EPT London gets underway

2008-10-02 12:19:00

As the World Series of Poker Europe nears its end at the Casino at the Empire in Leicester Square, the European Poker Tour (EPT) London event has gotten underway at the Grosvenor Victoria Casino on Edgware Road.

Almost 300 players took part on day 1a, according to the EPT's official website, with 2006 champion Victoria Coren among them.

Other players ponying up on the opening day include John Phan, Gus Hansen, Chris Ferguson, Patrik Antonius and Joe Beevers.

A total of 398 competitors took part last year and this record looks set to be shattered in 2008, according to Card Player.

As such, it appears possible that the winner's prize could exceed $2 million, which would be the biggest payout ever for a non-Grand Final EPT event.

Last month, Alan Bowden of InsidePoker Magazine claimed that the London leg was expected to be "one of the highlights" of the EPT season.