Igor Rabinovich - 330,000
Joel Frank - 310,000
Satish Surapaneni - 305,000
Eric Rivkin - 280,000
Friday, May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): In Contention
Going into the final level of the night, here are the players who are in contention for the bonus:
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Final Break Of The Night
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Entries: 722
There are currently nine active tables in the room, which means there are about 80 people remaining in the field. At the end of this level the players will take a (15) minute break, as the tournament floor colors off the brown (100 denomination) chips. Level 15 will then start with blinds 2,000/4,000/500, and will be the last of the night.
Total Entries: 722
There are currently nine active tables in the room, which means there are about 80 people remaining in the field. At the end of this level the players will take a (15) minute break, as the tournament floor colors off the brown (100 denomination) chips. Level 15 will then start with blinds 2,000/4,000/500, and will be the last of the night.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Manh Wins A Big One
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Entries: 721
After Manh Nguyen opened, Alan Kraut three-bet behind to 20,000 and watched as a player shoved behind for less. Nguyen then announced himself all-in (for 38,000 total), and the three players would table their hands. Manh's AA > QQ (Kraut) > 10 10 (Player Y), and he would chip up to over 130,000.
Total Entries: 721
After Manh Nguyen opened, Alan Kraut three-bet behind to 20,000 and watched as a player shoved behind for less. Nguyen then announced himself all-in (for 38,000 total), and the three players would table their hands. Manh's AA > QQ (Kraut) > 10 10 (Player Y), and he would chip up to over 130,000.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Level 14 Begins
Level 14 is about to begin, with blinds going up to 1,500/3,000/400. The total number of entries is 721, and those remaining in the room at the end of this level will take one final (15) minute break. Level 15 will commence, and will be the last level of the night.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Still Alive
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Entries: 721
Here is a long list of notable players still alive:
Larry Wolf
Joe Cappuccio
Mike Sandler
Joe McKeehen
Frank Dire
Stephanie Hubbard
Mohammed Farah
Alan Kraut
Manh Nguyen
Nicholas Partenope
Cullen Hoffman
Leonardo Palermo
Igor Rabinovich
Justin Friedman
Eric Rivkin
Matt Glantz
Harry Bressler
Chris Csik
James Governa
Joe Black
Chris Capone
Ron Vittello
Adam Levitan
Valerie Novak
Robert Boyko
Kevin Grabel
Michael Marder
Total Entries: 721
Here is a long list of notable players still alive:
Larry Wolf
Joe Cappuccio
Mike Sandler
Joe McKeehen
Frank Dire
Stephanie Hubbard
Mohammed Farah
Alan Kraut
Manh Nguyen
Nicholas Partenope
Cullen Hoffman
Leonardo Palermo
Igor Rabinovich
Justin Friedman
Eric Rivkin
Matt Glantz
Harry Bressler
Chris Csik
James Governa
Joe Black
Chris Capone
Ron Vittello
Adam Levitan
Valerie Novak
Robert Boyko
Kevin Grabel
Michael Marder
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Eriquezzo Busts
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Entries: 720
Ryan Eriquezzo was just seen leaving the tournament area, the first of the notables to leave Table 66 from earlier. It has not been confirmed whether he will be firing another bullet tonight, or waiting until Day 1C tomorrow.
Total Entries: 720
Ryan Eriquezzo was just seen leaving the tournament area, the first of the notables to leave Table 66 from earlier. It has not been confirmed whether he will be firing another bullet tonight, or waiting until Day 1C tomorrow.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): On Break
Players are on their break, and will return to play Level 13/14, before going on another (final) break, and finishing the night with Level 15.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Capone Putting Name In
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Entries: 718
Chris Capone (Barnesville, PA) is putting himself in contention for the end of night chip lead bonus ($1,000), as he sits with over 265,000. Capone's tournament record is fairly light, with only $9,000 in total earnings, but we've seen players make their first breakout scores in these events.
Players will be on break at the end of this level (12 minutes), and when they return to Level 13, the blinds will be going up to 1,200/2,400/300.
Total Entries: 718
Chris Capone (Barnesville, PA) is putting himself in contention for the end of night chip lead bonus ($1,000), as he sits with over 265,000. Capone's tournament record is fairly light, with only $9,000 in total earnings, but we've seen players make their first breakout scores in these events.
Players will be on break at the end of this level (12 minutes), and when they return to Level 13, the blinds will be going up to 1,200/2,400/300.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Making It Tough
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Entries: 718
With tables breaking around the room, Table 66 ended up with a pretty difficult lineup at the moment:
Ryan Eriquezzo - 70,000
Eric Rivkin - 220,000
Matt Glantz - 60,000
David Inselberg - 65,000
Moments ago the field lost Peter Ipollito, as his second bullet after dinner didn't quite work as planned. Pete will for sure be back for Day 1C tomorrow afternoon.
Total Entries: 718
With tables breaking around the room, Table 66 ended up with a pretty difficult lineup at the moment:
Ryan Eriquezzo - 70,000
Eric Rivkin - 220,000
Matt Glantz - 60,000
David Inselberg - 65,000
Moments ago the field lost Peter Ipollito, as his second bullet after dinner didn't quite work as planned. Pete will for sure be back for Day 1C tomorrow afternoon.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Levelin' Up
Level 12 begins, and players are now posting blinds of 1,000/2,000/300 (717 total entries). The 15 active tables and 135 or so players at the moment, will be 5-6 tables and 45-55 players at the end of the night. The next few levels are a moving period for the players, and a list of notables still alive will be posted shortly.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Middle Of The Road
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Entries: 712
In not uncommon to see the big stacks in this stage of the tournament bagging average stacks, while players hovering around 50-60 bigs end up bagging heaps. Here are some players currently in the middle of the pack, but definitely in the hunt:
Kevin Grabel - 175,0000
Justin Friedman - 160,000
Anthony Shurilla - 150,000
Antonio Walker - 145,000
Eric Rivkin - 145,000
Harry Bressler - 145,000
Ron Vittello - 142,000
Daniel Chan - 140,000
Kfir Levy - 140,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Level Up
Level 11 will now have players posting blinds of 800/1,600/200 (706 total entries). The outer tables are beginning to break as players are busting at a steady pace. Matt Glantz tweeted earlier in regards to what tomorrow is going to be like:
#ParxBigStax is on fire. Just crossed 700 entries & it's only Day 1b. Day 1c tomorrow for this $300+30 will be a madhouse @parxpokerroom
— Matt Glantz (@MattGlantz) May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Post Dinner Departures
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Entries: 705
Since returning from dinner there have been a handful of bustouts, including some notables:
Marguerite Spagnuolo
Jeff Shurilla
Ben Coren
Total Entries: 705
Since returning from dinner there have been a handful of bustouts, including some notables:
Marguerite Spagnuolo
Jeff Shurilla
Ben Coren
Doubled after dinner w a set of deuces. But lost the next flip AKhh<JJ. Then jammed the rest in bad with top pair on a six high flop. #ggMe
— Benn C. (@mucklefutz) May 3, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Larry The Legend
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Entries: 701
Larry Wolf (Annapolis, MD) always seemed to go deep in events, cashing consistently in the Big Stax since the series started. Wolf had a $60,000 score in 2007 and a $35,000 in 2011 (both coming at Borgata), and then went a few years with numerous cashes in the $3,000-$5,000 range. Larry finally got his breakout score only weeks ago, when he ended runner-up to Abe Koratki in the $2,500 Borgata Spring Poker Open (co-main event). Larry would take home over $148,000, falling just short of his first major title ever.
Wolf arrived moments before players were going to dinner, and he still sits around the starting stack.
Total Entries: 701
Larry Wolf (Annapolis, MD) always seemed to go deep in events, cashing consistently in the Big Stax since the series started. Wolf had a $60,000 score in 2007 and a $35,000 in 2011 (both coming at Borgata), and then went a few years with numerous cashes in the $3,000-$5,000 range. Larry finally got his breakout score only weeks ago, when he ended runner-up to Abe Koratki in the $2,500 Borgata Spring Poker Open (co-main event). Larry would take home over $148,000, falling just short of his first major title ever.
Wolf arrived moments before players were going to dinner, and he still sits around the starting stack.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Back From Dinner
Level 10 is about to begin as players file back into the clubhouse room from dinner. The blinds will be going up to 600/1,200/200, and there will be a flurry of action coming back, as the trend shows.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Dinner Break Tweets
Here are some Tweets from players going on dinner:
Got 111,900 at dinner. Got chick fil a. Very happy with that decision. #ChickenNuggets #ParxBigStax
— Dan Sewnig (@RedsoxNets5) May 2, 2014
Got 125k on dinner @parxpokerroom BS 300. If I 5bet shove AKdd, could have 400k by running down KK & QQ right B4 break. I folded & suck!!
— HMan (@CullenHMan) May 2, 2014
Missed one of my classic muck the KK pre spots. Left with 84,500 on dinner, coming back to 1200/200. #ParxBigStax
— Michael Marder (@MMarder86) May 2, 2014
Doubled up and went on dinner break! @parxpokerroom
— Marguerite Spagnuolo (@mmmmarguerite) May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Dinner Break
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Entries: 683
Players will be going on a (75) minute dinner break at the end of this level (which is in about 15 minutes). The live coverage of the event will resume when the players return, at approximately 7:35pm.
Total Entries: 683
Players will be going on a (75) minute dinner break at the end of this level (which is in about 15 minutes). The live coverage of the event will resume when the players return, at approximately 7:35pm.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Spagnuolo Ponders, Coldstone Builds
Level 9 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Entries: 683
Marguerite Spagnuolo busts on her second bullet of the day, and is taking to Twitter to help decide the next course of action:
Dave "Coldstone" Inselberg was sitting quietly at one of the outer tables in the room, but his table broke and he now sits at Table 76. Inselberg sat down at the table with about 115,000, and is pushing for another deep run in the Big Stax series.
Total Entries: 683
Marguerite Spagnuolo busts on her second bullet of the day, and is taking to Twitter to help decide the next course of action:
AQ<Q7. Ace high flop @parxpokerroom. Drink bleach or re-buy? What say you? #ParxBigStax
— Marguerite Spagnuolo (@mmmmarguerite) May 2, 2014
Dave "Coldstone" Inselberg was sitting quietly at one of the outer tables in the room, but his table broke and he now sits at Table 76. Inselberg sat down at the table with about 115,000, and is pushing for another deep run in the Big Stax series.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): One Level, Then Dinner
Level 9 is about to begin with blinds going up to 500/1,000/100. There are now 676 total entries as noted on the board, which means the field will surely surpass 700 by the end of tonight. Reaching the record number of 1,850 is possible for tomorrow, especially with many recreational players finding their way to the track for the Kentucky Derby.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Glantz Back Home
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Entries: 668
Parx Poker Room ambassador Matt Glantz (Lafayette Hill, PA) has taken his seat at Table 66. The last time Matt was in a Big Stax event, he was walking away in 6th place of the Big Stax 1,500 in February. Since then Matt also final tabled the $3,500 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Championship, finishing in 9th for just over $100,000.
Total Entries: 668
Parx Poker Room ambassador Matt Glantz (Lafayette Hill, PA) has taken his seat at Table 66. The last time Matt was in a Big Stax event, he was walking away in 6th place of the Big Stax 1,500 in February. Since then Matt also final tabled the $3,500 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Championship, finishing in 9th for just over $100,000.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Updated Chip Counts
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Entries: 666
Here are some updated counts from the field, as we have a new leader up top:
Phillip Yan - 230,000
Satish Surapaneni - 205,000
Stephanie Hubbard - 160,000
Kfir Levy - 140,000
Cullen Hoffman - 135,000
Mohammed Farah - 115,000
Valerie Novak - 90,000
Justin Friedman - 85,000
Joe McKeehen - 75,000
Total Entries: 666
Here are some updated counts from the field, as we have a new leader up top:
Phillip Yan - 230,000
Satish Surapaneni - 205,000
Stephanie Hubbard - 160,000
Kfir Levy - 140,000
Cullen Hoffman - 135,000
Mohammed Farah - 115,000
Valerie Novak - 90,000
Justin Friedman - 85,000
Joe McKeehen - 75,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Half Way Through The Day
As Level 8 begins and blinds go up to 400/800/100, players have passed the half-way point of the day. After crunching some of the numbers, this Big Stax 300 field is at the moment 82% of what the record breaking field was in February. If calculations hold true, it would project a field for this event to have 1,450 total entries, which would once again bring a top prize over $100,000.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Hubbard Climbing
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Entries: 654
Stephanie Hubbard (Hazlet, NJ) continues to scoop pots since busting Eriquezzo, and now sits with close to 150,000 in front of her. There has to be a small feeling of home court advantage here at Parx for Hubbard, as she has consistently made deep runs in these events over the past year.
Joe McKeehen is also chipping up since sitting down at Table 73 on his second bullet. McKeehen has built his starting stack to over 80,000 over the past two levels.
Total Entries: 654
Stephanie Hubbard (Hazlet, NJ) continues to scoop pots since busting Eriquezzo, and now sits with close to 150,000 in front of her. There has to be a small feeling of home court advantage here at Parx for Hubbard, as she has consistently made deep runs in these events over the past year.
Joe McKeehen is also chipping up since sitting down at Table 73 on his second bullet. McKeehen has built his starting stack to over 80,000 over the past two levels.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Caught On Film
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Entries: 649
Since returning from break there has been a steady flow of players into the room, and one recently on his way out. Stephanie Hubbard busted Ryan Eriquezzo moments ago, and it's yet to be seen if he will be firing another bullet today. The camera has been snapping throughout the day, catching players in action:
Total Entries: 649
Since returning from break there has been a steady flow of players into the room, and one recently on his way out. Stephanie Hubbard busted Ryan Eriquezzo moments ago, and it's yet to be seen if he will be firing another bullet today. The camera has been snapping throughout the day, catching players in action:
 |
| Jeffery Kim's Fashion Statement |
 |
| Nancy Martin Mid-Pot |
 |
| Antonio Walker Under The Hood |
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Break Time
Players are going on their second (15) minute break of the day, and when they take their seats again the blinds will have gone up to 300/600/100. The tournament floor will be coloring off the green (25) denomination chips during the break, and also verifying the larger chips for security measures.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): "I'm Running Good"
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Entries: 633
It wasn't hard to miss the biggest stack in the room, as Satish Surapaneni was on his iPad about to send out a Tweet. Satish has over 170,000, and although the information wasn't provided in regards to how he got those chips, Satish did happen to smile and say, "I'm running good."
Total Entries: 633
 |
| Satish Surapaneni |
It wasn't hard to miss the biggest stack in the room, as Satish Surapaneni was on his iPad about to send out a Tweet. Satish has over 170,000, and although the information wasn't provided in regards to how he got those chips, Satish did happen to smile and say, "I'm running good."
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Counts From The Field
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Entries: 622
The clubhouse room is now full, as there are 23 active tables at the moment. Nobody has separated themselves from the rest just yet, but around dinner there tends to be a handful of players who do. Here are some updated counts from the room:
Kfir Levy - 100,000
Joe Black - 95,000
Mike Sandler - 80,000
Alan Kraut - 73,000
Michael Marder - 60,000
Stephanie Hubbard - 50,000
Ryan Eriquezzo - 43,000
Total Entries: 622
The clubhouse room is now full, as there are 23 active tables at the moment. Nobody has separated themselves from the rest just yet, but around dinner there tends to be a handful of players who do. Here are some updated counts from the room:
Kfir Levy - 100,000
Joe Black - 95,000
Mike Sandler - 80,000
Alan Kraut - 73,000
Michael Marder - 60,000
Stephanie Hubbard - 50,000
Ryan Eriquezzo - 43,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Reaching The Numbers
Level 6 now has players posting blinds of 250/500/50, and with 613 total entries at the moment, today's pace looks like it will surpass the number from Day 1A (358). At the end of this level, players will go on a (15) minute break and play three more levels before dinner.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Off To An Early Lead
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Entries: 605
The early leader in the room is tournament pro Joe Black (New York, NY), who is sitting just under 130,000. Joe is a regular during the Big Stax series, but has yet to make a deep run that found him at a final table. Joe's largest live cash came in July of 2013, when finished 3rd in a Borgata Saturday Series ($350 NL) event for just over $20,000.
On the other end of the spectrum we have Marguerite Spagnuolo, who has just taken her seat at a new table:
Total Entries: 605
 |
| Joe Black (New York, NY) |
The early leader in the room is tournament pro Joe Black (New York, NY), who is sitting just under 130,000. Joe is a regular during the Big Stax series, but has yet to make a deep run that found him at a final table. Joe's largest live cash came in July of 2013, when finished 3rd in a Borgata Saturday Series ($350 NL) event for just over $20,000.
On the other end of the spectrum we have Marguerite Spagnuolo, who has just taken her seat at a new table:
Bad news @parxpokerroom QQ<. OC's AK AND AJ< same OC's K10. Good news I have a brand new 30k stack! #ParxBigStax #TeamCLDOC
— Marguerite Spagnuolo (@mmmmarguerite) May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Level Going Up
Level 5 is about to begin, and blinds will be going up to 200/400/50. The action in the early stages has been fairly subdued today, with only a few notables busting early and firing a second bullet:
Got it in 70-30 and lost. 2nd bullet. But he was young. So #teamCP
— Alyson MC Parker (@MotherCrusherAP) May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): They Keep Coming In
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Entries: 590
The players continue to file into the room, with the following arriving fashionably late:
Daniel Chan
Joe McKeehen
Joe Black
Valerie Novak
Bo Toft
Lou Santora
Leonardo Palermo
Palermo is coming off a deep run in the $15,000 WPT Championship, finishing in 20th for $34,000. This was all after being left with one blind in the early stages of the tournament.
Total Entries: 590
The players continue to file into the room, with the following arriving fashionably late:
Daniel Chan
Joe McKeehen
Joe Black
Valerie Novak
Bo Toft
Lou Santora
Leonardo Palermo
Palermo is coming off a deep run in the $15,000 WPT Championship, finishing in 20th for $34,000. This was all after being left with one blind in the early stages of the tournament.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Stacking Before Break
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Entries: 582
On the final hand before break at Table 77, the player UTG would go all-in dark for 10,000. When the action folded to Kfir Levy, he would make the call. Action would then fold around behind Levy to Chris Csik in the big blind, who would then shove all-in (having Levy covered). Levy would make the call, and his A 10 > KK (Csik) > 33 (blind shove). Levy would be stacking a pile of 85,000 going into break, as Csik was left to go to break shaking his head.
Kfir Levy - 85,000
Total Entries: 582
On the final hand before break at Table 77, the player UTG would go all-in dark for 10,000. When the action folded to Kfir Levy, he would make the call. Action would then fold around behind Levy to Chris Csik in the big blind, who would then shove all-in (having Levy covered). Levy would make the call, and his A 10 > KK (Csik) > 33 (blind shove). Levy would be stacking a pile of 85,000 going into break, as Csik was left to go to break shaking his head.
Kfir Levy - 85,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): First Break Of Day
Players are going on their first break of the day, and will return to Level 4 and blinds of 150/300/50. The total number of entries continues to grow, as the number now sits at 554.
Stephanie Hubbard (Hazlet, NJ) has taken her seat at Table 79, playing her first bullet in both the Big Stax 500 and this event for $120. Hubbard won a seat-package in one of the satellites that ran the month leading up to the tournament. Stephanie's biggest live score came last year in the Big Stax IV Main Trophy Event ($1,080), taking home over $15,000 for her seventh place finish. Hubbard has had six recorded cashes since, including another over $10,000 in the opening event of the Borgata Spring Poker Open.
Stephanie Hubbard (Hazlet, NJ) has taken her seat at Table 79, playing her first bullet in both the Big Stax 500 and this event for $120. Hubbard won a seat-package in one of the satellites that ran the month leading up to the tournament. Stephanie's biggest live score came last year in the Big Stax IV Main Trophy Event ($1,080), taking home over $15,000 for her seventh place finish. Hubbard has had six recorded cashes since, including another over $10,000 in the opening event of the Borgata Spring Poker Open.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Twitter Arrivals
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Entries: 550
Total Entries: 550
Time to grind the 300 @parxpokerroom ... #bigstax6 pic.twitter.com/qsvRsdSsKK
— Benn C. (@mucklefutz) May 2, 2014
Dont really know anyone here but lets hope for some change of luck in these series. @parxpokerroom #parxbigstax #300 #itsmytime #hopefully
— Johnny Martins (@johnnyRPS) May 2, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Final Table-Mates Reunited
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Entries: 534
Izzet Temel (Arlington, VA) just took his seat at Table 77, two seats away from Chris Csik, who he chopped the Big Stax 500 with during Big Stax V. The tournament would end in a three-way chip between Izzet Temel ($69,943), James Anderson ($63,240), and Chris Csik ($50,554).
Also new to the field:
Pete Ippolito
Joe Cappuccio
Joe Grodowski
Kevin Grabel
Marguerite Spagnuolo
Total Entries: 534
Izzet Temel (Arlington, VA) just took his seat at Table 77, two seats away from Chris Csik, who he chopped the Big Stax 500 with during Big Stax V. The tournament would end in a three-way chip between Izzet Temel ($69,943), James Anderson ($63,240), and Chris Csik ($50,554).
Also new to the field:
Pete Ippolito
Joe Cappuccio
Joe Grodowski
Kevin Grabel
Marguerite Spagnuolo
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Level 3 Begins
Level 3 started just moments ago, with antes introduced and blinds going up to 100/200/25. Although behind record pace from February, tomorrow expects to be a madhouse for Day 1C. The final starting day will always attract the most entries, but don't forget tomorrow is the Kentucky Derby as well.
Those with plans to play tomorrow should definitely think about arriving on time (or even early for that matter). The parking lot is going to be crowded, and so is the poker room.
Those with plans to play tomorrow should definitely think about arriving on time (or even early for that matter). The parking lot is going to be crowded, and so is the poker room.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Still Walking In
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Entries: 517
Players continue to walk in and take their seats:
Ryan Eriquezzo
Anthony Shurilla
Andrew Zhu
James Governa
Total Entries: 517
Players continue to walk in and take their seats:
Ryan Eriquezzo
Anthony Shurilla
Andrew Zhu
James Governa
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): Looking To Go Ape
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Entries: 504
Jeff "Gorilla" Shurilla (Bridgeport, PA) would probably be the most well known person in the room at the moment. Anyone who has played a tournament at the Borgata over the past 5-6 years, or recently in Florida knows likely knows Jeff. The name "Gorilla" comes from the handle Jeff uses while covering poker tournaments. There aren't many that do it better than Jeff, but he's taken his talents to the table today. Not a bad idea, considering that earlier in the year he final tabled a $400 NL event during the Borgata Winter Poker Open (taking home over $15,000).
Total Entries: 504
 |
| Jeff Shurilla |
Jeff "Gorilla" Shurilla (Bridgeport, PA) would probably be the most well known person in the room at the moment. Anyone who has played a tournament at the Borgata over the past 5-6 years, or recently in Florida knows likely knows Jeff. The name "Gorilla" comes from the handle Jeff uses while covering poker tournaments. There aren't many that do it better than Jeff, but he's taken his talents to the table today. Not a bad idea, considering that earlier in the year he final tabled a $400 NL event during the Borgata Winter Poker Open (taking home over $15,000).
The outer tables in the clubhouse room are beginning to see action, as more names take their seats:
Dave Inselberg
Cullen Hoffman
Chris Csik
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): First Level Down
Players have survived the first level of the day, and blinds in Level 2 are going up to 75/150. Still a long ways away from thinking about that $1,000 chip lead bonus (for end of Day 1B), but the number from last night was 547,000 (Val Zekser).
Yesterdays field saw a total of 358 entries, many of which were notables and regulars to the room. Parx regulars Ray Ross (321,500), Justin Liberto (378,500), and Greg Fishberg (291,500) all bagged top ten chip stacks.
Yesterdays field saw a total of 358 entries, many of which were notables and regulars to the room. Parx regulars Ray Ross (321,500), Justin Liberto (378,500), and Greg Fishberg (291,500) all bagged top ten chip stacks.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): The Field Make Up
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Entries: 466
Twitter roll call is on:
Those without Twitter in the field:
Eileen Kustafik
Harry Bressler
Nicholas Partenope
Mike Sandler
Total Entries: 466
Twitter roll call is on:
Brag: arrived early, dodgd late reg tables. Beat: got seated at @AlanKrautPoker table anyway. Variance: We're in the same seats as yesterday
— Dan Sewnig (@RedsoxNets5) May 2, 2014
Bout that time again. $330 Day 1B today...GLGL! #ParxBigStax @parxpokerroom pic.twitter.com/SgGsyOPeoW
— Michael Marder (@MMarder86) May 2, 2014
Headed over to @parxpokerroom for Big Stax Day 1B. #TeamOneTime
— Frank DiRe (@FLD15) May 2, 2014
Those without Twitter in the field:
Eileen Kustafik
Harry Bressler
Nicholas Partenope
Mike Sandler
Big Stax 300 (Day 1B): The Derby Prep
Level 1 (Blinds 50/100)
Total Entries: 450
The crowd is strong for 11:20am, as early birds are already in action, making sure not to miss one hand dealt out today. A mixture of players who couldn't bag Day 1B and first timers make up the room at the moment:
Alyson Parker
Robert Boyko
Michael Borovetz
Alan Kraut (Played Day 1A)
Nancy Martin (Played Day 1A)
Total Entries: 450
The crowd is strong for 11:20am, as early birds are already in action, making sure not to miss one hand dealt out today. A mixture of players who couldn't bag Day 1B and first timers make up the room at the moment:
Alyson Parker
Robert Boyko
Michael Borovetz
Alan Kraut (Played Day 1A)
Nancy Martin (Played Day 1A)
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): End Of Day 1A Chip Counts
| Day 1A | |||
| Total Players: | 358 | Players left: | 55 |
| Total Chips: | 10,740,000 | Average Chips: | 195,273 |
| First Name | Last Name | Hometown | Chip Count |
| Val | Zekser | Philadelphia,PA | 547,000 |
| Michael | Matrone | Morganville,NJ | 517,000 |
| Jesse | Letchworth | Colonial Heights,VA | 475,500 |
| Ryan | Dion | Williamstown,PA | 439,500 |
| Justin | Liberto | Baltimore,MD | 378,500 |
| Ray | Ross | Maple Glenn,PA | 321,500 |
| Gregory | Fishberg | Huntingdon Valley, PA | 291,500 |
| Elan | Chabi | Brooklyn,NY | 283,000 |
| Alec | Lafontant | Huntingdon Valley, PA | 278,500 |
| Jerry | Callahan | East Norwich,NY | 267,000 |
| Nancy | Birdbaum | Las Vegas,NV | 264,500 |
| William | Pfeffer | Philadelphia,PA | 264,000 |
| Keith | Woernle | Montgomery,AL | 249,000 |
| Tom | Palombo | Pennington,NJ | 246,500 |
| DeeAngelo | Seng | Sickerville,NJ | 241,500 |
| Mikhail | Lebovich | Feasterville,PA | 235,000 |
| Michael | Goldberg | Newton,PA | 235,000 |
| Aleksandr | Katsman | Brooklyn,NY | 231,000 |
| Brandon | Buglio | Newark,DE | 219,500 |
| Brian | Daugherty | Philadelphia,PA | 216,000 |
| Chris | Larrea | Philadelphia,PA | 214,500 |
| Mike | Mason | Collingswood,NJ | 212,000 |
| Ilya | Dyment | Brooklyn,NY | 197,000 |
| Jonas | Wexler | Southampton,PA | 192,500 |
| Jacob | Perry | Branchville,NJ | 186,500 |
| Joshua | Teitelbaum | Brooklyn,NY | 184,500 |
| Kim | Edmonds | Toms River,NJ | 181,500 |
| Asher | Conniff | Brooklyn,NY | 179,500 |
| Keith | DeAngelis | Conshohocken,PA | 174,000 |
| David | Kim | Flushing,NY | 171,000 |
| Dan | Nolan | Baltimore,MD | 165,000 |
| Art | DiProspero | Willow Grove,PA | 153,500 |
| Ilya | Ekshtut | Upper Holland,PA | 151,500 |
| Tom | Coan | Hauppauge,NY | 151,000 |
| Moshe | Dahan | Brooklyn,NY | 146,000 |
| Mike | Fiabane | Bordentown,NJ | 145,500 |
| Robert | Sichelstiel | Perkasie,PA | 143,500 |
| Mike | Sloven | Bensalem,PA | 140,000 |
| Jeff | Gross | Wall.NJ | 124,000 |
| Horatio | Hu | Fresh Meadows,NY | 120,000 |
| Sari | Ceglio | Kings Park,NY | 115,000 |
| Antonio | Amato | Langhorne,PA | 108,000 |
| Vincent | Teutoico | Staten Island,NY | 100,000 |
| Max | Pinnola | Cheltenham,PA | 97,000 |
| Antonio | Payne | Hazlet,NJ | 88,500 |
| Tim | Dalessandro | West Chester PA | 88,500 |
| Jason | Rivkin | Bensalem,PA | 79,000 |
| Michael | Dimaiuta | Centereach,NY | 77,000 |
| Christine | Brewer | Port Monmouth,NJ | 76,500 |
| Jose | Rosario | Philadelphia,PA | 76,000 |
| Baruch | Krieger | New York | 74,000 |
| Jeff | Wicker | Bristol,PA | 74,000 |
| Tam | Nguyen | Lancaster,PA | 58,500 |
| Alex | Vulakh | Philadelphia,PA | 48,000 |
| Menachem | Landwirt | Monsey,NY | 38,500 |
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Chip Counts
The verification process is taking slightly longer, as Parx Poker puts forth maximum effort to protect the integrity of all events. Once the counts are fully verified, the end of Day 1A counts will be posted.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): End Of Night $1K Bonus
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Entries: 357
It looked as if Michael Matrone was a shoe in for the chiplead bonus, especially after winning a flip on his last hand of the night (55 > A10). Once his chips were verified, the final number for Matrone would be 517,000. The tournament director asked the remaining field if anyone had more than 517,000, and Val Zekser's hand immediately raised. Zekser had over 530,000 and would earn himself an extra $1,000.
Total Entries: 357
 |
| Val Zekser |
It looked as if Michael Matrone was a shoe in for the chiplead bonus, especially after winning a flip on his last hand of the night (55 > A10). Once his chips were verified, the final number for Matrone would be 517,000. The tournament director asked the remaining field if anyone had more than 517,000, and Val Zekser's hand immediately raised. Zekser had over 530,000 and would earn himself an extra $1,000.
End of Day 1A chip counts will be posted shortly.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Four More Hands
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Entries: 357
The tournament floor has announced four more hands until players begin bagging their chips for Day 2. The chip leader at the end of today's action will be receiving a $1,000 bonus, and that player will be posted on the blog once counts are verified.
End of Day 1A chip counts will be posted on the live updates page, Twitter (via @parxpokerroom), and ParxPokerBlog.com.
Total Entries: 357
The tournament floor has announced four more hands until players begin bagging their chips for Day 2. The chip leader at the end of today's action will be receiving a $1,000 bonus, and that player will be posted on the blog once counts are verified.
End of Day 1A chip counts will be posted on the live updates page, Twitter (via @parxpokerroom), and ParxPokerBlog.com.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Fishberg With Hooks
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Entries: 357
The action was picked up at Table 64 after an all-in between Jimmy Lillis and Greg Fishberg. There would lay a pair of jacks in front of Fishberg (on a runout that was a ten high board), as the dealer checked to see if Lillis had Fishberg covered. The all-in amount for Greg was 123,000, and after paying that amount off, Lillis was left with just under 13,000.
Greg Fishberg - 270,000
Jimmy Lillis - Busted two hands later
Total Entries: 357
The action was picked up at Table 64 after an all-in between Jimmy Lillis and Greg Fishberg. There would lay a pair of jacks in front of Fishberg (on a runout that was a ten high board), as the dealer checked to see if Lillis had Fishberg covered. The all-in amount for Greg was 123,000, and after paying that amount off, Lillis was left with just under 13,000.
Greg Fishberg - 270,000
Jimmy Lillis - Busted two hands later
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Liberto Laxxed
Level 15 (Blinds 2,000/4,000/500)
Total Entries: 357
In the most recent update with chip counts, Justin Liberto was just under 200,000. In the short time between that post and the end of Level 14, Liberto picked up a sizable pot with aces, and now is pushing 350,000.
Total Entries: 357
 |
| Justin Liberto |
In the most recent update with chip counts, Justin Liberto was just under 200,000. In the short time between that post and the end of Level 14, Liberto picked up a sizable pot with aces, and now is pushing 350,000.
Justin is likely looking forward to the upcoming months and the WSOP. Last year was the first time Liberto played in a WSOP event...it was the $1,500 Millionaire Maker. He finished in 4th place for $400,000...enough said. He's come close in other major events since, and will be spending a share of time out at the WSOP this year.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Final Break
The remaining players in the field are going on the last (15) minute break of the day, and will return to Level 15 and blinds of 2,000/4,000/500.
When 10:00 minutes remain on the clock (in Level 15), the tournament director will pause the clock and determine how many hands remain in the night.
When 10:00 minutes remain on the clock (in Level 15), the tournament director will pause the clock and determine how many hands remain in the night.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Last Level Chip Counts
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Entries: 357
Here are some updated chip counts going into the last level of the night:
Michael Matrone - 510,000
Val Zekser - 410,000
Jesse Letchworth - 310,000
Max Pannola - 305,000
Nancy Birnbaum - 300,000
Jonas Wexler - 280,000
Ilya Ekshtut - 230,000
Jerry Callahan - 220,000
DeeAngelo Seng - 210,000
Asher Conniff - 190,000
Antonio Payne - 190,000
Justin Liberto - 180,000
Greg Fishberg - 180,000
Jeff Gross - 110,000
Christine Brewer - 80,000
Jeff Wicker - 75,000
Total Entries: 357
Here are some updated chip counts going into the last level of the night:
Michael Matrone - 510,000
Val Zekser - 410,000
Jesse Letchworth - 310,000
Max Pannola - 305,000
Nancy Birnbaum - 300,000
Jonas Wexler - 280,000
Ilya Ekshtut - 230,000
Jerry Callahan - 220,000
DeeAngelo Seng - 210,000
Asher Conniff - 190,000
Antonio Payne - 190,000
Justin Liberto - 180,000
Greg Fishberg - 180,000
Jeff Gross - 110,000
Christine Brewer - 80,000
Jeff Wicker - 75,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Lightning Round
Level 14 (Blinds 1,500/3,000/400)
Total Entries: 356
- Michael Matrone continues steamrolling his table, and is now over 500,000 after knocking out one of the short stacks.
- Asher Conniff (Brooklyn, NY) showed up a little on the late side today, and was grinding a below average stack for most of his day. He has since picked up a fews pots, before doubling up to over 200,000.
- Jason Paster just busted after playing a full day of tournament poker, but has decided to fire once more before leaving, sitting down with 10 bigs.
Total Entries: 356
- Michael Matrone continues steamrolling his table, and is now over 500,000 after knocking out one of the short stacks.
- Asher Conniff (Brooklyn, NY) showed up a little on the late side today, and was grinding a below average stack for most of his day. He has since picked up a fews pots, before doubling up to over 200,000.
- Jason Paster just busted after playing a full day of tournament poker, but has decided to fire once more before leaving, sitting down with 10 bigs.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Winding Down
Level 14 is going to begin in a couple of minutes, and the blinds will be going up to 1,500/3,000/400 (356 total entries). There will be a break at the end of this level, and players will return to play Level 15 before bagging chips for Day 2 play.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Done For The Day
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Entries: 355
The following players have busted from Day 1A action and have not returned since:
TJ Shulman
Nicholas Partenope
Nancy Martin
Joe Palma
Antonio Walker
Justin Friedman
Pierre Deissler
Jordan Diamond
Allison Schultz
Total Entries: 355
The following players have busted from Day 1A action and have not returned since:
TJ Shulman
Nicholas Partenope
Nancy Martin
Joe Palma
Antonio Walker
Justin Friedman
Pierre Deissler
Jordan Diamond
Allison Schultz
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Still Alive
Level 13 (Blinds 1,200/2,400/300)
Total Entries: 352
As expected, the bustouts have been steady, and the field is already down to 96 active players (on 11 tables). Here is a list of notables still alive:
Jack Duong
Kim Edmonds
Alan Kraut
Sari Ceglio
Asher Conniff
Christine Brewer
Steven Sarmiento
Baruch Altman
Izzet Temel
Robert Sichelstiel
Jason Rivkin
Eric Rivkin
Miguel Borrero
Ray Ross
Bryan Trischeta
Ilya Dyment
Chris Farley
Jimmy Lillis
Jeff Gross
Jason Paster
Justin Liberto
Ron Vitello
Antonio Payne
David Kim
Jeff Wicker
TJ Shulman
Total Entries: 352
As expected, the bustouts have been steady, and the field is already down to 96 active players (on 11 tables). Here is a list of notables still alive:
Jack Duong
Kim Edmonds
Alan Kraut
Sari Ceglio
Asher Conniff
Christine Brewer
Steven Sarmiento
Baruch Altman
Izzet Temel
Robert Sichelstiel
Jason Rivkin
Eric Rivkin
Miguel Borrero
Ray Ross
Bryan Trischeta
Ilya Dyment
Chris Farley
Jimmy Lillis
Jeff Gross
Jason Paster
Justin Liberto
Ron Vitello
Antonio Payne
David Kim
Jeff Wicker
TJ Shulman
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Break Time
Players are on another (15) minute break, and will return to blinds of 1,200/2,400/300. After coming back from break, there will be two levels played (Level 13 & 14)...a final break...and the last level of the night (Level 15).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Trending Upwards
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Entries: 350
DeeAngelo Seng (Blackwood, NJ) is a blast from the past in terms of Parx Poker tournaments. He was the chip leader coming into Day 2 of the first Big Stax 300 tournament ever, eventually finishing in 14th place ($4,357). Today's tournament is the first Seng has been in the room since the inaugural Big Stax series, and he's been fairly active. DeeAngelo has found himself involved in numerous pots with Nancy Birnbaum, and has chipped up over 200,000.
On the other hand we have Jonas Wexler (Southhampton, NJ), who is no stranger to deep runs (and titles) at Parx. Wexler chopped the main trophy event during Big Stax II with Mike Dentale, taking home over $100,000. Jonas also cashed both the 300 (50th place) and 500 (29th place) during the most recent Big Stax in February. He is currently over 250,000 and holds one of the top ten stacks in the room.
Total Entries: 350
DeeAngelo Seng (Blackwood, NJ) is a blast from the past in terms of Parx Poker tournaments. He was the chip leader coming into Day 2 of the first Big Stax 300 tournament ever, eventually finishing in 14th place ($4,357). Today's tournament is the first Seng has been in the room since the inaugural Big Stax series, and he's been fairly active. DeeAngelo has found himself involved in numerous pots with Nancy Birnbaum, and has chipped up over 200,000.
On the other hand we have Jonas Wexler (Southhampton, NJ), who is no stranger to deep runs (and titles) at Parx. Wexler chopped the main trophy event during Big Stax II with Mike Dentale, taking home over $100,000. Jonas also cashed both the 300 (50th place) and 500 (29th place) during the most recent Big Stax in February. He is currently over 250,000 and holds one of the top ten stacks in the room.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Strangers No More
Level 12 (Blinds 1,000/2,000/300)
Total Entries: 348
There are some new faces that are making noise in the field, all with over 200,000 in chips:
Total Entries: 348
There are some new faces that are making noise in the field, all with over 200,000 in chips:
 |
| Jesse Letchworth - 300,000 |
 |
| Max Pannola - 250,000 |
 |
| Val Zekser - 230,000 |
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Once Again
Level 12 started moments ago, with the blinds going up to 1,000/2,000/300. Players buying in (or re-entering) now would have 15 big blinds, and it's a period in the Day 1's where there tends to be a lot of movement. There are currently 14 active tables, and it's very likely that there will be somewhere around 5-6 to end the night.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Lind Wins The Flip
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Entries: 340
After opening from the button, Karl Lind watched as his opponent to his direct left three-bet shoved for approximately 60,000. Lind thought for a few moments before declaring a call (and having his opponent covered), and would be in the classic flip (holding QQ against AK). Lind's pocket queens would hold, and he is now over 200,000.
Total Entries: 340
After opening from the button, Karl Lind watched as his opponent to his direct left three-bet shoved for approximately 60,000. Lind thought for a few moments before declaring a call (and having his opponent covered), and would be in the classic flip (holding QQ against AK). Lind's pocket queens would hold, and he is now over 200,000.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Updated Chip Counts
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Entries: 339
Here are some updated chip counts from the field:
Michael Matrone - 400,000
Keith DeAngelis - 205,000
Nancy Birnbaum - 195,000
Dan Nolan - 180,000
DeAngelo Seng - 180,000
Joe Grodowski - 170,000
Ray Ross - 150,000
Jonas Wexler - 150,000
Art DiProspero - 110,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Set Over Set
Level 11 (Blinds 800/1,600/200)
Total Entries: 335
Joe Grodowski (Staten Island, NJ) just doubled through Greg Fishberg, with both players flopping sets on the 9♣ 3♠ 8♦ flop. Grodowski held 9♥ 9♠ against the 8♥ 8♠ of Fishberg, with Joe's all-in amount just over 55,000. He is now over 130,000, and looking to replicate his most recent run at Parx, when he final tabled the $1,500 event this past February.
Joe Grodwoski - 130,000
Greg Fishberg - 67,000
Total Entries: 335
Joe Grodowski (Staten Island, NJ) just doubled through Greg Fishberg, with both players flopping sets on the 9♣ 3♠ 8♦ flop. Grodowski held 9♥ 9♠ against the 8♥ 8♠ of Fishberg, with Joe's all-in amount just over 55,000. He is now over 130,000, and looking to replicate his most recent run at Parx, when he final tabled the $1,500 event this past February.
Joe Grodwoski - 130,000
Greg Fishberg - 67,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Another Level Down
Level 11 is about to begin with blinds increasing 800/1,600/200 (334 total entries). There are fifteen active tables in the clubhouse room, meaning there are approximately 135 players remaining in the Day 1A field.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Matrone Takes The Lead
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Entries: 334
Michael Matrone (Morganville, NJ) has surpassed Nancy Birnbaum and now holds the chip lead in the room. Matrone has just over 270,000, and is looking to put himself in good position to add to his $126,000 in live tournament earnings. Matrone won a $500 NL Hold'em side event during Big Stax II for just over $8,700, his second tournament win (29 total recorded cashes).
Total Entries: 334
 |
| Michael Matrone (Morganville, NJ) |
Michael Matrone (Morganville, NJ) has surpassed Nancy Birnbaum and now holds the chip lead in the room. Matrone has just over 270,000, and is looking to put himself in good position to add to his $126,000 in live tournament earnings. Matrone won a $500 NL Hold'em side event during Big Stax II for just over $8,700, his second tournament win (29 total recorded cashes).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Back From Dinner
Level 10 (Blinds 600/1,200/200)
Total Entries: 330
Players have returned from dinner, and the cards are once again in the air. A few of the outer tables have broke, while some new faces made their way into the room. The players coming from broken tables end up in new random seats, and it so happens that poker couple David Kim and Christine Brewer ended up directly next to each other.
Total Entries: 330
 |
| David Kim & Christine Brewer |
Players have returned from dinner, and the cards are once again in the air. A few of the outer tables have broke, while some new faces made their way into the room. The players coming from broken tables end up in new random seats, and it so happens that poker couple David Kim and Christine Brewer ended up directly next to each other.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Dinner Time
The players are going on a (75) minute dinner break, which means that play will resume at approximately 7:35pm. When players return to Level 10, the blinds will be going up to 600/1,200/200. There will be six more levels played in the night before those left will bag and tag for Day 2 on Sunday.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): "Birn"-ing Down The House
Level 8 (Blinds 500/1,000/100)
Total Entries: 317
Nancy Birnbaum continues to trend upwards, as she leads the field going to dinner, with close to 250,000. Here is a list of counts going to break:
Nancy Birnbaum - 250,000
Keith DeAngelis - 160,000
Sari Ceglio - 155,000
Greg Fishberg - 115,000
Steven Sarmiento - 100,000
David Kim - 98,000
Justin Liberto - 95,000
TJ Shulman - 90,000
Jerry Callahan - 90,000
Izzet Temel - 80,000
Jonas Wexler - 75,000
Kevin Grabel - 65,000
Ray Ross - 60,000
Antonio Payne - 60,000
Jason Paster - 45,000
Total Entries: 317
Nancy Birnbaum continues to trend upwards, as she leads the field going to dinner, with close to 250,000. Here is a list of counts going to break:
Nancy Birnbaum - 250,000
Keith DeAngelis - 160,000
Sari Ceglio - 155,000
Greg Fishberg - 115,000
Steven Sarmiento - 100,000
David Kim - 98,000
Justin Liberto - 95,000
TJ Shulman - 90,000
Jerry Callahan - 90,000
Izzet Temel - 80,000
Jonas Wexler - 75,000
Kevin Grabel - 65,000
Ray Ross - 60,000
Antonio Payne - 60,000
Jason Paster - 45,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Last Level Before Dinner
Level 8 is about to begin, with blinds going up to 500/1,000/100. There are 310 total entries, and players who decide to enter now will still be sitting down with 30 big blinds. A common theme throughout these series is players entering post dinner break (which is after this level).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Take Two
Level 8 (Blinds 400/800/100)
Total Entries: 306
The following players have had to make their way to the cage for re-entry:
Nancy Martin
Brian Lemke
Ray Ross
Mike Sandler
Edmond Petrella
Total Entries: 306
The following players have had to make their way to the cage for re-entry:
Nancy Martin
Brian Lemke
Ray Ross
Mike Sandler
Edmond Petrella
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Going Up
Level 8 is about to begin with blinds going up to 400/800/100. Two more entries will bring the total number to 300. Players will have two more levels before going on a (75) dinner break.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Precursor To The WSOP
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
Total Entries: 295
The way that the Big Stax series are scheduled, many of the events occur right before...or after major poker series. The way things pan out, many of the players who will be seen during Big Stax VI will follow up with Las Vegas and the WSOP on their schedule. There isn't a more ideal situation than binking a large tournament to help pad the bankroll heading to Vegas. Jared Jaffee did just that last year, as he final tabled the Big Stax 1500 (5th place for $27,000). He mentioned on the way out of the casino how it's nice to head to the WSOP off a nice score, and proceeded to have a great summer. Jared won over $200,000 during the WSOP summer, final tabling one bracelet event, and taking down a $1,000 event at Aria.
As this series unfolds and the WSOP begins in Vegas, be sure to check ParxPokerBlog.com to see how some of the Parx (and east coast) regulars are doing during the most prestigious events of the year.
Total Entries: 295
The way that the Big Stax series are scheduled, many of the events occur right before...or after major poker series. The way things pan out, many of the players who will be seen during Big Stax VI will follow up with Las Vegas and the WSOP on their schedule. There isn't a more ideal situation than binking a large tournament to help pad the bankroll heading to Vegas. Jared Jaffee did just that last year, as he final tabled the Big Stax 1500 (5th place for $27,000). He mentioned on the way out of the casino how it's nice to head to the WSOP off a nice score, and proceeded to have a great summer. Jared won over $200,000 during the WSOP summer, final tabling one bracelet event, and taking down a $1,000 event at Aria.
As this series unfolds and the WSOP begins in Vegas, be sure to check ParxPokerBlog.com to see how some of the Parx (and east coast) regulars are doing during the most prestigious events of the year.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): The First Lady
Level 7 (Blinds 300/600/100)
There is a noticeable spike in the amount of ladies in the field for this Day 1A, and one of them is currently leading the way. Sari Ceglio (Kings Park, NY) is over 160,000, and looking for her second ever cash at Parx. In August of 2013, Sari finished in 50th place of the Big Stax 300 (Big Stax III), taking home $1,388.
Total Entries: 288
 |
| Sari Ceglio (Kings Park, NY) |
There is a noticeable spike in the amount of ladies in the field for this Day 1A, and one of them is currently leading the way. Sari Ceglio (Kings Park, NY) is over 160,000, and looking for her second ever cash at Parx. In August of 2013, Sari finished in 50th place of the Big Stax 300 (Big Stax III), taking home $1,388.
Sari Ceglio - 160,000
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Second Break
Players are going on their second (15) minute break of the day, and when they return to Level 7, the blinds will have gone up to 300/600/100. The number of total entries on the board currently shows 267.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Kim Reassessing The Odds
Level 6 (Blinds 250/500/50)
Total Entries: 263
In an earlier post, David Kim set his own lines on Twitter for his Day 1A: Over/Under 4.5 bullets, and + 300 to bag chips at the end of Day 1A. Those lines have now seen massive moves, as Kim is one of the chip leaders in the room with over 120,000. After a brief discussion, it has been agreed that the lines are now Over/Under 1.5 bullets, and Bagging Chips -150.
Total Entries: 263
 |
| David Kim (Brigantine, NJ) |
In an earlier post, David Kim set his own lines on Twitter for his Day 1A: Over/Under 4.5 bullets, and + 300 to bag chips at the end of Day 1A. Those lines have now seen massive moves, as Kim is one of the chip leaders in the room with over 120,000. After a brief discussion, it has been agreed that the lines are now Over/Under 1.5 bullets, and Bagging Chips -150.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Blinds Increasing
Level 6 has just started, with the blinds going up to 250/500/50. There was a flurry of bustouts during the waining moments of Level 5, many of which found themselves right back in the room (but a different seat).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Grabel Gains Confidence
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Entries: 256
Kevin Grabel (Southampton, PA) is currently one of the top stacks in the room, and results have shown he's playing some of his best poker at the moment. Grabel is coming off his largest career score, finishing in third place of the opening event of the Borgata Spring Open ($560 NL Hold'em). Kevin quadrupled his earnings with the $90,000 score, and is working to put himself in good position early in Day 1A.
Total Entries: 256
 |
| Kevin Grabel (Southampton, PA) |
Kevin Grabel (Southampton, PA) is currently one of the top stacks in the room, and results have shown he's playing some of his best poker at the moment. Grabel is coming off his largest career score, finishing in third place of the opening event of the Borgata Spring Open ($560 NL Hold'em). Kevin quadrupled his earnings with the $90,000 score, and is working to put himself in good position early in Day 1A.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Very Early Counts
Level 5 (Blinds 200/400/50)
Total Entries: 250
It's still very early in the tournament, but some players have gotten themselves off to solid Day 1A starts:
Kevin Grabel - 105,000
Nancy Birnbaum - 95,000
TJ Shulman - 88,000
Keith DeAngelis - 85,000
Izzet Temel - 70,000
Edmond Petrella - 64,000
More late arrivals:
Jeff Wicker
Jonas Wexler
Michael Murphy
Igor Rabinovich
Total Entries: 250
It's still very early in the tournament, but some players have gotten themselves off to solid Day 1A starts:
Kevin Grabel - 105,000
Nancy Birnbaum - 95,000
TJ Shulman - 88,000
Keith DeAngelis - 85,000
Izzet Temel - 70,000
Edmond Petrella - 64,000
More late arrivals:
Jeff Wicker
Jonas Wexler
Michael Murphy
Igor Rabinovich
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Level Up
The tournament director has just announced the beginning of Level 5, as blinds go up to 200/400/50. The entries are still continuing to climb at a fairly steady pace, with the number on the board at the moment sitting on 244. Ilya Dyment (Brooklyn, NY) and Bryan Trischetta (Scranton, PA) are two of the newest additions to the field.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Borrero Takes A Warm Seat
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Entries: 230
Joseph McKeehen was seen collecting his things after busting his first bullet, but has since found a new table for bullet two. Only seconds after McKeehen walked away, Miguel Borrero (Jersey City, NJ) came over to take his seat. Borrero last final tabled the Big Stax 500 (Big Stax V), taking home $13,000 for a sixth place finish. In the months that have passed since, Miguel had made two more final tables (Borgata $260 NL and Harrah's Chester $580 NL).
Total Entries: 230
 |
| Miguel Borrero (Jersey City, NJ) |
Joseph McKeehen was seen collecting his things after busting his first bullet, but has since found a new table for bullet two. Only seconds after McKeehen walked away, Miguel Borrero (Jersey City, NJ) came over to take his seat. Borrero last final tabled the Big Stax 500 (Big Stax V), taking home $13,000 for a sixth place finish. In the months that have passed since, Miguel had made two more final tables (Borgata $260 NL and Harrah's Chester $580 NL).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): ICYMI
Level 4 (Blinds 150/300/50)
Total Entries: 218
Catching up on the action since returning from break, more names continue to make the notables list:
Ryan Eriquezzo
Ilya Ekshtut
Jimmy Lillis
Brian Lemke
Also making his Ali-like return to the live ring is Jason Paster (Yardley, PA), who was a fixture in the 10/10 NL game. Since the return of online poker to New Jersey, Paster has devoted all of his hour of poker to the computer. He's using this tournament as a gauge on whether or not he has the drive to make the trip to Las Vegas for the 2014 WSOP.
About half the way through the level coming back, Nancy Birnbaum sends both Mike Sandler and Robert Sichelstiel as her 33 > A 10 > K 4 on the J J 3 J x runout. Birnbaum propels herself to the top of the leaderboard at the moment (110,000).
Total Entries: 218
Catching up on the action since returning from break, more names continue to make the notables list:
Ryan Eriquezzo
Ilya Ekshtut
Jimmy Lillis
Brian Lemke
Also making his Ali-like return to the live ring is Jason Paster (Yardley, PA), who was a fixture in the 10/10 NL game. Since the return of online poker to New Jersey, Paster has devoted all of his hour of poker to the computer. He's using this tournament as a gauge on whether or not he has the drive to make the trip to Las Vegas for the 2014 WSOP.
About half the way through the level coming back, Nancy Birnbaum sends both Mike Sandler and Robert Sichelstiel as her 33 > A 10 > K 4 on the J J 3 J x runout. Birnbaum propels herself to the top of the leaderboard at the moment (110,000).
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): First Break
Players are going on their first break of the day, and will return to Level 3 and blinds of 150/300/50. More faces continue to filter into the room, as the later arrivals stroll in:
Chris Farley
Mickey Woll
Joe Gradowski
Ken Silberstein
Chris Farley
Mickey Woll
Joe Gradowski
Ken Silberstein
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Finding The Right Coast
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Entries: 194
A not-so-familiar face to Parx, but well known tournament pro Nancy Birmbaum (Las Vegas, NV) has made her way to the East Coast. Nancy has over $400,000 in career tournament earnings, including 24 cashes on the WSOP-Circuit. Birnbaum has three circuit rings (two from Harrah's New Orleans, and one at Harrah's Rincon).
Total Entries: 194
 |
| Nancy Birnbaum (Las Vegas, NV) |
A not-so-familiar face to Parx, but well known tournament pro Nancy Birmbaum (Las Vegas, NV) has made her way to the East Coast. Nancy has over $400,000 in career tournament earnings, including 24 cashes on the WSOP-Circuit. Birnbaum has three circuit rings (two from Harrah's New Orleans, and one at Harrah's Rincon).
Birnbaum is co-owner the U.S. Women's Poker Academy, and is also a Team Pro with Blue Shark Optics and Go Deep Gear. This is believed to be the first time Nancy has played in any Big Stax events, and it's great to see national tournament pros making their way to the room.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Setting The Lines
Level 3 (Blinds 100/200/25)
Total Entries: 179
David Kim (Brigantine, NJ) is also no stranger to the Big Stax series, having made numerous appearances since its' inception. He final tabled the Big Stax 1000 last August, and ended taking home just under $40,000 in a chop. He's taken his seat a few minutes ago, and already posted the morning line for bullets fired and Day 2 handicap:
Total Entries: 179
David Kim (Brigantine, NJ) is also no stranger to the Big Stax series, having made numerous appearances since its' inception. He final tabled the Big Stax 1000 last August, and ended taking home just under $40,000 in a chop. He's taken his seat a few minutes ago, and already posted the morning line for bullets fired and Day 2 handicap:
At parx playing their $300 tourney. Over/under set at 4.5 buyins and money line for me making day 2 at +300
— David Kim (@davekim01) May 1, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Level Up, Continued Roll Call
Level 3 has just started, with antes being introduced into the tournament (100/200/25). The field continues to grow quickly, with 175 total entries now showing on the board. Our list of notables continues:
Jeff Gross
Pierre Deissler
Greg Fishberg
Harry Bressler
Alan Kraut
Dan Sewnig
Joe Palma
Justin Liberto
Eric Rivkin
Jason Rivkin
Mike Cannon
Joseph McKeehen
Cathy Dever
Kevin Grabel
Jeff Gross
Pierre Deissler
Greg Fishberg
Harry Bressler
Alan Kraut
Dan Sewnig
Joe Palma
Justin Liberto
Eric Rivkin
Jason Rivkin
Mike Cannon
Joseph McKeehen
Cathy Dever
Kevin Grabel
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): B-RING-ing The Payne
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Entries: 152
Antonio Payne (Hazlet, NJ) has been a staple on the east coast tournament circuit, and seemingly never misses Big Stax events. A Team Pro for Blue Shark Optics, Antonio would without a doubt be considered one of the good guys by his peers. The numerous tournaments and hours played really showed last week when Payne won his first WSOP-Circuit Ring at Harrahs Chester ($580 NL Hold'em).
One thing that's pretty clear about tournament poker is that players seem to hit moments where they are playing their best, and running good as well. Antonio final tabled the $1,675 Main Event only days later, finishing in sixth place and taking home just over $22,000. He navigated a tough field in that event, coming back to a final table consisting of Joe Keuther, Kevin Saul, Justin Liberto, Tim West, and eventual winner Kyle Bowker.
Payne received much congrats from the community, and made sure to show his appreciation via Twitter:
Total Entries: 152
 |
| Antonio Payne (Hazlet, NJ) |
Antonio Payne (Hazlet, NJ) has been a staple on the east coast tournament circuit, and seemingly never misses Big Stax events. A Team Pro for Blue Shark Optics, Antonio would without a doubt be considered one of the good guys by his peers. The numerous tournaments and hours played really showed last week when Payne won his first WSOP-Circuit Ring at Harrahs Chester ($580 NL Hold'em).
One thing that's pretty clear about tournament poker is that players seem to hit moments where they are playing their best, and running good as well. Antonio final tabled the $1,675 Main Event only days later, finishing in sixth place and taking home just over $22,000. He navigated a tough field in that event, coming back to a final table consisting of Joe Keuther, Kevin Saul, Justin Liberto, Tim West, and eventual winner Kyle Bowker.
Payne received much congrats from the community, and made sure to show his appreciation via Twitter:
Before I sit down at 2pm just wanted to say. Wow! Thx so so so much for the support. It's amazing it really is. #ItsTime...Again"
— Antonio Payne (@Anthony_1Payne) April 28, 2014
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Today's Attendance
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Entries: 142
It's become common place for the list of notables to span almost 100 names, but the loyal players to Parx continue to come out and support these great events:
Justin Friedman
Jordan Diamond
Mike Sandler
Ray Ross
Nancy Birnbaum
Nancy Martin
Antonio Payne
Steven Sarmiento
TJ Shulman
Ron Vittello
Fritz Stoner
Bryan Hayes
Keith Deangelis
Allison Schultz
Izzet Temel
Edmond Petrella
...And that was just a quarter of the room.
Total Entries: 142
It's become common place for the list of notables to span almost 100 names, but the loyal players to Parx continue to come out and support these great events:
Justin Friedman
Jordan Diamond
Mike Sandler
Ray Ross
Nancy Birnbaum
Nancy Martin
Antonio Payne
Steven Sarmiento
TJ Shulman
Ron Vittello
Fritz Stoner
Bryan Hayes
Keith Deangelis
Allison Schultz
Izzet Temel
Edmond Petrella
...And that was just a quarter of the room.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Level 2 Begins
Level 2 (Blinds 75/150)
Total Entries: 132
Players have just finished their first level of the day, and the blinds in Level 2 have gone up to 75/150. A list of familiar faces in the field today will be posted in just moments.
Total Entries: 132
Players have just finished their first level of the day, and the blinds in Level 2 have gone up to 75/150. A list of familiar faces in the field today will be posted in just moments.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Cards In The Air
Big Stax VI is now underway, with the cards in the air for Level 1 (Blinds 50/100). Due to the inclement weather last night, many players coming from New Jersey are running into slight detours. This hasn't stopped the clubhouse room from filling up, but an influx of players are expected shortly.
Big Stax 300 (Day 1A): Early Birds
The Day 1A action for the Big Stax 300 begins in just a couple of hours, but the Twitter-verse never sleeps (or at least doesn't sleep late):
The cards will be in the air at 11:00am, with all of the Big Stax 300 nuances in effect: the 30,000 starting stack, (45) minute levels on Day 1, and open (and unlimited) entry throughout each Day 1 of the event. The field for this event in February was over 1,800, the largest ever held at Parx Casino, with first place topping $120,000. It will be interesting to note the turnout this time around, especially with satellites having run for a month leading up to the series, and the notoriety these events have gained. Live coverage of the event begins just after 11:00am, and does not stop until the conclusion of the series.
#ParxBigStax VI starts today!
$300+30 Day1a
@parxpokerroom
http://t.co/bRJuRDLoyM
— Matt Glantz (@MattGlantz) May 1, 2014
Made all of the end of the month biz deadlines that caused me to miss the WPTChamp. Free, clear and ready to absorb myself in #ParxBigStax
— Alan Kraut (@AlanKrautPoker) May 1, 2014
The cards will be in the air at 11:00am, with all of the Big Stax 300 nuances in effect: the 30,000 starting stack, (45) minute levels on Day 1, and open (and unlimited) entry throughout each Day 1 of the event. The field for this event in February was over 1,800, the largest ever held at Parx Casino, with first place topping $120,000. It will be interesting to note the turnout this time around, especially with satellites having run for a month leading up to the series, and the notoriety these events have gained. Live coverage of the event begins just after 11:00am, and does not stop until the conclusion of the series.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Big Stax VI Live Updates Page Launched
The preparation has started a little bit earlier this time around, as the live updates page for the upcoming Big Stax VI is launched to the public. This site should be bookmarked, as any announcements and information surrounding the series will be posted here (as well as ParxPokerBlog.com).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)