By SEAN CHAFFIN, Editor/Senior Writer
For those of you who dream of one day playing at the Word Series of Poker or just checking out the action, PokerTraditions will be your guide this week as we take you inside what it’s like each summer at the Rio in Las Vegas. Our week at the World Series of Poker begins today. Look for updates and videos about our time in Sun City.
I got in late last night. My hotel is the Hooters Casino and Hotel – we’re covering this event on a
Hooters Hotel and Casino
budget! It was a nice walk to the Rio this morning, but a bit sweaty. Las Vegas is always a bustle and there were quite a few joggers out flying past me and taking the stairs rather than the escalators.
During my week at the Rio, I am hoping to play several tournaments around town and report back on my progress. Things got off on a nice note this morning. As I strolled along the strip, I made a quick stop at La Cantina for the $3.95 eggs, potatoes, and bacon breakfast. It was a nice deal – and a nice meal. Bargains can still definitely still be found in Vegas. As I sat at the bar, the lure of video poker pulled me in. I pulled three $1 bills fro my wallet and fed the machine. After a few minutes, I was actually up a buck or two and then something happened at this video poker game that never happens to me – I won. Four deuces popped up and my $3 had now become $42. I quickly cashed out, finished breakfast, and felt good actually walking out a winner. Nice!
Starting out a winner during WSOP Week.
After breakfast, it was on to the Rio. As I strolled by Harrahs, a man dressed as a pirate walked past with a real parrot on his shoulder. I didn’t see a Spanish galleon, and Treasure Island was at the other end of the Strip. Maybe this buccaneer would be swashbuckling a slot machine somewhere.
My morning was topped off when I reached the Rio, home to the WSOP. For those who love poker, this is literally the poker Mecca. The events are held in cavernous spaces with tables as far as the eye can see. Large displays features all of the past champions and important events in the tournament’s history. ESPN’s stage is huge with television equipment everywhere. It is quite a scene and we will be posting all week. Here are some more scenes from our trip to Las Vegas and the WWSOP:
Paris Casino
Green Harley
WSOP welcome
Jeffrey Lisandro and Gavin Smith in the $5,000 NL Holdem Shootout event.
The scene at the WSOP.
