By Lisa Yiasemides
WPT Russia returns for the second year this January. Once again, Casino Sochi will be the host of the six-day series. Despite its name, the casino is actually located in the resort of Krasnaya Polyana – just under 75km away from the airport.
Stunning location
The hour (and change) drive is certainly worth it. Though compact, the resort of Krasnaya Polyana boasts incredibly beautiful scenery. Nestled in the Caucasus mountains, Casino Sochi offers a feast for the eyes, with breath-taking snow-tipped mountain views all around.
It really is the perfect place to relax and get focused ahead of battle on the felt.
Skiing
For those who enjoy hitting the slopes, Krasnaya Polyana is the ideal place to be. The resort was built to host some of the events at the 2014 Winter Olympics, so there is plenty of winter-sport action to take advantage of.
There are numerous ski resorts to choose from, but Rosa Khutor is the largest, boasting up to 77 kilometres of slopes.
The mountains
A trip in the ski lift is a must for everyone, whether you intend to ski or not. With altitudes of up to 2,320 meters, the panoramic views are incredible, especially on days with good visibility. Once you arrive at the top, there is also the pretty ski-lodge setting to take in and warm your hands on a hot drink from one of the cafes.
Husky centre
Animal lovers beware! There is some serious cuteness awaiting those who take a trip to Krasnaya Polyana’s Husky Centre. There are twenty-four gorgeous canines to visit in the centre located in a park. The highlight? During the winter months, you can try your hand at dogsledding!
The casino
The venue opened on January 5, 2017, which means Casino Sochi will have just celebrated its third birthday when the WPT festival gets underway.
The fact that it is new certainly shows, with the casino representing old-school glamour through its well-thought-out use of marble and gold décor. The lighting has also been meticulously planned inside and out…Anyone who arrives after the sun has set will be welcomed by the glitz and tasteful bling that was designed to dazzle new arrivals.
WPT Schedule
WPT Russia Festival by partypoker LIVE
January 17- 26, 2020
Play online on partypoker: January 12-16, 2020
Structures provided by partypoker LIVE
WPT Opener ₽30,000,000 Guaranteed + 20 seats to WPT Russia Main Event Day 1A
Dates: January 17-21, 2020
Play online Day 1s on partypoker: January 12-16, 2020
Buy-in: ₽31,500 + ₽3,150 = ₽34,650
WPT Russia Main Event ₽95,500,000 Guaranteed
Dates: January 21-26, 2020
Play online Day 1+2 on partypoker and arrive ITM at the venue: January 12 and 19, 2020
Buy-in: ₽192,500 + ₽17,500 = ₽200,000
WPT High Roller ₽15,000,000 Guaranteed
Dates: January 20-22, 2020
Buy-in: ₽301,000 + ₽21,000 = ₽322,000
WPT Closer ₽15,750,000 Guaranteed
Dates: January 24-26, 2020
Buy-in: ₽63,000 + ₽6,300 = ₽69,300
WPT Ladies Event
Date: January 18, 2020
Buy-in: ₽14,000 + ₽1,400 = ₽15,400