Day 1 of the first Epic Poker League (EPL) Main Event has just wrapped up, and according to the world class pros who played, the league has on its hands a knockout success. The EPL Main Event is a star studded event, billed as the most exclusive series of poker events in the world. Only the best players in the world are allowed to compete. EPL determines the caliber of players by using a mathematical formula which takes into account recent success and money earned within a 36 month window. The classic format of a poker tournament requires only a buy-in to compete, which leads to fields mixed with amateurs and pros alike. The EPL is differentiating itself by using poker players’ results as qualifiers. Only proven professionals, who have been recent, consistent winners are allowed to compete. In other words, EPL events will be the toughest poker tournaments in the world, bar none.
EPL Commissioner Annie Duke said, “This is the one piece that’s kind of missing from the poker landscape right now, which is something for the best players in the world to compete against the best players in the world.” Duke believes the EPL will usher in a new era of poker. Yesterday, the EPL completed Day 1 of its Main Event, a 6-Max No Limit Hold ‘Em tournament. The tournament was only open to 252 EPL members, out of which 137 played, and the 9 winners of the EPL Pro/Am tournament.
Being a world class poker pro at this exclusive event certainly pays. Matt Savage, one of the world’s most respected tournament directors, directed the tournament, creating a structure players praised. EPL ensured that personalized table service, food, and lush rooms were available to all of the contestants.
Tuesday’s Day 1 saw 6 levels, and the knockout of 74 players. 63 remained to vie for their slice of the prize pool, which sits at a cool $3.1 million. First place will take down $982,660, the EPL Champion Ring, and likely a sponsorship deal or two. The Main Event is being produced into seven hours of programming to be aired on CBS, and 13 hours to be aired on Velocity.