Poker Pro Panel Helps to Add Big Event to 2006 WSOP

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Probably in response to the massive number of entrants the past 2 years in the various WSOP events, Harrah's announced that a new $50,000 event would start in 2006. The game will be H.O.R.S.E, a mixed game variation that combines rounds of Hold'em, Omaha, Razz, Stud, and Stud 8/b. Typically, poker professionals and large cash game players excel at this type of mixed game.

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With astonishing fields at the 2005 WSOP a greater element of luck has entered the tournaments. As Doyle Brunson commented about the Main Event last year, "It's a huge lottery. We just have a few more tickets than the rest of them." Professionals are hard-pressed to find an event that isn't swarmed full of amateurs looking to pick them off with their new breed of poker style. By adding a $50,000 mixed game event, this should deter casual players because of the large entry fee and the greater skill level needed.

Also, Harrah's has formed a player commission of sorts featuring Chris Ferguson, Howard Lederer, Jennifer Harman, Daniel Negreanu, Scotty Nguyen, and Robert Williamson III. This panel will meet with WSOP executives to help find ways to improve the tournament series and the overall player experience.

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