WPT 'Poker in the Park' draws hundreds

Poker is alive and thriving in London, and to prove it, hundreds of people showed up for the World Poker Tour's "Poker in the Park" at Leicester Square.

The event was a chance for poker enthusiasts to head to the park to play in mini-tournaments for fun or get some advice about their game with complementary poker tutoring. Welcoming players to the event and helping out were actress Mimi Rogers and WPT board members.

According to a press release, seasoned poker players of all types came out on their lunch breaks to check out "Poker in the Park," as well as tourists and some die-hard fans who took the day off to participate.

One of the sponsors of the event also presented a plaque to the city of London, recognizing it as Europe's number one poker destination.

"I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the city of London," said Labour Peer Lord Lipsey. "London has truly established itself as the poker destination in the 21st Century."

Lipsey also commented on the greater opportunities for playing poker in the city, especially with the World Series of Poker Europe taking place their in September.

"Additionally, I firmly believe the 2005 Gambling Act, also coming this autumn, will move the U.K. in the right direction," he said. "People should have the right to spend their own money as they wish. That freedom is the British way."

Steve Lipscomb, WPT president, founder and CEO, also expressed the company's appreciation for being a part of "Poker in the Park."

"'Poker in the Park' was a great way to bring poker to fans in London," he said. "We are honored to have been part of this event."

courtesy of Sarah Polson

News Added: 10 July, 2007

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