World Poker
Exchange Hosts London Open Launch
World Poker Exchange last
night hosted a glamorous Opening Night Party for
more than 1,000 people gathered to kick-off The
London Open, the first-ever lifestyle poker tournament.
The evening blended high octane Las Vegas-style
glamour, a cool London party atmosphere and rare
performances by some of the world's most acclaimed
musical talent.
Party goers included London society notables
and Hollywood's Mimi Rogers, Jennifer Tilly, Nicholas
Gonzalez and Willie Garson. Rounding up the VIP
guest list were Briton's racing pundit John McCririck,
Capital FM presenter Chris Brooks and comedian Dave
Gorman. All were treated to sets by "Queen
of the Nightclub" Grace Jones, funk act Dirty
Vegas and uber club DJ's Guy Preston and Jason Moore.
The Open was launched with a Charity Tournament
in which celebrities and industry leaders alike
battled it out to secure $44,000 for the London
Bombings Relief Charitable Fund. Phil Laak was crowned
the winner after putting on his best poker face
to beat "Sex & The City's" Willie
Garson in the final round. Paul Cheung of Inside
Edge took third place, followed by Nicolas Gonzalez
of "The O.C."
"I really enjoyed playing for a cause so close
to the hearts of Londoners. The atmosphere was electric
-- and the London Open poker tournament has only
begun!" said Garson.
Today, the official lifestyle event begins in earnest
as professional poker players and celebrities from
around the world hold'em and fold'em for a guaranteed
minimum $2 million (US) prize pool. Away from the
tables, guests will enjoy exclusive wrap-around
activities for participants and 24/7 concierge services
provided by Quintessentially.
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