For all the money Binion’s Hotel & Casino along the Fremont Street Experience might make, it seems its parent TLC Casino Enterprises can’t afford a good copywriter.
Vital Vegas took to Twitter on Thursday with the controversy causing “no color policy” sign that greets visitors to Binion’s:
The small print explains that the contentious word ‘color’ applies to the symbols, patches, and other signs of membership worn by motorcycle gangs and similar violent associations.
Twitter users are, however, hauling Binion’s through the coals for its choice of vague words. Valerie Kay Bliss said she had to look twice at the sign, stating: “I thought for sure I had not only been transported back in time but also back to the South!”
According to 3 News Las Vegas, motorcycle rider Josh said he understood the need for the sign, because:
You don’t want Bloods and Crips in the same vicinity.”
While Binion’s have yet to comment, Fremont Street Experience distanced itself from the sign, saying it “does not influence or dictate policies for individual private properties.”
The post Las Vegas Casino’s ‘No Color Policy’ Sign Sparks Controversy and Confusion appeared first on VegasSlotsOnline News.
As sports betting continues to expand in the United States, more and more states are trying to get the vertical legalized. One such battle is being waged in Vermont where an online sports betting bill moved closer to getting written into law.
House Bill 127, which was recently introduced by Democratic Rep. Matt Birong and nine other House members, seeks to legalize online wagering on sporting events. Under the law amendments outlined in the bill, the Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery will serve as the state regulator.
Operators will be able to enter the Green Mountain State through a contract with the Department of Liquor and Lottery. Operators will be taxed 20% of their revenue and will also have to pay an annual fee that will depend on the number of companies that enter the state.
Vermont will allow for a total of six sports betting operators. If six companies join the local market, each of them an annual operating fee of $125,000. If fewer operators opt to enter Vermont, each of them will have to pay a bigger fee.
Following the latest amendments to House Bill 127, the measure was passed by the House with overwhelming approval. The Bill will now be handed to the Senate, which will decide whether to send it to the Vermont Governor to be written into law or not.
The Bill Addresses Problem Gambling
Proponents of gambling have argued that the legislation will benefit Vermont as it will create an alternative to the dangerous black market. Citing geolocation data from GeoComply, they said that thousands of players in Vermont are wagering illegally. As a result, the state is losing millions in taxes, pro-betting lawmakers claimed.
Others, on the other hand, are concerned by the dangers of gambling harm. Currently, Vermont lacks the framework to address the issue if problem gambling becomes the norm. Because of that, some agree that even if House Bill 127 makes the vote, Vermont ought to secure problem gambling resources and education before launching online sports betting.
The bill itself outlines a number of safer gambling regulations, such as the creation of a Responsible Gaming Special Fund, which will be used by the Department of Health to address and treat gambling harm.
Vermont is not the only state fighting for the legalization of sports betting. Currently, Texas lawmakers continue to debate the legalization of wagering on sports. A few days ago, HB 1027 passed the House vote in Oklahoma and is now headed to the Senate. Elsewhere, a North Carolina bill proposes the expansion of the state’s betting industry.
On Friday, March 24th, 2023 Kylian Mbappe delivered for France again, this time wearing the captain’s armband for the French national club. Mbappe is leading a new era for Les Bleus, there was something very familiar concerning the manner in which Mbappe nailed 2 – goals for France in order to headline France’s 4 to 0 victory against the Netherlands in a qualifying match for the European Championship.
France’s Loss to Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final Match
France demonstrated no overwhelming effects from their devastating penalty – kick shootout defeat to Argentina during the 2022 World Cup championship match just 3 – months ago. Mbappe managed to net a hat trick in France’s losing effort that day in the World Cup Final versus Argentina.
France vs. the Netherlands
One of Kylian’s first impactful plays vs. the Dutch last Friday was a nice slip pass inside for Antoine Griezmann (with his hair dyed pink) in order to finish on a goal score for the initial strike inside the first 2 – minutes of the game played at the legendary and historic Stade de France.
The two French stars embraced after the goal, pointing out that there was no lingering feud between the two, Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe. The more experienced of the pair in Griezmann was passed over by France for the captain’s armband in favor of Mbappé who took over that role after following Hugo Lloris retired from playing professional football for the French national team.
Dayot Upamecano slotted in the 2nd – goal for France during the 8th – minute of match play last Friday, and the 3rd – French goal was recorded on an amazing opening 20 – minute performance by France as Mbappé scored a beautiful goal for his squad. Kylian ran in back of the Netherlands defensive unit, and he directed a shot inside the near post following Randal Kolo Muani letting a nice pass from Aurélien Tchouaméni roll past him meeting the golden boot of Mbappe.
Mbappé finalized the dominating 4 to nil win for France during the 88th – minute of the match with a solo assisted goal score. He picked up the ball approximately 40 – meters out from the Netherland’s goal and while constructing a series of feints on the outside edge of the area prior to smashing in a low shot beating the Netherland’s goalkeeper, Jasper Cillessen.
That goal for the superstar striker of Paris Saint – Germain pushed Mbappe’s goal count for the French national team to 38 – international goals, placing him in front of Karim Benzema and landing into fifth place on France’s all – time goal list. While Benzema’s time might be up for the French national team, the now 24 – year – old Mbappé is now the leader of the new wave of international famous superstar footballers following in the footsteps of both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking of starts, this was an extremely devastating way for Netherlands head coach, Ronald Koeman, to start his 2nd– stint in charge of the Dutch national club. Playing without the Netherlands most influential midfielder in Frenkie de Jong due to injury as well as 5 – other players during the past week due to a circulating flu virus, the Netherlands were dominated by Kylian Mbappe and France throughout this one – sided Group B match as qualifying for 2024 European Championship continued on.
Their misery could be summed up when the Netherland’s Memphis Depay had a penalty – kick saved by France’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, on basically the last kick of the game.
Media Statements
“It was a complete performance,” explained by Kolo Muani, who started up front for France as opposed to Olivier Giroud. “We made a very good start, that’s what we’d wanted to do, and afterward we were able to control the match.”
Kylian Mbappe’s Football Career Achievements, Honors, & Awards
Coupe de France: 2017 – 2018, 2019 – 2020, 2020 – 2021; Runner – Up: 2018 – 2019
Coupe de la Ligue: 2017 – 2018, 2019 – 2020
Trophée des Champions: 2019, 2020
UEFA Champions League Runner – Up: 2019 – 2020
France U – 19
UEFA European Under – 19 Championship: 2016
France
FIFA World Cup: 2018, Runner – Up: 2022
UEFA Nations League: 2020 – 2021
Individual
UEFA European Under – 19 Championship Team of the Tournament: 2016
UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Year: 2018 – 2019, 2020 – 2021, 2021 – 2022
UNFP Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year: 2016 – 2017, 2017 – 2018, 2018 – 2019
UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year: 2016 – 2017, 2017 – 2018, 2018 – 2019, 2020 – 2021, 2021 – 2022
UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Month: April 2017, March 2018, August 2018, February 2019, February 2021, August 2021, February 2022, November / December 2022
UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: 2016 – 2017, 2019 – 2020, 2020 – 2021
UEFA Champions League Team of the Season: 2021 – 2022
Tilman Fertitta’s company owns five Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino properties. Following the transaction’s completion, there are plans to remodel Hard Rock Lake Tahoe into a Golden Nugget, expanding the company’s presence in the Northern Nevada market. The property was last remodeled in 2015 when Paragon licensed the Hard Rock name from the Seminole Indian Tribe.
New Life for Hard Rock Lake Tahoe
Although the price isn’t yet disclosed, the announcement contained approximate transaction completion dates. Taking into account regulatory approvals and other closing conditions, it should be seven to 12 months before Fertitta officially owns Hard Rock Lake Tahoe. No further details were mentioned about a possible date for the remodeling.
However, Tahoe Daily Tribune’s report outlined Fertitta’s excitement about the prospect, and it made clear that the remodeling plan will be put into motion as soon as possible. It also contained words from Paragon Gaming’s chief executive officer – Diana Bennett – who said the company was looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this historic property.
It’s a 539-room casino hotel that sits on 24 acres of land, with 25,000 square feet dedicated to the casino. Hard Rock Lake Tahoe is one of four hotel-casinos in the South Lake Tahoe gaming market and sits across Bally’s Lake Tahoe. However, Nevada’s regulators still need to approve the purchase, and regular transaction conditions still need to be met, before it can begin its new journey.
Fertitta’s Track Record Inspires Confidence
Tilman Fertitta’s name is hugely popular in the industry, and for good reason. He is a well-known businessman, a billionaire, and a TV personality. Additionally, the Golden Nugget brand has been enjoying recognition and a good name for years, so many people are optimistic this could be a good move for the market in the region.
Although this is the first step for Fertitta Entertainment in this region, the operator also has two more Golden Nugget establishments in the state of Nevada – one is in Laughlin, and the other is in Las Vegas. The Strip has been another focal point for the investor. He purchased 6.2 acres of land on the Las Vegas Strip for $270 million last summer and announced his plans for a hotel and casino there.
Additionally, Fertitta became the second-largest shareholder of Wynn Resorts Ltd at the tail end of October 2022, further strengthening the notion that The Strip is definitely a point of interest for Fertitta and other investors. He bought 6.9 million Wynn shares, which moved the needle in Wynn’s share prices both in the premarket, as well as on the day’s closure.
Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, America’s favorite high roller, dropped $1.9m on the Houston Astros to repeat as World Series champions Saturday.
the largest payout in sports betting history
McIngvale won an astonishing $75m last year when the Astros defeated the Philadelphia Phillies in six games to claim the world title. That was and remains the largest payout in sports betting history.
This time around, his $1.9m wager, placed at +600 odds, will net him $11.4m in profit if it hits. As is custom, he promised free furniture to customers at his Houston, Texas Gallery Furniture store if the Astros pull off the repeat.
Once again, I am backing our Houston @Astros to win it all! $1.9M at 6-to-1, and I want you to win big with me! Buy $5,000+ of furniture or mattresses, even discounted items, and if the Astros win it all again in 2023 your purchase is FREE FREE FREE! pic.twitter.com/Q9waSBwZ5w
The bet comes shortly after Mack lost roughly $4.05m in bets when the Houston Cougars dropped out of March Madness with an 89-75 loss to the Miami Hurricanes in the Sweet 16. But just a couple of months ago, he shared in a video on social media that part of being a gambler is resiliency.
McIngvale tends to double down on his bets and place even more on his favorite team as time passes. That’s how he achieved his $75m payout on the Astros last year after starting with a $3m bet at +1000 odds.
According to BetMGM, the Astros are the favorite to win the World Series at +600. The Atlanta Braves (+750), New York Yankees (+800), and Los Angeles Dodgers (+800) are next in line, and last year’s runner-up, the Phillies, are +1600.
The post Mattress Mack Drops $1.9m on Astros to Win the World Series Following His March Madness Bust appeared first on VegasSlotsOnline News.
Entain’s non-profit arm, the Entain Foundation, has announced that it has agreed to provide funding for the Alumni Project of Gordon Moody, a British problem gambling treatment charity.
The project in question is a two-year program that seeks to establish a network of ex-gambling addicts who have overcome their addiction thanks to Gordon Moody. They will serve as peer mentors who help others who are either currently struggling with problem gambling or have just finished treatment.
The Alumni Project’s main task is to help more people get their gambling habits under control, thus preventing addiction, financial destitution and gambling-related crime. The alumni will be provided with a number of flexible part-time and full-time paid positions. They will not only be tasked with helping others but with providing feedback to improve the treatment programs as well.
The Alumni Project will formally kick off in April and will be overseen by Gordon Moody’s Head of Service Development, Clinical Director and the members of its Clinical Governance Committee.
The initiative’s cost for the initial two-year term will be around £740,000 (around $908,000). According to the current announcement, the Entain Foundation will entirely fund the program.
This would not be the first time Entain has supported Gordon Moody either. The gambling giant has been providing the charity with financial donations and a range of other resources for more than six years. Some of the projects Entain supported include the development of Gordon Moody’s Gambling Therapy application, its COVID-19 pandemic services and a women’s residential program.
Entain has also promoted Gordon Moody’s services in its shops.
Entain Remains Committed to Supporting the Charity
Matthew Hickey, Gordon Moody’s chief executive officer, commented on the Alumni Project, saying that it will leverage “the voice of lived experience” to help more people struggling with problem gambling. He thanked Entain for its continuous commitment:
Support from the Entain Foundation is crucial to help Gordon Moody grow its services and meet the demands of those needing treatment and support. We are delighted to continue our work with Entain and for their ongoing support and financial donations.
Matthew Hickey, CEO, Gordon Moody
Barry Gibson, Entain’s chairman, also voiced his thoughts. He said that his company is happy to support Gordon Moody and is glad to provide it with the funding it needs for the Alumni Project.
This is in addition to the more than £40 million we have voluntarily donated to GambleAware, who commission treatments for gambling addiction across England, Scotland and Wales, free at the point of delivery.
Barry Gibson, chair, Entain
Gibson concluded that the Alumni Project will be an unprecedented initiative where those who have completed their treatment will be able to help others.
The day was already promising to be a special one for Arie Kliper and his family.
Kliper and his wife were celebrating their wedding anniversary, and Merit Poker even presented them with a cake and confetti to help mark the occasion. Meanwhile, Kliper still had something else to take care of: he was still in the Merit Poker Carmen Series $2,200 Warmup on the tournament’s final day and with a chance to notch the largest score of his poker career.
He did just that, defeating Koray Korkmaz at the end of a gruelling, nearly eight-hour-long final table to walk away with the prestigious Merit Poker trophy. Kliper has tournament cashes from 2010, but the $206,800 top prize is more than triple his previous biggest score.
He had his family cheering him on the entire time. His wife was on the rail at the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel and Casino. His children were filling up the chatbox of the Merit Poker livestream with support for their dad. He had a contingent of fellow Israeli pros ready to celebrate. It all helped propel him to victory.
“I think it’s great. The best,” Kliper said following his victory after winning this tournament on such an important day. “It means everything. When you have support, nothing can stop you.”
$2,200 Warmup Final Table Results
PLACE
PLAYER
country
EARNINGS
1
Arie Kliper
Israel
$206,800
2
Koray Korkmaz
Turkey
$152,400
3
Cenk Nigbolu
Turkey
$93,300
4
Julien Loire
France
$69,000
5
Eduard Barsegian
Russia
$51,800
6
Gurcan Gungoren
Turkey
$41,500
7
Mikhail Zamyatin
Russia
$34,600
8
Boris Angelov
Bulgaria
$27,600
9
Dmitry Gromov
Russia
$20,700
Day 4 Action
Day 4 began with 21 players remaining out of a starting field of 611 entries. Recep Aydemir (19th), Nicolas Chouity (13th), and Ran Ilani (11th) fell short of the final table, leaving Julien Loire as the overwhelming chip leader with more than a third of the chips in play at the start of the final table.
Kliper began the final table in seventh place with 3,130,000. Despite eliminating Dmitry Gromov in ninth place when he called all in with ace-nine and beat king-jack, his stay there was nearly short-lived. Kliper was all in for his last 3,485,000 with ace-ten but ran into the two kings of Gurcan Gungoren. Kliper was two cards away from elimination, but he spiked the three-outer on the turn and paired his ace to double up.
Kliper doubled up again off Mikhail Zamyatin when he turned a straight in a limped pot and beat Zamyatin’s two pair. Kliper’s momentous journey through the final table was only the beginning, from being nearly out the door to now second place in chips.
In a three-bet pot with Boris Angelov, Kliper turned top pair and a flush draw with jack-nine and called when Angelov shoved with ace-high. Angelov was out in eighth place, and Kliper was up near 20,000,000 and atop the chip leaderboard. He also eliminated Zamyatin when he flopped top set with tens to crack Zamyatin’s jacks. Finally, Kliper picked up aces to take out Gungoren, notching his fourth straight knockout at the final table.
Kliper finally took a hit when he tried to bluff-shove Korkmaz on the turn, but Korkmaz called with a pair of jacks to double up. Then, in the biggest pot of the tournament so far, both Kliper and Eduard Barsegian flopped two pair and put nearly 20,000,000 chips in the middle. The Russian somehow didn’t go broke, while Kliper took a commanding chip lead over the remaining five players.
His big lead caused him to change his approach to a more active, aggressive style. “Be more aggressive. You can pressure the other players who want to advance in the money. Very simple,” he said.
Discover Why JackPoker is one of the Fastest-Growing Online Poker Sites
After playing five-handed for nearly three hours, Barsegian got his last 6,300,000 in with tens but ran into the jacks of Korkmaz to hit the rail. Loire, never able to get anything going at the final table, blinded down to less than five big blinds when he got his last chips in with nines, and Kliper called with ace-king. It was Kliper’s day, and sure enough, a king hit on the river to send the former chip leader out in fourth place.
Korkmaz tied Kliper on the leaderboard when he turned the nut straight after Kliper had flopped two pair. Kliper retook the lead when he rivered a flush and called an 8,000,000 raise on the river.
Cenk Nigbolu then busted in third place, leaving Kliper and Korkmaz heads-up. Nigbolu began the final table at the bottom of the chip counts with just five big blinds but doubled up six times before finally succumbing to Kliper’s ace-king.
Kliper led Korkmaz 48,300,000 to 12,800,000 at the start of heads-up play, but the theatrics throughout the final table wasn’t about to stop now. First, Korkmaz hit an ace on the river after Kliper paired a queen on the flop to double up. Korkmaz won another all-in when he paired his jack on the flop and passed Kliper for the chip lead.
Korkmaz had a chance to win the tournament when he had Kliper all in and dominated with ace-queen to queen-eight, but Kliper flopped a pair and turned a flush to double up. Kliper doubled up again when he had nines and sixes to beat Korkmaz’s eights and sevens.
Again with a sizeable advantage, Kliper moved all in with king-four, and Korkmaz called for his last 7,500,000 with ace-queen. Kliper paired his four on the flop, and the tournament ended.
It was a golden anniversary for Kliper and a wonderful present he could share with his wife. It was already a special day. Some aggressive play, good cards, and a little luck helped make it even more memorable.
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The PokerNews live reporting team will also have boots on the ground bringing you updates from the $5,300 High Roller and Main Event.
Make sure not to miss a hand by checking out our live reporting page when the events kick off.
Merit Poker Live Reporting Hub
Follow all the action from the Merit Poker Carmen Series on PokerNews
Merit Poker Carmen Series Schedule
Date
TIME (EET)
BUY-IN
EVENT
GUARANTEE
Weds, Mar 22
11:00 AM
$220+$20+$9
NL Qualifier to Warm Up Day 1A win your seat at 100K chips
$6,600 (3 Seats)
Weds, Mar 22
12:00 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Warm Up Day 1A
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Weds, Mar 22
5:30 PM
$500+$50
NL Turbo Bounty $200 K.O.
$20,000
Weds, Mar 22
9:30 PM
$300+$30
NL Satellite to Warm Up Day 1B
$22,000 (10 Seats)
Thur, Mar 23
11:00 AM
$220+$20+$9
NL Qualifier to Warm Up Day 1B win your seat at 100K chips
$6,600 (3 Seats)
Thur, Mar 23
12:00 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Warm Up Day 1B
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Thur, Mar 23
5:30 PM
$220+$20+$9
NL Qualifier to WUp Day 1C win your seat at 100K chips
$8,800 (4 Seats)
Thur, Mar 23
9:00 PM
$600+$60
NL Hyper Turbo Deep Stack
$20,000
Thur, Mar 23
9:30 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Warm Up Day 1C
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Fri, Mar 24
10:00 AM
$2.000+$200
NL Warm Up Day 1D Turbo
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Fri, Mar 24
12:30 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Warm Up Day 2
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Fri, Mar 24
10:00 PM
$500+$50
NL Satellite To ME Day 1A
$99,000 (30 Seats)
Sat, Mar 25
12:00 PM
Closed
NL Warm Up Day 3
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Sat, Mar 25
1:00 PM
$1.000+$100
NL Mystery Bounty ($600 Mystery Bounty ) Day 1A
$10,000
Sat, Mar 25
7:00 PM
$1.000+$100
NL Seniors Event (50+) y.o.
$30,000
Sat, Mar 25
9:00 PM
$700+$70
NL Satellite To High Roller Day 1
$26500 (5 Seats)
Sun, Mar 26
12:00 PM
$1.000+$100
NL Mystery Bounty ($600 Mystery Bounty ) Day 1B
$100
Sun, Mar 26
1:00 PM
Closed
NL Warm Up Final Day
$700,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Sun, Mar 26
5:00 PM
$530+$55+$20
NL Qualifier to HR Day 1 win your seat at 100K chips
$15,900 (3 Seats)
Sun, Mar 26
8:00 PM
$5.000+$300
NL High Roller Event 8-Handed Day 1
$250,000 ( INCL 5 TCK )
Sun, Mar 26
9:00 PM
$500+$50
NL Satellite to ME Day 1A
$49,500 (15 Seats)
Mon, Mar 27
12:00 PM
Closed
NL Mystery Bounty ($600 Mystery Bounty ) Final Day
$100
Mon, Mar 27
12:30 PM
$1.500+$150
NL Bounty $750 K.O.
$75
Mon, Mar 27
4:00 PM
$530+$55+$20
NL Qualifier to HR Day 2 win your seat at 100K chips
$15,900 (3 Seats)
Mon, Mar 27
8:00 PM
$5.000+$300
NL High Roller Event 8-Handed Day 2
$250,000 ( INCL 5 TCK )
Mon, Mar 27
9:00 PM
$500+$50
NL Satellite to ME Day 1A
$49,500 (15 Seats)
Tue, Mar 28
11:00 AM
$330+$30+$13
NL Qualifier to Main Event Day 1A win your seat at 100K chips
$9,900 (3 Seats)
Tue, Mar 28
12:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Main Event Day 1A
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Tue, Mar 28
2:00 PM
Closed
NL High Roller Event 8-Handed Final Day
$250,000 ( INCL 5 TCK )
Tue, Mar 28
5:30 PM
$500+$50
NL Hyper Turbo Deep Stack
$20,000
Tue, Mar 28
10:00 PM
$500+$50
NL Satellite To ME Day 1B
$49,500 (15 Seats)
Weds, Mar 29
11:00 AM
$330+$30+$13
NL Qualifier to Main Event Day 1B win your seat at 100K chips
$9,900 (3 Seats)
Weds, Mar 29
12:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Main Event Day 1B
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Weds, Mar 29
7:00 PM
$330+$30+$13
NL Qualifier to Main Event Day 1C win your seat at 100K chips
$16,500 (5 Seats)
Weds, Mar 29
10:00 PM
$1.000+$100
NL Mix-Max 9-Handed Day 1
$100,000
Thur, Mar 30
11:00 AM
$330+$30+$13
NL Qualifier to Main Event Day 1C win your seat at 100K chips
$9,900 (3 Seats)
Thur, Mar 30
12:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Main Event Day 1C
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Thur, Mar 30
3:00 PM
$1.000+$100
PL Omaha Bounty 8-Max $500 K.O.
$40,000
Thur, Mar 30
6:00 PM
$600+$60
NL Win The Button $300 K.O.
$20,000
Thur, Mar 30
7:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Main Event Day 1D Turbo
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Thur, Mar 30
10:00 PM
$1.000+$100
NL Mix-Max 7-Handed Day 2
$100,000
Fri, Mar 31
12:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Main Event Day 2
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Fri, Mar 31
9:00 PM
$1.000+$100
💣 Double Board PLO Bomb Pot 8-Handed
$50,000
Fri, Mar 31
10:00 PM
Closed
NL Mix-Max 6-Handed Final day
$100,000
Sat, Apr 1
12:00 PM
Closed
NL Main Event Day 3
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Sat, Apr 1
12:30 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Mystery Bounty ($1.000 Mystery Bounty ) Day 1A
$150,000 ( INCL, 5 TCK )
Sat, Apr 1
4:00 PM
$600+$60
NL Bounty $300 K.O.
$25,000
Sat, Apr 1
7:00 PM
$2.000+$200
NL Mystery Bounty ($1.000 Mystery Bounty ) Day 1B
$150,000 ( INCL, 5 TCK )
Sat, Apr 1
9:30 PM
$600+$60
NL Turbo Deep Stack
$25,000
Sun, Apr 2
11:00 AM
$2.000+$200
NL Mystery Bounty ($1.000 Mystery Bounty ) Day 1C Turbo
$150,000 ( INCL, 5 TCK )
Sun, Apr 2
1:00 PM
Closed
NL Main Event Final Day
$1,500,000 ( INCL 9 TCK )
Sun, Apr 2
1:00 PM
$600+$60
NL Deep Stack Bounty 6-Max $300 K.O.
$20,000
Sun, Apr 2
5:00 PM
$3.000+$300
NL Merit Classic
Sun, Apr 2
7:00 PM
Closed
NL Mystery Bounty ($1.000 Mystery Bounty ) Final Day
For many, Augusta is the highlight of the golf calendar. Despite there being 44 events per season, including 4 majors, The Masters is considered the most coveted prize of them all.
At casino.org, we’re suckers for data, but Golf is a sport of many variables with a lot of data points. We’ve decided to go back in time and take a close look at the last 20 green jacket winners, looking at the profile of the victorious golfers, their equipment, and their performance.
After mining 20 years of data, we have been able to identify some recurring trends. We have also used previous outcomes to calculate the most likely profile of the 2023 Masters winner.
The standout trends at Augusta
Since the very first Masters tournament in 1934, only three debutants have won. This trend is likely to change, though, as the quality of elite golfers is increasing year-on-year. The average age of the last 20 Masters winners is 31 and ½ – which is relatively high for PGA Tour winners. This stat suggests experience is key around Augusta.
Another prominent theme for those looking to don the Green Jacket at the Masters is power off the tee, with a right to left shot shape dominating. This is a draw for most players, but Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson have won 25% of the last 20 Masters renewals between them. What have they got in common? They are both lefties who can power fade the ball with that required right-to-left shot shape. This is a theme that will largely be neutralised at Augusta over the coming years as the players and their equipment evolves.
Power is vital for Green Jacket success
The last three Masters winners have all been bombers of the ball, and faders with a strong left-to-right shot shape. These guys can now launch it over the corners of the tree line from the markers on key driving holes at Augusta. Carry distance is further for those equipped with the baby fade or power fade. Dustin Johnson shed a tear after he bombed his way to the Green Jacket in 2020.
We can see from the data that power is still very much a prerequisite for Masters success. The season average driving distance of the last 20 Masters winners was 296.1 yards. This increases to 299.9 if we go from 2013 onwards. Sheffler and Dustin Johnson both eclipsed the 310 yards mark. It’s interesting to note that the Titleist pro V1 is the standout ball of choice. This is the ball renowned for giving players extra carry distance. Half of these Masters Champions had the Pro V in their bag.
What else do the stats tell us?
13 of the last 20 Masters winners have been US players and 15 have been players from the Americas. There have been two South African winners with Trevor Immelman and Charl Schwartzel donning the Green Jacket at the iconic Butler Cabin. Adam Scott delighted the Aussie fans when he finally got over the major hump in 2013.
It’s TaylorMade who is pushing for the most efficient brand in professional golf in recent times if we are to believe the small data. Four of the last six Masters winners used a TaylorMade driver, with Sergio Garcia and Dustin Johnson also using TaylorMade’s TP5 golf balls. Power hitters tend to be tall golfers and the average height of the last 20 Masters winners is around 6-foot.
Masters 2023 course fit guide: Key metrics for Augusta
Course history is vitally important at Augusta. Big data averages might suggest course history is worth less than 0.1 strokes per hole around this iconic venue but in reality course history and course knowledge at particular venues are worth more. Shane Lowry talked about this when battling to make the cut on the number back in 2020. He was desperate to make the cut to get another two “practice rounds” in at the weekend.
You just want to get into the weekend. I want to get two more rounds here just to learn, just to keep learning how to play this place because I don’t quite have it figured out yet. I’m going to get a few more chances to come back here. This weekend is all about learning for me
Shane Lowry
Former Masters winner’s Jordan Spieth and Phil Mickelson’s (3-time winner) course knowledge and figures are arguably the most notable examples of the course knowledge theme in recent years and we can add Bubba Watson (2-time winner) into the mix. Course management is vital if the players want to win the Masters 2023. There’s a premium on approaches and distance control with the mid-to-long irons, with severe elevations in play. Guys will be looking to hit the right segments of the tiered Augusta greens.
We’ve already said length off the tee is a big advantage at Augusta and par 5 performance is huge in terms of key metrics. I wonder if the new TaylorMade Stealth Plus and Stealth Plus 2 drivers will play a part down the stretch at Augusta in 2023? Of the Masters betting market leaders, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Sheffler and Collin Morikawa use this equipment, as does a certain Tiger Woods. Or will it be Jon Rahm’s Paradym Triple Diamond driver from Callaway Golf that gets the job done this year?
Who fits the profile for the 2023 Masters?
The data would say that the winner is likely to be from The United States, but the foreign talent is hard to ignore. Despite the Americans dominating the tournament over the last 20 years, we’re guaranteed to see a bigger variety in winners over the coming years. In fact, the same can likely be said for age and height, too. So we’re going to focus on equipment and skill instead.
Taking this into consideration, maybe it will be Rory McIlroy’s turn to win the Masters and finally complete golf’s major Grand Slam? Rory McIlroy uses the Stealth Plus driver and he launches the TaylorMade TP5X golf ball into orbit using the high draw from the tips that has been so successful at Augusta. He’s also added the fade into his armoury in recent times if needed.
The Irishman is the perfect age for the winning Masters’ profile at 33 and he leads the PGA Tour in driving distance this season with a clip of 326.6 yards from the markers. McIlroy currently ranks 8th in strokes gained approach, 2nd in Par 5 birdies or better and 4th in overall par 5 performance. He rates a 10 out of 10 in my personal course fit PGA data model for approach iron shots from 150-200 yards. His Augusta experience is second to none. It definitely could be the Irishman’s year at Augusta for the Masters 2023 – will we finally see him in the Green Jacket?
Methodology
This analysis was created by mining data from the official PGA website and other official golf statistic sources. We looked at the tournament winners of the last 20 years, and calculated averages to create the likely profile of the winner.
You’re welcome to use this analysis, as well as the supporting infographics, but we ask that you link back to this page as a source. For media enquiries, please contact [email protected].
Image credit: The featured image in this article was taken from masters.com and is not owned by casino.org.
The single racing and sports betting agency in New Zealand, TAB NZ, announced it joined forces with the globally recognized and leading betting and gaming company, Entain. Details about the new strategic collaboration emerged Monday. TAB NZ confirmed that the deal comes amid continuously growing competition.
Additionally, the company said that it has seen a continuous increase in costs while at the same time, it faces other challenges that impact its “ability to deliver adequate funding to racing and sports.” Those processes, according to TAB NZ, are expected to continue to impact its operations, which is why it determined that a partnership with an international betting operator would provide a strategic boost to its operations.
“In order to achieve TAB NZ’s objectives and growth ambitions, Board and management considered that it was in the best interest of TAB NZ and its stakeholders to explore a strategic partnering arrangement with a world-class international wagering operator to deliver TAB NZ’s wagering and broadcast functions,“
explains a statement released by TAB NZ
The company’s Board and management team acknowledged that in the best interest of TAB NZ and its stakeholders would be a strategic collaboration with an international betting operator. The selection of Entain comes after TAB NZ has been reviewing proposals for the last six months. During that process, Chapman Tripp helped the company with legal advice, while Allens served as principal legal advisers.
After a detailed assessment of the proposals, TAB NZ selected Entain as the company for the new strategic deal. Overall, the collaboration covers a period of 25 years. The new collaboration is expected to provide a boost for TAB NZ’s operations and help the company in strategic areas such as the minimization of gambling harm.
Additional details about the strategic tie-up are expected in due time. Furthermore, the collaboration remains subject to Ministerial approval.
The Deal Represents a Milestone Moment for Tab NZ
The collaboration brought excitement for Entain, with the company’s CEO of Australia, Dean Shannon, saying that the deal represents a unique opportunity. “This is a unique opportunity to shape the future wagering experience for customers and to support New Zealand’s racing and sporting industries,” he said.
“We applaud TAB NZ for how the process has been run to date and we look forward to working with all stakeholders on necessary approvals to finalize the transaction.“
Dean Shannon, CEO of Australia at Entain
Shannon pointed out that Entain will help boost TAB NZ’s growth via technology and innovation. This, according to him, is expected to bring benefits for the racing and sports industries, and at the same time, TAB NZ’s stakeholders.
“Today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward the transformation of TAB NZ and those who rely upon its growth and long-term success.“
Mike Tod, chief executive officer at TAB NZ
TAB NZ’s chief executive officer, Mike Tod, was similarly excited about the latest deal with Entain, acknowledging that the collaboration represents a milestone for the company. He pointed out that Entain is a globally recognized operator that is famous for providing unrivaled services to its customers. Finally, Tod predicted that the deal will help not only TAB NZ but the whole industry.
The Gran Via casino in Madrid is the place to be from April 10-16 because the 2023 Pokercode Madrid festival takes place during those dates. Following a successful Pokercode event in Bratislava in September 2021 and the fact Spain is a hotbed for poker action, the Pokercode team had decided to almost double the guarantee on the €550 buy-in Main Event from €125,000 to €225,000!
Pokercode founders Matthias Eibinger, Steffen Sontheimer, and GGPoker Ambassador Fedor Holz will make their way to the Spanish capital in mid-April and battle it out with regular folks in a series of No-Limit Hold’em tournaments. Although this trio of poker crushers are more accustomed to grinding tournaments with buy-ins that mere mortals can only dream of playing, all three will be in action across the bustling Pokercode Madrid festival’s schedule.
Bookmark this page for all the Pokercode Madrid Main Event updates
The €330 buy-in €60,000 guaranteed Pokercode Cup kicks the series off in style before a €350 buy-in €50,000 guaranteed Mystery Bounty tournament gets the juices flowing and serves as the perfect way to warm up for the Main Event.
April 13-16 is when the 2023 Pokercode Madrid Main Event runs, and PokerNews‘ Live Reporting team will be on the tournament floor throughout proceedings, bringing live and exclusive coverage from the moment the dealer pitches the first cards to when the champion of the €550 buy-in €225,000 guaranteed Main Event is crowned.
A €550 buy-in Pokercode Main Event occurred in Bratislava, Slovakia, in September 2021. It saw 253 players exchange €550 for the chance to rub shoulders with some of poker’s elite and potentially win some bankroll-boosting prize money. Pokercode’s very own Sontheimer finished 10th as German players clinched the top three finishing position. Alexander Baier was the third-place finisher, a result good for €11,950. The heads-up duo struck a deal that saw Tim Van Loo bank €19,395 when he fell in second place, and Maximilian Silz net €23,170 and the all-important winner’s trophy.
Check out the Incredible PokerNews Online Tournament Calendar
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2023 Pokercode Madrid Schedule
Date
Time (CEST)
Tournament
Buy-in
Guarantee
Mon 10 Apr
5:00 p.m.
Pokercode Cup Day 1A
€330
€60,000
8:00 p.m.
Satellite to Main Event
€115
10x €550 seats
Tue 11 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Pokercode Cup Day 1B
€330
€60,000
7:00 p.m.
Pokercode Cup Day 1C Turbo
€330
€60,000
9:00 p.m.
Satellite to Main Event
€115
10x €550 seats
Wed 12 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Pokercode Cup Final Day
€60,000
1:30 p.m.
Mystery Bounty NLHE 1A
€350
€50,000
7:00 p.m.
Mystery Bounty NLHE 1B Turbo
€350
€50,000
9:00 p.m.
Satellite to Main Event
€115
10x €550 seats
Thu 13 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Mystery Bounty NLHE Final Day
€50,000
1:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Day 1A
€550
€225,000
7:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Day 1B Fast
€550
€225,000
9:00 p.m.
Thursday Turbo
€175
Fri 14 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Day 1C
€550
€225,000
7:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Day 1D Fast
€550
€225,000
Sat 15 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Day 2
€225,000
2:00 p.m.
Bounty King
€220
€20,000
5:00 p.m.
Pokercode Masters Day 1
€1,100
€70,000
9:00 p.m.
Flip & Go
€115
Sun 16 Apr
1:00 p.m.
Main Event NLHE Final Day
€225,000
2:00 p.m.
Pokercode Masters Final Day
€70,000
2:00 p.m.
The Closer
€250
€20,000
4:00 p.m.
High Roller
€5,300
€50,000
€115 buy-in satellites for the Main Event run throughout the early stages of the festival, each guaranteeing at least 10x €550 seats. There is a Players Party pencilled in for 9:30 p.m. on April 15, while those players lucky enough to navigated their way to the Main Event final table get to enjoy a pre-final table breakfast with the one and only Fedor Holz!
The Pokercode website has several deals for accommodation close to the festival’s venue, and, at the time of writing, there were a couple of packages available with a 20% discount.
PokerNews will be in Madrid with the Pokercode team. Will you be joining us?
