With low player turnout plaguing many of the more established poker tours, it may surprise some to hear that the first event of the new World Series of Poker Circuit season at the Hammond Horseshoe- just outside of Chicago- attracted more players than any other event since the Circuit's inception back in 2005.

1,412 players signed up for the first of the thirteen scheduled events in Hammond leading up to today's $5,200 main event, creating a total prize pool worth over $400,000- despite the relatively low buy-in of $345.  The event was taken down by Josh Shmerl, who earned a remarkable $79,107 for the victory. 

The final turnout numbers for today's main event- as of this writing- have not yet been released, but if they're anywhere near those of the preliminary events leading up to it, things are looking pretty rosy not only for the 2009/2010 WSOP Circuit season, but for Chicago itself as it slowly transitions into a premier American gambling destination.

For more information on the WSOP Circuit Tour visit www.worldseriesofpoker.com.


Story by Mark Anderson