Five years ago, the world was grappling with a pandemic, and a young man named Connor Daynard from Toronto was on the brink of discovering a new passion. At just 20 years old, Daynard had no prior experience in poker. However, a friend decided to sponsor a group online home game, sending him and a few others $50 to kick things off. Little did they know, this casual venture would set Daynard on a path towards becoming a competitive player in one of the most prestigious poker series in the world.

An Unlikely Journey Begins

Fast forward to today, and Daynard finds himself in an extraordinary position, closing in on the final table at his first-ever World Poker Tour (WPT) Main Event. As he reflected on the experience during a break with just 16 contenders remaining, he admitted, “It’s kind of a dream come true. I didn’t think I could have a run like this.” The excitement in his voice was palpable, given the fact that he had only played a handful of live events before this.

His journey in the poker world has been electrifying, both metaphorically and literally. Earlier this year, Daynard completed a five-year electrician apprenticeship, a feat he diligently worked towards. However, as he honed his poker skills during his apprenticeship, the allure of poker became too strong to resist.

“I was playing poker throughout my apprenticeship and getting good. As soon as I finished, I quit and took on poker full time, and here we are two months later, final 16 with CAD $400K up top. So, pretty exciting,” he shared.

Balancing Dreams and Reality

Unlike many poker players who abandon their studies or careers to chase their poker dreams, Daynard had a clear plan in mind. He recognized the value of completing his apprenticeship as a safety net before diving full-time into the unpredictable world of poker. “It was always a great backup,” he elaborated. “My friends were super on board, but my family was a bit iffy about the whole thing. But I showed them the numbers and they’re on board. They support me.”

Daynard’s commitment to finishing his apprenticeship demonstrates a level of maturity and foresight that is often overlooked in the high-stakes gaming industry. His decision to plunge into poker was methodical, ensuring that he had something to fall back on.

The Road to Success

Despite facing setbacks, such as firing nine bullets in a previous event without securing a bag, Daynard’s luck took a turn for the better as he stepped into the WPT Playground Championship. “I come here, fire one bullet, bag the chip lead on Day 1, and then bag third in chips on Day 2,” he recounted. His confidence soared as he navigated the tournament, often putting pressure on other players and making bold bluffs that paid off.

Connor Daynard in WPT Playground action.

It’s not just Daynard’s luck that has contributed to his success; it’s also his strategic gameplay that he’s incredibly proud of. “It is just running pure, doing a lot of putting pressure on people when I can, doing one or two crazy bluffs, and so making moves and it’s paying off,” he stated.

Learning from Experience

Interestingly, Daynard was at the Playground just a month earlier for a World Series of Poker (WSOP) International Circuit event, where he experienced minimal success aside from a small min-cash. Before his current run in the WPT, his live tournament earnings stood at only $27,999, including a career-high of $9,126 for a 26th place finish in a previous WSOP event.

But his real strength lies in online poker, where he has developed his skills and confidence. After winning a satellite, he’s already made plans to head to Las Vegas for the upcoming NAPT (National Association of Poker) Las Vegas Main Event, showcasing his rapid ascent in the poker world.

A Bright Future

As Daynard sits in the middle of the pack with 16 players left in the tournament, he is already guaranteed a career-high payout of $19,795, but the hunger for victory remains piqued. With the first-place prize at $296,779, he dreams of securing a life-changing win. The excitement and determination in his voice are compelling reminders of the unpredictable nature of poker—a game shaped by skill, luck, and at times, sheer tenacity.

Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that Daynard’s future in poker is bright and electric, promising a whirlwind of thrilling hands and unforgettable moments ahead.

Photos courtesy World Poker Tour (WPT) / Alicia Skillman

About the Author

Chad Holloway is a PR & Media Manager for PokerNews, podcast host, and a 2013 WSOP Bracelet Winner, bringing years of experience and expertise in the poker industry. His insight fuels the passion for both competitive play and engaging storytelling within the poker community.

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Introduction

In a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, Kristen Foxen has once again made headlines in the poker world. On October 24, 2024, she claimed her fifth career bracelet at the prestigious World Series of Poker (WSOP) by triumphing in a $1,000 buy-in six-max no-limit hold’em event during the WSOP Online series. This victory not only solidifies her position as a leading female player in the game but also extends her lead as the all-time women’s bracelet leader, giving her two more bracelets than any other woman in poker history.

Event Details

While full real-name results are still pending from the WSOP, preliminary figures indicate a robust turnout for the event. The tournament attracted 311 entries and featured five-figure payouts for the top six finishers. As a single-day event, the competition was intense and lasted just over nine hours, culminating in Foxen’s celebrated victory and a cash prize of $56,703.

Recent Success and Accomplishments

This latest triumph is particularly noteworthy as it marks Foxen’s third consecutive online bracelet win. Earlier in 2023, she secured her fourth bracelet by winning the $888 buy-in no-limit hold’em ‘Crazy 8’s’ tournament, part of the WSOP Online series. Her third bracelet was obtained during the inaugural WSOP Online festival in 2020, where she outlasted a field of 892 competitors in a $2,500 no-limit hold’em six-max tournament, earning a substantial $356,412.

Kristen Foxen’s career now boasts nearly $9.2 million in tournament cashes, making her the second-highest earning female player in history, trailing only the legendary Vanessa Selbst, who has recorded $10.9 million in winnings. With her recent victory, Foxen has also broken her tie with Selbst for the most open-event bracelets, further cementing her legacy in the poker community.

Championship Journey

Foxen’s journey in the world of poker began with her first bracelet win in the 2013 WSOP ladies no-limit hold’em championship. This feat not only marked her breakout in the poker scene but also showcased her potential as a top contender. Three years later, in 2016, she added her second bracelet to her collection by winning a $1,500 no-limit hold’em bounty event at the WSOP, claiming $290,768. Her consistent performance across various formats demonstrates her versatility and skill as a player.

Community and Support

Kristen Foxen is a prominent member of the Chip Leader Coaching team, a training platform that features top poker professionals, including her husband, Alex Foxen. The coaching site celebrated Kristen’s latest victory on social media, reinforcing the supportive community that exists within the realm of professional poker.

A Family Affair

The week has been filled with success for the Foxen household. Shortly before Kristen’s win, her husband, Alex Foxen, secured his second WSOP bracelet on October 20, triumphing in a $500 pot-limit Omaha mystery bounty event. This impressive duo represents a remarkable chapter in poker history, showcasing not just personal accolades but also the evolution of the game itself.

Close to History

Earlier this year, Kristen narrowly missed making history by becoming only the second female player to reach a WSOP main event final table. After an astonishing run, she ultimately finished 12th, earning $600,000, just shy of Barbara Enright’s fifth-place finish in 1995. This close encounter exemplifies the high stakes and pressure inherent in the game, where every decision could lead to monumental achievements.

Conclusion

Kristen Foxen’s recent success reinforces her status as a trailblazer in the world of poker. With five WSOP bracelets and nearly $9.2 million in career earnings, she has set a commendable standard for aspiring female players. As she continues to compete at an elite level, the poker community eagerly anticipates her next moves in this ever-evolving game. With her current momentum, Foxen is not just a player—she is a symbol of resilience and excellence in poker.

Stay tuned for more updates, including the full breakdown of results from her latest victory!

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Image by Michał Parzuchowski on Unsplash

The year 2024 has marked a remarkable period for Bulgaria’s professional poker players. Achievements in prestigious international tournaments, particularly the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Tour, have brought national and global attention to the Slovenian poker scene. Notable figures such as Alex Kulev, Boris Angelov, and the unexpectedly rising Martin Alcaide have not only showcased their skills but have also reinforced Bulgaria’s burgeoning reputation within the global poker community.

Bulgaria’s Thriving Poker Scene

With a population that, while relatively small, boasts a vibrant gambling culture, Bulgaria has managed to create an impressive poker legacy. Across four cities, the country is home to 16 regulated casinos that foster an environment conducive to the growth of professional players. Varna, in particular, stands out as a hotspot for card rooms, nurturing talents such as Dimitar Danchev and Ognyan Dimov, who have collectively earned millions in tournament winnings.

Moreover, the regulated online poker market in Bulgaria has played a crucial role in training a new generation of poker enthusiasts. Platforms offering live casino gambling allow aspiring players to access various poker games, both virtual and real. Boris Angelov, one of this year’s standout figures, credits his online experience as a cornerstone in mastering the complexities of the game.

The Up-and-Comer: Boris Angelov’s WSOP Run

Boris Angelov’s journey in the poker world epitomizes the potential for growth through online platforms. After initially establishing himself in the digital realm, Angelov transitioned to live tournaments following the pandemic. Under the mentorship of seasoned player Alex Kulev, he made his European Poker Tour (EPT) debut in 2022. However, it was at the recent WSOP where his skills truly shone.

Angelov’s remarkable fifth-place finish at the Main Event not only secured him $270,000 but also established him as a formidable competitor on the world stage. His victory in the EPT Barcelona, where he clinched the €10,200 Mystery Bounty event garnering €185,400, has further solidified his position. As of now, Angelov has an impressive lifetime haul exceeding $3.7 million, placing him as the sixth-highest Bulgarian earner in poker history.

The All-Time Champion: Alex Kulev’s Huge Payout

Alex Kulev represents the pinnacle of Bulgarian poker excellence. In May 2024, he captured his first Triton Poker title at a high-stakes $100,000 8-Handed event in Montenegro. His triumph in a gripping heads-up battle against Thomas Santerne netted him a staggering $2.57 million, bolstering his total winnings to over $13 million. This remarkable achievement now places Kulev firmly at the top of Bulgaria’s all-time money list.

At just 29 years old, Kulev has already established an impressive legacy primarily through online poker, having amassed more than $7 million in digital tournaments. His continued success in EPT and World Poker Tour (WPT) events showcases a player at the peak of his game.

The Underdog: Martin Alcaide’s Surprise Win

Before 2024, Martin Alcaide operated mostly under the radar in the poker scene. Hailing from Spain but representing Bulgaria, Alcaide stunned audiences at the WSOP by defeating a massive field of 19,000 players in the $400 buy-in Colossus event. His unexpected victory brought him $501,240, a staggering sum for someone who previously had only $12,500 in recorded live tournament earnings.

Alcaide’s journey is particularly noteworthy; he built his foundation as an online player and earned his WSOP seat through online qualification. His incredible win illustrates the hidden potential within Bulgaria’s poker landscape, proving that the talent pool is deeper than many might assume.

Bulgaria’s Poker Prowess in the Spotlight

The year 2024 has indeed been a consequential one for Bulgaria’s poker players. With the spotlight on Kulev, Angelov, and Alcaide following their stunning performances, interest in the country’s poker scene is higher than ever. As these players continue to compete and excel on the international stage, they inspire a new generation of Bulgarian poker talent, contributing to a rich legacy that is poised to deepen and flourish in the years to come.

As the smoky atmosphere of casinos and the thrilling ups and downs of tournament play continue to capture imaginations, the world will be watching Bulgaria’s poker scene with growing anticipation. With the right blend of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, who knows what other surprises this talented nation will unveil next in the dazzling world of professional poker?

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In an exhilarating finale at the PokerGO Tour’s $10,100 buy-in Pot-Limit Omaha tournament, Daniel Negreanu showcased his immense talent and strategic prowess by overcoming a formidable field of competitors to claim victory and a handsome prize of $265,200. This achievement not only adds to Negreanu’s illustrious poker career but also reinforces his status as one of the best players in the game today.

A Thrilling Heads-Up Victory

The competition was fierce, pitting Negreanu against several top-tier poker professionals, including Alex Foxen, who emerged as his final opponent in a compelling heads-up duel. The tournament saw 104 entrants, culminating in a prize pool of $1,040,000, which provided ample motivation for all players involved. Ultimately, it was Negreanu’s experience and skill that saw him through to victory amid such talented company.

High Stakes and High Talent

The final table of this tournament was nothing short of a poker player’s dream, featuring a roster of world-class talent. Alongside Negreanu and Foxen, players included Nacho Barbero, Nick Schulman, Jeremy Ausmus, and Matthew Wantman. Each of these competitors has accumulated impressive accolades over their careers, with a combined total of 20 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets gracing the final table. Among them, Negreanu leads with a remarkable seven bracelets, further emphasizing the elite nature of this competition.

Breakdown of the Final Table Results

The final table results were as follows:

As the tournament progressed into Day 2, streamed live on the PokerGO YouTube channel, Foxen entered with a slight chip lead over a competitive field, while Wantman fought hard to turn around a minuscule chip stack. Unfortunately, Barbero exited first, finishing in sixth place. Schulman, a noted commentator and five-time bracelet winner, followed in fifth, and Ausmus rounded out the top four.

A Battle of Wits

When heads-up play commenced, Negreanu held a decisive 3-1 chip advantage over Foxen. However, Foxen, known for his resilience and strategic finesse, clawed some chips back, momentarily narrowing the gap to 2-1. The tide quickly turned, though, after Foxen found himself on the losing end of a major pot when his tens full of aces clashed with Negreanu’s queens full of aces—a hand that would seal Foxen’s fate as the runner-up, earning $171,600 and solidifying his lifetime tournament earnings to over $33.5 million.

Negreanu’s Resurgence

This victory marks Negreanu’s fourth high roller title of the year and his first since breaking an 11-year bracelet drought at the WSOP with a stunning win in the $50,000 Poker Players Championship, where he took home $1,178,703. After experiencing a challenging year in 2023, where he faced a $2 million loss in poker tournaments, Negreanu’s recent successes symbolize a remarkable comeback.

His performance at the PokerGO Tour reflects not just his skill but also the ability to rebound from adversity. With three cashes, two final table appearances, and one title from six events in the current Pot-Limit Omaha series, Negreanu is firmly back in the mix among poker’s elite.

Conclusion

Daniel Negreanu’s recent victory at the PokerGO Tour serves as a testament to his enduring talent and resilience in the highly competitive world of professional poker. With his sights set on further accomplishments in the tournament circuit, fans and players alike eagerly await what this Poker Hall of Famer will achieve next. The excitement of high-stakes poker thrives on such passionate performances, and Negreanu continues to be a shining star in the poker universe.

Feature image courtesy of PokerGO.

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In the realm of poker, personalities and stories are as diverse and intricate as the game itself. One such multifaceted story was recently shared on the Life Outside Poker podcast, hosted by Connor Richards. The show offers an intimate look into the lives of professional poker players, and its 19th episode features Eugene Katchalov, a prominent figure in the poker community and one of Ukraine’s all-time money leaders.

A Glimpse into Eugene Katchalov’s Life

Eugene Katchalov, known for his impressive poker resume—including a stunning $2.5 million victory at the 2007 Doyle Brunson Five Diamond World Poker Classic—has navigated a tumultuous path in recent years. Fleeing Ukraine in 2022 amidst the devastating invasion by Russia, Katchalov returned to his homeland when the situation allowed, bringing along his family and bearing witness to the stark realities of a war-torn region.

In the podcast episode, Katchalov discussed his profound experiences growing up in New York City and the evolution of the poker landscape since his glory days. Notably, he shared insights about the longstanding conflict between Ukraine and Russia, a topic that remains ever relevant and heavily laden with misunderstandings.

Navigating Change: Poker and Beyond

Connor Richards effectively steered the conversation, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Katchalov’s life and career transitions. The episode reflects on how the dynamics of poker have changed over the years, particularly after significant events such as Black Friday, which reshaped online poker in the U.S. Katchalov shared candid reflections on the industry’s current challenges and opportunities, including his foray into esports.

Katchalov’s return to poker is marked by new ambitions. He is currently working on a project intended to bridge the gap between professional players and recreational players, aiming to create a more equitable playing field. This venture highlights his commitment to not just personal success, but to improving the overall poker community.

Katchalov’s Resilience and Hope

The interview is punctuated with Katchalov’s resilience and hopeful outlook for the future. Despite the ongoing struggles in his homeland, he emphasized what inspires him, both personally and professionally. From discussions about his favorite life lessons learned through poker to candid advice he would offer his younger self, Katchalov’s narrative resonates with anyone facing adversity.

Listeners will find themselves engaged by the various themes addressed in the episode. Katchalov’s stories serve as a poignant reminder of the intersection between personal experiences and broader socio-political issues, making it an enlightening listen for both poker enthusiasts and those fascinated by human stories against the backdrop of global events.

Accessible to Everyone

The Life Outside Poker podcast is readily available on popular streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud, and iHeartRadio. With episodes also featured on the PokerNews YouTube channel, fans have multiple ways to engage with the content.

Conclusion

Episodes like the one featuring Eugene Katchalov provide a fascinating insight into the lives of those who shape the poker world. Through the lens of Life Outside Poker, hosts like Connor Richards bring forth personal stories and experiences—showing that beyond the cards, the world of poker is filled with resilience, ambition, and profound human connections.

Be sure to follow both Katchalov and Connor Richards on social media for more insights and updates, and take a moment to explore the rich content of the Life Outside Poker podcast. With each episode, listeners not only deepen their understanding of the game but also the lives entwined within it.

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