphere and WPT500 events give players the look and feel of a Main Tour stop for just a $570 buy-in. First-place money has been in the $250,000 range over the last few years, nice value for the money.
“The WPT really backs the 500 series and makes sure even the casual player can get the feeling of a big event,” says Sean McCormack, ARIA Director of Poker Operations. “It’s electric during the 500. Our tournament manager Paul Campbell and I always say that these are ‘our people,’ the ones we can truly relate with. We are very proud of this event, and glad we have this option for our players.”
McCormack says players can expect a fun atmosphere and the complete “ARIA” experience. He takes pride in the treatment players receive in the poker room but throughout the property.
“I have always said you treat the $100 buy-in player and $10,000 the same way,” he says. “Whether it’s the Tournament of Champions, Summer Championship, or the WPT500, we want players to have that special experience.”
While the Zynga Poker WPT500 Las Vegas may not be a Main Tour event, players can expect some special attractions. The WPT brings out all that players have come to expect – the Royal Flush Crew, the complete live updates team on WPT.com, a high-end trophy for the winner, and the opportunity to play and have some fun with players from across the country as well as some big name pros.
Obviously, the weather in Vegas reaches the triple digits in the summer. But the poker scene in Vegas also heats up, not just with the World Series of Poker and numerous tournament series all over the city. The WPT has become a major part of that scene for the last five years at ARIA.
“Summer poker in Vegas is our holiday time of year,” McCormack says. “The scene is absolutely amazing. It’s seven weeks of wall-to-wall poker for everyone. From the WSOP to ARIA and everywhere in between there is something for everyone.”
The clock is counting down until cards are in the air. Beyond the felt, players will enjoy a great pool scene at Aria as well as great dining, entertainment, and gambling experiences. The ARIA Poker Classic has numerous other tournaments running through July 14 as well with buy-ins starting at $240.
The Zynga Poker WPT500 Las Vegas should attract some big numbers and McCormack urges players to sign up early.
“Vegas is slammed right now and you don’t want to be left out,” McCormack says. “Best wishes at the table.”
For more information on the Zynga Poker WPT500 Las Vegas and other events in the Aria Poker Classic, click here.
Sean Chaffin is a freelance writer in Crandall, Texas, and his work appears in numerous websites and publications. Follow him on Twitter @PokerTraditions.