The vibrant atmosphere of the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa was electric as Day 2 of the $3,000 Mystery Bounty event of the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus drew to an exhilarating close. The day began with a packed field of 305 players, but as the sun set, the number dwindled to just 15, setting the stage for an intense final showdown.

Surviving the Bubble

As the pressure mounted, the tension was palpable at the tables. With 128 players guaranteed a payout, the tension reached a breaking point when two players—Lukas Zaskodny and Fabian Schmidt—found themselves eliminated just before the money bubble burst. Both players walked away with a split min-cash, a bittersweet ending to their hopes at glory on this action-packed day.

Day 2 Chip Leaders

By the end of the day, the leaderboard was dominated by Uladzimir Zhyharau from Belarus, who returned to his formidable chip-leading status with an impressive 4,920,000 in chips. Starting the day with a strong stack, Zhyharau capitalized on critical moments, notably doubling his stack with pocket tens against Krum Polihronov right before the end of the day. He later solidified his lead by winning a pot with pocket eights against Aren Bezhanyen.

While it was an almost flawless day for Zhyharau, it was not without challenges. However, his tactical acumen and timely decisions positioned him favorably as the tournament headed into the critical final stages.

In hot pursuit was Ryhor Karapanau, who bagged up 3,225,000 in second place. His aggressive style paid off as he eliminated several players towards the close of the day, including Konstantin Voronin and Henok Tekle.

Notably, Nicolae Paunescu was the only other player to surpass 3 million chips, closing out Day 2 in third position. Other players like Marius Kudzmanas and Matthias Lipp also solidified their places among the chip leaders, setting the stage for a dynamic Day 3.

The Thrill of Mystery Bounty

One of the defining features of this tournament format is the enticing Mystery Bounty aspect, which allows players to win substantial prizes through eliminations. As this distinctive format came into play during Level 15, whispers of excitement filled the room. A total of three $75,000 prizes were up for grabs alongside two $40,000 envelopes.

The first big winner of the session was Alik Zazian, who fortuitously pulled out a $75,000 prize during the bubble but finished in 116th place for a consolation payout of $3,400. The thrill escalated during the dinner break when Matthias Lipp made headlines by miraculously pulling two $75,000 bounties in succession—momentarily shaking the tournament ground with cheers from his supporters. With an excellent run already in terms of bounties, Lipp finished the day with a healthy stack of 2,325,000 chips, showing that luck was on his side.

Additionally, Stefan Uebber and Alessandro Pichierri celebrated their successful forays into the bounty chest, both securing $40,000 prizes. Other players such as Alexey Losev, Hadi Khordbin, and Patrick Leonard joined the bounty-hunting frenzy, claiming varying sums from the prize pool.

Remaining Payouts and What’s Next

As Day 2 drew to a close, it became evident that the real action had yet to take place. With a staggering $1,509,072 in the prize pool, players were eagerly eyeing the lucrative payouts ahead. The stakes are high for the final table, with the first-place prize set at an impressive $265,972.

Day 3 promises to be a thrilling affair, kicking off at midday local time with blinds at 25,000/50,000 and a 50,000 big blind ante. As players return to average stacks of over 30 big blinds, the game is expected to unfold rapidly, particularly with many of the current leaders holding significant chips.

Conclusion

As the remaining players prepare for Day 3, the anticipation is palpable for poker enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. Dramatic showdowns, strategic maneuvering, and life-changing prizes await in what promises to be an unforgettable continuation of the $3,000 Mystery Bounty event at the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus. Stay tuned to PokerNews for live updates as these combatants battle for supremacy on the felt.

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The excitement surrounding the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus reaches new heights as the highly anticipated $5,300 EPT Main Event moves deeper into its thrilling rounds. After witnessing an impressive 1,284 entries, only 45 skilled contenders remain as the tournament resumes today at 12 p.m. EEST, held at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa.

The Resilience of Anton Wigg: A Former Champion in Contention

Among the standout players in this elite group is Anton Wigg, a notable presence with a rich history in the European Poker Tour. Wigg is the last remaining player in the field to have previously clinched the title of EPT Main Event champion, achieving this feat back in 2010 at EPT Copenhagen. His journey since then has included narrowly missing out on a final table appearance multiple times, with a heart-wrenching 14th place finish in Berlin in 2012 marking a significant near-miss.

Adding an interesting layer to his story, Wigg’s next best EPT finish occurred at the inaugural EPT Cyprus, where he exited in 18th position after a fateful flip late on Day 4. Today, Wigg starts Day 4 in a strong position, placing tenth in chips with a competitive stack of 1,195,000 chips. With his sights firmly set on a final table return, Wigg’s experience and skill may very well guide him to success in the remaining rounds.

The Leaderboard: Bobby James Sets the Pace

As the tournament unfolds, Bobby James leads the pack with an impressive chip count of 2,605,000. The player hailing from the United Kingdom has established himself as a formidable opponent throughout this festival, also securing a Spadie trophy for winning the $1,100 8-Game event earlier. James’ remarkable run on the Mediterranean coastline has included a 19th place finish in the Eureka Main Event and a 12th place in the High Roller.

Following closely behind is Damir Zhugralin from Kazakhstan with 2,410,000 chips, and another British player, Philip Joyce, who holds 2,175,000 chips. The competition is fierce, and the possibility of thrilling showdowns is high as the players navigate the complexities of tournament poker.

Top Ten Chip Counts

Eager Eyes on the Table: Player Dynamics and Strategies

The dynamics at the table are as intense as ever, with two other players—Andrea Dato and Halil Tasyurek—who reached the final table in the previous EPT event also making their presence felt. Dato, who finished as the runner-up last time, and Tasyurek, who placed fourth, are well-equipped with tournament experience and strategies that could propel them into the later stages yet again.

As they prepare for today’s gameplay, both Dato and Tasyurek will look to leverage their knowledge from past performances in EPT events, as they currently rank well in chip counts, setting the stage for another competitive showdown.

The Plan for Day 4: What Lies Ahead

Play will recommence at noon, kicking off at Level 21 with blinds of 10,000/15,000 and a 15,000 big blind ante. Players must tactically navigate their chips with the average stack hovering close to 60 big blinds. The expectation is to continue play until only 16 players remain or for six levels, whichever comes first, with scheduled breaks after each level.

A significant elephantine prize pool of $6,227,400 means that all remaining 45 players are guaranteed a minimum payout of $18,240, whereas securing a spot at the final table will net players a minimum of $123,400. Victory will hold a lucrative champion’s prize of $1,030,000 along with the prestigious EPT trophy.

Live Updates and Following the Action

For those eager to stay updated, comprehensive coverage of the event will be available on PokerNews, along with cards-up coverage of the feature table on PokerStars’ live streaming channels, set to commence at 12:30 p.m. EEST.

Catch all the action as the EPT Cyprus caravan rolls on—competitors will battle it out, with dreams of championship glory within reach. Each decision made and each chip stacked brings us one step closer to crowning the next European Poker Tour champion.

Remaining Payouts

Stay closely tuned with PokerNews to immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the EPT as champions rise and rivalries ignite!

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The stunning backdrop of the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino and Spa in Northern Cyprus served as the perfect stage for the exhilarating 2024 European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus. For ten days, the atmosphere was electric as players from around the globe showcased their skills in high-stakes tournaments. The series culminated in a nail-biting finish in the EPT Main Event, where German professional Oliver Weis emerged victorious, outlasting contenders from eight different poker nations.

Record-Breaking Participation and Prize Pool

This year’s EPT Cyprus Main Event attracted a remarkable 1,284 entries, each paying a buy-in of $5,300, which culminated in a staggering prize pool of $6.2 million. Despite the hefty competition, only 191 players managed to walk away with a profit. Timo Kamphues, another German player, fell just shy of the final table, finishing in ninth place with a payout of $94,940. He went all-in with an ace-eight but faced elimination at the hands of Weis, who flipped over a jack-nine, turning the tide further in his favor.

A Dramatic Final Table: Italian Jacks Dismantled by Ladies

As the final table began to take shape, anticipation grew amidst the throngs of fans and spectators. The first major confrontation came when Italian player Andrea Dato found himself with pocket jacks. Unable to hold against Weis’ pocket queens—who also hit a queen on the flop—Dato was forced to exit the tournament in eighth place, leaving with $123,400. This initial setback set the tone as Weis continued to build an impressive stack, establishing himself as a formidable contender.

Bobby James, a well-known figure in the British poker scene, also faced early challenges. After outlasting a fierce battle with Bulgarian Anton Kraous, who ultimately finished in seventh place for $160,500, James moved all-in with king-queen but was outclassed by Georgios Tsouloftas’ ace-jack. With the board favoring Tsouloftas, James collected $271,400 as he exited in fifth place.

Grinding for Glory: Weis’ Tenacity Shines

As the thrilling battle continued, Ukrainian professional Andriy Lyubovetskiy fell in fourth place to Weis, whose aggressive style and intelligent play were on full display. Lyubovetskiy had gone all-in on a board showing T-5-4-7-2 but could not put away Weis’ ten-seven. With each elimination, Weis’ momentum was palpable, leading him into what would become an epic showdown.

Entering three-handed play, Weis’ chip lead brought confidence. However, he later experienced a dip, dropping to third in chips momentarily. But during this time, he showcased resilience, demonstrating the mettle that champions are made of. As we progressed, Russian Mikhail Shalamov met his end in third place after clashing with Tsouloftas. Shalamov’s ace-seven couldn’t compete against the Cyprus pro’s ace-ten, catapulting Tsouloftas into a commanding 3:1 chip lead.

The Final Showdown: From Underdog to Champion

Weis had to dig deep as he found himself at a staggering 5:1 chip disadvantage against Tsouloftas. However, the German was unfazed; he skillfully navigated the high-pressure environment and turned the tables dramatically. After successfully calling a big bluff and increasing his stack, Weis climbed to an 80% chip advantage.

The final clash arrived when Tsouloftas went all-in with king-deuce against Weis’ suited queen-seven. A stroke of fortune came Weis’ way as the flop revealed a seven, giving him the lead. The board completed with a five on both the turn and river, sealing his fate as the EPT Cyprus champion. Weis, with the triumph, secured his first-ever seven-figure payout, a well-deserved reward for a performance marked by skill and fortitude.

Final Table Results Summary

The tournament concluded with a engrossing final table, showcasing remarkable talent from various countries. Here are the results from the EPT Cyprus Main Event:

The EPT Cyprus at the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino and Spa will be remembered not only for the stunning location but for the intense competition that the final table delivered. Oliver Weis can now add his name to the illustrious list of EPT champions, marking a significant milestone in his professional poker career. With the conclusion of this thrilling event, the poker community eagerly anticipates the next epic showdown in the tour.

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The poker scene in Cyprus was ablaze on Day 1 of the $25,000 Second Chance event, the concluding high-stakes showdown of the 2024 European Poker Tour. Hosted at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, this event drew a competitive field of 31 players eager to claim their share of the substantial prize pool. Though the initial action only lasted four hours, the drama unfolded quickly, with many players firing multiple bullets before the day wrapped up.

As the dust settled, the total number of entries climbed to 38, thanks largely to the late registration still open until the start of Day 2. With each late entry, the tension and stakes grew, setting the stage for an exhilarating continuation of the competition.

Chip Leaders Impressive Start

By the end of Day 1, Lebanese player Albert Daher had asserted himself as the chip leader with a staggering stack of 885,000 chips. Daher, a seasoned competitor in EPT High Roller events, had once again proven his mettle, notably taking down multiple high roller titles in his illustrious career. Just days prior, he had showcased his skill by winning against Mikita Badziakouski in a high-profile tournament in Cyprus.

Trailing close behind Daher was Elias Gutierrez, a member of the esteemed PokerStars Team Pro. Recently crowned as the winner of the $25,000 Super High Roller Warm Up, Gutierrez has continued to ride a wave of momentum, finishing the day with 808,000 chips. Rounding out the top three was Hassan Nashar from Senegal, who managed to accumulate 805,000 chips after testing the waters with three initial bullets—all part of his aggressive quest for victory.

Top Ten Chip Counts

As the players settled in for Day 2, here’s how the top contenders stacked up:

Highlights of the Day’s Action

The day exploded into action as players jostled for position. Notably, Masashi Oya surged to an early lead by executing a clever play, slowplaying aces against Juan Pardo, who was left nursing a hurt pride after losing with ace-king on a unfavorable board. Although Oya retreated from high-stakes actions for the rest of the night, he ended with a respectable stack of 356,000.

Unexpected twists kept spectators on the edge of their seats, especially when Jelle Moene claimed the lead after a brutal cooler—a straight versus straight confrontation with Jérémie Zouari. However, Moene’s reign would be short-lived, as Nashar’s dynamic playing style earned him back-to-back wins and a rapid ascent up the leaderboard.

While Nashar’s aggressive tactics did create opportunities for others, including Gutierrez, his re-entries showed a tenacity that was commendable. His ability to recover from eliminations only fueled more excitement among the players and observers alike.

As Daher began to shift gears and build a commanding stack, he did so in dramatic fashion, notably hitting on the river with ace-five versus Simone Andrian’s ace-king in a pivotal hand that would propel him toward the top.

What Lies Ahead: Day 2

Looking ahead, Day 2 promises a fresh wave of excitement starting at 12:30 p.m. local time. As the competition resumes from Level 9 with blinds at 3,000/6,000 and a 6,000 big-blind ante, players will face intense pressure as they vie for the title.

With a healthy collection of solid players ready to make their mark, including Duco ten Haven, Leonard Maue, Steve O’Dwyer, and Recep Aydemir, expectations run high for a day filled with brilliant poker strategy and fierce competition.

As more last-minute entries are anticipated, each moment will bring potential shifts in dynamics and chip counts. Stay tuned with PokerNews for live updates and insights as we inch closer to crowning another high roller champion in beautiful Cyprus!

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The anticipation for high-stakes poker was palpable as the $25,000 Second Chance event kicked off at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa in Cyprus. This event, the final high roller tournament of the 2024 European Poker Tour Cyprus, saw 31 players gather for a day filled with intense action, strategic gameplay, and significant bankrolls.

A Quick Overview of Day 1

Despite the action being limited to just four hours of play, the energy in the room was electric. As players began to bust, many opted to re-enter, and by the end of the day, the total number of entries jumped to 38. Late-registration remains open until the start of Day 2, promising an even larger field and potentially larger prize pools.

When the dust settled, Albert Daher emerged as the chip leader, having bagged an impressive stack of 885,000 chips. Not far behind, Elias Gutierrez, a recent champion of the $25,000 SHR Warm Up, held 808,000 chips. Completing the top three was Hassan Nashar with 805,000, who demonstrated remarkable resilience by firing three bullets before finding his footing.

A Rising Star: Albert Daher

Albert Daher is no stranger to EPT High Roller events, boasting three victories in recent years. His resurgence in the Cyprus high roller scene includes a memorable win over Mikita Badziakouski last year, which earned him a substantial $264,690 first-place prize. As the chip leader going into Day 2, Daher is well-positioned to continue his dominance and potentially secure another victory.

Top Ten Chip Counts

The Action of the Day

The day started with Masashi Oya taking an early lead, showcasing his skills by slowplaying aces against Juan Pardo‘s ace-king on a king-high board. However, the spotlight soon shifted to Jelle Moene, who seized the chip lead after a dramatic cooler—a straight versus straight clash against Jérémie Zouari.

As the tournament progressed, Hassan Nashar entered with an aggressive strategy, frequently employing large bet sizes and even playing cards without looking at them. His unusual tactics paid off as he soon became a force to be reckoned with, contributing to an already dynamic table.

Gutierrez capitalized on Nashar’s erratic play to double his stack and eliminate Nashar temporarily before he re-entered the tournament. Despite the setbacks, Nashar quickly regained his chips, winning critical pots—including a flip against Moene with pocket tens. Meanwhile, Daher also made a significant climb up the leaderboard by hitting a lucky five on the river against Simone Andrian‘s ace-king.

Looking Ahead to Day 2

As the stage is set for Day 2, the excitement remains high with more players expected to join the fray. Scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 17, at 12:30 p.m. local time, gameplay will resume at Level 9, where blinds will be 3,000/6,000 with a 6,000 big-blind ante. With fifteen-minute breaks scheduled after every four levels and a 75-minute dinner break after Level 20, players will have opportunities to recharge and refine their strategies.

Day 2 promises to be filled with drama as the game unfolds, with seasoned pros and emerging talents alike vying for the coveted high roller title. The world of poker enthusiasts will surely keep their eyes on the action as it continues to unfold in Cyprus.

Conclusion

The commencement of the $25,000 Second Chance event at the EPT Cyprus has already showcased incredible skill and thrilling gameplay, setting a high bar for what is yet to come. As the best players put their strategies to the test, fans and participants alike are in for an exhilarating ride. Be sure to follow PokerNews for ongoing coverage and updates as we inch closer to crowning the next high roller champion!

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As the sun set over the stunning Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, Day 4 of the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) in Cyprus set the stage for intense poker action. The $5,300 Main Event drew a remarkable 1,284 entries, and after a dramatic day, only 16 contenders remained in the hunt for poker glory.

Georgios Tsouloftas Takes the Lead

Hailing from Cyprus, Georgios Tsouloftas emerged as the chip leader at the end of Day 4, bagging a staggering 7,970,000 chips, equivalent to 159 big blinds. Tsouloftas boasts over a million dollars in live tournament earnings, primarily accrued through local competitions. Until this deep run, a significant placing in an EPT event had eluded him, with his closest near-miss being a 26th place finish in the $1,100 Eureka Main Event just days earlier.

Tsouloftas is no stranger to the poker scene, and his confidence was palpable as he navigated through Day 4, showcasing exceptional skill and strategic play that enabled him to build an impressive stack.

Challenging Rivals

Trailing Tsouloftas in second place is Oliver Weis, with 4,540,000 chips. Weis, a German player with just over two million in live earnings, found success last year at EPT Paris, where he claimed victory in a €10,300 High Roller tournament. Following Weis is Andriy Lyubovetskiy from Ukraine, another formidable player with 3,970,000 chips and a record of impressive finishes in high-stakes tournaments.

The competition is fierce, with seasoned players like Damir Zhugralin from Kazakhstan and Mikhail Shalamov from Russia also making strong showings in the top ranks.

End of Day 4 Top Ten Chip Counts

The Roller Coaster Ride of Day 4

The day began with excitement as 45 players returned to the felt. However, the first level quickly saw the field reduced to 34 players, indicating a day full of action and eliminations. Notable early exits included Diogo Coelho, the Eureka High Roller winner, and Victoria Livschitz, both taking home $18,240.

Players faced fierce competition, and eliminations came thick and fast throughout the day. The likes of Guillermo Gordo and Fahredin Mustafov also fell victim to the relentless pace of play. Notably, Marta Miquel Munoz continued to make her mark as the last remaining female contestant, showcasing her skill amidst the male-dominated field.

Final Showdown and Future Implications

As the players approached the final moments of the day, Tsouloftas’s aggression and skill shone through. After a series of successful confrontations, he eliminated multiple players, culminating in his decisive actions against Chakib Mhiri and Yisha Chen, who became the final player to leave before the end of the night.

With 16 players remaining, Day 5 promises to be even more electrifying. Each player is ensured a payout of $42,280, with escalating amounts for those who continue to advance. The champion will walk away with a life-changing $1,030,000.

Remaining Payouts Overview

Looking Ahead

As the tournament resumes tomorrow at noon local time, players will return with heightened stakes and strategies. The action will continue with a focus on crafting the official final table, setting the stage for thrilling play and unforgettable moments. You won’t want to miss the live commentary and updates on PokerNews as the 2024 EPT Cyprus unfolds!

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As the sun dipped below the Mediterranean horizon, another intense day at the 2024 European Poker Tour Cyprus ignited excitement and drama within the elegant confines of the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa. The spotlight was on the $5,300 EPT Main Event, where players pushed the limits of skill and strategy on Day 2. With a staggering 1,284 entries generating a massive prize pool of $6,227,400, the competition was fierce, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament experience.

Leaderboard After Day 2: Mustafov Takes the Lead

When the dust settled, 144 players walked away with a stack of chips, poised for battle on the road to the coveted victory. At the forefront was Bulgaria’s own Fahredin Mustafov, who triumphed with an impressive chip count of 920,000, placing him at the top of the leaderboard. Right on his heels was Russia’s Ivan Zabiiakin, boasting 915,000, while Germany’s Oliver Weis held a respectable 715,000 in his arsenal.

Top Ten Chip Counts

An Engaging Day of Play

Day 2 commenced with high-stakes energy as registration remained open until noon, allowing for 55 last-minute entries. This influx brought the total number of participants to 1,284, further accentuating the gravity of the competition. The hefty prize for the victor stands at an eye-watering $1,030,000, with a minimum payout of $8,400 for those reaching the money bubble.

Prominent players such as Stephen Song, Ren Lin, and Aliaksei Boika began the day in high spirits, hoping to replicate their past successes.

Despite the promising start, the day quickly turned tumultuous. Renowned player Barny Boatman was among the first to hit the rail, quickly followed by others, including Dimitar Danchev and Kenny Hallaert. The stakes became even higher as the field neared the money bubble, leading to palpable tension at every table.

Bubble Boy Drama

As the tournament progressed towards the critical point of the bubble, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Samuel Fournier emerged as the unfortunate bubble boy, facing a crucial coin flip with pocket queens against Mihai Niste’s ace-king. A river flush sealed his exit, marking a heart-wrenching end for Fournier while securing the remaining 191 players a share of the prize pool.

Notable Eliminations and Rising Stars

While some heavyweights exited early, other players demonstrated their resilience. Mustafov’s remarkable ascent was highlighted by a significant pot worth nearly 800,000 chips gained through a full house, underscoring his determination to secure a third EPT title after victories in Prague.

However, the day wasn’t without its losses; former champions like Hossein Ensan and Stephen Song also succumbed to the pressures of the event, joining a list of notable casualties that included Steve O’Dwyer and Fintan Hand.

Among those who emerged from the day with a boost to their chip stack was Lucien Cohen, who made quads to finish with 394,000 chips, strategically positioning himself for the days ahead.

Remaining Payouts & What’s Next

With the action ramping up, players now eye their ultimate goal—the coveted first-place prize of $1,030,000. Here’s a quick overview of the top payouts:

• 1st: $1,030,000
• 2nd: $642,300
• 3rd: $459,000
• 4th: $353,100
• 5th: $271,400

The stakes are becoming increasingly high as Day 3 beckons with renewed vigor, set to kick off at 12 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, where blinds will be at 2,500/5,000 with a 5,000 big blind ante. With an average stack of 267,500 chips (approximately 53 big blinds), excitement looms for players and spectators alike.

Stay tuned with PokerNews for real-time updates as we continue to follow the gripping journey of the 2024 EPT Main Event where only the strongest will survive and vie for the esteemed title.

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The excitement of the European Poker Tour (EPT) continues to captivate players and fans alike at the stunning Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa in Cyprus. Day 1b of the EPT Cyprus Main Event saw an impressive influx of 755 new entrants, bringing the total player count to 1,229, and with late registration still open until Day 2, the anticipation is higher than ever. As the chips flew and strategy unfolded, poker players showcased their skills in a bid for victory.

Viktor Ustimov Claims Chip Lead

As the dust settled on Day 1b, Viktor Ustimov emerged as the formidable chip leader among the 260 players who advanced. With a starting stack of 379,000 chips, Ustimov showcased his expertise by accumulating over 30 big blinds more than his nearest competitor. A seasoned player with over $2 million in live tournament earnings, Ustimov has yet to claim an EPT title, but his performance yesterday hints that this could be his moment. Notably, he made a pivotal move by successfully picking off a bluff in a significant pot during the last level, further solidifying his lead.

Top 10 Chip Counts at Day’s End

Here’s a brief look at the top contenders who will be vying for glory on Day 2:

Highlights from Day 1b Action

Day 1b commenced with no shortage of excitement, as players quickly flexed their poker prowess by making remarkable hands. Among the standout moments was Philippe Souki, who achieved a gorgeous straight flush early on, while Panagiotis Oikonomidis managed to secure quads in the same period. Both players capitalized on their early good fortune, with Souki finishing the day with 87,000 chips and Oikonomidis with an impressive 191,000.

An electrifying moment unfolded when Tomas Vaskunas found himself in a dramatic four-way all-in showdown against aces, queens, and jacks. With pocket kings in hand, Vaskunas held the best of it, leading to a significant boost in his stack, which totaled 189,000 at the night’s closure.

The competitive spirit remained palpable in the room as renowned players like Sebastian Malec (85,000), Artur Martirosian (95,000), and Michael Wang (103,000) secured their spots for Day 2. Notably, Anton Wigg, a previous EPT title holder, advanced with a commendable stack of 235,000 and aims to add another victory to his resume.

Upsets and Defections

However, the path to success was not without its tribulations. Gilles Simon, the defending champion, entered the day with high hopes but struggled to gain momentum. Despite early optimism, his tournament life came to an abrupt end when his pocket tens fell victim to a counterpart who paired a queen, resulting in a three-way all-in situation that sealed Simon’s fate.

The day also saw the exits of several established players, including Parker Talbot, Tom Middleton, and Daniel Rezaei, who fell during the last level, further underscoring the cutthroat environment of high-stakes poker.

Looking Ahead to Day 2

As players gear up for Day 2, they can look forward to the resumption of play at 12 p.m. local time on Wednesday, October 16. Action will kick off at Level 11, with blinds set at 1,000/1,500 and a big-blind ante of 1,500. After the first 60-minute level, the duration will extend to 90 minutes, with a break following each round. And for those still eager to enter the fray, late registration will remain open until the commencement of today’s play.

In conclusion, the EPT Cyprus Main Event is far from over, and players and fans alike can expect thrilling action as the competition heats up. Stay tuned to PokerNews for comprehensive coverage and updates as this high-stakes showdown progresses. The battle for the coveted EPT title continues, and the stakes—in chips and prestige—could not be higher!

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The excitement is palpable and the stakes are high at the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, where the European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus Main Event is currently underway. Day 1b brought an impressive addition of 755 entrants, pushing the total number of participants to 1,229, with late registration set to remain open until the start of Day 2. The atmosphere is charged, with players from across the globe vying for a coveted spot in this prestigious tournament.

Ustimov Takes the Lead

When the dust settled at the end of Day 1b, it was Viktor Ustimov who claimed the honor of chip leader among 260 players who survived the initial intense rounds. Ustimov skillfully navigated his way through ten levels of play, escalating his starting stack to a formidable 379,000 chips. This represents over 30 big blinds more than his closest rival, positioning him favorably as he prepares for Day 2.

Ustimov is no stranger to the world of poker, with more than $2 million in live tournament winnings under his belt—albeit without an EPT title to his name. His significant chip stack was bolstered by a memorable moment in the last level of the day, where he successfully called a bluff in a pivotal hand. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Ustimov as he seeks to secure that elusive EPT victory.

Top Ten Chip Counts from Day 1b

As play concluded, here are the standout players at the top of the leaderboard:

Day 1b Highlights: Big Hands, Bigger Moments

The action on Day 1b was anything but dull, starting with Philippe Souki and Panagiotis Oikonomidis, who both showcased their prowess in the early rounds. Souki made waves with an astounding straight flush, while Oikonomidis pulled off an impressive quadruple. Souki finished the day with 87,000 chips, while Oikonomidis bagged 191,000—a testament to the bold plays made early on.

In a thrilling moment that had spectators on the edge of their seats, a multi-way preflop confrontation occurred involving four players: kings against queens, jacks against tens. Tomas Vaskunas emerged as the victor with pocket kings, leading to a significant increase in his stack as he ended the day with 189,000 chips.

Notable Exits and Surprising Turns

Despite the fierce competition, not every big name ended Day 1b on a high note. Defending champion Gilles Simon had a rough day, unable to build momentum before ultimately being eliminated when his pocket tens met a three-way showdown that favored Chase Wilson, who paired his queen.

Other notable players like Parker Talbot, Tom Middleton, and Benjamin Spragg also fell during Day 1b, illustrating the cutthroat nature of the tournament. Spragg’s exit was particularly dramatic, as he was eliminated during the last level after facing a disastrous set versus two pair situation against Adrien Quetelart.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for the Players?

As the EPT Cyprus Main Event continues, Day 2 is set to begin at 12 p.m. local time on Wednesday, October 16. Players will resume at Level 11, with blinds set at 1,000/1,500 and a 1,500 big-blind ante. This stage of the tournament will see a shift in strategy, as levels lengthen from 60 to 90 minutes and players settle in for the long haul.

The opportunity for late registration remains, adding an extra layer of intrigue as players strategize their next moves. With many talented players still in the running, the excitement is only just beginning.

Keep an Eye on PokerNews

For continued updates and in-depth coverage of the EPT Cyprus Main Event, stay tuned to PokerNews. The poker world is abuzz with anticipation, and this year’s event promises to deliver more unforgettable moments as the competition heats up.

The air is thick with tension, stakes are climbing, and the quest for the ultimate poker title has only just commenced. Will Viktor Ustimov seize his moment, or will another player rise to the occasion? Only time will tell as we eagerly await the unfolding drama at the table.

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On October 20, 2023, in a spectacular display of skill and strategy, British poker player Ryan Mandara clinched his largest tournament payday, triumphing in the 2024 European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus $10,300 buy-in no-limit hold’em high roller. Outshining a competitive field of 456 entries, Mandara walked away with an impressive $709,285, propelling his lifetime earnings to a staggering $1,562,093.

A Remarkable Journey

Before this milestone achievement, Mandara’s biggest score stood at $257,321, which he secured as the champion of the prestigious 2018 Irish Poker Open main event. His victory at EPT Cyprus not only symbolizes a personal triumph but also marks a significant upward shift in his career trajectory within the high-stakes poker circuit.

The tournament was a fierce battleground, drawing numerous talented players, making Mandara’s win even more commendable. His ability to navigate through such a dense field underscores his prowess in the game.

Points of Recognition

Beyond the monetary rewards, Mandara’s victory earned him 1,800 coveted Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points. Notably, this was only his second qualifying score for POY this year, the first being a $1,045 buy-in hyper turbo event. These points have rocketed him into the top 200 of the 2024 POY standings, a testament to his growing reputation on the international poker stage.

A High-Stakes Showdown

The tournament total prize pool surpassed $4.4 million, distributed among the top 63 finishers. High-profile players who cashed in included two-time bracelet winners Alexandre Reard and Aleksejs Ponakovs, among others. The competition escalated as the final table narrowed down, with Mandara’s most significant challenge coming in the form of Jelle Moene (3rd place for $386,200) and Stoyan Madanzhiev (4th place for $297,000).

Madanzhiev, the 2020 WSOP Online main event champion, had a notable run before succumbing to Mandara in a critical hand where he pushed all in with A-7 but lost to Mandara’s A-K, ultimately finishing in fourth place.

The Head-Up Battle

Mandara faced Poland’s Sebastian Malec in the heads-up showdown after eliminating Moene. The two players negotiated a deal that secured $697,115 for Malec and $676,785 for Mandara, leaving $32,500 and the trophy on the line.

When the final head-up match resumed, Malec initially had the upper hand with a chip lead of 12,200,000 to Mandara’s 10,600,000. However, the tides quickly turned in Mandara’s favor when he won a significant pot with a strong pocket pair of kings, outmatching Malec’s queens.

The final blow came when Malec, holding K-9, pushed all-in against Mandara’s 10-10. The board revealed 8-6-3-8-4, sealing Malec’s fate and allowing Mandara to claim the title.

The Final Payouts and Points at the EPT Cyprus

Ryan Mandara’s victory at the 2024 EPT Cyprus not only solidified his status among poker’s elite but also provided substantial financial rewards and valuable Player of the Year points. The final table’s payouts were as follows:

As the dust settles on this thrilling event, Ryan Mandara not only garners acclaim for his performance but also inspires upcoming players in the poker circuit. His story is a reminder that hard work and perseverance in the world of professional poker can lead to extraordinary success.

Photo Credit: Rational Intellectual Holdings Ltd. / Eloy Cabacas.

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