Newest event is gateway to World Series of Poker’s main event
Smith earned his entry into the Main Event a decade ago by winning a satellite event at Petaluma’s 101 Casino.
In a departure from previous years, the Main Event will pay the top 1,000 players if 5,000 or more enter, a near certainty.
Because of its size, the Main Event has three start dates: this Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, July 5, 6 and 7.
Antonio Esfandiari, a perennial contender who is among the game’s top money winners, offered tips about his favorite places in Vegas for those heading to the desert city.
Esfandiari, known as the Magician because he performed magic shows as a young man, recommends that visitors go beyond the Strip and visit Las Vegas’ old downtown, which now has speakeasy bars and a retro feel.
Trendy restaurants such as Eat serve breakfast all day, ideal for those who play poker all night.