Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Hosts the Lucky Hearts Poker Open Beginning Jan. 11

Series co-headlined by $1,100 buy-in, $1 Million Guaranteed WPTDeepStacks™ and $3,500 buy-in, $2 Million Guaranteed WPT® Main Tour events; Satellite tournaments precede the action Jan. 9 and 10

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – The 2017/2018 Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) season continues beginning Jan. 11 with the Lucky Hearts Poker Open (LHPO) at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Primary events kick off with a $1,100 buy-in WPTDeepStacks™ opener featuring a $1 Million Guaranteed prize pool and close with a $3,500 buy-in WPT® Main Tour Championship boasting a $2 Million Guarantee. Preceding the action are two days of satellites on Jan. 9 and 10 in the property’s poker room.

“This marks our first time to pair the WPTDeepStacks and WPT brands in the same series, and we look forward to bringing something new to the South Florida market,” Seminole Hard Rock Tournament Director Tony Burns said regarding the series’ headliners.

The final table for the WPTDeepStacks opener will be live streamed on Tuesday, Jan. 16, and the final table for the WPT Championship will be live streamed on Wednesday, Jan. 24.

Other highlight events include new tournament additions to the 2018 LHPO schedule:

  • $50,000 Super High Roller NLH (Re-Entry) $1 Million Guaranteed, Wednesday, Jan. 17 – Thursday, Jan. 18
  • $25,500 High Roller NLH (Re-Entry) $1 Million Guaranteed, Monday, Jan. 22 – Tuesday, Jan. 23
  • $5,000 NLH (Re-Entry) One-Day NLH (Re-Entry) $250,000 Guaranteed), Tuesday, Jan. 23

Past LHPO series have seen $1,100 buy-in tournaments draw fields of more than 1,500 while last January’s $360 buy-in tournament attracted more than 4,700 entries. Notable champions include Jerry Wong (2017 Ultimate Re-Entry winner for $250,000), Salomon Ponte (2016 Main Event champion for $344,420) and 2016 SHRP Player of the Year David Prociak, who recorded two wins during last January’s LHPO series.

Seminole Hard Rock is offering poker hotel rates during the series starting at $179 per night. Additionally, the property is giving away one free $3,500 entry into the WPT LHPO Championship. For more information about the LHPO, visit SHRPO.com.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Charity Series of Poker Present Jeff Conine’s Celebrity Poker Classic

Hollywood, FL (June 27, 2017) – The Jeff Conine Celebrity Poker Classic is a night of fun and philanthropy, with an opportunity for attendees to take home more than $30,000 in cash and prizes. Best of all, it will improve the lives of children and families coping with serious medical issues.

The 6th annual fundraiser will be held on Monday, Aug. 7, 2017 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino to benefit the Conine Clubhouse, a home-away-from-home where families of children under care at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital can stay for free as long as necessary. The charity event kicks off with an exclusive VIP player party taking place prior to the tournament’s 7 p.m. start time located in the ballrooms. Guests will enjoy live music, cocktails, hors d’ oeuvres and a chance to win more than $30,000 in cash and prizes including a $5,250 seat in the SHRPO $3 Million Guarantee Championship. In addition, there will be two $1,000 bonus payouts. The first will go to the chip leader at the time registration closes while the second will go to the player who has the most re-entries.

The event, hosted by “Mr. Marlin,” Jeff Conine, presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Charity Series of Poker, will feature celebrities playing alongside players of all skill levels for a first prize valued at $10,000. Other prizes include vacation and hotel packages, jewelry, and cash totaling more than $20,000. Live and silent auctions of unique items from the worlds of sport and entertainment will also be part of the action.

A $300 donation to the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation reserves a seat for poker and entry to the VIP reception. Those not playing poker can purchase admission to the reception for $100.

Proceeds benefit the Conine Clubhouse, which has provided free lodging to nearly 11,000 families that have had a child hospitalized at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. More than $100,000 was raised at the 2016 event.

“Cindy and I stayed at the clubhouse when our son was younger and know firsthand the importance of being close to the hospital,” said Conine. “It provides all the amenities of a three-star hotel but, more importantly, gives families a temporary place to call home when they need it most.”

“One of the hardest things for a parent is watching their child suffer and having to leave them alone for even the briefest of moments,” said Susan Renneisen, vice president of community affairs and special events for Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “The Conine Clubhouse is an established and integral part of our community, allowing families the opportunity to stay close to their loved ones in a beautiful and relaxing facility during a difficult time. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Charity Series of Poker is honored to support the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation’s fundraising efforts through the Jeff Conine Celebrity Poker Classic.”

The Conine Celebrity Poker Classic is presented by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood) and hosted by the Charity Series of Poker.

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation – 2

Player participation for poker is limited, with registration taking place at CONINEPOKERCLASSIC.ORG or at the event itself. Event sponsorship, which includes seats in the poker tournament and admission to the VIP Reception, is also available on the website. For more information, contact Craig Cohen at CrCohen@MHS.net or 954-265-7241.

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About JDCHF
Established in 1994, the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation (www.jdchfoundation.org) raises funds through events like the Conine Celebrity Poker Classic to assist patients and their families and underwrite the costs of programs, facilities and equipment at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, the largest children’s hospital serving Broward and Palm Beach counties.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach. The AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features 469 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club Bar & Grill, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, premium meeting and convention space and a 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. The casino offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a poker room.

Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. In the heart of the hotel is L Bar, a sophisticated, contemporary lounge showcasing handcrafted classic cocktails with a twist. Contemporary and casual eateries, include Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 176 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants. Visit www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com.

 

Media Contacts

 

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations, 954-327-7504, yaffa.mizrachi@seminolehardrock.com

Teresa Shum, Public Relations Manager, 954-327-7631, teresa.shum@seminolehardrock.com

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Announces the 2017 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open Held Aug. 3 to Aug. 15

“The Big 4” Four-Tournament Finale Carrying a Combined $6.5 Million in Guaranteed Prize Pools Will Be Televised and Live Streamed in Partnership with Poker Night in America

 HOLLYWOOD, Fla (June 21, 2017) – The Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) will celebrate its fifth season of highly-anticipated, top tournament play at South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., since the historic introduction in 2013. SHRPO will take place Thursday, Aug. 3 to Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017 featuring its signature four-tournament finale, The Big 4, now returning for the third year. The SHRPO Championship $5,250 (Single RE) will carry a $3 million guarantee. Filmed by Poker Night in America and televised on CBS Sports Network, The Big 4 will be played at Hard Rock Live on Tuesday, Aug.15. All of the synchronized poker action will be live streamed online and available at SHRPO.com.

The Big 4 feature staggered structures designed to cascade toward their completions, with the final four tables playing out alongside each other in front of a live audience. Doubling-up once again to emcee on The Big 4 are professional poker player and TV personality Maria Ho and national network television host and poker commentator Ali Nejad.

Carrying combined prize pools of $6.5 million, The Big 4 includes premium events:

  • $1,100, NLH (Re-Entry) $500,000 guarantee starts at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 9
  • $5,250 SHRPO Championship NLH (Single Re-Entry) $3 million guarantee starts at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 11
  • $2,650, NLH (Freeze-Out) $1 million guarantee starts on at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 13
  • $25,500 High Roller NLH (Re-Entry) $2 million guarantee starts at noon on Monday, Aug. 14.

Other highlight events surrounding The Big 4 include a new to the series $50,000 buy-in $1 million guarantee Super High Roller (Aug. 8), a $10,000 buy-in $500,000 guarantee (Aug. 15), $570 buy-in $1 million guarantee series opener (Aug. 3) and $300 buy-in Charity Series of Poker presenting The Jeff Conine Celebrity Poker Classic (Aug. 7).

“The Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open is the crown jewel of our poker series here at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood,” said Tournament Director Tony Burns. “We’re excited to once again welcome the poker world to South Florida and are really looking forward to the return of The Big 4 along with the addition of a $50,000 buy-in, $1 million guarantee Super High Roller and a $10,000 buy-in, $500,000 guarantee one-day event.”

Last year’s tournaments boasted nearly $14 million in prize pools bordering on 17,000 entries. Jason Koon (Weston, W.V.) won the $5,250 buy-in SHRPO Championship taking home the top prize of $1 million while Marvin Rettenmaier (Stuttgart, Germany) won the $25,500 High Roller for $787,497. Bradley Snider (Plantation, Fla) won the $2,650 Freeze-Out for $246,400, and Ruslan Dykshteyn (Hollywood, Fla.) won the $1,100 Re-Entry for $151,100.

This year, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Charity Series of Poker (CSOP) will present The Jeff Conine Celebrity Poker Classic benefiting the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation taking place on Monday, Aug. 7. The charity event kicks off with an exclusive player party taking place prior to the tournament’s 7 p.m. start time. Guests will enjoy live music, cocktails, hors d’ oeuvres and a chance to win more than $30,000 in cash and prizes including a $5,250 seat in the SHRPO $3 Million Guarantee Championship. Former major league baseball player Jeff Conine will be in attendance at the event which will play in the tournament room.

The 2017 SHRPO Big 4 broadcast will air on Season 6 of Poker Night in America on CBS Sports Network.

 On-site registration for the $3 million Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open is open. For more information and to view the series schedule, please visit SHRPO.com. Follow us on Twitter at @SHRPO and @SHRThePokerRoom, #SHRPO.

 Media Contact:

Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations

E: Yaffa.Mizrachi@SeminoleHardRock.com

C: 954-895-6480, O: 954-327-7504

Daniel Weinman Wins $381,500 and 2018 Audi S5 in Monster WPT Tournament of Champions at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

25-day Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown, including Monster WPT Tournament of Champions, concludes with over 8,700 total entries generating more than $19 million in prize pools at Seminole Hard Rock

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (April 10, 2017) – The Monster WPT Tournament of Champions (WPT TOC) concluded Sunday, April 9 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood with Daniel Weinman of Oxon Hill, Maryland earning the event’s top prize of $381,500 and marking the close of the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown. Weinman, a 29-year-old professional poker player, earned his entry in the event by winning a WPT title at the Borgata Winter Poker Open in January and parlayed the victory into a South Florida championship. On top of the riches, he was presented with a 2018 Audi S5.

The WPT TOC is a season-ending event open only to past WPT Champions. The $15,000 buy-in tournament drew 66 players, creating a total prize pool of $990,000. In addition, Monster added $100,000 to the purse, bringing the final money awarded to $1,090,000. Weinman also earned nearly $150,000 in added prizes which included the aforementioned Audi, Monster Element headphones, a Hublot watch and a custom poker table from BBO Poker Tables.

Finishing as the second-place winner was South Florida professional poker player, Michael Mizrachi. Mizrachi improved on his third-place finish in this same event last year, but came up one spot shy of another WPT title. The $218,000 score grew his total career earnings to over $15.5 million.

Final WPT TOC winners:

  • 1st: Daniel Weinman (Oxon Hill, MD) – $381,500* + 2018 Audi S5 Coupe
  • 2nd: Michael Mizrachi (Hollywood, FL) – $218,000
  • 3rd: Daniel Santoro (North Bellmore, NY) – $133,525
  • 4th: David Ormsby (Kanata, Ontario) – $95,375
  • 5th: Erik Seidel (Laughlin, NV) – $73,575
  • 6th: Dylan Wilkerson (Seattle, WA) – $57,225
  • 7th: Stefan Schillhabel (Brighton, Germany) – $49,050
  • 8th: Jesse Sylvia (West Tisbury, MA) – $43,600
  • 9th: Jonathan Jaffe (Longmeadow, MA) – $38,150

*Includes $15,000 seat in 2018 WPT Tournament of Champions

The WPT TOC final table took place at Hard Rock Live and was live streamed online at WPT.com and filmed for television. The coverage will encompass a three-part series expecting to air late August through September 2017.

The 2017 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown began Thursday, March 16 and concluded Sunday night on April 9. The series was made up of 31 primary events and numerous other secondary events and satellites. In total, the 25-day poker festival saw more than 8,700 participants generate more than $19 million in prize pools.

Along with Weinman, the series’ other headliners were:

  • Ryan Riess (East Lansing, MI), winner of the $10,000 WPT Finale for $716,088
  • Tony Sinishtaj (Bronx, NY), winner of the $3,500 Championship for $661,283
  • Jason Mercier (Davie, FL), winner of the $25,500 High Roller for $794,600

The next major poker event at the Seminole Hard Rock is the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open beginning Thursday, August 3 and concluding Tuesday, August 15. Additional information is available at SHRPO.com.

Media Contact:

Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations
E: Yaffa.Mizrachi@SeminoleHardRock.com
O: 954-327-7504

About Seminole Hard Rock Poker

Seminole Hard Rock Poker encompasses four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guarantee championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to the SHRPO, Seminole Hard Rock Poker series’ includes the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRPO umbrella with tournament news, live updates and championship live streaming. Visit www.SHRPO.com. Join the conversation at #SHRPO, and tag us @SHRPO.

About Seminole Hard Rock

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach. The AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features 469 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, premium meeting and convention space and a 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. The casino offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room.

Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. In the heart of the hotel is L Bar, a sophisticated, contemporary lounge showcasing handcrafted classic cocktails with a twist. Contemporary and casual eateries, include Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 175 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

For more information, call 800-937-0010, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and WPT Foundation™ to Host Charity Poker Tournament Benefiting the Jason Taylor Foundation

Jason Taylor pictured during the 2016 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown

Tournament To Take Place During the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown on Wednesday, March 29, 2017

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (March 7, 2017) – A charity poker tournament presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the WPT Foundation™ benefiting the Jason Taylor Foundation will take place on Wednesday, March 29, 2017, as part of the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown series. An exclusive player party will be held in the ballrooms from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., and the No Limit Hold’em (Re-Entry) tournament will immediately follow. A portion of each $300 buy-in will be donated to help the pro-football legend’s non-profit organization support and create programs that facilitate the personal growth and empowerment of South Florida’s children in need by focusing on improved health care, education and quality of life.

To increase excitement and participation, over $10,000 in prizes will be added to the event, including a $3,500 entry into the $2 Million Guaranteed, WPT® Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship event, and a 4-Day/3-Night Hard Rock Resort Package in Cancun, Mexico, plus $1,000 cash for travel. A silent auction with a variety of specialty items, including a Jason Taylor Golf outing at executive golf clubs, will be held throughout the night.

“We’re excited that the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and WPT Foundation invited us back again. This event was first class last year, and raised a great deal of money to help the young people we serve, and I expect this year’s tournament to be even bigger and better. Not only did our Foundation benefit, but there was some great poker played as well…and I’m not just saying that because I finished in third place!” said Jason Taylor.

The Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown will take place from Thursday, March 16 – Sunday, April 9, and will feature two Season XIV World Poker Tour® Main Tour events – the $3,500 WPT® Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship and the $10,000 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale. The series will finish up with the historic WPT Tournament of Champions.

Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown satellites will be held at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood throughout the series. Visit https://www.hardrockpoker.com/Win to enter to win a seat in the Championship. To participate, players must obtain a Wild Card at the Player’s Club or in the poker room free of charge. More information, schedule and contest rules can be found at www.SHRPO.com

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Media Contact
Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
O: 954-327-7504 | C: 954-895-6480
E: yaffa.mizrachi@seminolehardrock.com

About Seminole Hard Rock Poker
Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) is a year-long traveling tournament circuit that is inclusive of four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guaranteed championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to SHRPO, the Hollywood SHRP series’ include the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRP umbrella with their championships awarding points toward the SHRP Player of the Year race. The SHRP brand also runs events at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. For Hollywood updates, visit www.SHRPO.com. Join the conversation at #SHRPO, and tag us @SHRPO.

About Seminole Hard Rock
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach. The AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features 469 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, premium meeting and convention space and a 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. The casino offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room.

Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. In the heart of the hotel is L Bar, a sophisticated, contemporary lounge showcasing handcrafted classic cocktails with a twist. Contemporary and casual eateries, include Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 167 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

For more information, call 800-937-0010, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

About Jason Taylor Foundation
In July 2004, Miami Dolphins legendary Defensive End and recent Pro Football Hall of Fame class member, Jason Taylor, established the Jason Taylor Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) organization. The Foundation’s mission is to support and create programs that facilitate the personal growth and empowerment of South Florida’s children in need by focusing on improved health care, education and quality of life.

Since opening its doors, the Jason Taylor Foundation has impacted tens of thousands of children through innovative programming including The Jason Taylor Reading Room, The Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network, Louder Than A Bomb Florida, Cool Gear for the School Year, the Jason Taylor Children’s Learning Center and Jason Taylor Scholars, among others.  For more information on the Jason Taylor Foundation, please visit the organization’s website at www.JasonTaylorFoundation.org or follow on social media sites including Facebook: www.facebook.com/jasontaylorfoundation or Twitter and Instagram: @jtfoundation99

About WPT Foundation
WPT Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to utilizing World Poker Tour’s exceptional international platform to influence positive change on a global scale. The core of WPT Foundation’s fundraising efforts is the ongoing series of philanthropic poker events titled WPT Playing for a Better World. WPT Foundation and its associated charity events help bring awareness and raise critical funds for non-profit programs of excellence. This unprecedented philanthropic effort is dedicated to improving our planet by supporting key charities in regards to human rights, education, world hunger and the environment.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Fla. Announces the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Series Held March 16 to April 9, 2017 Featuring Two World Poker Tour Season XV Events

$3,500 buy-in WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship and $10,000 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale Each Feature $2 Million Guarantees and Award Seats into the Season-Ending WPT Tournament of Champions.

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (Feb. 16, 2017) – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. has announced the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (SHRP Showdown) is slated Thursday, March 16 to Sunday, April 9, 2017. For the second consecutive year, the series runs in partnership with the World Poker Tour, featuring two Season XV events – the $3,500 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Championship and $10,000 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale. Each tournament features a $2 million guarantee and awards-entry into the season-ending Tournament of Champions which runs Friday, April 7 to Sunday, April 9.

“We’re excited to continue to run some of the highest profile events in the world here in South Florida,” said Jason Newman, director of poker marketing for Seminole Gaming. “The success of last year’s $10,000 buy-in WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Finale and $25,500 High Roller allowed us to up the ante for this year’s event with the addition of a $50,000 Super High Roller.”

Highlight events on this year’s schedule include:

  • $3,500 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Championship $2 million guaranteed; live streamed on WPT.com (March 31 – April 5)
  • $10,000 WPT Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown Finale $2 million guaranteed; live streamed on www.WPT.com (April 2- 6)
  • $25,500 High Roller $1 million guaranteed (April 4-5)
  • $50,000 Super High Roller $1 million guaranteed (March 29-30)
  • $15,000 WPT Tournament of Championship; live streamed on WPT.com and filmed for television (April 7-9)

The $50,000 buy-in Super High Roller is a new addition to the 2017 schedule. The tournament comes on the heels of a $50,000 buy-in High Roller during the 2016 Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open” which drew more than 20 participants. Joining as a headliner on the 2017 SHRP Showdown schedule are the return of the $25,500 buy-in High Roller as well as the $350 buy-in, $500,000 guaranteed opener and a $570 buy-in, $1 million guaranteed event. Beginning Wednesday, March 29, is a $300 charity tournament benefitting the Jason Taylor Foundation. Half of each buy-in will be donated to the Pro Football Hall of Famer’s non-profit which creates and supports programs that facilitate the personal growth and empowerment of South Florida’s children in need by focusing on improved health care, education and quality of life.

SHRP Showdown series satellites are running now at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood. Players are able to earn their way into the $25,500 High Roller for as little as $80 while $10,000 Finale tickets can be won for $125 and $3,500 Championship seats for $95. The property is also giving away one free Championship seat via an online promotion at www.HardRockPoker.com/Win.

To participate in a tournament, players must obtain a Wild Card at the Player’s Club or in the poker room free of charge. More information, schedule and contest rules can be found at www.SHRPO.com

Seminole Hard Rock Poker Boiler

Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) is a year-long traveling tournament circuit that is inclusive of four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guaranteed championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to SHRPO, the Hollywood SHRP series’ include the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRP umbrella with their championships awarding points toward the SHRP Player of the Year race. The SHRP brand also runs events at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. For Hollywood updates, visit www.SHRPO.com. Join the conversation at #SHRPO, and tag us @SHRPO.

About Seminole Hard Rock

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach. The AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features 469 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, premium meeting and convention space and a 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. The casino offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room.

Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. In the heart of the hotel is L Bar, a sophisticated, contemporary lounge showcasing handcrafted classic cocktails with a twist. Contemporary and casual eateries, include Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 167 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

For more information, call 800-937-0010, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

Michael Graffeo of Boca Raton, Fla. Wins $290,687 in Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open WPTDeepStacks Main Event

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. once again draws record crowds

Michael Graffeo, 2017 Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts WPTDeepStacks Champion

Photo Credit: Photographer, Ralph Notaro, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Hollywood

Editor’s Note: click here to download photo of Michael Graffeo of Boca Raton, Fla.

 HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (January 25, 2017) – Michael Graffeo of Boca Raton, Fla. walked away with $290,687 after winning first place in the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (LHPO) WPTDeepStacks Main Event on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. The series finale carried a $1,100 buy-in, $1 million guarantee and featured three starting flights. A total of 1,509 players entered the event, creating a prize pool of $1,463,730. In addition to the six-figure prize, Graffeo was awarded a $3,000 WPTDeepStacks Championship package and a $5,250 seat in the $5 million guaranteed Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open Championship, taking place this August.

“The tournament and structure were great,” Graffeo told WPTDeepStacks staff following the win. “The dealers and the staff are unbelievable. Seminole Hard Rock is a terrific place to play.”

Graffeo, 41, works in the mortgage industry and was born in Brooklyn, NY. He previously played poker semi-professionally and took a few-years hiatus from the game to raise his children. Graffeo recently moved to Boca Raton, Fla., and now plans to pursue poker more seriously. The Main Event was the first tournament he played in two months, and he bested a decorated final table.

The final table was livestreamed online with a 30-minute delay and showed players’ hole cards. The other players at the table were Dantonio Brown, Loni Harwood, Marc Levy, Charlemagne Benjamin, Timothy Banks, Timothy Miles, Luis Torres and Aaron Massey.

Final table results:

1st: Michael Graffeo – $290,687
2nd: Dantonio Brown – $178,209
3rd: Loni Harwood – $110,431
4th: Marc Levy – $93,049
5th: Charlemagne Benjamin – $77,127
6th: Timothy Banks – $62,081
7th: Timothy Miles – $47,766
8th: Luis Torres – $34,473
9th: Aaron Massey – $25,563

Kicking off the 2017 LHPO was a $360 Ultimate Re-Entry event. Last year, the tournament drew a field of over 4,000 players, marking the largest poker tournament in Florida state history at that time. This year’s installment saw a year-over-year attendance increase of nearly 700 entries putting the final player count at 4,756. Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood has since broke the Florida state attendance record following a 5,000-entry field in November. The Ultimate Re-Entry’s 4,756-player field is the second largest in the state’s history and the resort now holds the top three spots in tournament attendance records. Winning the event was Florida local Jerry Wong. Wong, best known for his appearance as a member of the November Nine, turned the $360 buy-in into $250,000.

The 2017 LHPO series ran from Thursday, Jan. 12 to Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. More information on the series, including complete results and winner photos, is available at www.SHRPO.com.

Media Contact

Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
O: 954-327-7504 | C: 954-895-6480
yaffa.mizrachi@seminolehardrock.com

About Seminole Hard Rock Poker

Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) is a year-long traveling tournament circuit that is inclusive of four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guaranteed championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to SHRPO, the Hollywood SHRP series’ include the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRP umbrella with their championships awarding points toward the SHRP Player of the Year race. The SHRP brand also runs events at Seminole Hard rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and Seminole Cash Hotel Immokalee. For Hollywood updates, visit www.SHRPO.com. Join the conversation at #SHRPO, and tag us @SHRPO.

About Seminole Hard Rock

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach. The AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features 469 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, premium meeting and convention space and a 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. The casino offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room. Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. In the heart of the hotel is L Bar, a sophisticated, contemporary lounge showcasing handcrafted classic cocktails with a twist. Contemporary and casual eateries, include Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 177 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

For more information, call 954-327-ROCK or 800-937-0010, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Hosts the Lucky Hearts Poker Open Beginning January 12

$360 Buy-In and $500,000 Guarantee Ultimate Re-Entry Tournament Returns Following a Record-Breaking Turnout of More Than 4,000 Entries in 2016

 HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (November 18, 2016) – Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) returns to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. with the Lucky Hearts Poker Open (LHPO) Jan. 12-25, 2017. Marking the fifth of 10 events on the 2016-2017 SHRP schedule, the 16-tournament LHPO features two headliners – the series-opening Ultimate Re-Entry with a $500,000 guarantee event and the live streamed $1 Million Guaranteed Main Event. Both tournaments are presented in partnership with WPTDeepStacks as the year-long tour kicks off its fourth season.

Boasting a $360 buy-in and $500,000 guarantee, the Ultimate Re-Entry is a one-of-a-kind event that solidified its spot on the LHPO schedule following a then-record turnout of more than 4,000 entries during the January 2016 series. Besting a record-setting field was Thai Ha of Pennsylvania who leveraged his buy-in into more than $230,000. The event will offer eight starting flights beginning Jan. 12. Players will earn $2,500 Multi-Stack Payouts for each day they bag, after their first. Those who advance will carry their largest chip stack forward and all Day 2 players are guaranteed a payout.

The $1 Million Guaranteed Main Event starts Jan. 19, featuring a $1,100 buy-in with three starting flights. Last year’s installment drew 1,684 entries, becoming the largest Main Event in WPTDeepStacks history. Overcoming the super-sized field was Canadian Salomon Ponte who earned $344,420 for his efforts. The 2017 Main Event will be live streamed with hole cards and commentary.

The LHPO is the second of four SHRP series to take place at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood this season. All series Championships are points eligible in the year-long SHRP Player of the Year (POY) race. Following the conclusion of the final series, the top POY points earner, wins a prize package valued at over $32,000. SHRP POY Details are available at HardRockPoker.com.

Satellite events for LHPO will be held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood beginning this month. For more information, including the tournament schedule and live streaming details, please visit us online at www.SHRPO.com and follow us on Twitter at @SHRPO and @SHRThePokerRoom.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach, features a AAA Four Diamond resort with 469 luxury rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, high-energy nightlife, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, and premium meeting and convention space. As South Florida’s premier entertainment destination, Seminole Hard Rock hosts top-name acts at its 5,500–seat Hard Rock Live concert arena and offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room. Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. The resort also features contemporary and casual eateries.

Seminole Hard Rock Poker Boiler

Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) is a year-long traveling tournament circuit that is inclusive of four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guaranteed championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to SHRPO, the Hollywood SHRP series’ include the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRP umbrella with their championships awarding points toward the SHRP Player of the Year race. The SHRP brand also runs events at Seminole Hard rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and Seminole Cash Hotel Immokalee. For Hollywood updates, visit www.SHRPO.com. Join the conversation at #SHRPO, and tag us @SHRPO.

Media Contact

Yaffa Mizrachi, Director of Public Relations

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

O: 954-327-7504 | C: 954-895-6480

yaffa.mizrachi@seminolehardrock.com

Seminole Hard Rock Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open Begins Nov. 16 with First-Time South Florida Event

$360 Buy-In, $1 Million Guarantee Kicks-Off The Action and $2 Million Guaranteed Championship Headlines Series with Live Streaming Expanded to Include Preliminary Tournaments Broadcast With Hole Cards and Commentary.

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (Oct. 4, 2016) – Poker action returns to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. from Nov. 16 – 30, 2016 with the Seminole Hard Rock Poker (SHRP) Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open (RRPO). The poker community will come together once again at the AAA Four Diamond-rated resort for a 15-day, 14-tournament series highlighted by a $3,500 buy-in, $2 million guaranteed Championship.

Sharing the spotlight is the $360 buy-in, $1 million guaranteed opener, the first event in Florida poker history to offer a seven-figure guarantee at this price point. “We look forward to presenting a product that’s never been offered in this region,” said Tony Burns, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino tournament director. “The idea that one or more players could turn a modest $360 investment into a six-figure score is something we’re very excited about.”

The series will also feature a $50,000 buy-in High Roller. The event, also new to the series, is structured as a one-day Turbo. “After experiencing strong turnouts at previous Seminole Hard Rock Poker $25,000 High Roller events, we received feedback from local high-limit players that encouraged us to add the $50,000 tournament on our schedule,” said William Mason, director of poker at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “We expect to draw some of the games’ most elite.”

Another first for Seminole Hard Rock Poker will be a series of tournaments live streamed by Poker Night in America. Historically, Poker Night in America only streamed Championships and cash games. Complete with commentary and hole cards, the live streaming will be comprised of featured tables during the early stages of play and final table coverage during the late stages of play.

The new schedule includes a total of 10 days of broadcasting online at www.SHRPO.com. (Schedule is tentative and subject to change.)

  • Sunday Nov, 20 – $1,000,000 guarantee feature table/final table
  • Monday, Nov. 21 – $1,000,000 guaranteed final table (if applicable)
  • Tuesday, Nov. 22 – $50,000 High Roller feature table/final table
  • Wednesday, Nov. 23 – $250,000 guarantee feature table/final table
  • Friday, Nov. 25 – Poker Night in America high roller cash game
  • Saturday, Nov. 26 – Poker Night in America ladies night cash game
  • Sunday, Nov. 27 – $2,000,000 guaranteed Championship feature table
  • Monday, Nov. 28 – $2,000,000 guaranteed Championship feature table
  • Tuesday, Nov. 29 – $2,000,000 guaranteed Championship feature table
  • Wednesday, Nov. 30 – $2,000,000 guaranteed Championship final table

The $2 Million Guaranteed Championship will be broadcast on CBS Sports network as part of Poker Night in America’s “The Final Table.”

Poker hotel rates are available at $139 Sunday-Thursday and $189 Friday and Saturday. Players are encouraged to book through www.SHRPO.com. For more information, call 954-327-ROCK or 800-937-0010. Visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly

About Poker Night in America

Poker Night in America is the hit TV series that brings the fun back to poker.  Each week they travel to North America’s best card rooms to show the excitement of no-limit cash poker played by the game’s greatest players.  It’s a show not just about poker, but about the personalities behind the chip stacks, both on and off the table. No hoodies or headphones allowed!  Poker Night in America is here to remind us all why we love America’s true pastime.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach, features a AAA Four Diamond resort with 469 luxury rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, high-energy nightlife, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, and premium meeting and convention space. As South Florida’s premier entertainment destination, Seminole Hard Rock hosts top-name acts at its 5,500–seat Hard Rock Live concert arena and offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room. Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. The resort also features contemporary and casual eateries, including Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 155 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

Media Contact

Yaffa Mizrachi, PR Manager

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

O: 954-327-7504 | C: 954-895-6480

yaffa.mizrachi@seminolehardrock.com

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF CHARITY SERIES OF POKER TOURNAMENT DURING THE SEMINOLE HARD ROCK POKER OPEN ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 BENEFITING MAXIMUM HOPE FOUNDATION

The Big 4 Finale Will Carry a Combined $7.5 Million in Guaranteed Prize Pools Televised by Poker Night in America on CBS Sports Network

 Hollywood, Fla. (July 20, 2016) – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. has announced the Charity Series of Poker (CSOP) will return to the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) for the third year in a row, and will benefit the Maximum Hope Foundation. On Friday, Aug. 12, at 5 p.m., the CSOP tournament kicks off Championship weekend with an exclusive player party at L Bar located inside the hotel. Guests will enjoy live music, cocktails, hors d’ oeuvres and a chance to win more than $30,000 in cash and prizes. Prizes include a seat in to the following day’s SHRPO $5 Million Guaranteed Championship, a Hard Rock Mexico Package and much more.

Brad Garrett, Maximum Hope Foundation Founder and actor best known for his role as “Robert Barone” on the iconic television series “Everybody Loves Raymond,” will be in attendance at the event and will play in the CSOP tournament starting at 7 p.m. that evening.

The SHRPO will take place July 28 – August 16, 2016. The series schedule features an exciting line-up of tournament play, including the return of “The Big 4” – a four-tournament finale to be played at Hard Rock Live and filmed by Poker Night in America. Television personalities and poker players Ali Nejad and Maria Ho serve as live emcees and provide commentary for all four final tables simultaneously. Televised on CBS Sports Network and live streamed online at www.PokerNight.com, The Big 4 will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 16, carrying a combined $7.5 million in guaranteed prize pools. The 2016 SHRPO Big 4 broadcast will air on Season 5 of Poker Night in America on CBS Sports Network.

 “I am so thankful to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Charity Series of Poker for hosting this amazing event to benefit Maximum Hope Foundation.  I started this non-profit when I realized how lucky I was to have two healthy children, and wanted to help those parents who are wiped out financially while their son or daughter battles to survive,” said Garrett. “I am a big believer in the power of remaining grateful and giving back, and feel truly honored to have found such wonderful like-minded people in Matt Stout and the Hard Rock family.  I look forward to playing in this event and hope you will join me for a great time in support of a great cause.”

 Since Brad Garrett founded Maximum Hope Foundation in the year 2007, more than one thousand families caring for a child with a life-limiting illness have received financial relief when they needed it most.  Children with complex medical diagnoses often endure years of treatment, which can cause a huge financial strain for their families.  They are faced with loss of income and out-of-pocket medical costs that make daily living expenses difficult to meet.  Working diligently with hospital and hospice social workers, Maximum Hope provides financial help for necessities like rent, utilities, groceries, or gas.  The immediate, compassionate assistance we provide allows parents to remain focused on what is most important: their child.

On-site registration for the $5 million Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open is open. For more information and for the full series schedule, please visit www.SHRPO.com. Follow us on Twitter at @SHRPO and @SHRThePokerRoom, #SHRPO.

 Media Contact:

Yaffa Mizrachi, Public Relations Manager

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

E: Yaffa.Mizrachi@SeminoleHardRock.com

C: 954-895-6480, O: 954-327-7504

 About Seminole Hard Rock Poker

Seminole Hard Rock Poker encompasses four major poker series held annually at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, South Florida’s premier destination for fun and entertainment. In August 2013, the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open (SHRPO) was introduced to poker players around the world and featured a $10 million guarantee championship, the largest guarantee in history. In addition to the SHRPO, Seminole Hard Rock Poker series’ includes the Seminole Hard Rock Lucky Hearts Poker Open (January), Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown (April) and Seminole Hard Rock “Rock ‘N’ Roll” Poker Open (November). All four series fall under the SHRPO umbrella with tournament news, live updates and championship live streaming.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, located minutes from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach, features a AAA Four Diamond resort with 469 luxury rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, high-energy nightlife, a lagoon-style pool and Beach Club, a Hard Rock-inspired spa, and premium meeting and convention space. As South Florida’s premier entertainment destination, Seminole Hard Rock hosts top-name acts at its 5,500–seat Hard Rock Live concert arena and offers more than 100 table games, 2,000 of the most popular slots and a stand-alone poker room. Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, a luxe and socially vibrant restaurant offering new-style Japanese cuisine. The resort also features contemporary and casual eateries, including Blue Plate, the hotel’s 24-hour diner-inspired restaurant; Constant Grind, a gourmet coffee and pastry shop; and the ever-famous Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 155 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.