2022 Seminole Hard Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Hollywood, Florida
Event 2
$600 Seniors 50+ No Limit Hold’em (Re-Entry)
Entries:  176
Prize Pool:  $92,400
November 16, 2022

Wilmer Chavira has made five final tables in Seminole Hard Rock seniors events (both in Hollywood and Tampa) over the past three years, but he finally won his first Seniors trophy in a four-way deal on Wednesday, which was the first day of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Poker Open. (Players must be at least 50 years old to play in seniors events.)

Chavira felt he was in good position to win at a couple of those previous final tables, but he ran into bad beats and fell short.

“I kept getting close,” said Chavira, “and it feels good to finally win. That’s probably why I took the deal, to get it off my back.”

What does Chavira enjoy about playing seniors events?

“The camaraderie,” said Chavira. “Everybody’s pretty loose. And it’s very challenging, because there’s years of experience for all of the players, and you get hit from different angles. It’s not like playing GTO strategy against the young guys. You’ve got to be on your toes. Sometimes you’ve got to call the big bluff, sometimes you’ve just got to fold a hand you normally would not fold, even if you’ve got 10 big blinds or whatever.”

Chavira has won seven tournaments since 2020, mostly in Tampa, but this is the first time he’s won one of the iconic guitar-pick trophies. The $16,031 he earned for first place is the biggest cash of his career.

“I like the Seminole Hard Rock,” said Chavira. “The fields are big and the payouts are good, though I usually play at the Seminole Hard Rock in Tampa. They run tournaments very well over there too, and it’s closer to me.”

Has a victory on Day 1 of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Poker Open changed Chavira’s plans?

“I’m playing tomorrow,” said Chavira, “and I’m going to try to qualify for the Championship. Now that I’ve won some money I’m going to play some more events.”

Final Results:

* Indicates a four-way deal.