They knew it would be big and they were right.
The World Series of Poker initiated a new tournament this year dubbed the “Colossus.” Organizers expected the modestly priced event—with a buy-in of $565—to draw a large crowd, but in the end, it was, well, colossal.
The event drew 22,374 official entries, shattering the old record of 8,773 for the 2006 Main Event. The winner will receive a $638,880 first-place prize. The total prize pool for the event was $11,187,000.
“Wow,” said WSOP Executive Director Ty Stewart in a press release. “When you see a crowd that could fill many sports venues, there’s not much else you can say. We want to thank everyone who traveled from near and far to be part of this historic event, particularly the first timers.
“Just like the sign says, ‘We Hope You Come Back Soon,’ he said. “We love to bring poker enthusiasts together and help build positive momentum for the game. I also want to acknowledge the thousands of event staff and volunteers who rallied together to make this weekend possible. In putting the WSOP together, we are lucky to lean on many great people whose passion goes beyond a paycheck.”
The WSOP opened May 27 and continues through July 14 at the Rio-All Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In another highlight of the week, actor and poker player James Woods made his first final table appearance at a WSOP event taking seventh place and $28,832 in the Event #4: $3,000 No-Limit Hold ‘em Shootout.
