Despite fears that they would be targets for rotten vegetables, there are reports that the meeting between players and the World Series of Poker commissioner and other officials was a productive affair. Strategically held during the day, there were few major players present. However, an evening meeting is also planned.
The major issues raised were space and Harrah’s profiteering: organising raked, cash games alongside the WSOP tournaments, and final tables whose play is cut off for filming with results delayed for television broadcast. Spectators are part of a tournament, and this particular issue has raised questions throughout the poker community. While Pollack sold it as an investment in poker’s visibility, he did say that it would not happen at next year’s WSOP. In future there may be tickets sold to final tables, with players receiving a share of revenue. Some may not see this as an improvement.
Regarding the tent, Pollack said, 'On a scale of one to ten, it was a 10 for intention, but a one in reality.'
However, one side effect of the tent was that it cut down on ‘railbirds’ or fans by the tables. Bill Gazes said he enjoyed playing there because it gave him some peace, and suggested that for next year, some consideration was given to players who can’t cope with constant questions about hands and general chatter.
Side issues included blind structures, security for women leaving the Rio in the evenings, chip handling procedures and too few cashiers.
Despite fears that they would be targets for rotten vegetables, there are reports that the meeting between players and the World Series of Poker commissioner and other officials was a productive affair. Strategically held during the day, there were few major players present. However, an evening meeting is also planned.