The Punta Cana Classic Poker tournament is quickly becoming one of the premiere stops for poker pros in the world. Although it still has yet to garner the credibility the likes of the WSOP and WPT, many rank it as a top tier tournament series.
Since its inception the Punta Cana Classic has been held at the Hard Rock casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. In 2010 the first ever Punta Cana Classic took place with a small field of poker pros from around the world.
A few of the big names at the event included Doyle Brunson Mike Caro and Hoyt Corkins. A Canadian player would win the first event for just $55,000. Not the largest of prizes for first place. An original guarantee was placed at $100,000, but the event actually doubled that guarantee making it a $200,000 prize pool.
In its 6-year existence, the tournament has grown each year. Today, the tournament boasts a $500,000 guarantee and has grown into a series of tournaments much like other major stops on the pro tour. The buy in is $1,500, with re-entries.
It was announced this week that the Punta Cana and Hard Rock Casino are parting ways after a new deal could not be struck between the organizers of the event and Hard Rock officials. This year, the tournament will be held at the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort.
A special part of this resort, called – The Level” will be where the poker takes place. The Level is an exclusive part of the resort that hosts the casino and other private amenities for guests willing to pay for this package.
Players can buy in directly at the resort, or purchase packages from the Punta Cana Classic directly. Packages run $4,100 and include added perks.
The buy in for the tournament is included is n this price, as well as - $50 sit n go jackpot tickets. Six nights at The Level, all inclusive. $500 credit to spend on any extras. Free golf, gift bags and more.
Right now, the Punta Cana is the largest poker tournament in Central and South America. A growing poker population, the tournament was created to help develop poker in this part of the world. The Winning Poker Network has been a huge part in promoting this event, running satellites almost year round.
Other sponsors have jumped on board since its creation and now include – BetChris and YaPoker.com. The Caribbean Poker Tour has also been created as a partner of the event. Oddly enough, according the CPT website, they operate out of Germany.
The Punta Cana Classic runs October 25th, through October 31st.
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