| Name | Last Name | Chip Count |
| Terry | Saad | 136,200 |
| Richie | Smith | 135,800 |
| Joseph | Stiers | 130,000 |
| Cameron | Hamilton | 120,000 |
| Minho | Choe | 103,800 |
| Sumit | Kumar | 94,500 |
| Roland | Israelashvili | 92,600 |
| Matt | Glantz | 88,400 |
| Joseph | Cashen | 80,700 |
| David | Greenberg | 78,400 |
| Steven | Bottcher | 67,500 |
| David | Baker | 63,800 |
| James | Sita | 62,000 |
| John | Grimes | 59,200 |
| Kevin | Elia | 58,300 |
| Jake | Toole | 55,700 |
| Venkata | Emani | 52,600 |
| Anthony | Gregg | 51,300 |
| Jeff | Esterling | 50,400 |
| James | St. Hilaire | 49,400 |
| Michael | Phelps | 47,800 |
| Greg | Merson | 45,600 |
| Scott | Blumfeild | 43,700 |
| Matthew | Chang | 43,300 |
| Rafael | Sa'adah | 41,500 |
| Hakima | Muhammed | 33,300 |
| Tim | Faro | 29,800 |
| Ed | Frits | 28,000 |
| Alex | Fernandez | 27,500 |
| Robert | Kosydar | 20,300 |
| Tim | Little | 17,800 |
| Christian | Harder | 14,300 |
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): End Of Day 1B Chip Counts
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Out Of Nowhere
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| Terry Saad Bags The Bonus |
It seemed as if the race to bag the Day 1B chip lead was between Richard Smith and Joseph Stiers, who were both hovering around 130,000. Smith had about 135,000 and was done with hands for the night, while Stiers had one more remaining (and about 120,000). Stiers limped into his last pot, and watched as Hakima Muhammed shoved all-in. The action folded back to Stiers, and he had a decision which could potentially be worth $10,000. Stiers ended up folding, giving up that chance, and seemingly locking up the bonus for Smith.
Little did both players know that Terry Saad (who had won a sizable late in Level 9) was even one to mention in the running. When all the chips were counted and verified, Saad had Smith beat out buy only 400 chips!!! Saad would get the bonus and come into Day 2 third in chips behind Day 1A chip leader Charles Welch, and Kyle Bowker.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Reaching For The "Sumit"
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
David Baker's last level continues to trend downwards as he doubles up Sumit Kumar. Kumar's JJ > AK of Baker, bringing Kumar up to 100,000 and David down to 68,000. The clock is now paused and players are finding out how many hands will remain in the night.
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| Sumit Kumar |
David Baker's last level continues to trend downwards as he doubles up Sumit Kumar. Kumar's JJ > AK of Baker, bringing Kumar up to 100,000 and David down to 68,000. The clock is now paused and players are finding out how many hands will remain in the night.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Closing Time
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
The tournament floor will pause the clock with 10:00 minutes remaining and announce how many hands will remain in the night. The players will then bag chips and the leader will then be revealed, as it's too close to call at the moment.
Once the chip leader is determined, the name and photo will be posted. The end of Day 1B chip counts will also be posted after al bags and numbers are verified.
The tournament floor will pause the clock with 10:00 minutes remaining and announce how many hands will remain in the night. The players will then bag chips and the leader will then be revealed, as it's too close to call at the moment.
Once the chip leader is determined, the name and photo will be posted. The end of Day 1B chip counts will also be posted after al bags and numbers are verified.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Quick Fire Updates
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
- David Baker loses a 50,000 pot to Roland Isrealashvili, and dips just below 100,000. David would still be considered as one of the players in reach to collect the bonus.
- Jacob Toole knocks out two short stacks in a three-way all-in pre, as his 99 > 10 10 > A 10. Toole is now at 60,000.
- David Baker loses a 50,000 pot to Roland Isrealashvili, and dips just below 100,000. David would still be considered as one of the players in reach to collect the bonus.
- Jacob Toole knocks out two short stacks in a three-way all-in pre, as his 99 > 10 10 > A 10. Toole is now at 60,000.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Race For The Bonus
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
At the moment there are four players in contention for the $10,000 bonus (for end of day chip lead):
Joseph Stiers - 130,000
Richard Smith - 120,000
David Baker - 115,000
Cameron Hamilton - 110,000
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Final Break Time
Players are going on their final break of the night (15 minutes), and when they return for the final level, the blinds will be going up to 400/800/100. The race for the $10,000 chip lead bonus looks like it will be going down to the wire tonight, with a handful of players in contention.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): All In The Family/Updated Counts
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
Greg Merson's parents and girlfriend have been hanging out for a little since dinner, watching Greg play and talking to a bunch of other players (Matt Glantz, Anthony Gregg, Christian Harder). They were kind enough to take a family shot for the updates page, with a little push from Matt Glantz to make it happen.
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| Julie (Girlfriend), Stan (Dad), Donna (Mom) Greg Merson |
Greg Merson's parents and girlfriend have been hanging out for a little since dinner, watching Greg play and talking to a bunch of other players (Matt Glantz, Anthony Gregg, Christian Harder). They were kind enough to take a family shot for the updates page, with a little push from Matt Glantz to make it happen.
Here are some updated counts prior to the last break of the night:
Joseph Stiers - 145,000
Richard Smith - 115,000
Cameron Hamilton - 105,000
David Baker - 92,000
Matt Glantz - 88,000
Roland Isrealasvili - 87,000
Steven Bottcher - 74,000
Anthony Gregg - 66,000
Greg Merson - 65,000
Jacob Toole - 63,000
Michael Phelps - 55,000
Matthew Chang - 52,000
Tim Faro - 35,000
Christian Harder - 26,000
Tim Little - 25,000
James St. Hilaire - 21,000
Robert McLaughlin - 13,000
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Not Sharp Enough
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
Zachary Sharper was one of our single table satellite winners from earlier in the day, and he was already up to 60,000 before getting involved in a crucial hand with Steven Bottcher. The chips went in on the flop of A K 4, and the two hands were tabled:
Zachary Sharper was one of our single table satellite winners from earlier in the day, and he was already up to 60,000 before getting involved in a crucial hand with Steven Bottcher. The chips went in on the flop of A K 4, and the two hands were tabled:
Flop: A K 4
Sharper: 4 4 Bottcher: A K
Turn: K
River: x
Bottcher's all-in amount was 38,925, and he's up to 90,000 on his second bullet of the day. Sharper was left with 14,000, but with over 20 big blinds is not in a dire spot.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Level Up…Gregg Up
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| Gregg Chipping Up |
Level 8 has just started, with the blinds going up to 300/600/75. In a hand just before break, Anthony Gregg bet 2,500 on a flop of J♥ 6♣ 8♦, and got two calls (one from Joseph Cashen). After the 2♦ on the turn, Gregg once again led out, this time for 6,500 (Cashen called after a fold in front of him). The river would bring the 3♥, and once more Cashen would call after Anthony bet 9,900. Gregg would table A♥ J♦ for the win, and he is now at 63,000.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Action Updated
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
At Table 41, Charles Furey was all-in for 11,000 and called by Michael Phelps. Furey's A♥2♥ < A♦J♦ of Phelps, whiffing on what would look like the optimal flop for his hand (6♥ 5♥ 3♦). Phelps would sit with 65,000 after winning the hand.
Only moments later at Table 32 Matt Glantz would open the button to 1,000, and after a flat from the small blind, Orson Young would ship his remaining 12,000. Matt would call as the player behind folded, and Orson would lose a race as his 44 < AQ of Glantz. Glantz is on his third bullet for the event, but is getting healthier now with 72,000.
Matt Glantz - 72,000
Michael Phelps - 65,000
Charles Furey - Eliminated
Orson Young - Eliminated
At Table 41, Charles Furey was all-in for 11,000 and called by Michael Phelps. Furey's A♥2♥ < A♦J♦ of Phelps, whiffing on what would look like the optimal flop for his hand (6♥ 5♥ 3♦). Phelps would sit with 65,000 after winning the hand.
Only moments later at Table 32 Matt Glantz would open the button to 1,000, and after a flat from the small blind, Orson Young would ship his remaining 12,000. Matt would call as the player behind folded, and Orson would lose a race as his 44 < AQ of Glantz. Glantz is on his third bullet for the event, but is getting healthier now with 72,000.
Matt Glantz - 72,000
Michael Phelps - 65,000
Charles Furey - Eliminated
Orson Young - Eliminated
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Payouts
Live! Classic Event 9 - $3,500 Main Event ($400,000 Guaranteed)
March 21-25, 2014
Total Entries: 131
Total Prize Fund: $399,331 ($20,000 extracted for Day 1A/1B chip leaders)
Payouts:
March 21-25, 2014
Total Entries: 131
Total Prize Fund: $399,331 ($20,000 extracted for Day 1A/1B chip leaders)
Payouts:
- $127,783
- $73,876
- $47,920
- $32,945
- $23,358
- $19,767
- $15,574
- $11,581
- $7,987
10-12. $6,589
13-15. $5,591
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Hitchcock Gone
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Jane Hitchcock has just been eliminated, leaving only one lady remaining in the Day 2 field. Hakima Muhammed won a seat into the event in one of the earlier single table satellites, and has close to doubled her starting stack since. Hitchcock was knocked out by Cameron Hamilton (who flopped the nut straight), and Cameron is now close to 90,000.
Shawn Busse has just been eliminated by Roland Isrealashvili, as Busse's A10 < JJ. Roland is now up to 105,000, and the $10,000 bonus is in reach by almost half the field at the moment.
Jane Hitchcock has just been eliminated, leaving only one lady remaining in the Day 2 field. Hakima Muhammed won a seat into the event in one of the earlier single table satellites, and has close to doubled her starting stack since. Hitchcock was knocked out by Cameron Hamilton (who flopped the nut straight), and Cameron is now close to 90,000.
Shawn Busse has just been eliminated by Roland Isrealashvili, as Busse's A10 < JJ. Roland is now up to 105,000, and the $10,000 bonus is in reach by almost half the field at the moment.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Just Desserts
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Players have returned from dinner and the cards are once again in the air. There is one single table satellite still running, meaning that our final number for the event will be 131. As mentioned earlier, payouts will be posted shortly.
Players have returned from dinner and the cards are once again in the air. There is one single table satellite still running, meaning that our final number for the event will be 131. As mentioned earlier, payouts will be posted shortly.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Dinner Break
Players are now going on a (60) minute dinner break, and the action (as well as live coverage) will return at approximately 6:50pm.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Pre-Dinner Chip Counts
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
The following counts are updated as of the latter stages of Level 6 (right before dinner):
Jospeh Stiers - 160,000
Richard Smith - 120,000
David Baker - 75,000
Matthew Chang - 64,000
Roland Isrealashavili - 63,000
Tim Faro - 47,000
Jacob Toole - 46,000
Michael Phelps - 43,000
Robert Mclaughlin - 35,000
Matt Glantz - 32,000
Greg Merson - 24,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Jane Hitchcock - 22,000
Shawn Busse - 22,000
Larry Pileggi - 28,000
James St. Hilaire - 16,000
Anthony Gregg - 14,000
Orson Young - 12,000
The following counts are updated as of the latter stages of Level 6 (right before dinner):
Jospeh Stiers - 160,000
Richard Smith - 120,000
David Baker - 75,000
Matthew Chang - 64,000
Roland Isrealashavili - 63,000
Tim Faro - 47,000
Jacob Toole - 46,000
Michael Phelps - 43,000
Robert Mclaughlin - 35,000
Matt Glantz - 32,000
Greg Merson - 24,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Jane Hitchcock - 22,000
Shawn Busse - 22,000
Larry Pileggi - 28,000
James St. Hilaire - 16,000
Anthony Gregg - 14,000
Orson Young - 12,000
Live! Classic Main: Smith Building, Schneider Busting
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Moments to catch up on:
- Richard Smith (Edgewater, MD) is trying to parlay his win from Event 1 into a deep run in this main, as he climbs above 100,000.
- Tom Schneider was eliminated in the late stages of Level 5, and it has not yet been confirmed whether he will be re-entering.
- Christian Harder busted from Table 41 moments ago, but immediately went to the registration podium to receive his new seating assignment. Harder was seated at Table 30 with the likes of Greg Merson, Matthew Chang, and Joseph Cashen.
Moments to catch up on:
- Richard Smith (Edgewater, MD) is trying to parlay his win from Event 1 into a deep run in this main, as he climbs above 100,000.
- Tom Schneider was eliminated in the late stages of Level 5, and it has not yet been confirmed whether he will be re-entering.
- Christian Harder busted from Table 41 moments ago, but immediately went to the registration podium to receive his new seating assignment. Harder was seated at Table 30 with the likes of Greg Merson, Matthew Chang, and Joseph Cashen.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Player Focus
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
The Poker Night In America crew has arrived, and everyone is looking forward to the televised action that begins on Monday. One of the most recent stops for Poker Night was the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh. There was a series that ran with the cash game filmed there, and the $1,100 Pittsburgh Poker Open Winter Series Main Event winner was Larry Pileggi. Pileggi's largest cash before that was $5,000, so it was needless to say a special moment for him.
Matthew Chang is a WSOPC ring winner (Southern Indiana, 2011), and tournament professional with over $80,000 in recorded earnings. Chang was one of the later arrivals today after shipping a seat in one of the single table satellites that was run early this morning. Chang tweeted at approximately 5:00am that he had won the seat, and made sure to get a good night's (or day's) rest before returning.
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| Larry Pileggi |
The Poker Night In America crew has arrived, and everyone is looking forward to the televised action that begins on Monday. One of the most recent stops for Poker Night was the Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh. There was a series that ran with the cash game filmed there, and the $1,100 Pittsburgh Poker Open Winter Series Main Event winner was Larry Pileggi. Pileggi's largest cash before that was $5,000, so it was needless to say a special moment for him.
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| Matthew Chang (Rockville, MD) |
Matthew Chang is a WSOPC ring winner (Southern Indiana, 2011), and tournament professional with over $80,000 in recorded earnings. Chang was one of the later arrivals today after shipping a seat in one of the single table satellites that was run early this morning. Chang tweeted at approximately 5:00am that he had won the seat, and made sure to get a good night's (or day's) rest before returning.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Moving Up
Level 6 is about to begin, with blinds going up to 200/400/50 (126 entries). Players will finish this level and then go on a (60) minute dinner break. Registration will be open until the moment Level 7 starts, and payouts will be posted shortly thereafter.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Tough Table/Departures
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
With the tables that have broken, and new arrivals walking through the door, Table 42 clearly has to be one of the toughest. The notables currently seated at that table:
Anthony Gregg
David "ODB" Baker
Orson Young
Roland Isrealashavili
There have been a a few departures to note:
Justin Levy
Ari Engel
With the tables that have broken, and new arrivals walking through the door, Table 42 clearly has to be one of the toughest. The notables currently seated at that table:
Anthony Gregg
David "ODB" Baker
Orson Young
Roland Isrealashavili
There have been a a few departures to note:
Justin Levy
Ari Engel
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): The Gang's All Here
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
With registration only open for another (100) minutes, the window to arrive was closing quickly. A trio of players walked in together just as Level 5 was starting, including 2012 WSOP Main Event champ Greg Merson, Christian Harder, and Orson Young. The three have been seated and are waiting for their blinds to begin play.
In another note related to the tournament, the $400,000 guarantee has been reached, with the total number of entries currently at 126.
 |
| Greg Merson, Christian Harder, Orson Young |
With registration only open for another (100) minutes, the window to arrive was closing quickly. A trio of players walked in together just as Level 5 was starting, including 2012 WSOP Main Event champ Greg Merson, Christian Harder, and Orson Young. The three have been seated and are waiting for their blinds to begin play.
In another note related to the tournament, the $400,000 guarantee has been reached, with the total number of entries currently at 126.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Twitter Updates
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
Players are back from break, and a few decided to give updates via Twitter on the day's action:
Players are back from break, and a few decided to give updates via Twitter on the day's action:
Home field advantage working well. Managed to lose a 200bb+ pot all in to J high before antes. Still have 20k bc I'm the best though.
— James St. Hilaire (@JamesStHilaire) March 22, 2014
Lost a few hands last 2 levels, rivered a set twice and lost to a straight. Was down to 24k, back up to 39k now. @LivePokerRoom
— Tim Faro (@getinthur) March 22, 2014
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): It's A Break
Level 4 has just ended and players are going on their second (15) minute break of the day. When players return to Level 5, the blinds will be going up to 150/300/25.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): One Lady Lost
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
One of the three women that were in the Day 1B field has just been eliminated, as Dawn Cain was seen leaving the tournament area. Dawn was all-in and ahead on the flop (against Joseph Cashen), with 33 on a board of 3 5 6. Her set would immediately be behind his A 4 as a seven binked the turn, and she'd receive no help on the river. Cashen is up to 70,000 after winning that pot, and the businessman from Maryland continues to trend upwards.
One of the three women that were in the Day 1B field has just been eliminated, as Dawn Cain was seen leaving the tournament area. Dawn was all-in and ahead on the flop (against Joseph Cashen), with 33 on a board of 3 5 6. Her set would immediately be behind his A 4 as a seven binked the turn, and she'd receive no help on the river. Cashen is up to 70,000 after winning that pot, and the businessman from Maryland continues to trend upwards.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Updated Chip Counts
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
These are the latest chip counts from the field:
Joseph Stiers - 115,000
Richard Smith - 71,000
Jacob Toole - 54,000
Roland Isrealashavili - 45,000
James St. Hilaire - 44,000
Matt Glantz - 42,000
David Baker - 39,000
Tom Schneider - 38,000
Tim Faro - 36,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Shawn Busse - 21,000
Robert Mclaughlin - 20,000
Michael Phelps - 16,000
Ari Engel - 14,000
These are the latest chip counts from the field:
Joseph Stiers - 115,000
Richard Smith - 71,000
Jacob Toole - 54,000
Roland Isrealashavili - 45,000
James St. Hilaire - 44,000
Matt Glantz - 42,000
David Baker - 39,000
Tom Schneider - 38,000
Tim Faro - 36,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Shawn Busse - 21,000
Robert Mclaughlin - 20,000
Michael Phelps - 16,000
Ari Engel - 14,000
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): No Introduction Needed
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
In the same way that Michael Phelps wouldn't need to be introduced to a group of avid swimmers, Anthony Gregg should need zero introduction in the poker community. Gregg is second in all-time earnings for the state of Maryland, only behind Greg Merson. Anthony has just under $9,000,000 in tournament earnings, with the bulk of that coming from his WSOP One-Drop ($111,111 Entry) win last year worth $4,800,000.
 |
| Anthony Gregg (Columbia, MD) |
In the same way that Michael Phelps wouldn't need to be introduced to a group of avid swimmers, Anthony Gregg should need zero introduction in the poker community. Gregg is second in all-time earnings for the state of Maryland, only behind Greg Merson. Anthony has just under $9,000,000 in tournament earnings, with the bulk of that coming from his WSOP One-Drop ($111,111 Entry) win last year worth $4,800,000.
Gregg also has a WPT title to his name (Parx Casino 2012), and a runner-up finish at the $10,000 PCA Main Event in 2009 for $1,700,000.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Early Leader
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
The leader in the room at the moment is Joseph Stiers (Silver Spring, MD), who is the first players to eclipse the 100,000 mark. Stiers currently has 117,000, and just happened to be mentioning to the table how he really took up tournament poker last year. It was a great start to a career as Stiers won the opening event of the Borgata WPT Winter Poker Open, besting 3,870 players and collecting $318,104 for the win.
 |
| Joseph Stiers |
The leader in the room at the moment is Joseph Stiers (Silver Spring, MD), who is the first players to eclipse the 100,000 mark. Stiers currently has 117,000, and just happened to be mentioning to the table how he really took up tournament poker last year. It was a great start to a career as Stiers won the opening event of the Borgata WPT Winter Poker Open, besting 3,870 players and collecting $318,104 for the win.
Live! Main Classic (Day 1B): Blinds Going Up
Level 4 will be starting in moments, and antes will now be introduced for the first time today (100/200/25). Yesterday we saw Charles Welch jump out to a commanding lead very early in the day, eclipsing 100,000 by this point. At the moment there hasn't been a player to do the same, with a handful of the larger stacks hovering around 70,000.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Taking A Lap
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
Right before break there was another addition to the Day 1B field, one who shouldn't need much introduction. Michael Phelps (Towson, MD) is the most decorated Olympian of all time, with 22 medals. He hails from the state of Maryland, and has made some prior visits to Maryland Live!, playing in the occasional cash game.
Phelps is no stranger to the poker community, and made his first appearance at the WSOP in 2012, while in Las Vegas with friends Jeff Gross and Antonio Esfandiari.
 |
| Michael Phelps |
Right before break there was another addition to the Day 1B field, one who shouldn't need much introduction. Michael Phelps (Towson, MD) is the most decorated Olympian of all time, with 22 medals. He hails from the state of Maryland, and has made some prior visits to Maryland Live!, playing in the occasional cash game.
Phelps is no stranger to the poker community, and made his first appearance at the WSOP in 2012, while in Las Vegas with friends Jeff Gross and Antonio Esfandiari.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Game.Set.Match
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
One of the newest arrivals to the field is Jacob Toole (Sharon, MA), another season tournament player, with over $522,000 in career earnings. Toole is a former tennis player at Penn State University, and transitioned to live after having success online. Jacob's best live cash to date came in 2011 when he finished third in the Ceasers Mega Stack Series Main Event ($1,060) for $143,000.
Also arriving late was Shawn Busse (Massapeequa, NY), another WSOP bracelet winner to join the field. In 2010 Shawn won a $1,000 NLH at the WSOP, his first and only bracelet, and his largest live score ($485,000).
 |
| Jacob Toole |
One of the newest arrivals to the field is Jacob Toole (Sharon, MA), another season tournament player, with over $522,000 in career earnings. Toole is a former tennis player at Penn State University, and transitioned to live after having success online. Jacob's best live cash to date came in 2011 when he finished third in the Ceasers Mega Stack Series Main Event ($1,060) for $143,000.
 |
| Shawn Busse |
Also arriving late was Shawn Busse (Massapeequa, NY), another WSOP bracelet winner to join the field. In 2010 Shawn won a $1,000 NLH at the WSOP, his first and only bracelet, and his largest live score ($485,000).
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Back From Break/Chip Counts
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
Players have returned from break, with some new faces to the field, including David "ODB" Baker and Roland Isrealashavili. Here are some updated counts from break:
Tim Faro - 40,000
Tom Schneider - 38,000
Richard Smith - 37,000
Matt Glantz - 35,000
Shawn Busse - 30,000
Justin Levy - 27,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Players have returned from break, with some new faces to the field, including David "ODB" Baker and Roland Isrealashavili. Here are some updated counts from break:
Tim Faro - 40,000
Tom Schneider - 38,000
Richard Smith - 37,000
Matt Glantz - 35,000
Shawn Busse - 30,000
Justin Levy - 27,000
Tim Little - 24,000
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Break Time
Players are going on their first break of the day (15 minutes), and when they return to Level 3 the blinds will be going up to 100/200.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Schneider Doubles…Late Arrivals
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Tom Schneider is now above 35,000 as he manages to come out on the winning end of KK > AA (all-in pre). Venkata Emani was on the losing end of the hand, and was left with 13,000 after paying out Tom's double.
There have been some late arrivals to walk in over the past hour:
Shawn Busse
Matt Glantz
Tim Begley
Tom Schneider is now above 35,000 as he manages to come out on the winning end of KK > AA (all-in pre). Venkata Emani was on the losing end of the hand, and was left with 13,000 after paying out Tom's double.
There have been some late arrivals to walk in over the past hour:
Shawn Busse
Matt Glantz
Tim Begley
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Local Flare
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
There have been many players to travel to Maryland Live! during this series, but the local players are making their presence known (and what keep the room strong). Tim Faro is only minutes away in Glen Burnie, MD, and is a regular to the room. He is primarily a cash game player, but has over $100,000 in recorded tournament earnings. Faro's best live score came in 2011 when he finished 147th in the WSOP Main Event for just over $54,000.
 |
| Tim Faro and James St. Hilaire |
There have been many players to travel to Maryland Live! during this series, but the local players are making their presence known (and what keep the room strong). Tim Faro is only minutes away in Glen Burnie, MD, and is a regular to the room. He is primarily a cash game player, but has over $100,000 in recorded tournament earnings. Faro's best live score came in 2011 when he finished 147th in the WSOP Main Event for just over $54,000.
James St. Hilaire is also from Glen Burnie, MD, and has a very strong tournament resume, with over $550,000 in recorded earnings. James's best live cash came in 2011 when he took second place in an Aria $5K event for $107,000. While Faro is mainly a northeast player, St. Hilaire travels near and far to play tournament, with his most recent cash coming at the PCA $10K Main (he finished 33rd for $37,000).
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Not Leaving Just Yet
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
David Lackey found himself early in Level 2 (to be fair, he still had 50 big blinds), but the "all-in" button was in front of him, and it was up to Vinod Moorjani to decide on a call or fold. The board was 10♠ 8♠ 4♣ and it was 6,300 for Moorjani to call. Vinod counted out his chips and thought for a few moments before verbally announcing the call. Lackey's QQ > K10 of Vinod, and David would double up and creep closer to the starting stack of 25,000.
David Lackey found himself early in Level 2 (to be fair, he still had 50 big blinds), but the "all-in" button was in front of him, and it was up to Vinod Moorjani to decide on a call or fold. The board was 10♠ 8♠ 4♣ and it was 6,300 for Moorjani to call. Vinod counted out his chips and thought for a few moments before verbally announcing the call. Lackey's QQ > K10 of Vinod, and David would double up and creep closer to the starting stack of 25,000.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Breakout Score
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Richard Smith (Edgewater, MD) is coming off the biggest tournament cash of his career, and it also happened to give him entry into this event. Smith was the winner of the opening event of this series ($550 NLH), besting 498 players and taking home just over $60,000…and a seat into this main event. Smith is a Maryland Live! poker room regular, and is off to a solid start to the day, sitting above the starting stack at the moment.
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| Richard Smith |
Richard Smith (Edgewater, MD) is coming off the biggest tournament cash of his career, and it also happened to give him entry into this event. Smith was the winner of the opening event of this series ($550 NLH), besting 498 players and taking home just over $60,000…and a seat into this main event. Smith is a Maryland Live! poker room regular, and is off to a solid start to the day, sitting above the starting stack at the moment.
LIve! Classic Main (Day 1B): Level Up
The first level of the day is in the books, and the blinds will be going up to 75/150 in Level 2. Single table satellites continue to go off, as the second of the day to get into this event has just been announced.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): @DonkeyBomber
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
While seeming somewhat unassuming, Tom Schneider took his seat a few moments ago at Table 32. Schneider may not be a recognizable face to some of the players, being that he primarily spends most of his time on the left coast (he resides in Arizona). Tom was a CPA and CFO of three Arizona companies before transitioning his career in 2002.
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| Tom Schneider |
While seeming somewhat unassuming, Tom Schneider took his seat a few moments ago at Table 32. Schneider may not be a recognizable face to some of the players, being that he primarily spends most of his time on the left coast (he resides in Arizona). Tom was a CPA and CFO of three Arizona companies before transitioning his career in 2002.
It turned out to be a wise move, as Schneider went on to win two WSOP bracelets in 2007 ($2,500 Omaha 8B/Stud Hi/Lo and $1,500 Omaha 8B). He also final tabled the $2,500 H.O.R.S.E. event that same year, giving him the 2007 WSOP Player of Year award. If that wasn't enough, Schneider became the first player to win two mixed game bracelets in the same year, as he won the $1,500 and the $5,000 H.O.R.S.E. events last year.
To break it all down, Schneider has won four bracelets in his career (two years with multi-bracelet series), and has over $2,300,000 recorded tournament earnings.
LIve! Classic Main (Day 1B): Hey Ladies
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
One notable difference from the Day 1A field is that we have a few more ladies in the field. Valerie Novak was the only lady yesterday to sit down at the felt, and she bagged chips for Day 2 (26,800). These women are no stranger to the game... Dawn Cain has already made a final table recently at Live!, taking second place in the $650 NLH event on Feb. 16 for $9,200.
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| Dawn Cain, Dawn Saddler, Jane Hitchcock |
One notable difference from the Day 1A field is that we have a few more ladies in the field. Valerie Novak was the only lady yesterday to sit down at the felt, and she bagged chips for Day 2 (26,800). These women are no stranger to the game... Dawn Cain has already made a final table recently at Live!, taking second place in the $650 NLH event on Feb. 16 for $9,200.
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Familiar Faces
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
The field is already double the size of yesterday, and we are only minutes into the day. Many notables have decided to set the alarm early and arrive on time:
Tim Little
Ari Engel
Matthew Chang
Tim Faro
Charles Furey
Justin Levy
James St. Hillaire
Joseph Cashen
The field is already double the size of yesterday, and we are only minutes into the day. Many notables have decided to set the alarm early and arrive on time:
Tim Little
Ari Engel
Matthew Chang
Tim Faro
Charles Furey
Justin Levy
James St. Hillaire
Joseph Cashen
Live! Classic Main (Day 1B): Action About To Begin
The action is about to begin on this Day 1B of the $3,500 Live! Poker Classic Main Event. Players are filing in and taking their seats just at the tournament director makes the rules announcement for the day. The key point today is that registration and re-entry will be closed for good once players return from dinner break.
Single table satellites are already going off next to the tournament area, and will be available for those interested throughout the day (while registration is open).
Single table satellites are already going off next to the tournament area, and will be available for those interested throughout the day (while registration is open).
Friday, March 21, 2014
Live! Classic Main: End Of Day 1A Chip Counts
| First Name | Last Name | Chip Count |
| Charles | Welch | 260,900 |
| Kyle | Bowker | 153,500 |
| Ethan | Foxman | 91,800 |
| Russell | Thomas | 85,100 |
| Arnold | Dinio | 68,300 |
| Cliff | Goldkind | 56,700 |
| John | Moore | 55,200 |
| Josh | Brikis | 54,800 |
| Stephen | Hesse | 53,900 |
| Joseph | Ort | 53,500 |
| Izzet | Temel | 37,400 |
| John | Kostelak | 33,000 |
| Ray | Shackleford | 32,900 |
| Carlos | Chadha | 32,200 |
| Valerie | Novak | 26,800 |
| Cullen | Hofmann | 13,300 |
Live! Classic Main: Extra Pocket Change
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
It's not often that someone just runs away with the chip lead in an event like this, but Charles Welch managed just that. He was the first to reach 100,000 earlier in the day, and when he eliminated Matt Glantz, it almost seemed like his 175,000 stack would be unattainable for the rest of the field (as they hovered in the 60,000-90,000 range. Stephen Hesse began knocking on that door, and wasn't far behind as the two reached the final level at the same table.
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| Charles Welch |
It's not often that someone just runs away with the chip lead in an event like this, but Charles Welch managed just that. He was the first to reach 100,000 earlier in the day, and when he eliminated Matt Glantz, it almost seemed like his 175,000 stack would be unattainable for the rest of the field (as they hovered in the 60,000-90,000 range. Stephen Hesse began knocking on that door, and wasn't far behind as the two reached the final level at the same table.
When the two got involved at the beginning stages of Level 9, it was clear that the winner of that pot would propel themselves to the bonus. Hesse would end up bricking a diamond draw on the river, while Welch made a full house. That didn't stop Stephen from trying to take the pot with a bet on the river, but Welch would call (with Q4 on a 2 J 4 4 J board), and cement his spot on top.
Play ends in minutes, and players will have their chip counts verified by the tournament floor before bagging for Day 2. Chip counts will be verified shortly thereafter via the live updates page and Twitter.
Live! Classic Main: Chip Lead Pot
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
With the two chip leaders sitting at the same table, it seemed inevitable that they would get tangled in a pot together. The action was on the river of a pot that was already over 100,000, and the action would be on Charles Welch. The board was 2♥ J♦ 4♥ 4♦ J♠, and Welch checked to Hesse. Hesse put out a bet of 46,000 (pictured above), and Welch snap called, watching as Hesse tabled A♦K♦. Charles quickly turned over Q 4, and would take down the largest pot of the tournament (and basically cement the end of Day 1A chip lead bonus).
Charles Welch - 265,000
Stephen Hesse - 65,000
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| Hesse Fires The River |
With the two chip leaders sitting at the same table, it seemed inevitable that they would get tangled in a pot together. The action was on the river of a pot that was already over 100,000, and the action would be on Charles Welch. The board was 2♥ J♦ 4♥ 4♦ J♠, and Welch checked to Hesse. Hesse put out a bet of 46,000 (pictured above), and Welch snap called, watching as Hesse tabled A♦K♦. Charles quickly turned over Q 4, and would take down the largest pot of the tournament (and basically cement the end of Day 1A chip lead bonus).
Charles Welch - 265,000
Stephen Hesse - 65,000
Live! Classic Main: In Contention
Level 9 (Blinds 400/800/100)
As players return to their seats for the final level of the night, the $10,000 bonus is something that can now be talked about. Here are the five largest stacks coming into the final level:
Charles Welch - 192,000
Stephen Hesse - 135,000
Adam Peterson - 90,000
Donald Gibson - 82,000
Clif Goldkind - 80,000
As players return to their seats for the final level of the night, the $10,000 bonus is something that can now be talked about. Here are the five largest stacks coming into the final level:
Charles Welch - 192,000
Stephen Hesse - 135,000
Adam Peterson - 90,000
Donald Gibson - 82,000
Clif Goldkind - 80,000
Live! Classic Main: Final Break
Players are going on their final (15) minute break of the day, and they will return to Level 9 and blinds of 400/800/100. The action will conclude at the end of the level, and chips will be bagged for Day 2. The chip leader to receive the $10,000 bonus, along with the end of Day 1A chip counts will be posted shortly after the end of play.
Live! Classic Main: Taranto's Good Fortune No More
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
Mark Taranto (Annapolis, MD) found some good fortune earlier after exposing his hand prematurely, and seemingly inducing a bluff from his opponent. His day was very swingy since chipping up to 70,000, and he has just been eliminated.
Mark Taranto (Annapolis, MD) found some good fortune earlier after exposing his hand prematurely, and seemingly inducing a bluff from his opponent. His day was very swingy since chipping up to 70,000, and he has just been eliminated.
Live! Classic Main: ODB Eliminated
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
After starting off strong with his second bullet, David Baker found himself short to start Level 8. Baker opened UTG to 1,200, and the action would fold around to Gordon Shackleford in the big blind. Shackleford would three-bet and Baker would get his remaining chips in pre. Baker's QQ < AA of Shackleford, and David will have the option to play during tomorrow's Day 1B field.
After starting off strong with his second bullet, David Baker found himself short to start Level 8. Baker opened UTG to 1,200, and the action would fold around to Gordon Shackleford in the big blind. Shackleford would three-bet and Baker would get his remaining chips in pre. Baker's QQ < AA of Shackleford, and David will have the option to play during tomorrow's Day 1B field.
Bullets 1 and 2 failed to hit their mark @PokerNightTV @MarylandLive ....back to fire more tomorrow #truedegen
— David Baker (@audavidb) March 22, 2014
Live! Classic Main: Who Remains?
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
Tournament director have broken a table, and we are now on three active tables (25 players remain). Here is a map of the remaining players along with their seat assignments:
Table 29:
Tournament director have broken a table, and we are now on three active tables (25 players remain). Here is a map of the remaining players along with their seat assignments:
Table 29:
- Arnold Dinio
- John Moore
- Joseph Ort
- Rodney Ord
- Ethan Foxman
- Dale Capuano
- Cullen Hofmann
- Timothy Weslow
Table 30:
- Stephen Hesse
- Ganesh Letchumanan
- Mark Taranto
- Josh Brikis
- Gordon Shackleford
- David Baker
- Valerie Novak
- Cliff Goldkind
Table 40:
- Kyle Bowker
- Russell Thomas
- Carlos Villamarin
- John Kostelac
- Charles Welch
- Adam Peterson
- Donald Gibson
- Izzet Burak Temel
Live! Classic Main: Hamilton Busts
Level 8 (Blinds 300/600/75)
Cameron Hamilton (Arlington, VA) is sent home by Kyle Bowker, as the chips get in on the turn, when Bowker bets enough to cover Hamilton (12,000 turn bet). The board read A♦ 3♥ 5♦ 8♥ at the time, and Bowker's A♠ 4♠ > Q♥ 8♥ of Hamilton. Bowker continues to build, and since tripling up as a short stack, is now close to 70,000.
Cameron Hamilton (Arlington, VA) is sent home by Kyle Bowker, as the chips get in on the turn, when Bowker bets enough to cover Hamilton (12,000 turn bet). The board read A♦ 3♥ 5♦ 8♥ at the time, and Bowker's A♠ 4♠ > Q♥ 8♥ of Hamilton. Bowker continues to build, and since tripling up as a short stack, is now close to 70,000.
Live! Classic Main: Going Up
Level 8 is about to begin, with blinds going up to 300/600/75. Players will have their final break after this level, and will return to finish off the night. After the end of Level 9 the remaining players will bag their chips for Day 2 (Sunday, March 23).
Live! Classic Main: Live! is Alive!
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
The Maryland Live! Poker Room is just that with cash game action, as the room is full (both upstairs and downstairs). Here is a little look into the action at this moment (number of active tables):
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| Poker Room Second Floor (Cash Area) |
The Maryland Live! Poker Room is just that with cash game action, as the room is full (both upstairs and downstairs). Here is a little look into the action at this moment (number of active tables):
1/2 NLH (20)
2/5 NLH (12)
5/10 NLH (3)
4/8 Limit Hold'em (2)
4/8 Omaha 8B (2)
10/10 PLO (2)
2/2 PLO (2)
20/40 Limit Hold'em (1)
2/2 PLO 8B (1)
5/5 PLO (1)
That is a total of 48 table running at the moment, with variations of all sorts to play.
Live! Classic Main: Lost For Today
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Ari Engel (Las Vegas, NV) has been eliminated from Day 1A play, and although nothing has been confirmed, it's very likely Engel will be back tomorrow. Ari has been at Maryland Live! since the beginning of the series, and has yet to cash in any of the events, which is seemingly a statistical anomaly.
Ari Engel (Las Vegas, NV) has been eliminated from Day 1A play, and although nothing has been confirmed, it's very likely Engel will be back tomorrow. Ari has been at Maryland Live! since the beginning of the series, and has yet to cash in any of the events, which is seemingly a statistical anomaly.
Live! Classic Main: Trending Upwards
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Kyle Bowker (Walton, NY) was a river card away from deciding whether to re-enter today or come back tomorrow (if at all). He ended up tripling up and continues to build as he has now turned his 13,000 into just over 40,000.
Stephen Hesse went to dinner with 65,000, and in the fifteen minutes since returning from dinner now has over 100,000. Hesse has vaulted himself into contention for the end of night bonus, as Charles Welch has dipped slightly since coming back.
Kyle Bowker (Walton, NY) was a river card away from deciding whether to re-enter today or come back tomorrow (if at all). He ended up tripling up and continues to build as he has now turned his 13,000 into just over 40,000.
Stephen Hesse went to dinner with 65,000, and in the fifteen minutes since returning from dinner now has over 100,000. Hesse has vaulted himself into contention for the end of night bonus, as Charles Welch has dipped slightly since coming back.
Live! Classic Main: Back From Dinner
Level 7 (Blinds 250/500/50)
The tournament director just announced the beginning of Level 7, and all the remaining players have returned to their seats (31 players remain). Part of the announcement also included the chip average for the active players, which sits at 36,000 (70 big blinds). Late registration/re-entry for Day 1A has been closed, and as a reminder, the chip leader at the end of play today will collect a $10,000 bonus. Charles Welch is almost 100,000 clear of his nearest opponent, but there is still a ways to go before anything is decided.
The tournament director just announced the beginning of Level 7, and all the remaining players have returned to their seats (31 players remain). Part of the announcement also included the chip average for the active players, which sits at 36,000 (70 big blinds). Late registration/re-entry for Day 1A has been closed, and as a reminder, the chip leader at the end of play today will collect a $10,000 bonus. Charles Welch is almost 100,000 clear of his nearest opponent, but there is still a ways to go before anything is decided.
Live! Classic Main: Dinner Break
Players are now headed on a (60) minute dinner break, and the action (along with live coverage) with resume at approximately 6:50pm. When players do return the blinds in Level 7 will be going up to 250/500/50.
Live! Classic Main: Counts Going Into Dinner
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Here are updated chip counts going into dinner:
Charles Welch - 175,000
Stephen Hesse - 65,000
Josh Brikis - 64,000
Donald Gibson - 63,000
Arnold Dinio - 62,000
Cliff Goldkind - 42,000
Cullen Hofmann - 40,000
Roland Israelashvili - 37,000
Izzet Temel - 35,000
Russell Thomas - 23,000
David Baker - 21,000
Valerie Novak - 16,000
Ari Engel - 11,000
Here are updated chip counts going into dinner:
Charles Welch - 175,000
Stephen Hesse - 65,000
Josh Brikis - 64,000
Donald Gibson - 63,000
Arnold Dinio - 62,000
Cliff Goldkind - 42,000
Cullen Hofmann - 40,000
Roland Israelashvili - 37,000
Izzet Temel - 35,000
Russell Thomas - 23,000
David Baker - 21,000
Valerie Novak - 16,000
Ari Engel - 11,000
Live! Classic Main: Taranto Slips Up…Or Not
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Approaching Table 30, Mark Taranto could be heard saying, "I did it again!" What he was referencing was exposing his hand with pending action (he tabled his hand on the turn). His opponent Charles Furey saw Mark's 10 10, and the action would be on him on the river (on a board of 8♦ 2♣ 7♠ 6♣ 4♣). Furey declared himself all-in and Taranto immediately called. Furey's attempt to get Taranto off the hand would be unsuccessful, and he would have to ship 33,900 over the way of Mark. Charles would be eliminated the very next hand, while Taranto chipped up to 80,000.
Approaching Table 30, Mark Taranto could be heard saying, "I did it again!" What he was referencing was exposing his hand with pending action (he tabled his hand on the turn). His opponent Charles Furey saw Mark's 10 10, and the action would be on him on the river (on a board of 8♦ 2♣ 7♠ 6♣ 4♣). Furey declared himself all-in and Taranto immediately called. Furey's attempt to get Taranto off the hand would be unsuccessful, and he would have to ship 33,900 over the way of Mark. Charles would be eliminated the very next hand, while Taranto chipped up to 80,000.
Live! Classic Main: Numbers Update
Level 6 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Registration for Day 1A will be closed at the conclusion of this level (through dinner), and if a player decided to enter at the moment they would have over 60 big blinds. There are currently 34 active players seated in the main event tournament area.
In an update from player to have busted earlier, Izzet Burak Temel did re-enter after busting his first bullet and the satellite. Justin Liberto confirmed that due to scheduling issues he will not be back for Day 1B, and Matt Glantz did confirm that he will be back tomorrow.
Registration for Day 1A will be closed at the conclusion of this level (through dinner), and if a player decided to enter at the moment they would have over 60 big blinds. There are currently 34 active players seated in the main event tournament area.
In an update from player to have busted earlier, Izzet Burak Temel did re-enter after busting his first bullet and the satellite. Justin Liberto confirmed that due to scheduling issues he will not be back for Day 1B, and Matt Glantz did confirm that he will be back tomorrow.
Live! Classic Main: Blinds Going Up
Blinds are going up to 200/400/50 in Level 6, and players will be going on dinner break at the conclusion of this level. Right before the end of Level 5 Cliff Goldkind busted, but has since re-entered and is now seated at Table 30 with Stephen Hesse, Donald Gibson, and Josh Brikis.
Live! Classic Main: Welch Continues On
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
The action at Table 40 was still pre, as Kyle Bowker was all-in for 3,875, with Charles Welch and Matt Glantz sitting with 17,150 bets in front of them. Bowker was eligible for just over 13,000 (main pot), while Glantz and Welch went to the flop (and a side pot already over 20,000). Welch was ready to table his hand, not noticing that Glantz still had chips behind. The board ran out 2 4 3, and Glantz then proceeded to go all-in, leaving Welch to a decision (he had to call 23,000).
Welch took a good amount of time thinking, before eventually deciding to make the call. All three hands were then table:
Bowker would take the main pot with the river ace, but Welch would give a few loud claps after winning the side pot worth close to 70,000. Charles continues to separate himself from the field, and sits with over 160,000. That would be all for Glantz's first bullet, and it is not known if he will re-enter today or wait until Day 1B tomorrow.
The action at Table 40 was still pre, as Kyle Bowker was all-in for 3,875, with Charles Welch and Matt Glantz sitting with 17,150 bets in front of them. Bowker was eligible for just over 13,000 (main pot), while Glantz and Welch went to the flop (and a side pot already over 20,000). Welch was ready to table his hand, not noticing that Glantz still had chips behind. The board ran out 2 4 3, and Glantz then proceeded to go all-in, leaving Welch to a decision (he had to call 23,000).
Welch took a good amount of time thinking, before eventually deciding to make the call. All three hands were then table:
Bowker: A J Glantz: 8 8 Welch: 10 10
Turn: 3
River: A
Bowker would take the main pot with the river ace, but Welch would give a few loud claps after winning the side pot worth close to 70,000. Charles continues to separate himself from the field, and sits with over 160,000. That would be all for Glantz's first bullet, and it is not known if he will re-enter today or wait until Day 1B tomorrow.
Live! Classic Main: Sticking Around
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
Olasupo Dosunmu had one foot out the door as he was all-in for his remaining 750, and was called in five spots pre. His JJ managed to hold up against that field and a ten high board, and although still short, is still in the running.
While that hand was occurring, John Kostelac got a little bit healthier as he doubled through Kyle Bowker, with K 3 on a K K Q x x board (dealer was already counting stacks and action completed by the time the table was reached). John is now over 40,000 after scooping up the pot.
Olasupo Dosunmu had one foot out the door as he was all-in for his remaining 750, and was called in five spots pre. His JJ managed to hold up against that field and a ten high board, and although still short, is still in the running.
While that hand was occurring, John Kostelac got a little bit healthier as he doubled through Kyle Bowker, with K 3 on a K K Q x x board (dealer was already counting stacks and action completed by the time the table was reached). John is now over 40,000 after scooping up the pot.
Live! Classic Main: Chipping Up
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
After losing a 25,000 pot to Josh Brikis then last hand before break, Hesse has picked up a few small ones returning. Stephen is over 60,000 and is currently top ten in this Day 1A field. Not mentioned earlier was the departure of Izzet Burak Temel, who proceeded to jump in the single table satellite that was running. Izzet also busted from the satellite, and has not yet been confirmed whether he will be back for Day 1B.
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| Stephen Hesse |
After losing a 25,000 pot to Josh Brikis then last hand before break, Hesse has picked up a few small ones returning. Stephen is over 60,000 and is currently top ten in this Day 1A field. Not mentioned earlier was the departure of Izzet Burak Temel, who proceeded to jump in the single table satellite that was running. Izzet also busted from the satellite, and has not yet been confirmed whether he will be back for Day 1B.
Live! Classic Main: Break Time Chip Counts
Level 5 (Blinds 150/300/25)
Here are some updated counts from break:
Charles Welch - 105,000
Donald Gibson - 102,000
Josh Brikis - 73,000
Matt Glantz - 55,000
Roland Isrealashavilli - 36,000
Ari Engel - 27,000
Rodney Ord - 26,000
Russell Thomas - 24,000
Kyle Bowker - 20,000
Valerie Novak - 18,000
David Baker - 18,000
Cliff Goldkind - 12,000
Live Classic Main: Break Time
Players are going on their second break of the day, and they will return to Level 5 and blinds of 150/300/25. The first single table satellite for this event has just gotten off, and a new list is already filling up, giving ample opportunity to get in the tournament for less.
Live! Classic Main: Engel Doubles Through Baker
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Action from Table 31 was picked up on the flop as David Baker had a 1,100 bet in front of him, on a board of A♦ 10♦ 8♥. Ari Engel would raise to 3,000, and Rodney Ord would fold behind. Baker would ask how much Ari was playing behind (10,000 approx.), and put in enough to cover Engel. Ari would dump some chips in signifying a call, and the hands would be tabled:
Ari seemed to be in great shape once the cards were tabled, but the turn gave Baker a strong lead. Engel would hit the diamond he would need to double on the river, and now has 30,000.
Action from Table 31 was picked up on the flop as David Baker had a 1,100 bet in front of him, on a board of A♦ 10♦ 8♥. Ari Engel would raise to 3,000, and Rodney Ord would fold behind. Baker would ask how much Ari was playing behind (10,000 approx.), and put in enough to cover Engel. Ari would dump some chips in signifying a call, and the hands would be tabled:
Engel: K♦ 9♦ Baker: 6♦ 7♦
Turn: 9♥
River: 3♦
Ari seemed to be in great shape once the cards were tabled, but the turn gave Baker a strong lead. Engel would hit the diamond he would need to double on the river, and now has 30,000.
Live! Classic Main: Century Club
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Charles Welch is the first player to eclipse the century mark in the room, and sits with just over 115,000. This may be uncharted territory for Welch, who has one recorded tournament cash lifetime for $842. In other action around the room, Josh Brikis sends Jimmy Born to the rail, and chips up to 55,000.
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| Charles Welch (Baltimore, MD) |
Charles Welch is the first player to eclipse the century mark in the room, and sits with just over 115,000. This may be uncharted territory for Welch, who has one recorded tournament cash lifetime for $842. In other action around the room, Josh Brikis sends Jimmy Born to the rail, and chips up to 55,000.
Live! Classic Main: Level Up
Level 4 started moments ago with the blinds going up to 100/200/25. There have been new arrivals that weren't mentioned earlier, including:
Kyle Bowker
Valerie Novak
Roland Israelashavilli
Kyle Bowker
Valerie Novak
Roland Israelashavilli
Live! Classic Main: ODBack In Action
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
David Baker has made the most of his second bullet, as he almost doubles his starting stack a few hands into his new table. The action was picked up on the river at Baker was all-in for 15,000 on a board of J♠ 3♦ J♣ Q♣ K♥, with the action on Rodney Ord. Ord tanked for a while, counting out the chips for a call and seeing what he'd be left with. He eventually looked at Baker and said "Best bluff ever," as he showed A♥ J♥ and threw it into the muck. ODB is now up to 46,000 after taking down the hand.
David Baker has made the most of his second bullet, as he almost doubles his starting stack a few hands into his new table. The action was picked up on the river at Baker was all-in for 15,000 on a board of J♠ 3♦ J♣ Q♣ K♥, with the action on Rodney Ord. Ord tanked for a while, counting out the chips for a call and seeing what he'd be left with. He eventually looked at Baker and said "Best bluff ever," as he showed A♥ J♥ and threw it into the muck. ODB is now up to 46,000 after taking down the hand.
Live! Classic Main: The Madness Begins
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
The upstairs area of the poker room just erupted as Mercer looks to have put the final dagger in Duke's NCAA Tournament hopes. With televisions available for everyone to see, many of the tournament players have been fixated on the conclusion of the game. The notable names continue to take their seat in the tournament area, as Matt Glantz (Lafayette Hill, PA) gets seated at Table 40 (taking the seat once occupied by David Baker). Baker has since re-entered and is seated at Table 31 with Daniel Gibson, Ari Engel, and Russell Thomas.
The upstairs area of the poker room just erupted as Mercer looks to have put the final dagger in Duke's NCAA Tournament hopes. With televisions available for everyone to see, many of the tournament players have been fixated on the conclusion of the game. The notable names continue to take their seat in the tournament area, as Matt Glantz (Lafayette Hill, PA) gets seated at Table 40 (taking the seat once occupied by David Baker). Baker has since re-entered and is seated at Table 31 with Daniel Gibson, Ari Engel, and Russell Thomas.
Live! Classic Main: Updated Chip Counts
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
Here are some updated chip counts from the field:
Charles Welch - 92,000
Donald Gibson - 74,000
Arnold Dinio - 56,000
Cullen Hofmann - 40,000
John Moore - 29,000
Josh Brikis - 25,000
David Baker - 17,000
Ari Engel - 10,000
Cliff Goldkind - 7,000
Here are some updated chip counts from the field:
Charles Welch - 92,000
Donald Gibson - 74,000
Arnold Dinio - 56,000
Cullen Hofmann - 40,000
John Moore - 29,000
Josh Brikis - 25,000
David Baker - 17,000
Ari Engel - 10,000
Cliff Goldkind - 7,000
Live! Classic Main: @RunGoodRussell Arrives
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
Russell Thomas is another player who has become a household name in the poker community, after finishing 4th in the 2012 WSOP Main Event. Thomas took home $2,800,000 for his finish, and has since cashed in a handful of WSOP and WSOP APAC events. Thomas followed up his WSOP Main final table with another deep run in the 2013 Main, finishing in 306th for just over $32,000.
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| Russell Thomas (Wallingford, PA) |
Russell Thomas is another player who has become a household name in the poker community, after finishing 4th in the 2012 WSOP Main Event. Thomas took home $2,800,000 for his finish, and has since cashed in a handful of WSOP and WSOP APAC events. Thomas followed up his WSOP Main final table with another deep run in the 2013 Main, finishing in 306th for just over $32,000.
Live! Classic Main: Moore Doubles Through Hofmann
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200)
Only a few minutes back from break there would be a sizable pot between John Moore and Cullen Hofmann. Moore would be all-in on a flop of 8 J Q, and he would be called by Hofman (who had him covered). The hands would be tabled and Moore's QQ > 88 of Hofmann, and John would double to 33,000. Cullen had chipped up earlier from the hand where he knocked out Liberto, and would dip down to 38,000 after losing the hand.
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| John Moore (Columbia, MD) |
Only a few minutes back from break there would be a sizable pot between John Moore and Cullen Hofmann. Moore would be all-in on a flop of 8 J Q, and he would be called by Hofman (who had him covered). The hands would be tabled and Moore's QQ > 88 of Hofmann, and John would double to 33,000. Cullen had chipped up earlier from the hand where he knocked out Liberto, and would dip down to 38,000 after losing the hand.
Live! Classic Main: Break Time
Players are currently on their first break of the day, and they will return to Level 3 and blinds of 100/200. There are two levels played between each break, with the dinner break on Day 1A and 1B coming after Level 6 (approximately 5:45-6:00pm).
Live! Classic Main: Photoshop
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
There were some opportunities earlier to catch three of the more accomplished tournament players in the field. The players pictured above are household names in the poker community, with resumes that many people would sign up for in a heartbeat:
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| Josh Brikis, Ari Engel, David "ODB" Baker |
There were some opportunities earlier to catch three of the more accomplished tournament players in the field. The players pictured above are household names in the poker community, with resumes that many people would sign up for in a heartbeat:
Josh Brikis - Brikis is a professional from Pittsburgh, PA with over $1,500,000 in career earnings. Josh is also Team Ivey Poker pro, with his breakout score coming in 2009 when he took runner up in the $5,000 NLH Six-Max Event at the WSOP ($619,000).
Ari Engel - Engel is the consummate poker professional, with over 103 recorded tournament cashes to his name (worth over $1,400,000). Before transitioning to the live scene, Ari (better known online as "BodogAri") has over $2,400,000 in online earnings. He has been in the top 50 in tournament cashes for the past three years, and was third overall last year.
David Baker - Baker is another tournament beast, who currently has over $3,000,000 in earnings. Baker has over thirty WSOP cashes, including a bracelet win in 2012 (Event 37 - $2,500 8 Game) and a 17th place finish in the 2010 WSOP Main Event.
Live! Classic Main: Cullen Arrives, Busts Liberto
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
It didn't take long for Cullen Hofman to make his presence felt, as he wins a multi-way pot worth close to 60,000. Hoffman's 4 5 was tabled as the dealer was counting down stacks, on a board of 2 K 6 3 x. The action of the hand is not currently known, but Justin Liberto was on the unfortunate end, as he busts early in Day 1A.
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| Cullen Hofman (Forest Hill, MD) |
It didn't take long for Cullen Hofman to make his presence felt, as he wins a multi-way pot worth close to 60,000. Hoffman's 4 5 was tabled as the dealer was counting down stacks, on a board of 2 K 6 3 x. The action of the hand is not currently known, but Justin Liberto was on the unfortunate end, as he busts early in Day 1A.
Hofman has a WSOPC ring to his name, won at Harrah's (Atlantic City) in 2012 in a $365 NLH Turbo event. His largest score to date though came last June at Rio during their Daily Deepstacks, taking home over $41,000 in a $235 event.
Live! Classic Main: Izzet's Introduction
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Meet Izzet Burak Temel…because the name was recognizable in the poker community a month ago. Since the end of February, Temel has made over $100,000 in tournament earnings, including FOUR cashes in this series alone. Maryland Live! is Temel's home casino, but he traveled to Parx during the most recent Big Stax series, and took it by storm. He final tabled two of the three trophy events in the series, winning the Big Stax 500 for just under $70,000.
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| Izzet Burak Temel |
Meet Izzet Burak Temel…because the name was recognizable in the poker community a month ago. Since the end of February, Temel has made over $100,000 in tournament earnings, including FOUR cashes in this series alone. Maryland Live! is Temel's home casino, but he traveled to Parx during the most recent Big Stax series, and took it by storm. He final tabled two of the three trophy events in the series, winning the Big Stax 500 for just under $70,000.
Izzet then traveled back home, and has made three final tables in this series, including:
- $550 NLH Freezeout - 10th ($1,050)
- $1,600 NLH Purple Chip Bounty - 5th ($5,320)
- $350 PLO Black Chip bounty - 7th ($1,094)
Live! Classic Main: Level Up
The first level of the main event is now in the books, and the blinds in Level 2 are going up to 75/150. It isn't too late to still get in this event, as single table satellites are going to be running all day. Here is a little breakdown of the satellites:
Entry: $550 + 20
Players: 10
Payouts:
- $3,500 Event Ticket
- $1,340
- $660
Starting Stack: 7,000
Levels: 15 Minutes
Live! Classic Main: Filing In
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Players continue to make their way upstairs to the tournament area, some notables from the state of Maryland:
Liberto had his breakout score during last year's WSOP, finishing fourth in Event # 6 ($1,500 Millionare Maker). That was Justin's first ever WSOP event, and he went out to Vegas with plans to just play in that event. It was one of the better decisions he's made, as he took home just over $400,000 for his finish, and gained notoriety in what was one of the most prestigious events of the summer.
Cliff is another Maryland local who has stamped his name in the poker community. Goldkind won a WSOP bracelet in 2012 (Event 19 - $1,500 NLH), collecting over $559,000 for the win. He is currently 13th all time in the state of Maryland (tournament earnings), and added to that number earlier in this series as he finished eight in Event 3 ($1,100 NLH).
Players continue to make their way upstairs to the tournament area, some notables from the state of Maryland:
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| Justin Liberto (Fallston, MD) |
Liberto had his breakout score during last year's WSOP, finishing fourth in Event # 6 ($1,500 Millionare Maker). That was Justin's first ever WSOP event, and he went out to Vegas with plans to just play in that event. It was one of the better decisions he's made, as he took home just over $400,000 for his finish, and gained notoriety in what was one of the most prestigious events of the summer.
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| Cliff Goldkind (Potomac, MD) |
Cliff is another Maryland local who has stamped his name in the poker community. Goldkind won a WSOP bracelet in 2012 (Event 19 - $1,500 NLH), collecting over $559,000 for the win. He is currently 13th all time in the state of Maryland (tournament earnings), and added to that number earlier in this series as he finished eight in Event 3 ($1,100 NLH).
Live! Classic Main: Gibson Grabs Early Lead
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
It's not very often that you see a 500 big blind pot occur half the way through the first level of any tournament, let alone a $3,500. Donald Gibson managed to win said pot, and grab an early and commanding chip lead (58,000), after his KK > QQ of Ethan Foxman. Ethan seemed resigned to his fate as the chips got all-in pre, and he sheepishly said, "Time for a rebuy."
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| Donald Gibson |
It's not very often that you see a 500 big blind pot occur half the way through the first level of any tournament, let alone a $3,500. Donald Gibson managed to win said pot, and grab an early and commanding chip lead (58,000), after his KK > QQ of Ethan Foxman. Ethan seemed resigned to his fate as the chips got all-in pre, and he sheepishly said, "Time for a rebuy."
Gibson is currently seated at Table 31 with the likes of Ari Engel, Chad Power, and Maryland Live! regular Arnold Dinio.
Live! Classic Main: Cards In The Air
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
The "early birds" have taken their seats and cards are in the air for the first of two starting days. There are already a handful of notables in the field:
David "ODB" Baker
Josh Brikis
Chad Power
Ari Engel
The "early birds" have taken their seats and cards are in the air for the first of two starting days. There are already a handful of notables in the field:
David "ODB" Baker
Josh Brikis
Chad Power
Ari Engel
Playin this $3500 main in Baltimore . 25k to start at 50/100
— Josh Brikis (@JBrikis) March 21, 2014
Going Live!
It's now less than (30) minutes before the $3,500 Main Event begins, in what's been a great inaugural series. The $1 Million Live! Poker Classic has been going on for almost two weeks now, and it all culminates with this event (and Poker Night In America). The action today begins at 11:15am, and here are some of the pertinents in regards to today's play:
- Players begin with 25,000 starting stack
- Levels will last 60 minutes throughout the event
- Re-entries and late entries are available until the beginning of Level 7
- Each Day 1 chip leader will receive at $10,000 bonus
Live updates will commence shortly and continue through the conclusion of the event.
- Players begin with 25,000 starting stack
- Levels will last 60 minutes throughout the event
- Re-entries and late entries are available until the beginning of Level 7
- Each Day 1 chip leader will receive at $10,000 bonus
Live updates will commence shortly and continue through the conclusion of the event.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Live! Updates Page Launched For $3,500 Main Event
The main event of the $1 Million Live! Poker Classic is only days away, and with that comes the launch of the live updates page for the event. Live blogging of the culmination of the series will begin at 11:15am on Friday (March 21st), and continue through the final table (March 25th). Amongst the players who have won seats earlier in the series, this $3,500 event is sure to attract some of the biggest poker names on the east coast.
Be sure to save this link for an easy return during the main event, and take some time to navigate the site and learn more about one of the top poker rooms in the country. Results from the events earlier in the series can be found on the live updates page, and will posted as soon as each tournament concludes. Here are the winners from the early stages of the series:
Event 1 ($550 NLH - 499 Entries): Richard Smith (Edgewater, MD) - $60,466
Event 2 ($150 + 50 NLH Bounty - 346 Entries): Daniel Fisher - $3,000 *
Event 3 ($1,100 NLH - 129 Entries): Chris McCoy - $39,500 + Main Event Seat
Event 4 ($550 NLH - 141 Entries): Mark Mattei (Glen Burnie, MD) - $20,434 *
* Denotes Chop
Poker Night In America Comes To Maryland Live!
Maryland Live! Casino and "Poker Night In America" have formed a great partnership to bring televised poker to the State of Maryland for the first time. On Monday, March 24, filming will take place (back to back sessions) of an invitation-only cash game. Buy-ins for the cash games will have a $5,000 (minimum) to $20,000 (maximum) range. Previous stops for Poker Night include Turning Stone Casino (Syracuse), Peppermill (Reno, NV), and the Rivers Casino (Pittsburgh).
The past stops have provided some great lineups (and entertainment), and Maryland Live! will surely continue the trend. Here is a list of players who have already committed to being part of history:
Danielle Anderson
David "ODB" Baker
Steve Dannenmann
Matt Glantz
Anthony Gregg
Christian Harder
Greg Merson
Darvin Moon
Tom Schneider
Gavin Smith
Jason Somerville
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