By Sean Chaffin
The WPT entered into a new partnership in Season XVII with one of Las Vegas’ top properties – The Venetian. The $3,500 event added yet another big WPT event in Las Vegas for players looking for some action in Sin City.
That first event attracted 734 players and produced a prize pool of more than $2.3 million. In the end, 35-year-old Ben Palmer came out on top for $431,655. The WPT returns to The Venetian March 13-17 with plenty of fun and action right on the Las Vegas Strip. The buy-in has been bumped up to $5,000 this time around, which should bring in an even bigger prize pool.
“The Venetian Poker Room has always strived to provide an unmatched guest experience,” tournament director Tommy LaRosa (pictured) said. “Last year, the WPT event was a highlight for our players, so being able to bring the event back and build upon it is a great opportunity.
“Additionally, there are cash game promotions and DeepStack events of all buy-ins running daily. Our players have the comfort of a spacious room, charging units under every seat, and tableside food service by Grand Lux Café. Last year the event had such a great reception from players. We’ve increased the guaranteed prize pool of the main event to $2 million.”
The property’s DeepStack Showdown Poker Series features 31 events with buy-ins starting at $300. The action runs March 9-29 with more than $3 million in total guarantees on the line.
Beyond the WPT championship event, another highlight on the schedule is the $1,600 buy-in UltimateStack with a $400,000 guaranteed prize pool (Event 25). That event runs March 25-28 and should be popular with players looking for a big score. A few other highlights include:
Event 1 (March 9) – This $300 buy-in NLHE event kicks off the series with a $20,000 guarantee.
Event 8 (March 12) – A $600 buy-in MonsterStack with a $40,000 guarantee.
Event 15 (March 16-17) – This $400 MonsterStack event features two starting flights with a $100,000 guarantee.
Event 17 (March 19-22) – There are three starting flights for this $600 MonsterStack and a $200,000 guarantee.
As one of Vegas’s premier properties, there is much to do beyond the poker room at The Venetian. Live like you’re in Venice with a gondola ride through this scenic resort. Those looking for some fine dining have numerous options to choose from including: Majordōmo Meat & Fish, a modern steakhouse with delectable seafood options; Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano for the taste of northern Italy; and Mott 32 for some tasty cuisine from Hong Kong.
From celebrity chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse to more modest options like burgers and beer, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The Venetian also features numerous bar and cocktail options as well as major name entertainment acts. For some shopping, hit the shops at the sister property, Palazzo, or relax with a massage at the spa.
This unique, elegant property offers a high-end ambiance and atmosphere not found in every property. Players can’t go wrong with a trip to the Venetian and poker room management is pleased with its growing relationship with the WPT.
“The WPT at Venetian provides a can’t miss event on everyone’s calendar in March,” LaRosa said. “Enhancing our players’ experience is one of our top priorities, and making The Venetian a stop on the WPT is one of the many ways we’re doing that.”
For a complete look at the WPT Venetian, click here. For a complete schedule of events, 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.