2015 Punta Cana Poker Classic Shatters Participation Record

Wednesday November 11,2015 : 2015 Punta Cana Poker Classic Shatters Participation Record

This year’s sixth-annual Punta Cana Poker Classic is in the books with its biggest turnout ever. Luis Yepez, of Venezuela, was the overall winner, finishing atop of a record-high field of 567 players who combined for an $824,985 prize pool.  Americas Cardroom is the flagship sponsor of the land-based poker tournament that took place at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in the Dominican Republic from November 2nd to 9th.

“This year’s event defied all expectations by blowing away the $500,000 posted guarantee by over $320,000,” stated Americas Cardroom’s spokesperson Michael Harris.  “Players are turning to the Punta Cana Poker Classic because it offers a substantial prize pool poker tournament and a tropical beach vacation all in one.” 
Yepez took home $156,000 for his first place win, after a deal was made. He came into the final table dead-last in chips and managed to navigate his way to this year’s championship by dispatching player after player in the final two days of play and holding on in a heads up battle versus Jaime Farriol.

After the first six players were eliminated at the final table, the remaining three cut a deal.  The final table and winnings breakdown is as follows from first to ninth place: Yepez ($156,000); Farriol ($108,000); Gabriel Diaz ($105,000); Ari Engel ($41,250); Jose Tavarez ($33,000); Pablo Bravo ($24,750); Jose Luis Cases ($23,100); Antonio Rodriguez ($19,800) and Amos Ben ($16,500).

This year, Americas Cardroom qualified a total of 57 players via online satellites.  The Beast and Sit & Crush weekly satellites were just $55 to enter or free for players who earned enough points in either of the weekly points races.

Each package awarded this year was valued at $4,890 and included: the Main Event buy-in; 6 night accommodations at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana; ground transportation to/from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ only); Welcome Party access; all-Inclusive premium food and beverage (24-hour room service included); a welcome gift bag; $1,500 Resort Credits to spend on spa, golf and tours at the hotel; and 24/7 VIP Support Line access.

“We qualified more players than ever this year and we have no doubt that number will grow in 2016,” continued Harris.  “Where else can you parlay a $55 satellite into a life-changing score at an all-inclusive beach vacation?”