Updated: PHamous Poker Series Goliath To Mirror WSOP Schedule This Summer in Las Vegas
Every year, starting in late May, the poker world descends upon Las Vegas for this biggest event in the industry, the World Series of Poker. However, not everyone can afford to pony up tens of thousands of dollars to play a series of high-profile bracelet events. Many look to build their bankrolls playing smaller tournament series around town, planning on taking a shot in a WSOP event should they hit a big score.
With so many casinos looking to draw players, competition is fierce for the three-figure buy-in player pool. Aria, Wynn, Venetian, and Golden Nugget are among the venues hosting signature tournament series each summer. Another is Planet Hollywood, which recently rolled out the schedule for their 2015 series, the PHamous Poker Series Goliath.
The ambitious schedule nearly mirrors the length of the WSOP, running from May 31 to July 5, and boasts over $4.75 million in guaranteed prize pools.
It kicks off with a bang, the "Goliath Opening Event." The event features an identical $565 buy-in with a $500,000 guarantee, conveniently beginning the day after the final starting flight of the WSOP Colossus event for players who fail to bag a stack at the Rio and remain thirsty for tournament action.
No-limit hold'em isn't the only game on tap for the Goliath series either, as mixed games dot the schedule, including dealer's choice tournaments and triple stud events. Those looking for faster play can choose from a variety of turbos and one-day options. Official structures have yet to be released.
The series peaks with a $1,150 Main Event that has a $1 million guarantee, starting on June 25, a big step up from 2014. Last year's main event had a $560 entry and proved to be a big hit with players, drawing 922 runners to create a $451,780 prize pool. Kien Tieu took top honors and $56,000 in prize money.
Below is a look at the updated schedule of events for the PHamous Poker Series Goliath:
According to Mitch Dietze, tournament coordinator for Planet Hollywood, the event will be held on the mezzanine level where over 70 tournament tables will bet set up.
*Please note that all events allow unlimited reentry except for events listed as one bullet only.
Overall, the Goliath series offers more than $4.5 million in guaranteed prize money. Planet Hollywood officials anticipate a huge turnout, aiming to be "the second biggest tournament series in the city" this summer. For more information, check out the poker room's twitter feed @PT_Poker.
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