Borgata Poker Open 2010

Borgata Poker Open Championship Recap

2010-09-24T01:56:00.017-04:00

Dwyte Pilgrim navigated his way through the largest field in World Poker Tour history to win the 2010 WPT Borgata Poker Open Championship. Pilgrim defeated Kia Mohajeri heads up and was the sole survivor of a record 1,042 players.

"It feels surreal right now, a lifetime of hard work was set in stone today," said the 28 year-old Brooklyn, NY native, who earned $733,802 for the win. "I felt I was in a good spot at all times. Even when I was behind, I felt this guy was going to have to get lucky to beat me."

On the final hand, a coordinated board of K♥ T♠ 9♠ offered a lot of action with 4 million chips going into the pot. The turn was the 7♦ and Pilgrim led out for 2 million. Mohajeri shoved all-in and Pilgrim snap called.

Mohajeri turned over K♠ 9♣ for two pairs, while Pilgrim had Q♥ J♠ for the nut straight as both players hit the flop hard. When the the 5♦ hit the river, it was all over and Pilgrim had the title.

“There was nothing I could do,” said Mohajeri, a retired electrical engineer from Florida, “I have two pair and he had a straight, all the chips were going in. I was very tired at the end and I couldn’t concentrate, but I did the best I could.”

Mohajeri, who won $440,945 for second place, finished ahead of Ofir Mor (3rd) Brandon Novena (4th), Daniel Makowsky (5th) and Ben Klier (6th), who all reached the televised final table.

For Pilgrim, this marks his eighth career win, including three WSOP circuit titles, but it didn’t come easy. The five day tournament at the premier East Coast poker destination, located in Atlantic City, NJ, featured many professional players and a lot of compelling subplots.

The event began with a strong field that featured two former WSOP Main Event Champions in Jerry Yang (2007) and Robert Varkonyi (2002), a WSOP Runner-up in Steve Dannenmann (2005) and the third place finisher from 2006 in Michael Binger. Other participants included WSOP Bracelet winners Gavin Smith, Steve Zolotow and Jason Young, and actor James Woods played as well.

But while none of these players staked a claim of the nearly $3.5 million total buy-in, defending champion Olivier Busquet made a second straight improbable run. After beating more than 1,000 players last year, the previous WPT record field, Busquet made his way to the final 3 tables before being eliminated in 25th place.

Another first for the World Poker Tour happened when WPT announcer and Poker Hall of Famer Mike Sexton cashed for the first time. It was only the "fifth or sixth" event Sexton has played in during the shows 9 seasons, but his run came to an end in 20th place.

“It’s nice just to get a cash under your belt one time," says Sexton, who wasn't allowed to play in WPT events until recently. "You wish you had been at the final table, but everybody does. All in all, it was a great week, a lot of fun for me and I enjoyed playing."

As the field thinned, John D’Agostino looked to make another deep run in a Borgata event. The 2006 WPT runner-up and on-line pro, took over the chip lead on Day 2 and was a threat the rest of the way before being knocked out in 14th place.

At the start of the final table, Ofir Mor had the chip lead, but all six players were bunched between 7.3 and 3.3 million chips. The first three eliminations went smoothly as Klier ($148,427), Makowsky ($183,449) and Novena ($223,475) were the first to go, but then things slowed down.

Pilgrim was poised for back-to-back knockouts on consecutive hands, but the deck didn't cooperate. After he eliminated Novena in 4th place, Pilgrim had Mor on the ropes when he flopped two pairs, but Mor went runner-runner for a higher two pairs and stayed alive.

Pilgrim, Mor and Mohajeri traded chips for nearly two and-a-half hours until Mohajeri eliminated Mor in third place, good for $266,835.

When heads up play began Mohajeri had a 3 to 2 chip led by holding 19 of the 31 million chips in play. But after playing 45 hands for more than one hour, Pilgrim nailed the flop and nailed down the WPT Borgata Poker Open Championship.

"I feel like Babe Ruth," said Pilgrim, who fell to the floor in tears after he clinched the title. "He struck out a lot, but he also hit a lot of home runs.

"Up to bat, bottom of the 9th, two outs, two strikes, two balls. This next pitch meant a lot. I kept my eye on the ball and took it out of the park."

As he celebrated with friend and family he added, "this is the first day of the rest of my life."

WPT Borgata Poker Open Championship Results

2010-09-24T01:19:00.002-04:00

Borgata Poker Open 2010
Event 17: $3500 WPT Championship NLH
September 18-23

Entries: 1,042
Total Buy-In: $3,438,600

FINAL RESULTS
1. DWYTE PILGRIM (BROOKLYN, NY): $733,802
2. KIANOOSH MOHAJERI (ROCKLEDGE, FL): $440,945
3. OFIR MOR (WOODMERE, NY): $266,835
4. BRANDON NOVENA (PICKERINTON, OH): $223,475
5. DANIEL MAKOWSKY (ZURICH, SWI): $183,449
6. BENJAMIN KLIER (ASTORIA, NY): $148,427
7. JEFFREY PAPOLA (NEW YORK, NY): $118,408
8. ANDREW YOUNGBLOOD (DEARBORN HEIGHTS, MI): $90,057
9. WILLIAM CHILDS (ALEXANDRIA, VA): $61,706
10. CHRISTIAN IACOBELLIS (RYE, NY): $40,025
11. SEAN NOLAN (LAS VEGAS, NV): $40,025
12. VICHIEN SIPRAJIM (PASADENA, MD): $40,025
13. RICK BORDIAN (MAPLE GROVE, MN): $28,351
14. JOHN DAGOSTINO (EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ): $28,351
15. DAVID GRANA (GRAND ISLAND, NY): $28,351
16. KENT BEAVER (ARLINGTON, VA): $18,345
17. MICHAEL SIMHAI (LOS ANGELES, CA): $18,345
18. EMAD ALABSI (SOLON, OH): $18,345
19. DOUGLAS KIM (HARTSDALE, NY): $15,009
20. MICHAEL SEXTON (LAS VEGAS, NV): $15,009
21. ANTHONY HARB (CANTON, MI): $15,009
22. SACHIN RAMRAKHANI (FORT LEE, NJ): $15,009
23. KYLE LOMAN (HAVERHILL, MA): $15,009
24. ROBERT INFANZON (DOYLESTOWN, PA): $15,009
25. OLIVIER BUSQUET (KATONAH, NY): $15,009
26. MATTHEW KOLODZIEJ (NEW HIDE PARK, NY): $15,009
27. JOHN LEONARD (SPRING VALLEY, NY): $15,009
28. SATURNINO RODRIGUEZ (ROCKLEDGE, FL): $13,008
29. BENJAMIN JOHNSON (BROOKLYN, NY): $13,008
30. ANDREW BADECKER (VERNON, CT): $13,008
31. GIUSEPPE PANTALEO (BIELEFELD, GER): $13,008
32. FRANCIS LAMOTHE (MONTREAL, CAN): $13,008
33. ANDREW KAPLAN (CRANSTON, RI): $13,008
34. ERIC SALINAS (GREENWICH, CT): $13,008
35. BRYAN BINDERT (WENONAH, NJ): $13,008
36. JEFFREY GROSS (BALTIMORE, MD): $13,008
37. DANIEL FISCHER (GLASSBORO, NJ): $11,674
38. NICHOLAS BINGER (LAS VEGAS, NV): $11,674
39. JASON TABACHNICK (COMMACK, NY): $11,674
40. SEAN KNITTER (FOX CHASE MANOR, PA): $11,674
41. KY MACPHERSON (AUSTIN, TX): $11,674
42. ANTONIO CAVEZZA (HUNTINGTON STATION, NY): $11,674
43. DONNY ARIEL (BROOKLYN, NY): $11,674
44. JEREMY SCHWARTZ (NEW YORK, NY): $11,674
45. STAN SINCLAIR (DOUGLAS, GA): $11,674
46. WILLIAM SEYMOUR (GREENVILLE, NC): $10,340
47. LARS BONDING (LAS VEGAS, NV): $10,340
48. BRIAN ALLEN (ENGLEWOOD, NJ): $10,340
49. CONG PHAM (NAPLES, FL): $10,340
50. MICHAEL SHASHO (RAMSEY, NJ): $10,340
51. MARC GOLDMAN (EASTON, PA): $10,340
52. TAHER ALISHEIK (TORONTO, CAN): $10,340
53. PUAN TONG (PU CHONG, MAL): $10,340
54. CHRISTOPHER BACK (VANCOUVER, CAN): $10,340
55. ALLAN LUBIN (WATCHUNG, NJ): $9,339
56. IRVING LORENZO (GLEN OAKS, NY): $9,339
57. SHAHRYAR ESLAMI (VAN NUYS, CA): $9,339
58. ROSS MALLOR (NEW YORK, NY): $9,339
59. JONATHAN LITTLE (PENSACOLA, FL): $9,339
60. DAVE SALVADOR (NIAGRA FALLS, CAN): $9,339
61. LAVIANO THOMAS (UPPERBROOKVILLE, NY): $9,339
62. TUAN GBEHAN (TOMS RIVER, NJ): $9,339
63. COREY SOUTHER (PENSACOLA, FL): $9,339
64. MICHAEL SICA JR (N BRUNSWICK, NJ): $8,339
65. JIA LIU (BROOKLYN, NY): $8,339
66. CARTER GILL (MADRAS, OR): $8,339
67. DANIEL SUIED (BILLERICA, MA): $8,339
68. CHINMAY PATEL (BRIGANTINE, NJ): $8,339
69. ALEZANDER KIM (HATBORO, PA): $8,339
70. JASON ROBERTS (LAS VEGAS, NV): $8,339
71. WILLIAM HALEY (FLORHAM PARK, NJ): $8,339
72. STUART GELWARG (NEW YORK, NY): $8,339
73. ROBERT PALMER (CHERRY HILL, NJ): $7,672
74. GREGORY MERSON (LAUREL, MD): $7,672
75. JEFFREY CHOTIKUL (EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ): $7,672
76. MATTHEW BRADY (HAVERTOWN, PA): $7,672
77. ALLISON SCHULTZ (NEW YORK, NY): $7,672
78. TOM THOMAS (FLORAL PARK, NY): $7,672
79. DMITRIY SHILNIKOV (KATY, TX): $7,672
80. AMIR GENZEL (FRESH MEADOWS, NY): $7,672
81. DANIEL OBRIEN (LAS VEGAS, NV): $7,672
82. MICHAEL CONNOLLY (BRONX, NY): $7,004
83. OMAR TAVERAS (BRONX, NY): $7,004
84. RICHARD MELTON (MORRISTOWN, NJ): $7,004
85. FRANK BONACCI (PITTSBURGH, PA): $7,004
86. KEITH CROWDER (ELKINS PARK, PA): $7,004
87. ALAN HADDY (OAKLAND, NJ): $7,004
88. FRANCIS DOUGHERTY (PHILADELPHIA, PA): $7,004
89. THOMAS TAYLOR (MEDICINE, CAN): $7,004
90. RAVI CHALLA (BETHPAGE, NY): $7,004
91. JEREMY BROWN (MEDFORD, NJ): $6,671
92. RYAN RAYMOND (NORTH SAN JUAN, CA): $6,671
93. JACOBO FERNANDEZ-HERNANDEZ (HOLLYWOOD, FL): $6,671
94. FRED DEGUZMAN (OTTAWA, CAN): $6,671
95. ALBERT RICCOBONO (OSSINING, NY): $6,671
96. FRANK WALKER (ROCKAWAY PARK, NY): $6,671
97. TRAVELL THOMAS (BUFFALO, NY): $6,671
98. ERIC STOCZ (WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI): $6,671
99. CHRIS MCCORMACK (PORT JEFFERSON, NY): $6,671
100. PAYMAN ARJANG (WOODLANDS HILLS, CA): $6,671

1st Place - Dwyte Pilgrim - $733,802

2010-09-24T00:26:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kia Mohajeri opened for 1.2 million and Dwyte Pilgrim called. The flop came K♥ T♠ 9♠. Dwyte checked, Kia bet 2 million, and Dwyte called.

The turn was the 7♦ and Dwyte led out for 2 million. Kia shoved and Dwyte snap-called. Kia turned over K♠9♣ for two pair. Dwyte rolled over Q♥J♠ for the King-high straight and the current nuts.

'Eight percent away from the title, baby!" said Dwyte. He's referring to Kia's 4 outs to win, needing a full house to beat him. There was quite a delay as the house was on their feet roaring.

When the dealer finally burned and rolled the river card, it was the 5♦ and it is OVER!

Dwyte Pilgrim - 1st place

Dwyte Pilgrim finished in 1st place, earning $733,602, a $25,000 entry in the WPT Championship, the WPT bracelet, and Borgata trophy.

Kia Mohajeri finished in 2nd place, earning $440,945.

Kia Mohajeri - 2nd Place

Lights, Camera.....

2010-09-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Mike Sexton & Vince Van Patten

Dwyte Pilgrim and Kia Mohajeri have played more than three dozen hands heads up and on hand to call the action are commentators Mike Sexton and Vince Van Patten. Also at Borgata is WPT hostess Kimberly Lansing.

Season 9 of the World Poker Tour begins airing in January, 2011. Keep an eye on your local listings for the air dates of the Borgata Poker Open Championship on an FSN station near you.

World Poker Tour Set

1.2 Million Chip Bets

2010-09-23T23:50:00.008-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

From the SB Dwyte Pilgrim calls 250k and Kia Mohajeri checks his option.

Flop: 2♣6♣9♠

Mahajeri bets 1.2 million, Pilgrim calls.

Turn: Q ♣

Mahajeri checks, Pilgrim bets 1.2 million

River: 3 ♣

Mahajeri checks, Pilgrim bets 1.2 million, Mahajeri calls.

Pilgrim shows 9♥10♣ for a 10 high flush and Mahajeri mucks, as Pilgrim wins an 8+ million chip pot.

Heads-Up Lead Reversal

2010-09-23T23:44:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Heads-up play began with Kia Mohajeri holding about a 3:2 lead in chips over Dwyte Pilgrim. After about 18 hands of small-ball play, Dwyte had pulled dead even with Kia. (If you can still call it "small-ball" when the minimum bet or raise is 400k.)

Then this hand occurred:

Kia limped on the button and Dwyte checked. The flop rolled out Q♦ 6♠ 5♠. Both checked.

The turn was the 8♠. Dwyte bet 400k (the minimum). Kia raised another million on top. Dwyte called.

The river was the K♦ and Dwyte bet 400k. Kia raised another 2.5 million. After a few seconds thought, Dwyte called. Kia showed A7 off for Ace-high. Dwyte showed K♣7♠ for a pair of Kings to take the pot.

Dwyte has exchanged chip positions with Kia. He now has about 19 million to Kia's 12 million.

Blinds went up to 250k/500k with 75k antes.

Heads Up Contrast

2010-09-23T23:07:00.004-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte's Rail Birds
(AKA Pilgrim's Pigeons?)

Kia Mohajeri may have a 3 to 2 chip lead (19 million to 12 million) heading into heads up play, but Dwyte Pilgrim has Mohajeri outnumbered in support. Pilgrim's rooting section has been vocal all day, helping build excitement in the Event Center.

At the other end of the spectrum, Mohajeri doesn't have any visible supporters in the room as he's spent the last break by himself. It's an interesting contrast as the two play for the first place prize of more than $700,000

Kia Mohajeri Alone with his Thoughts

Show Me The $$$$

2010-09-23T23:00:00.006-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Top Prize

The WPT Royal Flush girls have just delivered the first place prize money of $733,802, the Borgata trophy and the WPT bracelet.

Heads up play begins after the TV crew sets up for heads up play.

Royal Flush Girls

3rd Place - Ofir Mor - $266,835.

2010-09-23T22:43:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Ofir Mor moved in on his button, but got no callers. On the next hand, Kia Mohajeri opened for 2 million from the small blind, then Ofir moved in from the big.

Kia called, showing 87 suited. Ofir was ahead with A4 offsuit. Then the board came K 7 3 8 5 and Kia took the pot with two pair. He's now got about 18.8 million of the 31 million chips in play.

Ofir Mor

After a three-way battle that lasted almost two and a half hours, Ofir Mor finished in 3rd place, earning $266,835.

Pilgrim Outkicks Mor

2010-09-23T22:32:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte Pilgrim opened for 1 million on the button and Ofir Mor Pilgrim called from the big blind. The flop came 9 4 3 rainbow and both checked. Turn was a Ten and Dwyte bet 600k. Ofir called. River was a 5 and Dwyte bet 1.2 million. Ofir called showing KT for a pair of Tens. Dwyte showed AT for the same pair with better kicker to claim the pot.

Dwyte opened for 1.4 million and Kia Mohajeri three-bet to 4 million straight. Dwyte let it go.

Rough chip counts:
Kia - 15 million
Dwyte - 13 million
Ofir - 3 million

Give and Take

2010-09-23T22:05:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte Pilgrim opened for 900k on the button and Kia Mohajeri raised to 2 million straight from the small blind. Dwyte made the call to see the flop come Q J 6 with two spades. Kia moved in immediately. Dwyte let it go.

Kia opened for 1.2 million on the button and Dwyte called from the big blind. The flop came 9 4 3 with two spades. Both players checked. Dwyte bet 1.2 million in the dark before the turn, which was an offsuit Jack. Kia called. River was an offsuit King. Dwyte checked, Kia bet 3 million, and Dwyte folded.

Ofir Mor completed the small blind and Dwyte checked his option. The flop came A♥ 6♥ 3♥. Ofir checked and Dwyte bet 525k. Ofir called. Turn was the Q♦. Both checked. River was the T♥. Ofir checked, Dwyte bet 1.4 million, and Ofir folded.

Kia raised to 1 million on the button and Dwyte called from the big blind. The flop came J♣ 4♦ 3♣ and both checked. Dwyte checked in the dark before the A♣ hit the turn. Kia checked behind. River was the 4♣. Dwyte checked, Kia bet 350k, and Dwyte took a few seconds to think. He opted to call and Kia was reluctant to show. Dwyte showed A♦Q♥ for Aces-up. Kia mucked.

Pilgrim Reclaims Chip Lead

2010-09-23T21:49:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte Pilgrim has been chipping away at his two opponents, showing down the best hand when necessary, and showing a single deuce after bluffing someone off a pot. He's up to 13.6 million now.

Kia Mohajeri has 10.775 million and Ofir Mor has 7 million.

Mohajeri Doubles Through Mor

2010-09-23T21:39:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kia Mohajeri opened for 900k on the button and Ofir Mor raised to 2 million from the small blind. Dwyte Pilgrim folds his big blind and Kia calls.

The flop came Q J 5 and they quickly got all the chips in the middle. Kia held pocket Kings and the lead. Ofir held AJ for a pair of Aces. The last two came 3 8 and Kia's Kings were good. He doubled up to 11.45 million, retaking the chip lead.

Dwyte is right behind him with 10.7 million. Ofir is back to third, but still very close with 9.2 million.

"No-Fear" Mor Makes Hero Call

2010-09-23T21:32:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Ofir Mor opened for 850k on the button and Kia Mohajeri called from the big blind. The flop came A Q 4 rainbow. Both players checked.

Turn was a Ten and Kia checked. Ofir bet 600k. Kia check raised another million on top. Ofir called.

River was a 9 and Kia led out for 3 million. Ofir tanked for quite a while, during which Dwyte Pilgrim got up from the table, chatted with his peeps on the rail, wandered around the audience shaking hands and bumping fists, and wandered back around to his chair.

Ofir "No-Fear" Mor

Eventually Ofir made the call. Kia rolled over pocket 3s. Ofir rolled over A8 for a pair of Aces to take the pot. He chipped up to almost 14 million, taking the chip lead. Kia was left with just under 6 million.

More of the Dwyte Pilgrim Show

2010-09-23T21:12:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kia Mohajeri opens for 700k on the button, Ofir Mor opts out, and Dwyte Pilgrim calls from the big blind. The flop came 2 2 2 and both players checked. Turn was a 6 and Dwyte led out for 400k. Kia called. River was a 7 and Dwyte bet 800. Kia tanked for a couple of minutes, then folded.

Dwyte opened from the small blind for 750k and Kia raised 1.5 million more on top from the big. Dwyte moved all-in and Kia went into the tank. After a few minutes in the tank, Kia let it go. Dwyte showed one card: a deuce. The crowd went wild.

Chip Counts

2010-09-23T20:47:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Players have just returned from a break. Here are the chip counts;

Kia Mohajeri - 15.05 million
Dwight Pilgrim - 11.125 million
Ofir Mor - 5.2 million

Blinds are still 150k/300k with 50k antes.

Premature Celebration

2010-09-23T20:23:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Just one hand after eliminating Brandon Novena, Dwyte Pilgrim's looking for consecutive knockouts when Ofir Mor moves all-in. The bets is 2.775 million and Pilgrim calls.

Pilgrim: J♠10♠
Mor: K♥8♠

When the flop comes J♥10♦4♥, Pilgrim runs across the stage and celebrates with his cheering section. Once the crowd settles down, Pilgrim returns to the table and sees the 8♥ on the turn and now has a real sweat.

Mor has several river outs: any heart, an 8 for trips, or a king for a higher two pairs.

River: K♠

And with that Mor goes runner, runner for two pairs, kings and eights to stay alive with a double-up.

Mor, who now has 5.5 million chips, shows little emotion as he calmly walks over to his fans and gives out a couple of high fives.

Pilgrim takes the small hit in stride as his stack drops to 10 million. On the next hand, he starts talking to WPT announcer Mike Sexton, who's off stage.

"Make sure you don't make me look too bad," says Pilgrim. "With all the celebrating and stuff."

4th Place - Brandon Novena - $223,475

2010-09-23T20:09:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Brandon Novena

Brandon Novena moves all-in for 2.575 million, and Dwyte Pilgrim calls.

Novena: 6♠6♣
Pilgrim: K♣Q♣

Flop: K♥10♥10♣ (Pilgrim takes the lead with a pair of kings)

Turn: 2♠ (no help for Novena)

River: Q♠ (two pairs for Pilgrim)

A second pair on the river gives Pilgrim the pot and eliminates Novena in 4th place earning him $223,475.

Pilgrim now has more than 12 million chips.

"No Fear, Ofir"

2010-09-23T20:00:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

As routing interests develop, Ofir Mor continually gets support when he pushes all-in and fails to get a call.

"No fear, Ofir!" they shout.

Mor and Brandon Novena are the two short stacks, as Dyte Pilgrim and Kia Mohajeri are battling for the chip lead.

Position Poker

2010-09-23T19:51:00.005-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Three times in the last 10 hands Dwyte Pilgrim's been using his position on Brandon Novena to continually extract chips from the 24 year old.

The most recent comes on a board of K♥6♠7♠ when Novena leads out for 1.1 million. Pilgrim quickly says all-in and Novena shakes his head.

After a few seconds, Pilgrim spills all his chips into the pot and Novena simply laughs and eventually folds. The crowd erupts as this is turning into a bit of a home arena for Pilgrim.

"That hurt. Even I felt it for the kid," says Pilgrim as he mucks the winner.

Pilgrim takes the chip lead with more than 14 million chips, while Novena continues to hemorrhage and is now the short stack with ~2.0 million.

Pilgrim Gets Value

2010-09-23T19:39:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

On a board of 8♠K♦5♠4♣, Brandon Novena bets 600k. Dwyte Pilgrim raises to 1.2 million and Novena calls.

The river is the 6♠. Novena checks, Pilgrim value bets 325k and Novena calls.

Novena: AK (top pair, top kicker)
Pilgrim: K♠4♦ (two pairs)

Pilgrim wins the 4.5 million chip pot, taking his stack to 10.5 million, while Novena drops to 5 million.

Updated Stacks

2010-09-23T19:32:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Seat-Name-Chip Count (millions)

1 - Kia Mohajeri 12.7
3 - Ofir Mor 3.2
4 - Brandon Novena 7.2
5 - Dwyte Pilgrim 8.3

Eliminated

5th Daniel Makowsky ($183,449)
6th Ben Klier ($148,427)

5th Place - Daniel Makowsky - $183,449

2010-09-23T19:22:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Ofir Mor moved all-in from the cutoff and Daniel Makowsky did the same from the big blind. Ofir's AQ off was dominated by Daniel's AK off. It appeared that Ofir was destined for a 5th place finish, but the board came A Q 6 7 2 and Ofir took the pot with two pair, doubling up to almost 4.2 million.

Daniel Makowsky

Daniel was left with only a couple of chips (50k) and was all-in for the small blind on the next hand. Dwyte Pilgrim called from the button and Kia Mohajeri checked his option. They checked down the board of J 8 8 J 7. Kia held 62 off and was playing the board. Dwyte showed AQ to take the side pot. Daniel held pocket 5s and was counterfeited by the board. Dwyte took the main pot as well, chipping up to almost 8 million.

Daniel Makowsky finished in 5th place, earning $183,449.

Novena Check-Raises Makowsky

2010-09-23T19:08:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Daniel Makowsky opened for 500k and Brandon Novena called from the big blind. The flop came T 5 4 and Brandon checked. Daniel fired 700k, Brandon moved all-in, and Daniel folded. Brandon picked up the pot.

Brandon Novena

Blinds went up to 125k/250k with 25k antes.

Novena Collects a Three-Way

2010-09-23T18:46:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte Pilgrim opened for 450k utg. Ofir Mor and Brandon Novena called from the blinds. The flop came Q 8 7 and all three checked. Turn was a 5 and Ofir bet 675k. Brandon moved all-in. Dwyte folded, as did Ofir. Brandon collected the pot.

Bear in mind that at the current level, there is 425k of blinds and antes in the pot before any action occurs.

Chip Counts

2010-09-23T18:28:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Chip counts, in millions:

Kia Mohajeri - 11.150
Dwyte Pilgrim - 9.025
Brandon Novena - 4.325
Ofir Mor - 4.200
Daniel Makowsky - 2.675

6th Place - Ben Klier - $148,427

2010-09-23T18:23:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kia Mohajeri raised to 500k from the small blind and Ben Klier moved all-in for 5.5 million from the big. Kia snap-called, showing AQ off. Ben held pocket Jacks.

The flop came K T 4, giving Kia more outs. He could win with any Ace, Queen, or Jack. Turn was an inconsequential 6. Then an Ace hit the river, giving Kia the bigger pair, the pot, and the chip lead.

Ben Klier

Ben Klier finished in 6th place, earning $148,427.

Following that hand, there was a short break.

Hat Trick for Pilgrim

2010-09-23T18:13:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwyte Pilgrim opened for 500k utg and everyone folded. That's one.

Ben Klier opened for 425k from the cutoff, Brandon Novena called from the small blind, then Dwyte raised to 1.1 million from the big blind. Both opponents folded and Dwyte took the pot. That's two.

The next hand, Ofir Mor opened for 500k in the cutoff and Dwyte called from the small blind. The flop came 8 6 4 with two clubs. Dwyte led out for 800k and Ofir folded. That's three in a row.

Makowsky Folds to Three-Bet, Twice

2010-09-23T18:01:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Blinds went up to 100k/200k with 25k antes.

Daniel Makowsky raised utg and action folded around to Dwyte Pilgrim in the big blind. Dwyte raised to 1.8 million straight. Daniel tanked for so long, Dwyte finally called for the clock. Daniel folded before his minute ran out and Dwyte pulled another pot.

A few hands later, Daniel opened for 550k on the button and Ben Klier shoved from the big blind. Daniel tanked, again, for a couple of minutes, then let it go. Ben picked up the pot.

Makowsky Doubles Through Pilgrim

2010-09-23T17:49:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Daniel Makowsky

After Dwyte Pilgrim limped, Daniel Makowsky shoved for ~1.5 million. Dwyte called, showing pocket 6s. Daniel was way ahead with pocket Kings.

The board came A T 9 8 2 and Daniel doubled up to ~3.3 million. Dwyte was left with ~6.3 million.

Mohajeri Doubles Through Klier

2010-09-23T17:43:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Current Chip Counts
Dwyte Pilgrim - 8.925 million

Ben Klier - 7.6 million
Ofir Mor - 5.5 million
Brandon Novena - 3.75 million
Kia Mohajeri - 3.635
Daniel Makowsky - 1.975

Kia completed the small blind and Ben checked his option. The flop was A♣ J♣ 8♠. Both checked. Turn was the Queen of clubs. Kia checked, Ben bet 250, Kia raised to 600k, Ben shoved, and Kia called all-in, showing 8♣6♣ for the flush. Ben held 5♣3♣ for an inferior flush. He was drawing dead.

Kia Mohajeri

Kia doubled up to ~7 million. Ben was left with ~4.1 million.

Pilgrim Takes the Chip Lead

2010-09-23T17:29:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

On the turn, the board read Q 9 7 Q and Ben Klier checked it over to Daniel Makowsky, who bet 350k. Ben then check-raised to 1.1 million. Daniel surrendered.

Brandon Novena opened for 375k on the button and Dwyte Pilgrim raised to 1.1 million from the small blind. Brandon surrendered and Dwyte collected the pot. He showed a single card: the 4 of spades.

Ofir Mor opened for 375k and Brandon Novena called from the cutoff. On the flop of J J 6, Ofir checked, Brandon bet 475k, and Brandon called. Turn was an 8 and both checked. River was a 4 and again both checked. Brandon showed an 8 for two pair to take the pot.

The Dwyte Pilgrim show continued when he called Ofir's 375k open. On the flop of Q T 9 Ofir check-called Dwyte's 400k bet. Turn was a 6 and again Ofir checked. Dwyte bet 625k and after some thought, Ofir mucked. Dwyte pulled the sizeable pot.

Kia Mohajeri limped and Dwyte checked his option. The flop came K J 9 and Dwyte checked. Kia checked behind. Turn was a 4 and Dwyte checked. Kia bet 375k and Dwyte called. River was an 8 and Dwyte led out for 800k. Kia folded. Dwyte is up to 9 million and takes the chip lead.

The Dwyte Pilgrim Show

2010-09-23T16:47:00.017-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

The first hand was finally dealt at the final table. Blinds are 75k/150k with 25k antes.

Ben Klier raised from the button and everyone folded.

On the second hand, Ben raised to 325k from the cutoff and Dwyte Pilgrim called from the big blind. The flop came Q 7 2 and Dwyte checked. Ben bet 400k and Dwyte called. Turn was a 5 and both players checked. River was another 2 and Dwyte led out for 275k. Ben called and Dwyte showed a 7 for 7s-up. Ben mucked.

Dwyte took the next pot with an uncontested raise from the small blind.

Dwyte Pilgrim with two of his three WSOP-C Rings

After Ofir Mor raised to 375k, Dwyte raised to 675k from the button. Ofir called and the flop came J♦ 6♠ 2♦. Both checked. Turn was the 6♦ and Ofir checked. Dwyte bet 925k and Ofir mucked. Dwyte picked up his third pot in a row.

Final Table Taping Still Getting Ready

2010-09-23T16:14:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

The production crew is still preparing the set and the audience is still being seated, so there will be a bit of delay getting cards in the air.

The players are all present, but will be introduced as they enter the set for the cameras and audience.

Kia Mohajeri, Ben Klier, Ofir Mor, Brandon Novena, Dwyte Pilgrim, and Dan Makowsky

Super Six

2010-09-23T03:28:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

(Top L-R) Klier, Pilgrim & Makowsky
(Bottom L-R) Mohajeri, Novena & Mor

The final six players return at 4 pm Thursday for the WPT taping of the final table. Here's a look at the chip counts and seat assignments.

Remaining Players Chip Counts (exact)

Position-Player-Chips

1 - Ofir Mor - 7.3 million
2 - Ben Klier - 6.625 million
3 - Brandon Novena - 5.125 million
4 - Dwyte Pilgrim - 4.8 million
5 - Kia Mohajeri - 4.225 million
6 - Dan Makowsky - 3.3 million

Final Table Seating

Seat-Player

1 - Kia Mohajeri - 4.225 million
2 - Ben Klier - 6.625 million
3 - Ofir Mor - 7.3 million
4 - Brandon Novena - 5.125 million
5 - Dwyte Pilgrim - 4.8 million
6 - Dan Makowsky - 3.3 million

Event 21 Final Results

2010-09-23T03:05:00.000-04:00

Borgata Poker Open 2010
Event 21: $200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em
September 23

Entries: 324
Total Buy-In: $64,800

FINAL RESULTS
1. SIMON RUDIN (MONROE TWP, NJ): $16,971
2. AARON CARR (NEW YORK, NY): $9,428
3. ERIC OLSON (NEW YORK, NY): $5,846
4. DONALD POPOWSKI (HAMILTON, NJ): $4,714
5. GRANTEL GIBBS (WHITBY, CAN): $3,646
6. RAYMOND GIFFORD (ALSTON, PA): $3,080
7. MOSHE BERNSTEIN (BROOKLYN, NY): $2,483
8. THOMAS WHITMORE (MASSAPEQUA PARK, NY): $1,855
9. ALEX TORRES (FAIRVIEW, NJ): $1,258
10. RYAN MILLER (ANNANDALE, NJ): $818
11. MARK DIKKER (MORGANVILLE, NJ): $818
12. BRIAN KEANE (RIVERSIDE, NJ): $818
13. ANTHONY FORLINO (RIDGEWOOD, NJ): $629
14. GREGORY HARKER (NEW YORK, NY): $629
15. EUGENE CASTRO (NEW YORK, NY): $629
16. GODFREY OJEATOR (VENTNOR CITY, NJ): $534
17. ALLISON SCHULTZ (NEW YORK, NY): $534
18. STEVEN MANCUSO (CRANFORD, NJ): $534
19. GENNADIY PESELEV (GLENMONT, NY): $471
20. VINCENT DIPISA (CORAM, NY): $471
21. BRIAN KRUYD (BOONTON, NJ): $471
22. RONALD ROMER (CINNAMINSON, NJ): $471
23. WILLIAM KITZEROW (CENTREVILLE, VA): $471
24. MICHAEL RUSSO (PARLIN, NJ): $471
25. HAROLD VASQUEZ (PHILADELPHIA, PA): $471
26. LEANNE ROSENBLATT (BRIGANTINE, NJ): $471
27. VADIM SMIRNOV (MORGANVILLE, NJ): $471
28. RICHARD CEFALONI (WINTER GARDEN, FL): $377
29. ANTHONY MAGALLON (AVENEL, NJ): $377
30. ZEMZEM MUSTEFA (INDIAN HEAD, MD): $377
31. ROBERT KRZYKALSKI (BAYONNE, NJ): $377
32. EUGENE GOLD (NEW YORK, NY): $377
33. MARGARET FRIERMAN (VIRGINIA BEACH, VA): $377
34. THOMAS WATSON (LONG BCH, NY): $377
35. JOSEPH LESSARD (BETHPAGE, NY): $377
36. ATHANASIO KARAPANAGIOTIS (WARETOWN, NJ): $377

Event 21 Recap

2010-09-23T02:46:00.006-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

The last one-day main event of the Borgata Poker Open began at noon Wednesday in the Poker Room with a price tag of $200 + $30, generating total buy-ins of $64,800. The final 36 would get a piece of that pie.

Among the 324 players who entered event 21 were:
Mike Summers, (Charlottesville, VA) who was looking to add to his second place finish in the $1,500 tournament (Event 14) where he earned $66,130;
Dao Bui, (Sterling, VA) Event 7, $350 Deep Stack, 4th place finisher for $15,086;
James Boyle (Havre De Grace, MD) Event 7, $350 Deep Stack, 5th place finisher for $12,025; and
Gene Castro (New York, NY).

None of these players made the final table.

With two tables remaining, Don Popowski's top pair held up against a straight-draw to scoop a monster pot, chipping up to 567k. Don (Hamilton, NJ) rode that big stack all the way to 4th place, taking home $4,714. Eric Olson (Cannon Falls, MN) did him one notch better with his 3rd place finish, earning $5,846.

In the end, it was Simon Rudin (Monroe TWP, NJ) who came out on top. He took home $16,971 and the beautiful Borgata trophy. Aaron Carr (New York, NY) had to settle for second place and $9,428.

Event 21: Champion - Rudin

2010-09-23T02:32:00.002-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Simon Rudin (Monroe Twp., NJ) finished in 1st place, earning $16,971.

Event 21: 2nd - Carr

2010-09-23T02:31:00.000-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Aaron Carr (New York City, NY) finished in 2nd place, earning $9,428.

Event 21: 3rd - Olson

2010-09-23T02:30:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Eric Olson (Cannon Falls, MN) finished in 3rd place, earning $5,846.

Event 21: 4th - Popowski

2010-09-23T02:28:00.005-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Don Popowski (Hamilton, NJ) finished in 4th place, earning $4,714.

Event 21: 5th - Gibbs

2010-09-23T02:20:00.000-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Grantel Gibbs (Ontario, Canada) finished in 5th place, earning $3,646.

Event 21: 6th - Gifford

2010-09-23T02:16:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Ray Gifford (Philadelphia, PA) finished in 6th place, earning $3,080.

Event 21: 7th - Bernstein

2010-09-23T02:14:00.000-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Michael Bernstein (Brooklyn, NY) finished in 7th place, earning $2,483.

Event 21: 8th - Whitmore

2010-09-23T02:12:00.002-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Tom Whitmore (Massapequa, NY) finished in 8th place, earning $1,855.

Event 21: 9th - Torres

2010-09-23T02:11:00.000-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Alex Torres (Union City, NJ) finished in 9th place, earning $1,258.

Event 21: 10th - Miller

2010-09-23T02:10:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Ryan Miller (Brigantine, NJ) finished in 10th place, earning $818.

Event 21 Final Table

2010-09-23T02:01:00.003-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Seat-Name

1 Aaron Carr (New York City, NY)
2 Michael Bernstein (Brooklyn, NY)
3 Eric Olson (Cannon Falls, MN)
4 Ryan Miller (Brigantine, NJ)
5 Simon Rudin (Monroe Twp., NJ)
6 Ray Gifford (Philadelphia, PA)
7 Don Popowski (Hamilton, NJ)
8 Alex Torres (Union City, NJ)
9 Grantel Gibbs (Ontario, Canada)
10 Tom Whitmore (Massapequa, NY)

End of Day 4 Chip Counts

2010-09-23T01:06:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

The final six players will return at 4pm Thursday for the TV taping of the final table.

Here are their exact chip counts and TV table seat assignments:

Seat - Player - Chips
3 - Ofir Mor - 7.3 million
2 - Ben Klier - 6.625 million
4 - Brandon Novena - 5.125 million
5 - Dwyte Pilgrim - 4.8 million
1 - Kia Mohajeri - 4.225 million
6 - Dan Makowsky - 3.3 million

7th Place - Jeff Papola - $118,408

2010-09-23T01:02:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

On the very next hand, Jeff Papola (cutoff) was all-in holding AT against Ofir Mor's (bb) pocket 7s. The board came K Q 9 K 2 and Ofir's pair was good for the pot.

Jeff Papola

Jeff Papola finished in 7th place, earning $118,408.

With his elimination, the TV final table was set! The final six players are baggin' & taggin' their chips now. Counts will appear momentarily.

8th Place - Andrew Youngblood - $90,057

2010-09-23T00:59:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Drew Youngblood shoved from the cutoff for just over 1 million. Kia Mohajeri looked him up from the small blind, showing AQ suited. Drew held KJ offsuit and would need to improve to survive.

The board came Q 9 6 J 7 giving both a pair but Kia took the pot with a pair of Queens.

Drew Youngblood

Andrew 'Drew' Youngblood finished in 8th place, earning $90,057.

Chip Counts

2010-09-23T00:44:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Another level has ticked away and there are still eight players in the hunt. Here are their approximate chip counts:

Ben Klier ~ 7.01 million
Ofir Mor ~ 5.19 million
Dwyte Pilgrim ~ 4.78 million
Brandon Novena ~ 4.74 million
Kia Mohajeri ~ 2.88 million
Jeff Papola ~ 2.365 million
Dan Makowsky ~ 2.335 million
Drew Youngblood ~ 1.87 million

Play resumed after the break with blinds of 100k/200k with 25 antes.

9th Place - Lee Childs - $61,706

2010-09-23T00:11:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Lee Childs moved in from the button for 1.48 million. Ofir Mor (bb) asked for the count, then folded.

On the next hand, Lee was all-in from the cutoff for 1.9 million. Ben Klier moved in from the button, having Lee covered. Both blinds folded and Lee showed pocket 9s. Ben had him notched with pocket Tens. The board came A T 8 3 2 and Ben took the pot with a set of Tens.

Lee Childs

Lee Childs finished in 9th place, earning $61,706.

Eight players remain. Play will continue tonight until only six are left.

More for Mor; Klier Doubles Through Novena

2010-09-22T23:33:00.005-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Brandon Novena (utg) raised to 350k. Kia Mohajeri (cutoff) called. Ofir Mor (bb) called. The flop came A 9 6 with two clubs. Ofir bet 875k and both opponents folded.

On the next hand, Kia opened for 450k from the hijack, then Ben Klier shoved for 2.075 from the button. Then Brandon shoved from the big blind. Kia opted out and Ben showed pocket Jacks. Brandon had AK suited. The board came T 5 4 Q 9 and Ben doubled up to over 4.3 million.

10th Place - Christian Iacobellis - $40,025

2010-09-22T23:33:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

After two and a half hours of ten-handed play, they are finally down to nine.

Christian Iacobellis open-shoved for 1.06 million from utg+2. Action folded around to Brandon Novena in the small blind, who called. Christian held QT suited and was trailing Brandon's AJ offsuit. The board came K 5 2 8 8 and Ace-high was good to ship the pot to Brandon.

Christian Iacobellis

Christian Iacobellis finished in 10th place, earning $40,025.

Chip Counts

2010-09-22T23:12:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

On the last hand before the break, Christian Iacobellis tossed in 180k, which is not a legal raise, but is half way there, so he was forced to min-raise to 240k. Brandon Novena called from the button and Dan Makowsky called from the big blind.

The flop came J♣ 8♦ 2♦ and Dan checked, Christian checked, Brandon bet 500k, Dan shoved, Christian folded, and Brandon asked for the count.

Dan's all-in was for 2.095 million straight. After a bit of thought, Brandon surrendered and Dan pulled the pot.

Another level done.

Another break in progress.

Another batch of chip counts:

Dwyte Pilgrim ~ 5.935 million
Brandon Novena ~ 4.755 million
Ofir Mor ~ 4.14 million
Dan Makowsky ~ 3.475 million
Jeff Papola ~ 3.135 million
Drew Youngblood ~ 2.37 million
Lee Childs ~ 2.26 million
Ben Klier ~ 2.035 million
Kia Mohajeri ~ 1.69 million
Christian Iacobellis ~ 1.475 million

Play resumed after the break with blinds of 80k/160k and 20k antes.

Event 21: Money Time

2010-09-22T23:02:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

The bubble breaks and so does Table 4.

The top 36 are in the money, while the final 30 players are now all on 3 tables.

Level 18 (5k/10k/1k) is underway.

Pilgrim Trips Up

2010-09-22T22:45:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

With blinds at 60k/120/10k ante, Jeff Papola from Praises to 250k, Kianoosh Mohajeri calls as does Dwyte Pilgrim from the BB.

The flop is 7♣4♠4♣ and Papola leads out for 375k. As Mohajeri debates making a call, Pilgrim puts chips into the pot and he may or may not realized he was acting out of turn.

Once the dealer confirms that Pilgrim can not reraise if Mohajeri simply calls, Mohajeri elects to fold and Pilgrim's chips are committed.

The turn is the A♣ and both Papola and Pilgrim check.

The river is the 2♥, Pilgrim leads out for 450k and Papola quickly calls. Pilgrim shows 4♦8♦ for trip 4s and Papola mucks.

Pilgrims takes down a 2.7 million chip pot and now has 6.4 million, while Papola drops to 2.9 mil.

Cost Per Round

2010-09-22T21:55:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Play resumed after the break with blinds of 60k/120k and 10k antes.

With ten players remaining, the average stack is 3.126 million (31,260,000 chips in play). An average stack has about 26 big blinds.

The Cost Per Round (CPR) is 280k and an average stack has an "M" of just over 11. "M" is the number of orbits a player can survive without being blinded off.

Chip Counts

2010-09-22T21:41:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Another break, another batch of chip counts:

Brandon Novena ~ 6.5 million
Dwyte Pilgrim ~ 5.43 million
Ofir Mor ~ 3.735 million
Jeff Papola ~2.975 million
Christian Iacobellis ~2.55 million
Ben Klier ~ 2.525 million
Drew Youngblood ~ 2.42 million
Dan Makowsky ~ 2.15 million
Kia Mohajeri ~1.62 million
Lee Childs ~ 1.45 million

Event 21: 150k Mark

2010-09-22T21:36:00.003-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Simon Says Set

A couple of players have cracked the 150k mark. Simon Rudin (Monroe Twp., NJ) flops a set of 9s and wins a 50k pot to push his stack to 155k.

Here's a look at some of the other big stacks.

Name-Chip Count

Simon Rudin (Monroe Twp., NJ) 155k
Brian Keane (Egg Harbor Twp, NJ) 153k
Joe Lessard (Bethpage, NY) 148k
Eric Olson (Cannon Falls, MN) 140k
Godfrey Ojeator (Mays Landing, NJ) 138k
Gene Castro (New York, NY) 120k
Michael Bernstein (Brooklyn, NY) 120k
Tom Whitmore (Massapequa, NY) 112k
Aaron Carr (New York City, NY) 110k
Vadim Smirnov (Marlboro, NJ) 105k
Don Popowski (Hamilton, NJ) 101k
Mark Dikker (Morganville, NJ) 100k

49 players remain with an average stack of 66k.

Keane 150k Club Member

Iacobellis Doubles Through Childs

2010-09-22T21:20:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Christian Iacobellis (hijack) got all-in for 930k against Lee Childs (button). Christian's A3 off was up against Lee's pocket Jacks. The board came A 4 2 3 Q and Christian doubled up to ~1.9 million. Lee was left with ~1.75 million.

Final Table

2010-09-22T21:15:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Seat-Name

1 Kianoosh Mohajeri
2 Lee Childs
3 Ben Klier
4 Ofir Mor
5 Brandon Novena
6 Dwyte Pilgrim
7 Daniel Makowsky
8 Drew Youngblood
9 Christian Iacobellis
10 Jeff Papola

11th place - Sean Nolan - $40,025

2010-09-22T21:02:00.005-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Sean Nolan (bb) got all-in against Jeff Papola (utg). Sean's KQ off was racing against Jeff's pocket 4s. The board came A J 2 3 7 and Jeff doubled up to ~3 million. Sean was left with ~1.05 million.

Sean then was all-in again and called by Brandon Novena. Sean's A6 off was again racing against Brandon's pocket 5s. The board came J 7 4 8 3 and Brandon took the pot. He's up to ~6.56 million.

Sean Nolan

After losing two races in a row, Sean Nolan was eliminated in 11th place, earning $40,025.

The final ten players drew for seats and moved to a single table.

Klier Doubles Through Nolan

2010-09-22T20:38:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

After Sean Nolan raised from the button, Ben Klier moved in from the big blind. Sean called quickly, showing AQ off. Ben held A♣6♣ and was badly dominated, but the flop came 5♣4♥3♣ giving Ben both a flush draw and open-ended straight-draw. It was over on the turn when the 2♠ fell, completing Ben's straight. The river was the K♣, improving his hand to a flush.

Ben doubled up to ~2.6 million. Sean was left with ~700k.

Chip Counts

2010-09-22T20:06:00.006-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

End of level.
Time for Break.

Chip Counts:
Dwyte Pilgrim ~ 6.25 million
Brandon Novena ~ 5.59 million
Kia Mohajeri ~ 3.46 million
Dan Makowsky ~ 2.88 million
Ofir Mor ~ 2.5 million
Lee Childs ~ 2.5 million
Jeff Papola ~ 2.375 million
Andrew Youngblood ~ 2.2 million
Sean Nolan ~ 1.325 million
Christian Iacobellis ~ 850k
Ben Klier ~ 800k

Dwyte Doubles to the Lead

2010-09-22T19:54:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Pilgrim Takes Down 6 Million Chip Pot

In the biggest pot of the tournament, Dwyte Pilgrim raises from UTG to 200k. Sean Nolan makes it 560k from MP.

Pilgrim 4-bets to 975k, Nolan shoves all-in and Pilgrim snap calls all-in for 3.1 million chips.

Pilgrim: A♠ A♥
Nolan: A♦ K♣

Flop: Q♦ 5♦ 5♠
Turn: J♥ (Nolan picks up a straight draw)

River: 3s♠

The Nolan brick gives Pilgrim the 6.3 million pot and the chip lead.

"When you have a 6 million chip pot you gotta make sure it comes clean," says Pilgrim while he high-fives his rail birds.

Pilgrim, a three-time WSOP circuit event winner, is now in position to make a deep as Nolan drops to 1.3 million.

Pilgrim's Ring Bling

12th Place - Vichien Siprajim - $40,025

2010-09-22T19:44:00.005-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Vichien Siprajim

Vichien Siprajim was all-in again against Ofir Mor, again. This time Vichien's A9 suited was in bad shape against Ofir's pocket Kings. The board came J 7 6 4 7 and Vichien's run was over. He finished in 12th place, earning $40,025.

Ofir Mor chipped up to ~2.6 million.

Event 21 Payouts

2010-09-22T19:36:00.000-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

As the 12 pm tournament continues, here's a look at what they're playing for.

Place-Amount

1 $16,971
2 $9,428
3 $5,846
4 $4,714
5 $3,646
6 $3,080
7 $2,483
8 $1,855
9 $1,258
10-12 $818
13-15 $629
16-18 $534
19-27 $471
28-36 $377

Players are on a one hour dinner break with play resuming at 8:40 pm

Mor Doubles; Siprajim Doubles Twice

2010-09-22T19:23:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

On a flop of Q♣ 9♥ 5♥, Ofir Mor was all-in against Vichien Siprajim. Ofir held pocket 5s and had flopped a set. Vichien held Q♥T♥ for top pair with a flush draw. The last two came 6♠ A♠ and Vichien missed his draw. Ofir doubled up to about 2 million. Vichien was left with only ~220k.

Soon after, Vichien was all-in with pocket Jacks against Ofir Mor's Q9 off. The board came 6 6 4 K T and Vichien doubled up to about 500k.

Then Vichien was all-in against Lee Childs. Vichien held A4 and was ahead of Lee's KT off. An Ace on the flop was all Vichien needed to double up again. He's back over 1 million.

Siprajim Doubles

2010-09-22T19:04:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

The post dinner break action continues.

Vichien Siprajim is all-in with 6♠ 6♣ for 390k and Christian Iacobellis calls with A♣ K♣

The coin flip lands in Siprajim's favor when the 6♦ hits the flop, but he has to sweat the river when the A♠ gives Iacobellis outs.

The river is the 8♣ and Siprajim doubles-up to stay alive, as Iacobellis drops to 1.9 million.

13th Place: Rick Bordain - $28,351

2010-09-22T18:53:00.005-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Rick 'Nooker' Bordain got all-in for about a million against Brandon Novena. Rick's pocket Tens were ahead of Brandon's AK, but the board came 8 5 2 K J and Brandon took the pot with a pair of Kings.

Rick 'Nooker' Bordain

Rick finished in 13th place, earning $28,351.

Brandon goes from ~5 million to ~6 million chips, extending his lead.

Event 21: Breaking it Down

2010-09-22T18:14:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Castro & Mustefa

In the far reaching areas of the Poker Room, the 12 pm tournament continues. As table 16 breaks, Gene Castro and Zem Mustefa trade notes as they disperse to their new seats.

Castro has 40k, while Mustefa's at 25k.

Dinner Time

2010-09-22T17:52:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

The final 13 players have been sent to dinner.

Play will resume at about 6:40pm.

14th Place: John D'Agostino - $28,351

2010-09-22T17:38:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

John D'Agostino

From UTG John D'Agostino shoves 860k all-in and Brandon Novena calls from the button.

D'Agostino: J♦ 9♦
Novena: A♣ K♠

Flop: 3♥A♥7♥ (pair of aces for Novena)

Turn: 10♦ (D'Agostino picks up gutshot straight draw)

River: 2♦

When D'Agostino misses an 8 on the river he's out in 14th place.
Novena extends his chip lead to 5.54 million chips.

Ofir Mor Doubles

2010-09-22T17:19:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Ofir Mor puts his last 385k all-in with K♠ J♥ vs the A♠ 6♥ of Christiaan Iacobellis.

The board is 10♦2♦2♠Q♠ and Mor needs a king or jack to stay alive.
The river brings salvation with the K♥ and Mor doubles to ~875k.

Klier drops to 1.1 million as there have been no eliminations during the last two.

There's still 14 players remaining.

Still 14 Players

2010-09-22T16:45:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

An all in on table 1 is watched with anticipation

With 14 players remaining, play has slowed down considerably. There have been a few all ins, but the shorter stack has survived each time, or the all in as gone uncalled. With over an hour since our last elimination, everyone in the room is wondering who will be our 14th place finisher.

Pilgrim Chases Novena

2010-09-22T15:56:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Dwight Pilgrim

Dwight Pilgrim is making a run at the chip lead. He currently sits with 3.42M, trailing Brandon Novena's stack of about 4.75M.

15th Place: David Grana - $28,351

2010-09-22T15:47:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

David Grana

David Grana got all in on a 6♠3♣J♠ flop holding A♣Q♠ vs. Dwight Pilgrim's A♥J♦. When the turn and river came 2♥K♠, Grana was eliminated in 15th place for $28,351.

Event 21: In the Field

2010-09-22T15:16:00.001-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold'em

Summers Lovin' Borgata

With this being the last chance to win a Borgata Poker Open Championship, a lot of recognizable faces are in the field.

Mike Summers (Charlottesville, VA) is looking to add to his second place finish in the $1,500 tournament (Event 14) where he earned $66,130.

Other recognizable faces include James Boyle (Havre De Grace, MD), Gene Castro (New York, NY) and Event 7 ($350 Deep Stack) 4th place finisher Dao Bui (Sterling, VA).

16th Place: Kent Beaver - $18,345

2010-09-22T14:44:00.004-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kent Beaver, 16th Place

Kent Beaver got the last of his chips in with K♥Q♠ against the A♥K♠ of Jeffrey Papola. When the board fell 6♥8♣K♦2♠A♠, Beaver was sent to the rail in 16th place, earning $18,345.

The remaining 15 players are now guaranteed $28,351. They are all on a 10 minute break.

17th Place: Michael Simhai - $18,345

2010-09-22T14:36:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Michael Simhai, 17th place

Michael Simhai was all in on an 8♦6♣4♣ flop holding 8♥6♦ against the 9♠9♥ of Lee Childs. Childs got his "one time" when the turn came the 9♣, leaving Simhai drawing dead. The river ran out a meaningless ten. Simhai will receive $18,345 for his 17th place finish.

18th Place: Emad Alabsi - $18,345

2010-09-22T14:25:00.004-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Emad Alabsi was all in on the turn with the board reading Q♣8♥3♣K♦. Alabsi was open ended holding the J♥T♣ against the made hand of Vichien Siprajim, who held A♥Q♠. When the river fell the K♣, Alabsi was sent to the rail in 18th place, collecting $18,345.

Down To Final 18 Players

2010-09-22T14:12:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Final 18 players

With the elimination of Douglas Kim in 19th place, we are now down to the final 18 players. Players from table 3 have drawn seats for table 1 and 2, and below are the new seating assignments. All remaining players are guaranteed $18,345. 33 minutes remain at 20k/40k blinds with a 4k ante.

TABLE 1
Seat 1 - Christian Iacobellis
Seat 2 - Benjamin Klier
Seat 3 - Andrew Youngblood
Seat 4 - Rich Bordian
Seat 5 - Emad Alabsi
Seat 6 - Kianoosh Mohajeri
Seat 7 - Vichien Siprajim
Seat 8 - Lee Childs
Seat 9 - Michael Simhai

TABLE 2
Seat 1 - David Grana
Seat 2 - Ofir Mor
Seat 3 - Dwyte Pilgrim
Seat 4 - Daniel Makowsky
Seat 5 - John D'Agostino
Seat 6 - Kent Beaver
Seat 7 - Sean Nolan
Seat 8 - Jeffrey Papola
Seat 9 - Brandon Novena

19th Place: Douglas Kim - $15,009

2010-09-22T14:04:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Douglas Kim, 19th place

Douglas Kim has been eliminated in 19th place when his A6 failed to improve against the pocket tens of John D'Agostino. Kim will earn $15,009 for his finish.

20th Place: Mike Sexton - $15,009

2010-09-22T14:01:00.004-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Mike Sexton does his exit interview

Folded to the small blind, John D'Agostino moved all in, having Mike Sexton well covered. Sexton called with A5 and had the best hand, D'Agostino holding JT. When the board ran out Q♥8♠3♥J♥Q♦, Sexton was eliminated in 20th place for $15,099.

21th Place: Anthony Harb - $15,009

2010-09-22T13:30:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Anthony Harb

Anthony Harb has been eliminated when his pocket queens fell to the AK of Brandon Novena when a king hit the turn. Harb will collect $15,009 for his 21st place finish.

Happy Birthday, Mike Sexton!

2010-09-22T13:17:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

As the players were heading on their first 15 minute break of the day, the WPT's Royal Flush Girls sang "Happy Birthday" to a delighted Mike Sexton.

22th Place: Sachin Ramrakhani - $15,009

2010-09-22T13:11:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Sachin Ramrakhani

Sachin Ramrakhani has been eliminated from the tournament in 22nd place when his pocket fives failed to outrun Rick Bordian's pocket tens. He will receive $15,009 for his efforts.

Event 21 Is Underway

2010-09-22T12:51:00.004-04:00

$200 + $30 No Limit Hold’em

Cards are in the air for the last event at the Borgata Poker Open. There are over 300 players registered already, with everyone looking for their last chance at a big score before the series wraps up. Prizepool and payouts will be posted shortly.

23th Place: Kyle Loman - $15,009

2010-09-22T12:39:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kyle Loman, 23rd place

Kyle Loman has been eliminated in 23rd place with A7 when Andrew Youngbloo's K8 hit a king on the turn. Loman will pick up $15,009 for his efforts.

24th Place: Robert Infanzon - $15,009

2010-09-22T12:24:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Robert Infanzon

25th Place: Olivier Busquet - $15,009

2010-09-22T12:17:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Olivier Busquet does his exit interview with the WPT

All folded to Olivier Busquet in the small blind, who minraised. Brandon Novena called from the big blind, and the two saw a K♥8♦5♥ flop. Busquet shoved all in, and Novena made the quick call. Busquet tabled K♣3♠ and was far behind Novena's 5♠5♦. Busquet was drawing dead when the Q♦ hit turn, and the meaningless Q♠ meant Busquet was eliminated in 25th place.

Beaver Doubles Through D'Agostino

2010-09-22T12:13:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Kent Beaver

Brandon Novena limped in UTG, and John D'Agostino raised from the cutoff to 85k. Kent Beaver then moved all in from the small blind for 395k. After a tank from Novena, D'Agostino anogizingly made the call, tabling K♥Q♥. It was a race situation as Beaver held 4♠4♥. Beaver dodged the overcards as the board fell 7♦5♠A♦7♥3♠, and he will double up.

Infanzon Doubles Through Iacobellis

2010-09-22T12:02:00.002-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Christian Iacobellis

Robert Infanzon has doubled up when his A♦9♦ outran Christian Iacobellis' A♠K♠ on a 9♥8♦5♥T♣6♥ board. Infanzon will double up to roughly 750k.

26th Place: Matthew Kolodziej - $15,009

2010-09-22T11:43:00.001-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Matthew Kolodziej, 26th place

Matthew Kolodziej has been eliminated from the tournament in 26th place. He will collect $15,009 for his efforts.

27th Place: John Leonard - $15,009

2010-09-22T11:24:00.003-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

John Leonard got the last of his short stack in with A♠4♣ but was called by the A♥A♦ of Dwyte Pilgrim. Leonard was unable to improve, and he collect $15,009 for his 27th place finish.

Final 27 Now Playing

2010-09-22T11:19:00.000-04:00

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Three tables remain

Day 4 is now underway, with 27 players vying for 6 spots at the televised WPT final table. John Leonard is the short stack with 240,000 chips, but with the blinds at 12k/24k, that's still big blinds. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Brandon Novena is sitting on a stack of 3,343,000. Play has moved from the Events Center to the Poker Room in order for the WPT set to be constructed.

Event 20 Final Results

2010-09-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Borgata Poker Open 2010
Event 20: $300 + $50 No Limit Hold'em
September 21

Entries: 287
Total Buy-In: $86,100

FINAL RESULTS
1. DUBOIS ALAIN (BLAINVILLE, CAN): $23,384
2. KEVIN WAY (WARRINGTON, PA): $13,780
3. SCOTT GIRARD (ALDIE, VA): $7,934
4. ALEXANDER GENTILE (BOHEMIA, NY): $6,430
5. MEIKAT SIU (NEW YORK, NY): $5,011
6. THOMAS BALLA (BELLEROSE, NY): $4,175
7. ANTHONY CASAGRANDE (CORAM, NY): $3,340
8. MICHAEL SHAMMAS (CHESAPEAKE, VA): $2,505
9. RANDY PLUDO (PLYMOUTH MTNG, PA): $1,670
10. EDWARD SHADE (HURRICANE, WV): $1,086
11. SCOTT ISRAEL (PLAINVIEW, NY): $1,086
12. EPHRAIM UZAN (VALLEY STREAM, NJ): $1,086
13. RICA PARRIS (FOLCROFT, PA): $919
14. JEFFREY COUTROULIS (TAMPA, FL): $919
15. SEAN WALLACE (HORSHAM, PA): $919
16. DENNIS THURMAN (FISK, MO): $835
17. TONY MANDIA (COMMACK, NY): $835
18. STEPHEN PAYNE (POCOMOKE CITY, MD): $835
19. PAUL LAM (REGAL PARK, NY): $752
20. JOANNA LEBAN (NEW YORK, NY): $752
21. ANNE CUMMINS (FLORISSANT, CO): $752
22. ALAN CUTER (VERNON HILLS, IL): $752
23. JONATHAN BERNIER (BLAINVILLE, CAN): $752
24. CYRUS SAMII (WASHINGTON, DC): $752
25. BRANDON ALLEN (MIAMI, FL): $752
26. STEPHEN WIENER (DEER PARK, NY): $752
27. DARYL BOATWRIGHT (SICKLERVILLE, NJ): $752

Event 20 Recap

2010-09-22T04:32:00.004-04:00

$300 + $50 No Limit Hold'em

After a marathon heads up session, Pierre-Alain Dubois (Montreal, Canada) beat Kevin Way (Warrington, PA) to win the Event 20 title and $23,384.

After they traded chips for more than one hour, the final hand is Dubois with A♦ 5♦ vs Way's A♣ 10♥

As the dealer put out the flop, Way was cheering for the "5 of hearts," which clearly would help his opponent.

Flop: 3♣ Q♦ 5♣

Way again says, "come on end it, give him the 5 of hearts."

And with the burn and turn, the 5♥ hit the board and Way was drawing dead. "I can't believe it," says Dubois, "This was supposed to be my last tournament, now I don't know."

Dubois is a family man who felt he's been playing too much poker and wants to spend his time more productively. So when he woke up Tuesday morning, Dubois was in the mindset that he would honor the commitment he gave his friend to play in the tournament, but it would be the last time he'd play poker for awhile.

Now that he's padded his bank account, Dubois said about the decision, "I'll sleep on it, that is if I can get to sleep."

"It was great," said Way, who earned $13,780 for second place, "a lot of fun." Watching Way route for his opponent's cards was refreshing as he genuinely seemed to enjoy the game no matter what the outcome.

"Either way I get what I want," he says, "he either gets his card or I win the hand, which isn't so bad."

It must of felt like deja vu for both players after experiencing a 75 minute bubble to hit the money. Hand-for-hand play had one player, Daryl Boatwright (Sicklerville, NJ) down to one single ante, but he was able to survive his 1k all-in.

Also dodging elimination was Ephy Uzan (Brooklyn, NY), who at one point, earlier in the day, was down to 400 chips. Both Uzan (12th) and Boatwright (27th) survived the bubble and cashed in the event.

Before the dinner break Tony Mandia (Long Island, NY) went on a serious heater and built his stack to 260k for a commanding chip lead. But as they approached he bubble, Mandia came back to the pack and finished 17th.

287 players entered the event which created a total buy-in of $86,100. Notables in the field
included Tyler Patterson (Everett, WA), who won Event 19 and was looking for back-to-back titles. He was joined by Paul Spitzberg (Tenafly, NJ), who finished 2nd in Event 13, but neither player cashed in this event.

Other notables who played, but failed to make the money included: Adam Lippert (Brooklyn, NY), Sheree Bykofsky (Atlantic City, NJ), Gene Castro (New York, NY), Mike Dentale (Brooklyn, NY) and Eric Siegel (Melville, NY)