Poker action comes to Auckland

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Poker players from across New Zealand and abroad are heading to Auckland this week for the third annual SkyCity Festival of Poker.

The Main Event starts tomorrow and may feature one of the largest prize pools in New Zealand poker history.

Two notable players heading to the tournament are leading Australian Tony Hachem and New Zealander Lee 'Final Table' Nelson. With over 50 final table appearances, Nelson is looking to add one more to his impressive tally.

Tony is still probably best known as the brother of Joe Hachem, who famously won the Main Event at the World Series of Poker in 2005; but Tony is fast emerging as a force to be reckoned with in tournaments in the Pacific region.

Also back at SkyCity casino this week is the 2009 winner of the Festival of Poker - and recent World Series of Poker bracelet winner - Simon Watt.

"I'm looking forward to and excited about defending my Main Event title in what is New Zealand's biggest and best poker tournament." said Watt, who gained international recognition for his Las Vegas win.

Buy-in into the Main Event is $3,250.00 with the field capped at 360 players.

- NZHERALD STAFF