Joe Hachem, Shane Warne to Host Charity Tournament During Aussie Millions
Former world poker champ Joe Hachem and legendary cricketer Shane Warne will host a charity poker tournament this weekend to benefit seriously ill and underprivileged children in Australia. The 5th Annual Joe Hachem and Shane Warne Charity Poker Tournament will kick off on Sunday, Jan. 15 at 1 p.m. in the official film studio of Crown’s Aussie Millions Poker Championship.
The $1,000 tournament entry fee gives players the unique opportunity to play alongside sports stars and celebrities, as well as some of the world’s most accomplished poker players. In addition to Warne and Hachem, the list of attendees already includes Tony G, Clonie Gowen, Atlanta Braves pitcher Peter Moylan, television personality Fifi Box, boxer Jeff Fenech, and rugby players Brendon Goddard, Luke Hodge, Jason Akermanis, Jimmy Bartel, Dermott Brereton and Leigh Montagna.
More than 100 players are already registered for the event, creating a prize pool of more than $65,000. The winner will receive a Las Vegas High Roller package, which includes a $10,000 Main Event entry to the World Series of Poker, along with return airfare and accommodations in Las Vegas. Second prize is a 2012 Aussie Millions Package, which includes a seat to the $10,000 Main Event, and third place will also receive a buy-in for the 2012 Aussie Million Main Event.
Proceeds from the charity tournament will go toward the Shane Warne Foundation, which raises money to help enrich the lives of underprivileged children and teenagers in Australia. Since 2004, the foundation has raised more than $5 million with approximately 80 percent reaching those in need.
Interested players are encouraged to register for their seats at www.tswf.com.au.