WSOPC Event #1: $400 No-Limit Hold'em 30K Opener

 

With 185 entries on Day 1A, Day 1B has a solid chance of doubling that number. As the second break begins, there are already 288 entries and re-entries, making up $435,744 of the guaranteed million dollar prize pool.

 

One of the more notable late entries comes from 5-time WSOP Bracelet winner Scotty Nguyen who has lightened the mood around his side of the room. He sits with about a starting stack at the second break.

 

After the first break, 2-time Ring winner and WSOP Bracelet winner Craig Varnell held the apparently chip lead and not much has changed as Varnell has a stack of about 175,000 in front of him. A quick count shows few if any players are about to cross the 200,000 barrier. Ring winner Eric Bunch continues to increase his stack, now at around 165,000.

 

All-time Ring leader, with 15 of them, Maurice Hawkins sits in the middle of the room with about 120,000 and a Smash Burger spread. "I'll buy you one before I share it, those are the rules," he said jokingly to another player at the table.

 

Play will continue into the money with all advancing players combining on Sunday for Day 2 at 12pm CT.

 

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