Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
Players are about to head on their final (15) minute break of the night, and they will return to play Level 15, with blinds of 2,000/4,000/500. That will be the last level of the night, and players left at it's conclusion will then bag their chips for Day 2 on Sunday at 12:00pm. Here are some updated counts heading to break:
Joseph Gossweiler - 370,000
Eugene Fouksman - 320,000
Josh Hertz - 255,000
Renata Colache - 165,000
Adam Levitan - 140,000
Will Failla - 138,000
Kevin McColgan - 130,000
Michael Marder - 90,000
Aaron Overton - 88,000
Friday, August 15, 2014
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Gossweiler Wins A Monster
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
The hand of the day was almost missed, but Joseph Gossweiler and J.R. Marquette just got it in on the flop for a pot worth over 240,000. Walking up to Table 46, Marquette would have his full 115,000 stack across the line, with Gossweiler having a matching stack in front of him (putting Marquette at risk):
While it hasn't been verified the betting leading up to the two hands being tabled, it's clear that this was the largest pot of the tournament, and Gossweiler assumes the chip lead after his hand held (375,000). Marquette would say, "You tried to tell me, I should have folded," as he walked away from the table, clearly having second thoughts about the way the hand played out.
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
The hand of the day was almost missed, but Joseph Gossweiler and J.R. Marquette just got it in on the flop for a pot worth over 240,000. Walking up to Table 46, Marquette would have his full 115,000 stack across the line, with Gossweiler having a matching stack in front of him (putting Marquette at risk):
Flop: 8♠ Q♣ 2♠
Gossweiler: K♥ K♦ Marquette: A♠ Q♦
Turn: 4♥
River: 2♦
While it hasn't been verified the betting leading up to the two hands being tabled, it's clear that this was the largest pot of the tournament, and Gossweiler assumes the chip lead after his hand held (375,000). Marquette would say, "You tried to tell me, I should have folded," as he walked away from the table, clearly having second thoughts about the way the hand played out.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Fouksman Trending Up
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
Ray Shackelford would open the pot from late position to 7,500, with Eugene Fouksman three-betting from the small blind to 19,500. Ray made the call and the two would see the dealer place down a flop of 10♣ K♥ 3♣. There would be no continuation as Eugene checked to Shackelford, who put out a bet of 12,000. Fouksman called, with the Q♦ coming out on the turn, and the action going check-check.
After the 8♦ on the river, Eugene decided to lead with a 25,500 bet, with Shackelford thinking for a good while before folding. Eugene becomes the chip leader with that pot, chipping up to just under 340,000. Shackelford was left with just over 60,000 after absorbing the loss, which sits at exactly twenty bigs.
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
 |
| Eugene Fouksman (Manalapan, NJ) |
After the 8♦ on the river, Eugene decided to lead with a 25,500 bet, with Shackelford thinking for a good while before folding. Eugene becomes the chip leader with that pot, chipping up to just under 340,000. Shackelford was left with just over 60,000 after absorbing the loss, which sits at exactly twenty bigs.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Full Field Layout
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
With four active tables now remaining, here is the rundown of those remaining:
Table 45:
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
With four active tables now remaining, here is the rundown of those remaining:
Table 45:
- J.R. Marquette
- Kevin McColgan
- Tim Ha
- (Empty)
- Hugh Bagatelle
- Mike Azzaro
- Jason Paster
- Eugene Fouksman
- Staffan Lind
Table 46:
- Ed Walsh
- (Emtpy)
- Joseph Gossweiler
- (Empty)
- Adam Levitan
- Andrew Lukovsky
- Frank Toscano
- Charles Whitall
- Aaron Overton
Table 51:
- Joe Pochedly
- Joseph Bratolle
- Ray Shackelford
- (Empty)
- Ritch Gaiti
- Michael Marder
- Austin Buchanan
- (Empty)
- Gaetano Taormina
Table 54:
- Marek Faszczewski
- Jared Jaffee
- Renata Colcahe
- Ryan Feldman
- Will Failla
- Deding Xu
- Joshua Hertz
- Drew Small
- (Empty)
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Thinking About The Bonus
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
With only one break remaining, and three levels to play, it's a good time to start looking at players that are in contention for the $5,000 chip lead bonus. Last night is was Chris Csik (Hoboken, NJ) who earned himself the bonus with 540,000. Here are some of the names that are currently looking at a run at the bonus:
Chris Whitall - 335,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 260,000
Eugene Fouksman - 210,000
Mike Azzaro - 200,000
Will Failla - 190,000
Josh Hertz - 178,000
Kevin McColgan - 140,000
Adam Levitan - 135,000
Ray Shackelford - 120,000
Jason Paster - 80,000
Total Day 1B Entries: 73
With only one break remaining, and three levels to play, it's a good time to start looking at players that are in contention for the $5,000 chip lead bonus. Last night is was Chris Csik (Hoboken, NJ) who earned himself the bonus with 540,000. Here are some of the names that are currently looking at a run at the bonus:
Chris Whitall - 335,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 260,000
Eugene Fouksman - 210,000
Mike Azzaro - 200,000
Will Failla - 190,000
Josh Hertz - 178,000
Kevin McColgan - 140,000
Adam Levitan - 135,000
Ray Shackelford - 120,000
Jason Paster - 80,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Taking A Break
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1B Entries: 71
Players are on a (15) minute break, and they will be returning to Level 13 and blinds of 1,200/2,400/300 (72 total Day 1B entries). Those still active will return to play two more levels, before another color break, and then the final level of the night. Once the field gets down to four tables, a full layout of who is remaining and where they are sitting will be posted.
Total Day 1B Entries: 71
Players are on a (15) minute break, and they will be returning to Level 13 and blinds of 1,200/2,400/300 (72 total Day 1B entries). Those still active will return to play two more levels, before another color break, and then the final level of the night. Once the field gets down to four tables, a full layout of who is remaining and where they are sitting will be posted.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Revolving Door
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Day 1B Entries: 70
With the action on five full tables, players that have registered over the past (40) minutes have had to wait for someone to bust before getting a seat. Kane Kalas was next up in line to take a seat, and he just filled the vacant chair of WSOP bracelet winner Jared Jaffee (Brooklyn, NY), who busted and has not re-entered. Another player to leave the field recently without re-entering was DJ MacKinnon.
Total Day 1B Entries: 70
With the action on five full tables, players that have registered over the past (40) minutes have had to wait for someone to bust before getting a seat. Kane Kalas was next up in line to take a seat, and he just filled the vacant chair of WSOP bracelet winner Jared Jaffee (Brooklyn, NY), who busted and has not re-entered. Another player to leave the field recently without re-entering was DJ MacKinnon.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Updated Chip Counts/Level Up
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Day 1B Players: 69
Players have just transitioned into Level 12, with the blinds going up to 1,000/2,000/300 (69 total Day 1B entries). Here are some of the updated chip counts from the end of Level 11:
Chris Whitall - 210,000
Jason Paster - 190,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 185,000
Joseph Brattole - 170,000
Renata Colache - 160,000
Kevin McColgan - 155,000
Ray Shackelford - 150,000
Will Failla - 140,000
Alex Queen - 130,000
Joshua Hertz - 120,000
Total Day 1B Players: 69
Players have just transitioned into Level 12, with the blinds going up to 1,000/2,000/300 (69 total Day 1B entries). Here are some of the updated chip counts from the end of Level 11:
Chris Whitall - 210,000
Jason Paster - 190,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 185,000
Joseph Brattole - 170,000
Renata Colache - 160,000
Kevin McColgan - 155,000
Ray Shackelford - 150,000
Will Failla - 140,000
Alex Queen - 130,000
Joshua Hertz - 120,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Paster Makes Piles Since Break
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Day 1B Entries: 66
Jason Paster (Yardley, PA) and Adam Levitan were talking after they returned from dinner, waiting for the tournament floor to allow players back to their seats. Levitan was going back to a stack of 150,000, while Paster returned to 70,000.
Since play has resumed, the two have gone in completely separate directions. Paster was able to come out a winner with 5x 5x > Ax Ax to eliminate Vinny Pahuja, and followed that up by busting Levitan a few hands later. The two would get it in pre for a pot worth 180,000, with Paster's Qx Qx holding up against the Ax Kx of Levitan.
While Adam has once again entered the Day 1B field, other players have busted and no returned:
Kunal Patel
Vinny Pahuja
Asher Conniff
Mike Cologna
Total Day 1B Entries: 66
 |
| Jason Paster (Yardley, PA) |
Since play has resumed, the two have gone in completely separate directions. Paster was able to come out a winner with 5x 5x > Ax Ax to eliminate Vinny Pahuja, and followed that up by busting Levitan a few hands later. The two would get it in pre for a pot worth 180,000, with Paster's Qx Qx holding up against the Ax Kx of Levitan.
While Adam has once again entered the Day 1B field, other players have busted and no returned:
Kunal Patel
Vinny Pahuja
Asher Conniff
Mike Cologna
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Colache Sticking Around
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Day 1B Entries: 65
The action at Table 54 would fold around to Renata Colache in the cutoff, and she would open to 2,500. Jared Jaffee three-bet from the button to 6,100, and Asher Conniff would follow with a four-bet to 12,800. Colache then followed with a five-bet shove (37,600), with Jaffee folding after a few moments thinking about his move. Asher then announced a call and the two hands were tabled:
The queen would be right in the window, but right behind it came out a king as well. The dramatics of the hand continued as Colache managed to turn a queen to take the lead, and secure the double with a full house on the river. Renata doubled to over 80,000, while Asher would be left with 6,000 after paying off the bet. Conniff would be eliminated a few hands later, and that would be it for his Big Stax series as he leaves to head back to New York City.
Total Day 1B Entries: 65
The action at Table 54 would fold around to Renata Colache in the cutoff, and she would open to 2,500. Jared Jaffee three-bet from the button to 6,100, and Asher Conniff would follow with a four-bet to 12,800. Colache then followed with a five-bet shove (37,600), with Jaffee folding after a few moments thinking about his move. Asher then announced a call and the two hands were tabled:
Conniff: A♦ K♦ Colache: A♥ Q♥
Flop: Q♦ 4♠ K♠
Turn: Q♣
River: A♣
The queen would be right in the window, but right behind it came out a king as well. The dramatics of the hand continued as Colache managed to turn a queen to take the lead, and secure the double with a full house on the river. Renata doubled to over 80,000, while Asher would be left with 6,000 after paying off the bet. Conniff would be eliminated a few hands later, and that would be it for his Big Stax series as he leaves to head back to New York City.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Azzaro Picks Up From Paster
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Day 1B Entries: 64
With the action folding around at Table 45 to Mike Azzaro on the button, he opened the pot for a raise to 5,500. Jason Paster followed with a three bet to 14,000 (small blind), with the player in the big blind shoving for 14,200. With action back on Azzaro, he put in enough for the call, and the three players went to the flop of 3♥ 9♠ A♥. Jason would act first with a 4,400 bet (big blind all-in), and Azzaro called, giving the two a side pot. Players would go check-check after the 4♣ on the turn, with Paster checking the final street once the dealer paired the board with the 9♥.
Azzaro took some time before collected his chips and dropping all of them across the line (28,000). Jason quickly folded and Azzaro would turn over 6♥ 4♥, for a rivered flush and a pot bring him just below 80,000.
Total Day 1B Entries: 64
With the action folding around at Table 45 to Mike Azzaro on the button, he opened the pot for a raise to 5,500. Jason Paster followed with a three bet to 14,000 (small blind), with the player in the big blind shoving for 14,200. With action back on Azzaro, he put in enough for the call, and the three players went to the flop of 3♥ 9♠ A♥. Jason would act first with a 4,400 bet (big blind all-in), and Azzaro called, giving the two a side pot. Players would go check-check after the 4♣ on the turn, with Paster checking the final street once the dealer paired the board with the 9♥.
Azzaro took some time before collected his chips and dropping all of them across the line (28,000). Jason quickly folded and Azzaro would turn over 6♥ 4♥, for a rivered flush and a pot bring him just below 80,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Levitan Leaps Up Leaderboard
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Day 1B Entries: 64
Last year this event was a $1,080 buy-in, which attracted a total of 415 entries. The tournament would end in an eight-way chop, with Adam Levitan (Philadelphia, PA) signing for and receiving first place money ($41,734).
Levitan is primarily a cash game player, with his work hindering the ability to travel and play numerous events. Since the Big Stax win, Levitan does have one other final table in a $560 No Limit Hold'em Event during the 2013 Borgata Poker Open. Adam's last level before dinner was a very eventful one, as he chipped up to 150,000 before leaving for dinner. Levitan is currently seated at Table 45 with DJ MacKinnon, Mike Azzaro, Jason Paster, and Vinny Pahuja.
Total Day 1B Entries: 64
 |
| Adam Levitan (Philadelphia, PA) |
Levitan is primarily a cash game player, with his work hindering the ability to travel and play numerous events. Since the Big Stax win, Levitan does have one other final table in a $560 No Limit Hold'em Event during the 2013 Borgata Poker Open. Adam's last level before dinner was a very eventful one, as he chipped up to 150,000 before leaving for dinner. Levitan is currently seated at Table 45 with DJ MacKinnon, Mike Azzaro, Jason Paster, and Vinny Pahuja.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Back From Dinner...Satellite Running
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Day 1B Entries: 63
Players are seated and the cards are once again in the air. For those still interested in trying to get into this event for fractions of the buy-in, the $300 + 30 Super Satellite is currently across from the Big Stax tournament area. There are currently 32 total entries in the satellite, which means that sic seats will currently be given away.
Total Day 1B Entries: 63
Players are seated and the cards are once again in the air. For those still interested in trying to get into this event for fractions of the buy-in, the $300 + 30 Super Satellite is currently across from the Big Stax tournament area. There are currently 32 total entries in the satellite, which means that sic seats will currently be given away.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Dinner Break
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
Those players still active in the field will now be going on a (75) minute dinner break. The break will last from 6:20-7:35pm, with live coverage of the event continuing once the cards are back in the air. Updated dinner break chip counts from Twitter will also be posted while players are gone. When those in the field return to play, they will be transitioning into Level 10, with blinds going up to 600/1,200/200.
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
Those players still active in the field will now be going on a (75) minute dinner break. The break will last from 6:20-7:35pm, with live coverage of the event continuing once the cards are back in the air. Updated dinner break chip counts from Twitter will also be posted while players are gone. When those in the field return to play, they will be transitioning into Level 10, with blinds going up to 600/1,200/200.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Updated Counts Before Dinner
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
Players will be on dinner break from 6:20-7:35pm at the end of this level (25 minutes), and will then return to finish the final six levels of the night. Here are some updated counts from the field:
Staffan Lind - 160,000
Josh Hertz - 140,000
Kevin McColgan - 140,000
Jared Jaffee - 120,000
Gaetano Taormina - 115,000
Alex Queen - 90,000
Drew Small - 80,000
Austin Buchanan - 68,000
John DiBella - 58,000
Vinny Pahuja - 55,000
Will Failla - 55,000
Gordon Eng - 50,000
Deding Xu - 48,000
Jason Paster - 45,000
DJ MacKinnon - 41,000
Aaron Overton - 38,000
Adam Levitan - 38,000
Joe Black - 29,000
Kane Kalas - 28,000
Michael Marder - 27,000
Asher Conniff - 18,000
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
Players will be on dinner break from 6:20-7:35pm at the end of this level (25 minutes), and will then return to finish the final six levels of the night. Here are some updated counts from the field:
Staffan Lind - 160,000
Josh Hertz - 140,000
Kevin McColgan - 140,000
Jared Jaffee - 120,000
Gaetano Taormina - 115,000
Alex Queen - 90,000
Drew Small - 80,000
Austin Buchanan - 68,000
John DiBella - 58,000
Vinny Pahuja - 55,000
Will Failla - 55,000
Gordon Eng - 50,000
Deding Xu - 48,000
Jason Paster - 45,000
DJ MacKinnon - 41,000
Aaron Overton - 38,000
Adam Levitan - 38,000
Joe Black - 29,000
Kane Kalas - 28,000
Michael Marder - 27,000
Asher Conniff - 18,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Better The Second Time Around
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
Staffan Lind (Vero Beach, FL) busted his first bullet just a few minutes into Level 7 (first level back from break), but has already made good with his second. Lind was just pushed a sizable pot, which has put him over 135,000, almost tripling the starting stack in less than an hour.
Tournament Director Tom Martucci has just announced the beginning of Level 9, with the blinds going up to 500/1,000/100. Players were also informed that they will be going on dinner break at the end of this level, which will be (75) minutes long.
Table 53 was broken just moments before the end of Level 8, and with those players finding new tables, it's clear to see that today's field is one of the tougher you'll find. There are 4-5 notables at every table, and even the players that aren't familiar seem like pretty quality opponents.
Total Day 1B Entries: 61
 |
| Staffan Lind (Vero Beach, FL) |
Tournament Director Tom Martucci has just announced the beginning of Level 9, with the blinds going up to 500/1,000/100. Players were also informed that they will be going on dinner break at the end of this level, which will be (75) minutes long.
Table 53 was broken just moments before the end of Level 8, and with those players finding new tables, it's clear to see that today's field is one of the tougher you'll find. There are 4-5 notables at every table, and even the players that aren't familiar seem like pretty quality opponents.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Not Showing Effects
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 60
Anthony Tonzelli (Bensalem, PA) may have doubled up Kunal Patel, but it hasn't taken long for him to recoup those lost chips, and eclipse the number he was at prior. Tonzelli is currently top three in the field with 160,000, jousting with Gaetano Taormina (170,000) and Josh Hertz (150,000) for the lead.
Since returning from the second break of the day, there have been a handful of notables to bust, some of which got right back in. Alex Rocha and Kevin Grabel are two players to have not yet re-entered the Day 1B field, while John DiBella just left his table only to return to the tournament podium minutes later.
Total Day 1B Entries: 60
 |
| Anthony Tonzelli (Bensalem, PA) |
Since returning from the second break of the day, there have been a handful of notables to bust, some of which got right back in. Alex Rocha and Kevin Grabel are two players to have not yet re-entered the Day 1B field, while John DiBella just left his table only to return to the tournament podium minutes later.
Big Stax VII ($230 NLH/PLO Mix): Final Results
Big Stax VII
August 11, 2014
$230 No Limit Hold'em/Pot Limit Hold'em Mix
Total Entries: 112
Total Prize Fund: $21,728
Final Results:
August 11, 2014
$230 No Limit Hold'em/Pot Limit Hold'em Mix
Total Entries: 112
Total Prize Fund: $21,728
Final Results:
| Place | Player Name | Prize | |
| 1 | Joseph | Palma | $6,735 |
| 2 | Thomas | Cipriano | $4,128 |
| 3 | Dimitrios | Georgis | $2,416 |
| 4 | David | Coppola | $1,847 |
| 5 | Nathaniel | Greenwald | $1,395 |
| 6 | Vincent | Caesar | $1,115 |
| 7 | Timothy | Klein | $913 |
| 8 | Lawrence | Wolf | $760 |
| 9 | Aoam | Williams | $652 |
| 10 | Alyson | Parker | $561 |
| 11 | Jamie | Ayerbe | $402 |
| 12 | David | Heck | $402 |
| 13 | Brian | Katz | $402 |
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Patel Doubles Back From Break
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 58
Walking by Table 46, there would be an opportunity for Kunal Patel to double up. On a flop of 10♦ 9♣ 3♦, Kunal led the flop, only to hear Anthony Tonzelli announce himself all-in (enough to cover Patel). Patel would check back at his cards before making the call for his remaining 37,000:
Patel: 6♦ 9♦ (pair and flush draw)
Tonzelli: Q♠ J♣ (open ended/two overs)
Turn: A♦
River: 4♣
When the hands were tabled, other players at seated were clearly surprised to see that Kunal was ahead. The turn would make Patel the flush and solidify the double up to 85,000.
Total Day 1B Entries: 58
 |
| Kunal Patel (Friendswood, TX) |
Patel: 6♦ 9♦ (pair and flush draw)
Tonzelli: Q♠ J♣ (open ended/two overs)
Turn: A♦
River: 4♣
When the hands were tabled, other players at seated were clearly surprised to see that Kunal was ahead. The turn would make Patel the flush and solidify the double up to 85,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): First Look At Counts/Break Time
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: 56
Players are about to go on their second break of the day, and they will return in (15) minutes with the blinds having gone up to 300/600/100. Here is the first wave of chip counts to be posted throughout the day:
Josh Hertz - 130,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 125,000
Gaetano Taormina - 120,000
Drew Small - 110,000
Joe Black - 82,000
Kevin McColgan - 75,000
Michael Marder -65,000
John DiBella - 58,000
Jeffrey Spence - 54,000
Alex Queen - 52,000
Jared Jaffee - 52,000
Deding Xu - 50,000
Asher Conniff - 49,000
Mike Azzaro - 48,000
Alex Rocha - 36,000
Vinny Pahuja - 35,000
DJ MacKinnon - 33,000
Total Day 1B Entries: 56
Players are about to go on their second break of the day, and they will return in (15) minutes with the blinds having gone up to 300/600/100. Here is the first wave of chip counts to be posted throughout the day:
Josh Hertz - 130,000
Joseph Gossweiler - 125,000
Gaetano Taormina - 120,000
Drew Small - 110,000
Joe Black - 82,000
Kevin McColgan - 75,000
Michael Marder -65,000
John DiBella - 58,000
Jeffrey Spence - 54,000
Alex Queen - 52,000
Jared Jaffee - 52,000
Deding Xu - 50,000
Asher Conniff - 49,000
Mike Azzaro - 48,000
Alex Rocha - 36,000
Vinny Pahuja - 35,000
DJ MacKinnon - 33,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Name Sound Familiar?
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Day 1B Players: 54
The last name Kalas may not ring a bell if you're sitting somewhere in the Midwest, but if you're in the Philadelphia area, most everyone will know where they've heard it before. Harry Kalas was the lead play-by-play announcer for the Phillies from 1971-2009. He was also known for his work with the NFL and NFL Films (voice-overs).
His son Kane is a well-known poker player, with a solid resume both online and live. Kane most recently cashed in three events during this summer's WSOP, making a deep run in the $10,000 Main Event (finishing 115th - $52,141). That Main Event cash is the largest cash of his career, with earnings now of $135,365. Kane is currently seated at Table 51, and has had a solid start over the first six levels of the day.
Total Day 1B Players: 54
 |
| Kane Kalas (Coral Gables, FL) |
His son Kane is a well-known poker player, with a solid resume both online and live. Kane most recently cashed in three events during this summer's WSOP, making a deep run in the $10,000 Main Event (finishing 115th - $52,141). That Main Event cash is the largest cash of his career, with earnings now of $135,365. Kane is currently seated at Table 51, and has had a solid start over the first six levels of the day.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Gossweiler Up Top...Level Up
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Day 1B Entries: 54
Players are entering Level 6, with the blinds now going up to 250/500/50. The field continues to get more entries at a slower...but steady pace. There has been a solid mix of players firing second bullets and new arrivals to keep the number rising. Table 53 opened towards the end of Level 5, and currently hosts the two newest players to the field, Adam Levitan and Asher Conniff.
While Gaetano Taormina holds the early chip lead, Joseph Gossweiler (Roseland, NJ) has also seen success over the last few orbits. He is up to 105,000, and sits comfortably with (210) big blinds.
Total Day 1B Entries: 54
 |
| Joseph Gossweiler (Roseland, NJ) |
While Gaetano Taormina holds the early chip lead, Joseph Gossweiler (Roseland, NJ) has also seen success over the last few orbits. He is up to 105,000, and sits comfortably with (210) big blinds.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Cracking Aces...And Queens
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Day 1B Entries: 52
After Gaetano Taormina opened and Renata Colache flatted, Aaron Overton three-bet with action folding around to the original raiser. Both Taormina and Colache would come along, and the dealer would fan out a flop of J♦ 6♥ 3♣. Action would check to Overton, who put out a bet of 5,500. Gaetano would just flat, while Colache check-raised to 12,500.
Aaron would call the check-raise, with Taormina announcing himself all-in (48,000) as he pushed his chips across the line. Renata folded after a few moments of thought (later saying she had queens), with Aaron making the call pretty quickly (for less):
Taormina: 3♠ 3♥ (bottom set)
Overton: A♦ A♥
Aaron began to collect his things as the dealer was running out the turn and river, which would not bring an ace to keep Overton around. The pot was shipped Taormina's way, and he's now over 120,000.
Total Day 1B Entries: 52
 |
| Gaetano Taormina (Newtown, PA) |
Aaron would call the check-raise, with Taormina announcing himself all-in (48,000) as he pushed his chips across the line. Renata folded after a few moments of thought (later saying she had queens), with Aaron making the call pretty quickly (for less):
Taormina: 3♠ 3♥ (bottom set)
Overton: A♦ A♥
Aaron began to collect his things as the dealer was running out the turn and river, which would not bring an ace to keep Overton around. The pot was shipped Taormina's way, and he's now over 120,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Still A Growing Field
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Day 1B Entries: 48
Players are continuing to show up on the late side, taking their seats at the different open spots on the five active tables in the tournament area. Vinny Pahuja (New York, NY) is back and in action for the first time since walking away from the Big Stax 500 final table in fifth place ($18,020). Pahuja had an up-and-down final table, but would eventually run his pocket jacks into the eventual winner's (Craig Bateman) pocket aces.
Some other players to arrive since returning from the first break of the day:
Gretchen Sonne
Alex Rocha
Kevin Grabel
Mike Cologna
Charles Urrutia
Noam Fleigelman
Eugene Fouksman
Total Day 1B Entries: 48
Players are continuing to show up on the late side, taking their seats at the different open spots on the five active tables in the tournament area. Vinny Pahuja (New York, NY) is back and in action for the first time since walking away from the Big Stax 500 final table in fifth place ($18,020). Pahuja had an up-and-down final table, but would eventually run his pocket jacks into the eventual winner's (Craig Bateman) pocket aces.
Some other players to arrive since returning from the first break of the day:
Gretchen Sonne
Alex Rocha
Kevin Grabel
Mike Cologna
Charles Urrutia
Noam Fleigelman
Eugene Fouksman
Big Stax VII ($500 + $500 Purple Chip Bounty): Final Results
Big Stax VII
August 13, 2014
$500 + $500 + 100 No Limit Hold'em (Purple Chip Bounty)
Total Entries: 113
Total Prize Fund: $54,805
Final Results:
August 13, 2014
$500 + $500 + 100 No Limit Hold'em (Purple Chip Bounty)
Total Entries: 113
Total Prize Fund: $54,805
Final Results:
| Place | Player Name | Prize | |
| 1 | Ido | Ashkenazi | $16,991 |
| 2 | Marvin | Siegel | $10,413 |
| 3 | Frank | Lettieri | $6,094 |
| 4 | Felix | Kogan | $4,658 |
| 5 | Gregory | Fishberg | $3,518 |
| 6 | Mohammad | Farah | $2,811 |
| 7 | Scott | Fitz-Gerald | $2,302 |
| 8 | Dennis | Thurman | $1,918 |
| 9 | Michael | Linster | $1,644 |
| 10 | Robert | Albert | $1,414 |
| 11 | Kane | Kalas | $1,014 |
| 12 | Albert | Tribuno | $1,014 |
| 13 | Daniel | Sztenderowicz | $1,014 |
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): DiBella Doubles Through O'Brien
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Day 1B Entries: 42
The action at Table 54 was picked up on the flop in a hand between John DiBella and Jonathan O'Brien. On a board of 3♥ 5♣ 7♥, O'Brien had raised DiBella's flop bet to 20,000. DiBella made the call and the two watched the dealer place the 6♥ on the turn. After a check from Dibella, O'Brien bet 15,000, and John check-raised all-in. It was another 8,575 for O'Brien to call, and although he said aloud he knew he was behind, the call was made:
DiBella: 6♠ 7♠ (turned two pair)
O'Brien: J♦ 7♦ (one pair)
River: Q♣
O'Brien seemed to be surprised when he saw DiBella's hand, and waited to see if the dealer could place a jack on the river. The wrong paint for O'Brien was placed on the felt, and DiBella would double to 85,000 with the pot.
Total Day 1B Entries: 42
 |
| John DiBella (Cave Creek, AZ) |
DiBella: 6♠ 7♠ (turned two pair)
O'Brien: J♦ 7♦ (one pair)
River: Q♣
O'Brien seemed to be surprised when he saw DiBella's hand, and waited to see if the dealer could place a jack on the river. The wrong paint for O'Brien was placed on the felt, and DiBella would double to 85,000 with the pot.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Meeting Of The Minds
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Day 1B Entries: 35
A few new players arrived during break, as Table 52 is now moments from opening up. Will Failla and Jared Jaffee had some time to talk during the break, while waiting for permission to enter the tournament area. There were also joined by Kunal Patel (Friendswood, TX), who was already in the field to start the day.
The three have combined earnings of over $7,000,000, and hold numerous WPT titles and a WSOP Bracelet. What could the topic of conversation be? Poker of course...as discussion of the state of online poker in the U.S. was mainly bounced around. Failla and Jaffe are now sitting with Mike Cologna at Table 52, waiting for one more player to join the table for the cards to get in the air.
Total Day 1B Entries: 35
 |
| Jaffee, Failla, Patel (Left to Right) |
The three have combined earnings of over $7,000,000, and hold numerous WPT titles and a WSOP Bracelet. What could the topic of conversation be? Poker of course...as discussion of the state of online poker in the U.S. was mainly bounced around. Failla and Jaffe are now sitting with Mike Cologna at Table 52, waiting for one more player to join the table for the cards to get in the air.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): First Break Of The Day
Level 4 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1B Entries: 32
Players have completed the first three levels of the day, and they are now going on a (15) minute break. They will return to Level 4 and blinds of 100/200/25, with (32) entries showing on the clock for the day. There has yet to be a player in the field to eclipse the 100,000 mark, but Jeffrey Spence has built a stack of 80,000 to lead the group heading to break.
Total Day 1B Entries: 32
Players have completed the first three levels of the day, and they are now going on a (15) minute break. They will return to Level 4 and blinds of 100/200/25, with (32) entries showing on the clock for the day. There has yet to be a player in the field to eclipse the 100,000 mark, but Jeffrey Spence has built a stack of 80,000 to lead the group heading to break.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Above Average Players
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1B Entries: 30
When Day 1A finished early this morning at 12:45am, there would be (20) players to bag chips for Sunday's Day 2. The chip average for those players at the end of the night stood at 190,000, with only six players bagging above average stacks:
Total Day 1B Entries: 30
When Day 1A finished early this morning at 12:45am, there would be (20) players to bag chips for Sunday's Day 2. The chip average for those players at the end of the night stood at 190,000, with only six players bagging above average stacks:
| Chris | Csik | Hoboken, NJ | 540,000 |
| Jay | Sharon | Fresh Meadows | 417,500 |
| Mike | Linster | Island Park, NY | 369,000 |
| Joshua | Beckley | Marlton, NJ | 349,500 |
| Adam | Larkin | New York, NY | 208,500 |
| Alan | Kraut | Doylestown, PA | 207,500 |
Going into the final level of the night, it looked like the race for the chip lead bonus was going to be between Jay Sharon and Mike Linster (both seated at the same table). Chris Csik ended up having a solid final (45) minutes to assume to chip lead and never look back (he earned the $5,000 bonus).
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Tables Full Of Names
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1B Entries: 28
As mentioned just moments ago, Table 45 adds a new handful of players to the mix, including Joe Black (Bronx, NY). Joe is another player to have been part of a Big Stax trophy event chop, making a four way deal in the Big Stax VI 500. Black would sign for third place money, and receive $38,416.
The rest of the names at the table are all well known players in the community, including:
Gordon Eng
DJ MacKinnon
Mike Azzaro
Jason Paster
Total Day 1B Entries: 28
 |
| Joe Black (Bronx, NY) |
The rest of the names at the table are all well known players in the community, including:
Gordon Eng
DJ MacKinnon
Mike Azzaro
Jason Paster
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Looking For Another Title
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1B Entries: 28
Alex Queen (Bethlehem, PA) already has a Big Stax trophy with his name on it, winning the Big Stax 300 ($67,404) during the last series in May. The tournament did end in a chop, but Queen received first place money and the trophy, while Justin Liberto received about $6,000 less for second.
Alex has just taken his seat at Table 54, directly across from good friend and Parx regular Aaron Overton (Philadelphia, PA). A new table has just opened (Table 45), and once the players are seated and settled, we will bring you the names to join the Day 1B field.
Total Day 1B Entries: 28
 |
| Alex Queen (Bethlehem, PA) |
Alex has just taken his seat at Table 54, directly across from good friend and Parx regular Aaron Overton (Philadelphia, PA). A new table has just opened (Table 45), and once the players are seated and settled, we will bring you the names to join the Day 1B field.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Real Time Tournament Clock Now Offered On Bravo App
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Day 1B Entries: 18
It's pretty clear that the powers that be behind the Parx Poker Room (Bill Entenman, Tom Martucci, Matt Glantz, and Ari Mizrachi) are always looking to better the room and further experiences for players. It was announced yesterday that the "tournament clock" feature will now be available on the Bravo App moving forward. This gives players the opportunity to pull up on their phone any of the information they'd like to know about any given event (number of entries, real-time level updates, spot to be paid, amount of each place):
Total Day 1B Entries: 18
It's pretty clear that the powers that be behind the Parx Poker Room (Bill Entenman, Tom Martucci, Matt Glantz, and Ari Mizrachi) are always looking to better the room and further experiences for players. It was announced yesterday that the "tournament clock" feature will now be available on the Bravo App moving forward. This gives players the opportunity to pull up on their phone any of the information they'd like to know about any given event (number of entries, real-time level updates, spot to be paid, amount of each place):
Real time clock data for all of our tournaments will be displayed on the Bravo Poker Live app. pic.twitter.com/kBSUClUDyy
— Parx Poker Room (@parxpokerroom) August 13, 2014
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): No Shortage Of Quality
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Day 1B Entries: 18
While the field is "close knit" at the moment, trends have shown that players just prefer to show up fashionably late. Regardless of anyone's schedule, the show still goes on, and there are three active tables housing a handful of notable players:
Jeffrey Spence
Staffan Lind
Kevin McColgan
John DiBella
Renata Colache
Michael Marder
Austin Buchanan
Donald Ciresi
John O'Brien
Ray Schackelford
Aaron Overton
Total Day 1B Entries: 18
While the field is "close knit" at the moment, trends have shown that players just prefer to show up fashionably late. Regardless of anyone's schedule, the show still goes on, and there are three active tables housing a handful of notable players:
Jeffrey Spence
Staffan Lind
Kevin McColgan
John DiBella
Renata Colache
Michael Marder
Austin Buchanan
Donald Ciresi
John O'Brien
Ray Schackelford
Aaron Overton
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Hoping For Better Results
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: TBD
Always updating via Twitter, Michael Marder posts his entry receipt for his fans and investors most every event he plays. Marder has numerous cashes in Big Stax events, but he is still looking for a deep final table finish. Marder played long hours yesterday, but ran Jx 10x into the Jx Jx of Anthony Brandi all in pre to bust in Level 14. Michael knows bagging chips is always a challenge, as he mentioned in his Tweet, but hopes today goes a little but better.
Total Day 1B Entries: TBD
Always updating via Twitter, Michael Marder posts his entry receipt for his fans and investors most every event he plays. Marder has numerous cashes in Big Stax events, but he is still looking for a deep final table finish. Marder played long hours yesterday, but ran Jx 10x into the Jx Jx of Anthony Brandi all in pre to bust in Level 14. Michael knows bagging chips is always a challenge, as he mentioned in his Tweet, but hopes today goes a little but better.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1B): Building On Yesterday
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Day 1B Entries: TBD
Day 1A of the Big Stax 1500 came and went, as we saw (76) total entries throughout the day, with (20) left to bag when the final hand was finished. Chris Csik (Hoboken, NJ) would end the night with the chip lead, bagging 540,000 for Day 2 on Sunday (and earning an extra $5,000 for his efforts). The tournament supervisor is about to make the rules announcement to those already seated, and the cards will be in the air momentarily. Once the field begins to settle in, a post with the "early bird" notables will be published.
Total Day 1B Entries: TBD
Day 1A of the Big Stax 1500 came and went, as we saw (76) total entries throughout the day, with (20) left to bag when the final hand was finished. Chris Csik (Hoboken, NJ) would end the night with the chip lead, bagging 540,000 for Day 2 on Sunday (and earning an extra $5,000 for his efforts). The tournament supervisor is about to make the rules announcement to those already seated, and the cards will be in the air momentarily. Once the field begins to settle in, a post with the "early bird" notables will be published.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): End Of Day 1A Chip Counts
| Day 1A | |||
| Total Players: | 76 | Players left: | 20 |
| Total Chips: | 3,800,000 | Average Chips: | 190,000 |
| Chris | Csik | Hoboken, NJ | 540,000 |
| Jay | Sharon | Fresh Meadows | 417,500 |
| Mike | Linster | Island Park, NY | 369,000 |
| Joshua | Beckley | Marlton, NJ | 349,500 |
| Adam | Larkin | New York, NY | 208,500 |
| Alan | Kraut | Doylestown, PA | 207,500 |
| Robert | Bolte | Richboro, PA | 186,500 |
| Sean | Wallace | Horsham, PA | 170,000 |
| Geno | Raman | Mount Laurel, NJ | 170,000 |
| Andrew | Lydor | Pheonixville, PA | 148,000 |
| Daniel | Fischer | Vineland, NJ | 144,000 |
| Mike | Moore Jr | Somerdale, NJ | 130,000 |
| Robert | Link | Jenkintown, PA | 127,500 |
| Robert | Hwang | Barnegat, NJ | 113,500 |
| Benjamin | Gillette | Lancaster, PA | 110,000 |
| Jesse | Cohen | Ardmore, PA | 98,500 |
| Mikhail | Kazakevich | Richboro, PA | 92,000 |
| Matthew | Meade | East Windsor, NJ | 82,500 |
| Gregory | Fishberg | Huntington Valley, PA | 79,000 |
| Matthew | Maccaroni | Hamilton Square, NJ | 57,000 |
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): "Five Dimes" Csik
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
While Chris Csik (Martinsville, NJ) went into the final level with a count in the top third of the field, it would be a solid final (45) minutes that would propel him to the $5,000 Day 1A Chip Lead Bonus. Chris would put 540,000 in his bag going into Day 2.
Another notable to bag Day 2 chips and update his count on Twitter was Alan Kraut (Doylestown, PA), who goes into Sunday with 207,500. The rest of the end of Day 1A chip counts will be posted in just over an hour.
The live updates page will be in action once again, tomorrow morning at 11:00am, when the cards are in the air for Day 1B.
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
 |
| Chris Csik (Martinsville, NJ) |
Another notable to bag Day 2 chips and update his count on Twitter was Alan Kraut (Doylestown, PA), who goes into Sunday with 207,500. The rest of the end of Day 1A chip counts will be posted in just over an hour.
The live updates page will be in action once again, tomorrow morning at 11:00am, when the cards are in the air for Day 1B.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Layout For End Of Night
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
We are now (15) minutes into the final level of the night, so it's time to look at the final stages of the day. The tournament supervisor will pause the clock with 10:00 showing on the clock. He will then announce how many hands remain for each table, with those hand being played, and players then starting the bagging process. The end of day chip counts will be posted shortly after the night is over, with those bagging returning Sunday at 12:00pm for Day 2.
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
We are now (15) minutes into the final level of the night, so it's time to look at the final stages of the day. The tournament supervisor will pause the clock with 10:00 showing on the clock. He will then announce how many hands remain for each table, with those hand being played, and players then starting the bagging process. The end of day chip counts will be posted shortly after the night is over, with those bagging returning Sunday at 12:00pm for Day 2.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Remaining Field
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
The intimate field gives an opportunity for us to take a look as exactly who remains going into the final level:
Table 46:
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
The intimate field gives an opportunity for us to take a look as exactly who remains going into the final level:
Table 46:
- Moshe Dahan
- Daniel Fischer
- Greg Fishberg
- Jesse Cohen
- Chris Csik
- Mike Moore
- Menachem Landwirt
- Matthew Meade
- (Empty)
Table 51:
- Robert Link
- Mike Kazakevich
- (Empty)
- Sean Wallace
- Andrew Lydon
- Geno Raman
- Anthony Brandi
- Ben Gillette
- Joshua Beckley
Table 54:
- Adam Larkin
- Vincent Longo
- Mike Linster
- Robert Hwang
- Rob Bolte
- Alan Kraut
- Jay Sharon
- Nancy Martin
- Matthew Macaroni
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Big Stacks Before Final Break
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
Players are about to go on their final (15) minute break, and will return to Level 15 and blinds of 2,000/4,000/500). Taking a look at the chip counts with just one level to go, Jay Sharon (Fresh Meadows, NY) is definitely a favorite at the moment, with just under 400,000 (390,000 to be exact). He's seated at the same table with the player second in chips, as Mike Linster tries to build on his 295,000 stack. Here are the updated chip counts:
Jay Sharon - 390,000
Mike Linster - 295,000
Chris Csik - 290,000
Daniel Fischer - 185,000
Sean Wallace - 180,000
Matthew Meade - 178,000
Notable still alive going into final level:
Nancy Martin
Andrew Lydon
Robert Link
Alan Kraut
Matthew Macaroni
Robert Hwang
Jesse Cohen
Greg Fishberg
Joshua Beckley
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
Players are about to go on their final (15) minute break, and will return to Level 15 and blinds of 2,000/4,000/500). Taking a look at the chip counts with just one level to go, Jay Sharon (Fresh Meadows, NY) is definitely a favorite at the moment, with just under 400,000 (390,000 to be exact). He's seated at the same table with the player second in chips, as Mike Linster tries to build on his 295,000 stack. Here are the updated chip counts:
Jay Sharon - 390,000
Mike Linster - 295,000
Chris Csik - 290,000
Daniel Fischer - 185,000
Sean Wallace - 180,000
Matthew Meade - 178,000
Notable still alive going into final level:
Nancy Martin
Andrew Lydon
Robert Link
Alan Kraut
Matthew Macaroni
Robert Hwang
Jesse Cohen
Greg Fishberg
Joshua Beckley
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Marder Busts Late
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
After an open in early position to 6,000 from Anthony Brandi, Michael Marder three-bet all-in for 52,800. The players behind all folded around fairly quickly, with action back on Brandi, who sat with a total of 85,000. Anthony tossed to chips in his hand for a few minutes, agonizing with his decision, before throwing in a call. Brandi was shocked to see that he was in dominating shape with J♦ J♠ against the J♥ 10♥ of Marder. The runout would bring no help for Michael, and he'd be eliminated from Day 1A play short of bagging. With Marder's elimination, the field is now on three active tables, with (27) remaining,
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
After an open in early position to 6,000 from Anthony Brandi, Michael Marder three-bet all-in for 52,800. The players behind all folded around fairly quickly, with action back on Brandi, who sat with a total of 85,000. Anthony tossed to chips in his hand for a few minutes, agonizing with his decision, before throwing in a call. Brandi was shocked to see that he was in dominating shape with J♦ J♠ against the J♥ 10♥ of Marder. The runout would bring no help for Michael, and he'd be eliminated from Day 1A play short of bagging. With Marder's elimination, the field is now on three active tables, with (27) remaining,
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Updated Chip Counts/Level Up
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
Level 14 started just moments ago, with players now posting blinds of 1,500/3,000/400. With only two levels now remaining in the night, it's a good time to look at the contenders for the $5,000 end of day chip lead bonus:
Mike Linster - 300,000
Daniel Fischer - 265,000
Jay Sharon - 230,000
Joshua Beckley - 225,000
Chris Csik - 220,000
Sean Wallace - 180,000
Total Day 1A Entries: 76
Level 14 started just moments ago, with players now posting blinds of 1,500/3,000/400. With only two levels now remaining in the night, it's a good time to look at the contenders for the $5,000 end of day chip lead bonus:
Mike Linster - 300,000
Daniel Fischer - 265,000
Jay Sharon - 230,000
Joshua Beckley - 225,000
Chris Csik - 220,000
Sean Wallace - 180,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Hooks Hold For Wallace
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1A Entries: 75
Sean Wallace would open from the cutoff to 5,000, with Andrew Lydon flatting on the button, and Greg Himmelbrand three-betting from the big blind to 65,000. Wallace took some time before looking up to the dealer and announcing himself all-in (77,000). Lydon would fold and Himmelbrand would toss the rest of his chips in, at risk when then hands were tabled:
Himmelbrand: A♣ K♠
Wallace: J♦ J♠
Runout: J♣ 7♣ 3♦ 4♥ 8♠
"That's not the flop I envisioned," said Greg as he watched Sean flop top set. Himmelbrand was drawing dead on the turn, and he'd wish the players luck as he left the table. Wallace is now over 160,000 with that pot, and sits with a top ten stack.
Total Day 1A Entries: 75
 |
| Sean Wallace (Horsham, PA) |
Himmelbrand: A♣ K♠
Wallace: J♦ J♠
Runout: J♣ 7♣ 3♦ 4♥ 8♠
"That's not the flop I envisioned," said Greg as he watched Sean flop top set. Himmelbrand was drawing dead on the turn, and he'd wish the players luck as he left the table. Wallace is now over 160,000 with that pot, and sits with a top ten stack.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Linster Looked Up Before Break
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1A Entries: 74
As the field was away from the tables and on break, a hand was still unfolding at Table 54. Mike Linster would be all-in and at risk, pushing an additional 41,900 on top of the 24,000 bet he was faced with. The board read 2♣ 3♠ 8♠, with Mike's opponent fighting with himself over the decision. After cutting out chips, and shuffling for three minutes, a call was made:
Linster: 8♣ 8♦ (top set)
Player X: 9♥ 9♠ (over pair)
Turn: 4♣
River: A♦
Linster's set would win the hand comfortably, and Mike would peak right before break with that pot worth over 140,000.
Total Day 1A Entries: 74
 |
| Mike Linster (Island Park, NY) |
Linster: 8♣ 8♦ (top set)
Player X: 9♥ 9♠ (over pair)
Turn: 4♣
River: A♦
Linster's set would win the hand comfortably, and Mike would peak right before break with that pot worth over 140,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Stretching Their Legs
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Day 1A Entries: 73
Players are heading on a (15) minute break and will be coming back to Level 13, and blinds of 1,200/2,400/300. There will be two more levels played, a final break for the night, and the last level before chips will be bagged for Day 2. Action is currently spread across four tables, with (35) active bodies in the seats.
Total Day 1A Entries: 73
Players are heading on a (15) minute break and will be coming back to Level 13, and blinds of 1,200/2,400/300. There will be two more levels played, a final break for the night, and the last level before chips will be bagged for Day 2. Action is currently spread across four tables, with (35) active bodies in the seats.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Csik Chipping Up
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
Csik is currently seated at Table 46, with a handful of notables and a lot of chips on the table. Also seated at Table 46:
Sean Wallace
Daniel Fischer
Greg Fishberg
Jesse Cohen
Geno Raman
Matthew Meade
John DiBella
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
 |
| Chris Csik (Martinsville, NJ) |
Chris Csik is beginning to build up an above average stack, chipping up to 145,000. Csik was one of three players to chop the Big Stax 500 during the Big Stax V series. Chris would come to a deal with Izzet Temel and James Anderson, taking home what turned out to be 3rd Place money, just over $50,500. He just made a deep run in the Big Stax 500, making Day 3 and finishing in 12th Place for $5,010.
Csik is currently seated at Table 46, with a handful of notables and a lot of chips on the table. Also seated at Table 46:
Sean Wallace
Daniel Fischer
Greg Fishberg
Jesse Cohen
Geno Raman
Matthew Meade
John DiBella
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Updated Chip Counts
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
Players have just entered Level 12, with the blinds going up to 1,000/2,000/300 (71 total entries). There will be a (15) minute break at the end of this level, but here are some updated chip counts from the level's transition:
Joshua Beckley - 270,000
Jay Sharon - 240,000
Rob Bolte - 230,000
John DiBella - 170,000
Alan Kraut - 165,000
Vincent Trongo - 145,000
Andrew Lydon - 135,000
Daniel Fischer - 130,000
Jonathan Borenstein - 130,000
Matthew Meade - 120,000
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
Players have just entered Level 12, with the blinds going up to 1,000/2,000/300 (71 total entries). There will be a (15) minute break at the end of this level, but here are some updated chip counts from the level's transition:
Joshua Beckley - 270,000
Jay Sharon - 240,000
Rob Bolte - 230,000
John DiBella - 170,000
Alan Kraut - 165,000
Vincent Trongo - 145,000
Andrew Lydon - 135,000
Daniel Fischer - 130,000
Jonathan Borenstein - 130,000
Matthew Meade - 120,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Harwood's Hard Luck
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
Loni Harwood's (Staten Island, NY) return to the felt ended pretty abruptly moments ago, as she updated her bustout hand via Twitter:
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
Loni Harwood's (Staten Island, NY) return to the felt ended pretty abruptly moments ago, as she updated her bustout hand via Twitter:
Busted AA vs KK aipf he flopped a king. Welcome back to poker Londog
— Loni Harwood (@Luscious_Lon) August 15, 2014
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Losing Some Names
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
While there have been a handful of players to bust and re-enter throughout the day, the field has seen a couple of notable leave the tournament area for what's perceived to be the night. Philip Hui (San Antonio, TX) was above average returning from dinner, but has since been eliminated from Day 1A play.
After losing the race to Greg Himmelbrand a short while ago, Jeffrey Spence would be left super short, and would bust shortly thereafter. There are currently (40) active players on five tournament tables, with a chip average sitting at 88,750.
Total Day 1A Entries: 71
While there have been a handful of players to bust and re-enter throughout the day, the field has seen a couple of notable leave the tournament area for what's perceived to be the night. Philip Hui (San Antonio, TX) was above average returning from dinner, but has since been eliminated from Day 1A play.
After losing the race to Greg Himmelbrand a short while ago, Jeffrey Spence would be left super short, and would bust shortly thereafter. There are currently (40) active players on five tournament tables, with a chip average sitting at 88,750.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Himmelbrand Squeezes And Doubles
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Day 1A Entries: 70
After an open at Table 52 and three calls, Greg Himmelbrand would shove from the blind for 38,500. Greg founder a taker in Jeffrey Spence, one of the players to initially have flatted the raise. The rest of the players would fold in turn, and the hands would be tabled:
Spence: A♥ K♦
Himmelbrand: 5♥ 5♦
Flop: 6♦ A♠ 5♠
Turn: 3♠
River: 4♠
Greg would flop a set to win the hand, and double to just over 90,000.
Total Day 1A Entries: 70
 |
| Greg Himmelbrand |
Spence: A♥ K♦
Himmelbrand: 5♥ 5♦
Flop: 6♦ A♠ 5♠
Turn: 3♠
River: 4♠
Greg would flop a set to win the hand, and double to just over 90,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Silberstein Stays Alive...Sharon Still Strong
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Day 1A Entries: 69
Jay Sharon (current chip leader) opened for a raise to 3,500, with Ken Silberstein shoving for his remaining 19,900 in turn. The blinds would fold and Sharon would do some mental math before announcing a call:
Silberstein would flop a seven and double up to stay alive (43,000), with Sharon taking a small hit to his stack, which still sits over 220,000.
Total Day 1A Entries: 69
Jay Sharon (current chip leader) opened for a raise to 3,500, with Ken Silberstein shoving for his remaining 19,900 in turn. The blinds would fold and Sharon would do some mental math before announcing a call:
Sharon: 4♥ 4♦ Silberstein: A♠ 7♠
Flop: 3♣ 7♣ 10♥
Turn: J♥
River: 9♣
Silberstein would flop a seven and double up to stay alive (43,000), with Sharon taking a small hit to his stack, which still sits over 220,000.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Belly Full...Back To Play
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Day 1A Entries: 69
Players have returned from dinner break, and the cards are once again in the air. There were three entries post dinner, including the second bullet from Big Stax 500 winner Craig Bateman (Bryn Mawr, PA). Tonight's play will play down to the (10) minute mark remaining in Level 15, with a determined amount of hands to be played, and then the bagging process.
Total Day 1A Entries: 69
Players have returned from dinner break, and the cards are once again in the air. There were three entries post dinner, including the second bullet from Big Stax 500 winner Craig Bateman (Bryn Mawr, PA). Tonight's play will play down to the (10) minute mark remaining in Level 15, with a determined amount of hands to be played, and then the bagging process.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Dinner Break
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Entries: 67
Those players still active in the field are now going on dinner break, which will last from 6:20-7:35pm. They will return to Level 10 and blinds of 600/1,200/200, and six more levels to play in the night. Live updates of all the Day 1A action will start back up once the cards are again in the air.
Total Entries: 67
Those players still active in the field are now going on dinner break, which will last from 6:20-7:35pm. They will return to Level 10 and blinds of 600/1,200/200, and six more levels to play in the night. Live updates of all the Day 1A action will start back up once the cards are again in the air.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Pre-Dinner Chip Counts
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 67
Players are now at the midway point of Level 9, and Matthew Meade's chip lead is all but a memory now, as a handful of players have caught up quickly. Here are some of the notable counts from the field before dinner:
Jau Sharon - 210,000
Joshua Beckley - 200,000
Alan Kraut - 185,000
Daniel Fischer - 175,000
Matthew Meade - 175,000
Jonathan Borenstein - 130,000
Nancy Martin - 110,000
Jesse Cohen - 100,000
Philip Hui- 90,000
John DiBella - 90,000
Robert Link - 82,000
Will Failla - 80,000
Loni Harwood - 75,000
Chris Csik- 47,000
Sean Wallace - 43,000
Mike Linster - 43,000
Michael Marder - 43,000
Jeffrey Spense - 35,000
Gordon Eng - 26,000
Greg Himmelbrand - 22,000
Total Day 1A Entries: 67
Players are now at the midway point of Level 9, and Matthew Meade's chip lead is all but a memory now, as a handful of players have caught up quickly. Here are some of the notable counts from the field before dinner:
Jau Sharon - 210,000
Joshua Beckley - 200,000
Alan Kraut - 185,000
Daniel Fischer - 175,000
Matthew Meade - 175,000
Jonathan Borenstein - 130,000
Nancy Martin - 110,000
Jesse Cohen - 100,000
Philip Hui- 90,000
John DiBella - 90,000
Robert Link - 82,000
Will Failla - 80,000
Loni Harwood - 75,000
Chris Csik- 47,000
Sean Wallace - 43,000
Mike Linster - 43,000
Michael Marder - 43,000
Jeffrey Spense - 35,000
Gordon Eng - 26,000
Greg Himmelbrand - 22,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Level Up...Then Dinner
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 66
Players have just entered Level 9, with the blinds going up to 500/1,000/100 (66 total entries). After the conclusion of this level, players will be going on a (75) minute dinner break (6:20-7:35pm). Play will then continue through the end of Level 15, with those remaining bagging chips for Day 2 on Sunday.
Total Day 1A Entries: 66
Players have just entered Level 9, with the blinds going up to 500/1,000/100 (66 total entries). After the conclusion of this level, players will be going on a (75) minute dinner break (6:20-7:35pm). Play will then continue through the end of Level 15, with those remaining bagging chips for Day 2 on Sunday.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Meade's Making Moves
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 65
"Nobody is close to me right now right? I'm going for the $5,000," Matthew Meade stood up from the table and said for his table to hear. "I mean I've only been here for an hour." Meade is currently the top stack at the moment with 180,000, but there are still seven levels to be played.
Meade has $5,368 in career tournament earnings, with his largest score coming in 2008 at a Cardplayer Spadeclub Poker Classic event. Matthew also as a 14th place finish from the WPT Parx Open Poker Classic, in a $230 No Limit Hold'em Event ($1,152). Meade's status will surely be updated throughout the tournament, as he moves forward with seemingly one goal in mind...bag the chip lead.
Total Day 1A Entries: 65
 |
| Matthew Meade |
Meade has $5,368 in career tournament earnings, with his largest score coming in 2008 at a Cardplayer Spadeclub Poker Classic event. Matthew also as a 14th place finish from the WPT Parx Open Poker Classic, in a $230 No Limit Hold'em Event ($1,152). Meade's status will surely be updated throughout the tournament, as he moves forward with seemingly one goal in mind...bag the chip lead.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): The Century Club
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 62
One of the players with a top three stack in the field has an accomplished tournament resume, but hasn't had a recorded cash since 2011. Daniel Fischer (Glassboro, NJ) has a WSOPC ring from that year, winning a $1,100 No Limit Hold'em event during the circuit series at Harrah's Atlantic City. Fischer would earn over $67,000 for the win, and only one month later he was back at it again, final tabling a $1,090 No Limit Hold'em event at Borgata (4th Place - $24,444). Daniel's stack is currently second largest in the room (155,000), with the list of players above the 100,000 mark listed below:
Vincent Longo - 175,000
Daniel Fischer - 155,000
Joshua Beckley - 135,000
Alan Kraut - 120,000
Wall Failla - 114,000
Nancy Martin - 112,000
Jesse Cohen - 100,000
Total Day 1A Entries: 62
One of the players with a top three stack in the field has an accomplished tournament resume, but hasn't had a recorded cash since 2011. Daniel Fischer (Glassboro, NJ) has a WSOPC ring from that year, winning a $1,100 No Limit Hold'em event during the circuit series at Harrah's Atlantic City. Fischer would earn over $67,000 for the win, and only one month later he was back at it again, final tabling a $1,090 No Limit Hold'em event at Borgata (4th Place - $24,444). Daniel's stack is currently second largest in the room (155,000), with the list of players above the 100,000 mark listed below:
Vincent Longo - 175,000
Daniel Fischer - 155,000
Joshua Beckley - 135,000
Alan Kraut - 120,000
Wall Failla - 114,000
Nancy Martin - 112,000
Jesse Cohen - 100,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Bateman Back In Action
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 61
Just over (72) hours after chopping his first major tournament, Craig Bateman (Bryn Mawr, PA) is back in action for today's Day 1A. Craig came into Day 3 of the Big Stax 500 3/15 in chips, but as play reached the final table, he began to separate himself from the field. It also helped that he picked up pocket aces in some critical spots, and won each of those hands. Bateman was the overwhelming chip leader when play got three-handed, and ended up getting $71,719 for his share of the deal, and got to go home with the trophy.
Total Day 1A Entries: 61
 |
| Craig Bateman (Bryn Mawr, PA) |
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Returning From A Break
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 61
While players are coming back from a (15) minute break, Loni Harwood (Staten Island, NY) returns to to action today after a month long break. The WSOP bracelet winner comes to Parx with over $1,440,000 in career earnings, including a bracelet in Event #60 of the 2013 WSOP ($1,500 No Limit Hold'em). Loni had four cashes in this year's WSOP, and then took the time off to attend to family matters.
Harwood is of to a solid start this afternoon, sitting with 60,000 in front of her after only (30) minutes of play. Looking at the chips during break, Alan Kraut (Doylsetown, PA) has pushed towards the top of the leaderboard, with a stack of 125,000 in front of his seat.
Total Day 1A Entries: 61
 |
| Loni Harwood (Staten Island, NY) |
Harwood is of to a solid start this afternoon, sitting with 60,000 in front of her after only (30) minutes of play. Looking at the chips during break, Alan Kraut (Doylsetown, PA) has pushed towards the top of the leaderboard, with a stack of 125,000 in front of his seat.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Break Time
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: 57
Players are about to step away and go on their second break of the day. They will return to Level 7 and blinds of 300/600/100 (57 total entries). Just a reminder for those players looking to get into this event via satellite, there is one remaining to play in, tomorrow at 7:00pm. The satellite is a $330 No Limit Hold'em Super Satellite. Players will begin with 15,000 in chips, with registration and late entry open until the beginning of Level 8. For every $1,600 in the prize pool, a seat will be given away to the Big Stax 1500 (with any uneven remainder given as a cash prize).
Total Day 1A Entries: 57
Players are about to step away and go on their second break of the day. They will return to Level 7 and blinds of 300/600/100 (57 total entries). Just a reminder for those players looking to get into this event via satellite, there is one remaining to play in, tomorrow at 7:00pm. The satellite is a $330 No Limit Hold'em Super Satellite. Players will begin with 15,000 in chips, with registration and late entry open until the beginning of Level 8. For every $1,600 in the prize pool, a seat will be given away to the Big Stax 1500 (with any uneven remainder given as a cash prize).
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Longo In The Early Lead
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Day 1A Entries: 54
The early lead in the Day 1A field belongs to Vince Longo, who currently sits with 120,000 in front of him. Long is looking to best his only recorded cash, a 23rd place finish in this 1500 event during the Big Stax V series in March.
Also at Vincent's table is Will Failla, who has made quick work of his second bullet, already up to 95,000. There were also a couple of more notables to enter the field just moments ago, as Mike Linster and Gordon Eng both take their seats in the field.
Total Day 1A Entries: 54
 |
| Vincent Longo |
Also at Vincent's table is Will Failla, who has made quick work of his second bullet, already up to 95,000. There were also a couple of more notables to enter the field just moments ago, as Mike Linster and Gordon Eng both take their seats in the field.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Living Up To His Nickname
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Day 1A Entries: 49
Will "The Thrill" Failla wasn't able to find much traction with his first bullet of the day, already down to less than 20 bigs only an hour after sitting down. He was UTG+2 and announced himself all-in before the cards were even dealt, with everyone at the table folding. The very next hand he would do the same thing, leaving out 7,100 right across the line as the dealer was cutting the deck.
This time he would get a call from the player to his direct left, with action folding around to Jonathan Borenstein in the big blind. Borenstein would three bet to 22,000, and the isolation raise would work, as he got the hands heads up with Failla (playing blind). Jonathan would turn over 9♥ 9♠, with Failla telling him he had at least one over. Will's hand was eventually tabled after a slow peel (Q♥ 3♣), with the A♦ 8♦ K♠ K♦ 8♠ runout less than helpful. Failla said good luck to his table mates and walked to the cage to re-enter the tournament.
Total Day 1A Entries: 49
Will "The Thrill" Failla wasn't able to find much traction with his first bullet of the day, already down to less than 20 bigs only an hour after sitting down. He was UTG+2 and announced himself all-in before the cards were even dealt, with everyone at the table folding. The very next hand he would do the same thing, leaving out 7,100 right across the line as the dealer was cutting the deck.
This time he would get a call from the player to his direct left, with action folding around to Jonathan Borenstein in the big blind. Borenstein would three bet to 22,000, and the isolation raise would work, as he got the hands heads up with Failla (playing blind). Jonathan would turn over 9♥ 9♠, with Failla telling him he had at least one over. Will's hand was eventually tabled after a slow peel (Q♥ 3♣), with the A♦ 8♦ K♠ K♦ 8♠ runout less than helpful. Failla said good luck to his table mates and walked to the cage to re-enter the tournament.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): First Chips Counts Of The Day
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Day 1A Entries: 48
The field has gained a few more notable players, as Will Failla and Jonathan Borenstein both take their seats at Table 53. Here are some chip counts taken toward the end of Level 4:
Alan Kraut - 100,000
Jesse Cohen - 90,000
Chau Nguyen - 68,000
Greg Himmelbrand - 65,000
John DiBella - 62,000
Jason Paster - 60,000
Sean Wallace - 55,000
Matt Macaroni - 54,000
Joe Palma - 54,000
Greg Fishberg - 51,000
Michael Marder - 48,000
Nancy Martin - 46,000
Total Day 1A Entries: 48
The field has gained a few more notable players, as Will Failla and Jonathan Borenstein both take their seats at Table 53. Here are some chip counts taken toward the end of Level 4:
Alan Kraut - 100,000
Jesse Cohen - 90,000
Chau Nguyen - 68,000
Greg Himmelbrand - 65,000
John DiBella - 62,000
Jason Paster - 60,000
Sean Wallace - 55,000
Matt Macaroni - 54,000
Joe Palma - 54,000
Greg Fishberg - 51,000
Michael Marder - 48,000
Nancy Martin - 46,000
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Later Arrivals
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Day 1A Entries: 42
The field continues to grow at a slower...but steady pace than usual, with many notables showing up with the opening of a new table. Aaron Overton (Philadelphia, PA) is one of the newest players in the field, sitting down to a Big Stax event for the first time ever. Overton is a well-known player at Parx, but primarily for his cash game play, a staple in the 10/10 NL game. Aaron does have an accomplished tournament resume though, with just under $250,000 in career earnings, including a summer last year when he cashed in five WSOP events. Also to sit down moments ago:
Chris Csik
Geno Raman
Chau Nguyen
Total Day 1A Entries: 42
The field continues to grow at a slower...but steady pace than usual, with many notables showing up with the opening of a new table. Aaron Overton (Philadelphia, PA) is one of the newest players in the field, sitting down to a Big Stax event for the first time ever. Overton is a well-known player at Parx, but primarily for his cash game play, a staple in the 10/10 NL game. Aaron does have an accomplished tournament resume though, with just under $250,000 in career earnings, including a summer last year when he cashed in five WSOP events. Also to sit down moments ago:
Chris Csik
Geno Raman
Chau Nguyen
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): First Break Of The Day
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Entries: 36
Players are heading away from the tables and are taking their first (15) minute break of the day. They will return to Level 4 and blinds of 150/300/50. It's a good time to remind those currently playing (and those thinking about playing) that there is once again an end of day chip lead bonus for this event ($5,000 for each starting day).
Total Entries: 36
Players are heading away from the tables and are taking their first (15) minute break of the day. They will return to Level 4 and blinds of 150/300/50. It's a good time to remind those currently playing (and those thinking about playing) that there is once again an end of day chip lead bonus for this event ($5,000 for each starting day).
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Back On American Soil
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1A Entries: 35
After a solid summer in Las Vegas, Greg Himmelbrand (Oakland Gardens, NY) took a trip to Europe and has now returned to catch the final event of this series. While in Las Vegas, Greg won a $500 No Limit Hold'em event at the Wynn Summer Classic for $69,000, and finished in the top 100 of the WSOP $10,000 Main Event (99th Place - $61,313).
Himmelbrand then went out to Europe for a friend's wedding in Greece, and spent time afterwards traveling to Iceland, Sweden, Amsterdam...just to name a few spots. Greg has two Big Stax final tables to his name, one of which ended in a chop during the Big Stax III 300, just over a year ago ($43,457). He is currently seated at a newly opened table in the tournament area, also hosting the likes of Jeffrey Spence, Matthew Macaroni, and Robert Link.
Total Day 1A Entries: 35
 |
| Greg Himmelbrand (Oakland Gardens, NY) |
Himmelbrand then went out to Europe for a friend's wedding in Greece, and spent time afterwards traveling to Iceland, Sweden, Amsterdam...just to name a few spots. Greg has two Big Stax final tables to his name, one of which ended in a chop during the Big Stax III 300, just over a year ago ($43,457). He is currently seated at a newly opened table in the tournament area, also hosting the likes of Jeffrey Spence, Matthew Macaroni, and Robert Link.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): ICYMI...It Was "Worm Time" On Monday
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1A Entries: 30
While the Big Stax 500 final table was winding down late Monday evening, there was another final table just getting started. The $230 NLH/PLO Mix event had just reached the final ten when the three players were chopping the Big Stax 500, with the storyline surrounding Parx regular Joe Palma (Bensalem, PA). Better known to players and staff as "Worm," Palma came into the table with a solid chip lead, and was able to continue his dominance all the way to a win, and first place money of $6,735.
While Joe may not hold the top spot in total tournament earnings at Parx, there isn't another player with more total cashes than him (11). He is closely followed by Peter Ippolito (10), Jason Rivkin (9), and a handful with (8) cashes. Palma is currently seated at Table 54, and sits only two seats away from Parx notable Jason Paster. Joe's fans were all asking for the trophy picture from Monday, so their requests were granted:
Total Day 1A Entries: 30
 |
| Joe Palma (Bensalem, PA) |
While the Big Stax 500 final table was winding down late Monday evening, there was another final table just getting started. The $230 NLH/PLO Mix event had just reached the final ten when the three players were chopping the Big Stax 500, with the storyline surrounding Parx regular Joe Palma (Bensalem, PA). Better known to players and staff as "Worm," Palma came into the table with a solid chip lead, and was able to continue his dominance all the way to a win, and first place money of $6,735.While Joe may not hold the top spot in total tournament earnings at Parx, there isn't another player with more total cashes than him (11). He is closely followed by Peter Ippolito (10), Jason Rivkin (9), and a handful with (8) cashes. Palma is currently seated at Table 54, and sits only two seats away from Parx notable Jason Paster. Joe's fans were all asking for the trophy picture from Monday, so their requests were granted:
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Tournament Clock Now Offered On Bravo
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Day 1A Entries: 29
It's pretty clear that the powers that be behind the Parx Poker Room (Bill Entenman, Tom Martucci, Matt Glantz, and Ari Mizrachi) are always looking to better the room and further experiences for players. It was announced yesterday that the "tournament clock" feature will now be available on the Bravo App moving forward. This gives players the opportunity to pull up on their phone any of the information they'd like to know about any given event (number of entries, real-time level updates, spot to be paid, amount of each place):
Total Day 1A Entries: 29
It's pretty clear that the powers that be behind the Parx Poker Room (Bill Entenman, Tom Martucci, Matt Glantz, and Ari Mizrachi) are always looking to better the room and further experiences for players. It was announced yesterday that the "tournament clock" feature will now be available on the Bravo App moving forward. This gives players the opportunity to pull up on their phone any of the information they'd like to know about any given event (number of entries, real-time level updates, spot to be paid, amount of each place):
Real time clock data for all of our tournaments will be displayed on the Bravo Poker Live app. pic.twitter.com/kBSUClUDyy
— Parx Poker Room (@parxpokerroom) August 13, 2014
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Notables Make Up Most Of The Field
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Day 1A Entries: 27
The trend of days starting slowly continues, as many of the early afternoon's throughout this series have seemed light, but ended up with surprising numbers. Many of those seated at the moment are recognizable faces:
Nancy Martin
Ken Silberstein
John DiBella
Sean Wallace
Greg Fishberg
Jesse Cohen
Keith DeAngelis
Joe Palma
Jeff Gross
Alan Kraut
Michael Marder
Total Day 1A Entries: 27
The trend of days starting slowly continues, as many of the early afternoon's throughout this series have seemed light, but ended up with surprising numbers. Many of those seated at the moment are recognizable faces:
Nancy Martin
Ken Silberstein
John DiBella
Sean Wallace
Greg Fishberg
Jesse Cohen
Keith DeAngelis
Joe Palma
Jeff Gross
Alan Kraut
Michael Marder
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Back For More
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Day 1A Entries: TBD
After taking some time away from the game to concentrate on his business, Alan Kraut (Doylestown, PA) is back at Parx. He was one of the first players seated, returning just 12 hours after bubbling yesterday's $500+500 Purple Chip Bounty. Kraut has seen success this series though, making a deep Day 2 run in the Big Stax 300 (33rd Place - $1,948). It's just one if many deep runs Alan had had here at Parx, but he hopes to get through the roadblock that's kept him from a Big Stax trophy.
Total Day 1A Entries: TBD
 |
| Alan Kraut (Doylestown, PA) |
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): Let's Get This Show On The Road
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: TBD
The tournament supervisor has made the rules announcement, and the cards are in the air for the Big Stax 1500. The same structure applies to this tournament as the two main trophy events prior, with the exception of a larger starting stack. The field to begin the day is very intimate, but as it begins to grow, a list of notables spotted will be posted.
Big Stax 1500 (Day 1A): The Time Is Now
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Day 1A Entries: TBD
This afternoon begins the "main event" of the Big Stax VII series, as action in the Big Stax 1500 begins just after 11:00am. After falling just short of a new record number in the Big Stax 300 (1,848 entries), and setting a new record in the Big Stax 500 (925 entries), it will be interesting to see how the field plays out for this event. Live coverage will begin the moments the cards are in the air, and will continue through the final moments of Day 3.
Total Day 1A Entries: TBD
This afternoon begins the "main event" of the Big Stax VII series, as action in the Big Stax 1500 begins just after 11:00am. After falling just short of a new record number in the Big Stax 300 (1,848 entries), and setting a new record in the Big Stax 500 (925 entries), it will be interesting to see how the field plays out for this event. Live coverage will begin the moments the cards are in the air, and will continue through the final moments of Day 3.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Big Stax VII (Purple Chip Bounty): Cards In The Air
Level 1 (Blinds 25/50)
Total Entries: TBD
The standard pre-tournament procedure has already been completed (rules announcement), and the cards are already in the air for what's likely the most looked forward to Big Stax VII side event. At registration for the event, ever player will receive a purple $500 chip, which they will keep on the table with their tournament chips. For every player you eliminate, their $500 chip will become yours to keep.
Players sit down with starting stacks of 25,000, with levels lasting (30) minutes for Levels 1-9, transitioning to (40) minutes from Level 10 to tournament's completion. For those not in the tournament, but interested in possibly getting in, registration and late entry will end when Level 10 begins.
Total Entries: TBD
The standard pre-tournament procedure has already been completed (rules announcement), and the cards are already in the air for what's likely the most looked forward to Big Stax VII side event. At registration for the event, ever player will receive a purple $500 chip, which they will keep on the table with their tournament chips. For every player you eliminate, their $500 chip will become yours to keep.
Players sit down with starting stacks of 25,000, with levels lasting (30) minutes for Levels 1-9, transitioning to (40) minutes from Level 10 to tournament's completion. For those not in the tournament, but interested in possibly getting in, registration and late entry will end when Level 10 begins.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Big Stax 500 (Day 3): 1st Place - Bateman ($71,719)
Level 31 (Blinds 75,000/150,000/25,000)
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
After the elimination of Zaslavsky, the three players paused the clock to discuss a potential chop. The numbers were worked out amongst the three players, and here is how they broke it down:
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
 |
| Craig Bateman (Bryn Mawr, PA) |
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
Big Stax 500 (Day 3): 2nd Place - Montes ($64,769)
Level 31 (Blinds 75,000/150,000/25,000)
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
After the elimination of Zaslavsky, the three players paused the clock to discuss a potential chop. The numbers were worked out amongst the three players, and here is how they broke it down:
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
 |
| Jose Montes (Bronx, NY) |
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
Big Stax 500 (Day 3): 3rd Place - Xu ($50,290)
Level 31 (Blinds 75,000/150,000/25,000)
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
After the elimination of Zaslavsky, the three players paused the clock to discuss a potential chop. The numbers were worked out amongst the three players, and here is how they broke it down:
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
Players Remaining: 3
Chip Average: 12,400,000
 |
| Deding Xu (Philadelphia, PA) |
Craig Bateman - $71,719
Jose Montes - $64,769
Deding Xu - $50,290
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