Poker has created plenty of memorable storylines throughout the history of the game, and the last couple of weeks have not been short of headline moments.
A major event in France generated a plethora of standout moments, particularly for poker stars from Australia and the United Kingdom.
Aussie Player Scoops the Bounties
Australian poker player Ram Faravash pulled off a heist at the 2024 European Poker Tour (EPT) in Paris, dominating the €3,000 Mystery Bounty event.
Faravash showcased exceptional skill to eliminate 20 players throughout the tournament and collect a whopping €106,500 in bounties – including prestigious €50,000 and €25,000 prizes.
This impressive bounty haul, coupled with his first-place cash prize worth €298,796, helped Faravash walk away with a staggering €405,296 in the bag.
The €3,000 Mystery Bounty event was a thrilling affair, drawing 997 entries and boasting a prize pool of over €2.6 million, with an extra €977,000 dedicated to bounty prizes.
Faravash emerged victorious after a thrilling face-off against Belgium’s Mustafa Al-Sayegh, securing the win with a set of threes.
Although Al-Sayegh was a worthy opponent, he was forced to settle for the runner-up spot but still pocketed an eye-catching €194,720, which included €8,000 in bounties.
The event also saw notable performances from Indian players such as Ankit Ahuja, Kartik Ved and Jeevan Lobo, who all cashed in the tournament.
But the real story was the ‘Mystery Bounty’ format, which injected excitement and unpredictability into the event.
With bounties awarded after every elimination, the atmosphere was electric, fostering aggressive play and rapid shifts in fortunes.
Alongside the Mystery Bounty, EPT Paris crowned seven other champions across various competitions, solidifying its reputation as a premier poker destination.
Barny Boatman Makes EPT History
The EPT witnessed history unfold as 68-year-old Barny Boatman defied expectations and stereotypes to clinch the Main Event title in Paris.
Boatman’s remarkable success etched his name into professional poker history as the oldest EPT Main Event winner ever, sending shockwaves throughout the industry.
His triumph earned him a staggering €1,287,800 windfall – proving that age is nothing but a number when it comes to poker prowess.
His win also embodies the values of innovation and resilience, demonstrating that even seasoned veterans can adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving world of poker.
For those familiar with the game, Boatman’s name carries significant weight. He is a respected figure and a true pioneer of poker, having been part of the legendary Hendon Mob in his early days.
His journey from those early beginnings to global recognition is a testament to his passion for the game and his unconventional approach to life.
Away from the poker tables, the Englishman has travelled to various parts of the globe, with Australia one of his favoured landing spots.
Boatman is an inspiration for players across the world – a point evidenced by the three Aussie poker players who finished in the money in the tournament.
Their collective efforts are guaranteed to inspire a new generation of poker players in Australia and beyond, both in traditional establishments and in the burgeoning realm of online casinos, to chase their dreams at the felt.
Boatman’s exploits, and those of his Aussie counterparts, perfectly captures the timeless allure of poker that transcends borders.
Mixed Games Academy to Educate Poker Players & Dealers
Australian tournament director Shannon Van Den Berg has played a key role in growing the popularity of casino games across the country.
Van Den Berg, who is also the director of poker for Mixed Games Academy, is now on a mission to deal a whole new hand to the Australian poker community.
Mixed Games Academy aims to be the ace up the sleeve for aspiring poker players looking to widen their horizons. They plan to educate and integrate new players and dealers into the poker landscape.
By organising events in Queensland and New South Wales, they’ve fostered a burgeoning community eager to explore the various flavours of poker.
Van Den Berg recognises the need for a strong infrastructure. He advocates for comprehensive training not only for players but also for dealers and tournament directors.
He aims to fill the pot with at least 150 players at Mixed Games events by the end of 2024 – a testament to the growing popularity of these variants.
With live streaming becoming the community card of the modern poker world, Van Den Berg sees it as a game-changer for Mixed Games throughout Australia.
This technology bridges the gap, allowing players to watch, learn and raise their skills – even when faced with lesser-known poker variants.
While the cessation of tournament poker at Melbourne’s Crown Casino has left a void, Van Den Berg sees it as an opportunity for other venues to step up to the table.
The Academy is actively developing adaptable tables capable of accommodating the diverse formats of Mixed Games, addressing a crucial infrastructure gap.