Russia makes its Eurovision stage debut in 2020, hosting the event in Sochi.
Exciting News for Poker Enthusiasts: EPT Sochi 2020 Kicks Off!
After a peculiar year, the European Poker Tour is making a grand comeback, but not in the usual March slot. Instead, we're heading to Sochi, Russia, in the scenic Krasnaya Polyana, in September. And let me tell you, the wait is worth it!
Just like before, a significant number of participants will secure their seats in the Main Event through satellites running on PokerStars. This means that the sharks of poker will have plenty to feast on and increase their chances of success. The recent results of the Sochi festivals indicate that both amateurs and professionals from all over the world can win big, with Russian-speaking players making up around 90% of the total. Last year, a Chinese player claimed victory, and in March 2019, an Israeli player named Uri Gilboa triumphed. It's time to bring the championship title back home!
Satellite Shenanigans
Getting a ticket to the Main Event is not impossible, thanks to four freerolls held every week at 16:40 MSK. This opportunity won't touch your bankroll. Furthermore, satellite tournaments start from as low as $2.2, and every Sunday, supersatellites with guaranteed 5 Main Event tickets are held. Over 100 players have already secured their seats in the Main Event, including Russian champions of the COOP series on PokerStars and even WCOOP-2020 winners.
Journey to Sochi
Sochi is traditionally a popular destination for Russian-speaking players, given the location of Krasnaya Polyana. If you're traveling from Moscow, you can reach "Casino Sochi" in just three hours by plane, which departs hourly or more frequently. The journey by train takes around a day, and the flight costs are significantly less.
Attending a major poker tournament is more than just an opportunity to win big; it's a social affair, a chance to network with other players and poker pros, and an immersion in the atmosphere of high-stakes games. And let's not forget the thrill of those unforgettable moments, which, for recreational players, may only happen once in a lifetime. Plus, all Main Event participants will receive "swag" from PokerStars. While the exact nature of the gifts is a secret, they will be wearable.
Fun Fact: If you venture out from the mountainous Krasnaya Polyana, you'll find the bright sunshine and warm Black Sea waters, making for a perfect post-tournament beach holiday. After months of lockdown and travel restrictions, this is an opportunity not to be missed!
Safety First
PokerStars, the Marriott Hotel, and "Casino Sochi" are working together to ensure the safety of both players and staff. Expect Personal Protective Equipment (masks, gloves, hand sanitizers) to be readily available in all gaming areas, regular sanitization of tables, equipment, and gear, and increased numbers of managers to avoid queues. Daily temperature checks will also be implemented.
All Eyes on the Action
The Main Event and other tournaments will be extensively covered by a team of journalists, headed by Roman Paksiutkin. Remember, poker is a game that never ends! The cash game area during the EPT Sochi will operate 24/7, so if you find yourself not fully satisfied with tournament poker for any reason, there's always a chance to test your skills in cash games.
Historical Context: Although the results don't offer specific details, we know that Sochi hosted the $250,000 Super High Roller Bowl Russia in early 2020, with high-stakes tournaments and mid-stakes events, partnered with PokerStars.
See you in Sochi! Let the games begin!
- In September, many poker enthusiasts will compete in the Main Event of the EPT Sochi 2020, as some of them will have secured their seats through PokerStars satellites, just like possible contenders from all around the world.
- After reaching "Casino Sochi" in Sochi, Russia,via a three-hour flight from Moscow or a day-long train journey, players can join the thrilling poker festivals and add to their poker experiences, while also enjoying the potential of winning big.
- With excitement building up for the EPT Sochi 2020, participants will not only have the chance to win "swag" from PokerStars, but also immerse themselves in the social atmosphere and high-stakes games, making it a memorable experience for both recreational and professional players.
