excerpt:

ESPN and Harrah’s are trying to reignite interest in televised poker by changing the format for the Main Event. In years past, the tournament was played and filmed in July, but it reached the airwaves several months later. Those who followed poker knew who won the championship long before it aired.

This year, the Main Event will be whittled down to nine players on Monday. But the finalists will return to the Rio Nov. 9-10 to play for the title, where it will be filmed and broadcast immediately following its conclusion.

“It’s a bold, controversial decision that we believe benefits all parties involved,” Pollack said. “We’re shifting the paradigm of televised poker. Instead of talking about who won, people will be talking about who will win.”

The move initially drew a wave of criticism because of concerns about possible collusion, death or illness of a player during the four-month hiatus, the logistics of scheduling and traveling for the finalists and the advantage lesser-experienced players will gain by having the extra time to get practice and professional coaching. But several players who at first balked at the change have been persuaded that it’s in the best interests of the game.

“I think it’s a positive,” pro Rafe Furst said. “Anything that brings more attention to the game, presumably, is a good thing. I guess poker has leveled off somewhat, but I don’t feel like it’s down too much. It probably could use a shot in the arm, and this might do it.”

Click here to read more:
Amateurs help grow poker’s popularity | www.rgj.com | Reno Gazette-Journal

Author Contact Info: Josh Nagel

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.