The third day of action at the Borgata Poker Open saw another round of intense battles and an amateur take the overall chip lead. 68 players began counting their chips at 11am but it wasn’t long before many of them were eliminated.
With a $1.5 million first-place prize awaiting the winner, players adjusted their game performance and did their best to capitalise on the opportunities to advance. Several players lost big hands on questionable calls, which intensified the competition as players focused on playing both their opponents and the cards they were dealt.
The crowd cheered as the final 27 players of the WPT main event were announced. Taking in the final chip lead was amateur Athanasios Diakos with $1.5 million in chips. Other notable leaders included poker author David Skiansky, Academy Award nominated actress Jennifer Tilly, and Shawn Chaconas.
Best known for his prowess as a top cash game player, Chaconas ended the day in fifth place. 'Borgata is my 'home-base' and I love playing here,” he said. “The structure of this tournament is the best in the country for serious poker players.'
The third day of action at the Borgata Poker Open saw another round of intense battles and an amateur take the overall chip lead. 68 players began counting their chips at 11am but it wasn’t long before many of them were eliminated.