The first day of play at the 2009 UltimateBet Aruba Poker Classic attracted 188 entrants including a significant amount of well known professional players.

Some of the pros who found themselves pulled to the felt of Aruba on Day 1a included Phil Hellmuth, Brock "t soprano" Parker, Adam "Roothlus" Levy, "Hollywood" Dave Stann and Chris Klodnicki.

Of course many of the name pros did not survive the difficult day that spelled the end to 77 players altogether, however some like Parker, Levy and Mr. Hellmuth, were able to prosper and now find themselves with a full day off to enjoy all that Aruba has to offer, as they await today's Day 1b action to be completed.

For updates from this year's Aruba Poker Classic visit PokerNews.com, and for a first hand, behind the scenes look at what it's like to play in one of these $5,500 buy-in events check out PokerRoad Radio (and the return of Gavin Smith) live from the Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa.


Story by Mark Anderson