Gilbert man is state poker champ

Gilbert, Arizona - Casino Arizona named a new State Poker Champion Aug. 19at the culmination of the third annual Arizona State Poker event.

After two days of intense play, Andreas Foulias of Gilbert took home the title of State Champion. As the new champion, Foulias wins a pot of $250,000 cash as well as a championship ring and trophy.

"I haven't realized what's happened yet, but I know I will be really excited tomorrow," said Foulias after winning the championship. "I've been playing poker for 45 years and play every day at Casino Arizona because it's the best place in the state for poker," he added.

, 53, who considers poker to be his profession, earned his new identity as State Champion by competing among more than 450 players of all skill levels, at the No Limit Texas Hold 'Em Tournament. When asked what he plans to do with his winnings, he exclaimed, "Play poker!"

The Arizona State Poker Championship tournament launched the semifinal tables on Saturdayat 9 a.m. with 450 players and continued until only 20 players remained for the final two tables. The final players returned to compete for the championship on Sunday at 11 a.m. for a guaranteed prize pool of $500,000.

Cash was awarded to the top 45 players with first place taking $250,000, a championship ring and trophy; the second-place winner receiving $100,000 and a trophy; and the third-place winner taking home $50,000 and a trophy.

The final six players competed on Sundayin the Signals Lounge at Casino Arizona, Loop 101 and Indian Bend Road, during a live taping for a special edition of We've Got Your Game.

The special edition of the weekly sports show will air on KPNX Channel 12 today at 3 p.m. Part 2 of the State Poker Championship will air on KPNX on Sept. 1 at 4 p.m., following Notre Dame football.

"The Casino Arizona State Championship was a huge success and has, in just three years, become a favorite event for poker lovers," said Kent Odekirk, poker director for Casino Arizona. "We look forward to next year."

News Added: 29 August, 2007

Number of views : 183