By Sean Chaffin
The WPT returns to the Great White North from February 16–23 with the WPT Fallsview Poker Classic in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada.
The CAD $5,000 Main Event promises to be plenty of fun with a three-day event* starting February 21 and its looking to top last season’s record of 602 entries.
*The WPT Fallsview Poker Classic will play a fourth day, if necessary.
There should be plenty of action this season just across the U.S. border! Beyond the championship event, there are a few other tournaments on the schedule running from February 16–23. The entire series offers players an estimated prize pool of CAD $5 million. Here’s a look at the other events on the schedule (all dollar amounts are in Canadian dollars):
$1,100 No Limit Hold’em – This event kicks off the series in a big way with a $1.36 million prize pool expected following last year’s $1.4 million turnout. Players can take advantage of two starting flights on Feb 16 and 17 with the entire event playing out Feb 16-19.
$2,500 No Limit Hold’em – This event runs Feb 19-22 and offers players another quality prize pool that hit $1.76 million in 2019. Jump in the action for a shot at some nice payouts.
$1,500 No Limit Hold’em Turbo Bounty – Find your seat on February 22 in this quick-action event following the WPT Fallsview Poker Classic Main Event.
Fallsview Casino Resort offers players a great stay right next to the world-famous Falls. Home to some of the greatest sights and destinations in the world, the Falls themselves are over 10,000 years in the making and remain one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the world; a great sight to see in February.
The property’s sister casino, Casino Niagara, features more than 95,000 square feet of gaming, including two action-packed floors of slots, Mississippi Stud and Roulette. Looking for a change of scenery? Experience the excitement of both properties and jump on their free bus shuttle service that runs daily starting at 5 p.m.
For a bite to eat, Fallsview offers players some great dining options. For delectable steak and chop options, check out the CAA/AAA Four Diamond award-winning 21 Club Steak & Seafood. Sports fans may want to head to Shoeless Joe’s for some bar food while checking out a game. There’s a good chance some hockey will be on the menu.
Other great options include Ponte Vecchio for brilliant Italian cuisine; Sushi and Oyster Bar (pictured) for tasty dishes; and the Grand Buffet for handmade stone oven pizzas, Asian inspired stir-fry, and fresh seafood. Numerous other options are available as well. For a great night of cocktails and a breathtaking view of Niagara Falls, head to the R5 Bar. Quick bite options range from Burger King to Subway to Bar Burrito. And, of course, kick start the day with a coffee from Starbucks or Tim Hortons.
When it comes to poker, Fallsview will be the place to be. Last year’s event featured 602 entries with Toronto’s Demo Kiriopoulos taking home the title and CAD $517,424 ($382,894). This marked the biggest score of his career and his first career cash at Fallsview.
The Canadian was happy to win in his home country. After the win, he described the experience as “amazing” and noted that, “this one is special because it’s home court.” WPT regular Jake Schwartz also took fourth for CAD $167,388 last season.
Canada will be the place to be to get in the WPT action. Book your trip today and don’t miss out.
For a complete look at the WPT Fallsview Poker Classic championship event, click here. For more information on the preliminary events and satellite schedule, 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.