Congratulations to Jason Mercier, Event #5 Champion! ($237,415)

[user25067]

Jason Mercier jumped out to a massive chip lead on Day 1 of this tournament and never had to look back. Buoyed by a rail full of friends, the 22-year old Floridian took down his first WSOP bracelet this afternoon, a shiny addition to a mantle that is already home to two EPT trophies.

Mercier was calm and in control for the duration of the final table. While some of his opponents ended up spewing off chips when they grew short-stacked, Mercier remained patient and battled back. When heads-up play commenced, Mercier took control about 30 minutes into the match, his experience and skill truly shining through.

Kudos are also due to Steven "PiKappRaider" Burkholder, who turned in a runner-up performance despite his own self-admitted status as a PLO novice.

Congratulations to Jason Mercier, one of the good guys of poker, on his bracelet-winning performance. Drinks are on him tonight!