We are only on Level 2, but already some big names have gone to the rail. Barny Boatman is out after running his K-K into A-A, and Ben “Milkybarkid” Grundy, who came eigth for $119,000 in the PokerStars WCOOP main event, is also out.
Ben Grundy: Out
Two PokerStars qualifiers share the same table and are finding life tough, but are enjoying themselves nonetheless. Patrick Grothuesmann (DerSpringer)drove for nine hours to get here from his home in Dorsten, Germany. His uncle kept him company and read the map.
DerSpringer finding it tough going
Patrick qualified in a $475 cash satellite. He’s just finished school and is undecided about what to do next. He said: “I don’t know what to do next – hopefully win the EPT and keep playing poker!” Unfortunately he is already down to the felt in Baden.
Sitting next to him is Ara Melikian (melikman), from the U.S. He only finished his accountancy degree in May, and will be starting his first job one week after the EPT in Dublin, which he has also qualified. Ara has also played the London EPT, but busted after six hours. He said: “I played too conservative. I had tough cards and tough opponents.” One of whom, was eventual winner Vicky Coren.
Accountant Ara Melikian: His chips don’t add up to much
He added: “I’ve got a good feeling about today. I know what to expect now… a good start always helps.” Sadly it has not materialised, and he’s down to a few thousand chips from his 10,000 starting stack.
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