Archive for June, 2014

Since introducing online gambling to its residents, the state of New Jersey has not been able to achieve the financial results that they hoped for. Internet gambling was legalized in efforts to help the ailing economy, but has so far shown no signs of improvement.

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has previously asserted that the industry will generate substantially more than what the current reality shows. In efforts to boost the online gambling industry, he was been trying to add an online sports betting service to the current offer, but nothing has come to fruition so far.

New York Business Journal: New Jersey’s online gambling flop threatens the rest of the state’s spending

A month ago in May, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie predicted that the state would see an inflow of $180 million during this year from taxes associated with online gambling operations. Considering that the state is estimating much smaller figures closer to $12 million, the Governor’s predictions were highly overvalued.

According to gambling news, the whole New Jersey gambling scene doesn’t have very good prospects for the future. The state’s overall casino industry is currently experiencing an economic slump, as many gaming facilities are not achieving expected results.

The online gambling sector is not performing as anticipated due to certain challenges. Some banks do not allow their clients to use their credit cards for internet gambling purposes, making it difficult for players to gamble with their money.

The biggest problem stems from the fact that some reports indicate that New Jersey has an illegal online gambling market which is valued at over $400 million a year. This may prove to be a great obstacle for legislator trying to implement changes to their online gaming market, by adding sports betting to their ranks.

Bloomberg Businessweek: Online Gambling Slump Adds to Christie’s N.J. Budget Woes

New Jersey initially saw a decline in revenues in April, just months after starting their online gambling industry. The decrease in online traffic is not the only gaming sector suffering a gradual revenue decrease. Casinos in Atlantic City have seen their revenues drop a massive 44% since peaking in 2006.

The state has high investments in Atlantic City, as it depends on the coastal town to provide jobs, attract tourists and most importantly taxes. The current economic climate will see the state government receive considerably less than initially expected.

Online mobile news reports that New Jersey is hoping to get $12 million from taxes, an amount that is substantially less than what the first projections claimed. Governor Christie believed that they could fetch somewhere around the $180 million mark form imposing the 15% internet gambling tax, however that figure now seems like a distant dream.

The chief operating officer of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Tom Balance, commented on the unlikely turn of events for the industry. “I don’t think anyone had the crystal ball to predict what the market would be.”

The Republic: New Jersey’s Internet gambling revenue falls again in May; industry struggling after 6 months

Following the first disappointing results in April, New Jersey has not managed to see an increase occur over time. Instead, online gambling revenue has been declining for two consecutive months.

Atlantic City’s casinos first showed signs of a bad economy when some of them started closing down. The Atlantic Club shut down operations in January, which served as a precursor of the state of the market. Additionally, casinos in Atlantic City recorded a 3.1% revenue decrease as compared to a year before.

Online gambling was introduced as a way for the state to create additional tax revenue sources, as other sectors of the market were not performing well. Governor Christie assumed that the overall value for the first year of online gambling operations would amount to over $1 billion.

However, many Wall Street analysts disagree with his estimates, as they anticipate to find gambling results far lower than $1 billion. They forecast the industry to generate somewhere between $200 million and $300 million for the year. Up until now gaming companies have managed to only make $61.9 million, a figure that is far below the projected results.

Nj.com: Online gambling hits wall in NJ 6 months after launch.

Since introducing online gambling to its residents, the state of New Jersey has not been able to achieve the financial results that they hoped for. Internet gambling was legalized in efforts to help the ailing economy, but has so far shown no signs of improvement.

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has previously asserted that the industry will generate substantially more than what the current reality shows. In efforts to boost the online gambling industry, he was been trying to add an online sports betting service to the current offer, but nothing has come to fruition so far.

New York Business Journal: New Jersey’s online gambling flop threatens the rest of the state’s spending

A month ago in May, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie predicted that the state would see an inflow of $180 million during this year from taxes associated with online gambling operations. Considering that the state is estimating much smaller figures closer to $12 million, the Governor’s predictions were highly overvalued.

According to gambling news, the whole New Jersey gambling scene doesn’t have very good prospects for the future. The state’s overall casino industry is currently experiencing an economic slump, as many gaming facilities are not achieving expected results.

The online gambling sector is not performing as anticipated due to certain challenges. Some banks do not allow their clients to use their credit cards for internet gambling purposes, making it difficult for players to gamble with their money.

The biggest problem stems from the fact that some reports indicate that New Jersey has an illegal online gambling market which is valued at over $400 million a year. This may prove to be a great obstacle for legislator trying to implement changes to their online gaming market, by adding sports betting to their ranks.

Bloomberg Businessweek: Online Gambling Slump Adds to Christie’s N.J. Budget Woes

New Jersey initially saw a decline in revenues in April, just months after starting their online gambling industry. The decrease in online traffic is not the only gaming sector suffering a gradual revenue decrease. Casinos in Atlantic City have seen their revenues drop a massive 44% since peaking in 2006.

The state has high investments in Atlantic City, as it depends on the coastal town to provide jobs, attract tourists and most importantly taxes. The current economic climate will see the state government receive considerably less than initially expected.

Online mobile news reports that New Jersey is hoping to get $12 million from taxes, an amount that is substantially less than what the first projections claimed. Governor Christie believed that they could fetch somewhere around the $180 million mark form imposing the 15% internet gambling tax, however that figure now seems like a distant dream.

The chief operating officer of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Tom Balance, commented on the unlikely turn of events for the industry. “I don’t think anyone had the crystal ball to predict what the market would be.”

The Republic: New Jersey’s Internet gambling revenue falls again in May; industry struggling after 6 months

Following the first disappointing results in April, New Jersey has not managed to see an increase occur over time. Instead, online gambling revenue has been declining for two consecutive months.

Atlantic City’s casinos first showed signs of a bad economy when some of them started closing down. The Atlantic Club shut down operations in January, which served as a precursor of the state of the market. Additionally, casinos in Atlantic City recorded a 3.1% revenue decrease as compared to a year before.

Online gambling was introduced as a way for the state to create additional tax revenue sources, as other sectors of the market were not performing well. Governor Christie assumed that the overall value for the first year of online gambling operations would amount to over $1 billion.

However, many Wall Street analysts disagree with his estimates, as they anticipate to find gambling results far lower than $1 billion. They forecast the industry to generate somewhere between $200 million and $300 million for the year. Up until now gaming companies have managed to only make $61.9 million, a figure that is far below the projected results.

Nj.com: Online gambling hits wall in NJ 6 months after launch.

Without fancy marketing campaigns or gambling bonuses, the national lottery manages to be a huge success in China. Over the past few years, the lottery market – especially the sports lottery – has been experiencing a steady growth.Today, the industry is worth more than $480 billion and now experts say its value could increase even more as players will rush to place bets on the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The sports betting market is already a very lucrative one, but the major football event could boost profits by $13.5 billion to $16.2 billion, analysts say.

Want China Times: World Cup boosts China’s already blooming sports lottery

Most popular forms of gambling are forbidden in China, but the national lottery made its debut in 2009 to allow local players to bet on football and basketball sports scores. Since then, football has proved to be especially popular and profitable. The fact that the Chinese lottery offers both better chances of winning and bigger prizes helped business flourish.

In 2010, during the World Cup in South Africa, the football prediction lottery alone sold $10 billion, marking a growth of 120% compared to the same period in 2009. In fact, this amount came very close to the total lottery sales made in 2009.

The lottery industry makes more than $480 billion. Most of it comes from brick-and-mortar businesses, but the internet sports lottery also contributes with an impressive $67 billion, with 14 billion coming from mobile platforms. According to Su Guojing, who founded Chin Sports Lottery, such periodic sports events boost sales by about 25%-30%.

Inside World Football: World Cup gives China Sports Lottery a big boost

China’s blooming sports lottery is expecting further growth over the coming month, due to the World Cup which could increase revenues by $13.5 billion to $16.2 billion. The country offers few options for gamblers, but sports betting is very popular among locals. Betting on Chinese lottery results is also profitable for players, as both their chances of winning and the prizes offered are higher than usual.

In 2013, sales reached an impressive $494 billion, with $67 billion of all wagers being placed over the internet and via mobile devices. Su Guojing, founder of China Sports Lottery, believes this year’s World Cup could boost lottery ticket sales by 25% to 30%.

The Ministry of Finance, which oversees the legal lottery business, has recently reported a 12.6% increase in lottery sales in May. The welfare lottery made 16.2% more sales over the last month, while sports lottery sales went up 8.2%. The first five months of 2014 brought a 13.9% increase in sales. The online lottery industry is also on the rise, with sales going up nearly 63%.

People Daily: Chinese lotteries to score during World Cup

The sports lottery sector is in for a big sales surge around the 2014 FIFA World Cup. During the 2010 soccer event, lottery sales in China hit four billion yuan ($648 million), increasing by 500% year-on-year and 400% compared to the previous month.

Records show more than 600 million Chinese residents now have access to the Internet. The online lottery business has flourished over the past few years and revenues keep going up, especially during major sports events.

An executive of 500, the New York-listed Chinese lottery service provider, told reporters: “We estimate that the World Cup will boost our sales of Internet-based sports lotteries by at least 70 percent.”

Huatai Securities is even more optimistic, predicting an increase of 150% in online sports lottery sales of sports lotteries.

Investors are becoming interested in the growing Chinese lottery market and companies are now seeking niches – including physical stores, online service and mobile Internet service – to help increase their profits.

Big companies are looking to improve their marketing strategies to attract more players and 500 is even offering a jackpot of 100 million yuan for players who successfully predict the results of all 63 World Cup matches.

China Daily: World Cup boosts Chinese sports lottery sales

According to the China Sports Lottery Administration Center, this year’s edition of the World Cup has helped boost the national sports lottery sales. Daily sales have gone up from less than 100 million yuan to more than 400 million yuan since the event started on June 12.

Local gambling news report China’s leading online lottery agent 500 is making roughly three to five times more sales than the daily average. However, it is common for profits to increase during important international sports events.

Official data shows total lottery sales, including welfare and sports, are up by 18.3% on a year-to-year basis, coming close to 310 billion yuan in 2013. Sales made online reached 42 billion yuan last year, accounting for 13.58% of the total amount.

Without fancy marketing campaigns or gambling bonuses, the national lottery manages to be a huge success in China. Over the past few years, the lottery market – especially the sports lottery – has been experiencing a steady growth.Today, the industry is worth more than $480 billion and now experts say its value could increase even more as players will rush to place bets on the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The sports betting market is already a very lucrative one, but the major football event could boost profits by $13.5 billion to $16.2 billion, analysts say.

Want China Times: World Cup boosts China’s already blooming sports lottery

Most popular forms of gambling are forbidden in China, but the national lottery made its debut in 2009 to allow local players to bet on football and basketball sports scores. Since then, football has proved to be especially popular and profitable. The fact that the Chinese lottery offers both better chances of winning and bigger prizes helped business flourish.

In 2010, during the World Cup in South Africa, the football prediction lottery alone sold $10 billion, marking a growth of 120% compared to the same period in 2009. In fact, this amount came very close to the total lottery sales made in 2009.

The lottery industry makes more than $480 billion. Most of it comes from brick-and-mortar businesses, but the internet sports lottery also contributes with an impressive $67 billion, with 14 billion coming from mobile platforms. According to Su Guojing, who founded Chin Sports Lottery, such periodic sports events boost sales by about 25%-30%.

Inside World Football: World Cup gives China Sports Lottery a big boost

China’s blooming sports lottery is expecting further growth over the coming month, due to the World Cup which could increase revenues by $13.5 billion to $16.2 billion. The country offers few options for gamblers, but sports betting is very popular among locals. Betting on Chinese lottery results is also profitable for players, as both their chances of winning and the prizes offered are higher than usual.

In 2013, sales reached an impressive $494 billion, with $67 billion of all wagers being placed over the internet and via mobile devices. Su Guojing, founder of China Sports Lottery, believes this year’s World Cup could boost lottery ticket sales by 25% to 30%.

The Ministry of Finance, which oversees the legal lottery business, has recently reported a 12.6% increase in lottery sales in May. The welfare lottery made 16.2% more sales over the last month, while sports lottery sales went up 8.2%. The first five months of 2014 brought a 13.9% increase in sales. The online lottery industry is also on the rise, with sales going up nearly 63%.

People Daily: Chinese lotteries to score during World Cup

The sports lottery sector is in for a big sales surge around the 2014 FIFA World Cup. During the 2010 soccer event, lottery sales in China hit four billion yuan ($648 million), increasing by 500% year-on-year and 400% compared to the previous month.

Records show more than 600 million Chinese residents now have access to the Internet. The online lottery business has flourished over the past few years and revenues keep going up, especially during major sports events.

An executive of 500, the New York-listed Chinese lottery service provider, told reporters: “We estimate that the World Cup will boost our sales of Internet-based sports lotteries by at least 70 percent.”

Huatai Securities is even more optimistic, predicting an increase of 150% in online sports lottery sales of sports lotteries.

Investors are becoming interested in the growing Chinese lottery market and companies are now seeking niches – including physical stores, online service and mobile Internet service – to help increase their profits.

Big companies are looking to improve their marketing strategies to attract more players and 500 is even offering a jackpot of 100 million yuan for players who successfully predict the results of all 63 World Cup matches.

China Daily: World Cup boosts Chinese sports lottery sales

According to the China Sports Lottery Administration Center, this year’s edition of the World Cup has helped boost the national sports lottery sales. Daily sales have gone up from less than 100 million yuan to more than 400 million yuan since the event started on June 12.

Local gambling news report China’s leading online lottery agent 500 is making roughly three to five times more sales than the daily average. However, it is common for profits to increase during important international sports events.

Official data shows total lottery sales, including welfare and sports, are up by 18.3% on a year-to-year basis, coming close to 310 billion yuan in 2013. Sales made online reached 42 billion yuan last year, accounting for 13.58% of the total amount.

Despite the fact that both FIFA and gambling authorities across the world warned that they would intensify efforts to combat betting corruption, illegal wagers on World Cup sports scores proved to be too tempting for leaders of underground gambling rings.

The football event of the year has barely started, but the police in Macau already arrested a few punters from Hong Kong after evidence suggested they had placed HK $5 billion in illegal bets, including one staggering wager worth HK $40 million on a single match.

The illegal gambling operation was run from a hotel in Macau, which was raided by the local police. Officers found and removed betting slips and accounts, as well as more than HK $2 million in cash, 17 computers and 10 mobile phones.

Since the beginning of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Hong Kong police officers have also arrested 39 people suspected of unlawful gambling. HK $85 million worth of betting slips were confiscated from the illegal bookmakers.

South China Morning Post: Macau police smash illegal betting ring that took HK$5b in World Cup wagers

The Macau police busted a huge bookmaking operation. It is said that the illegal betting ring took a total of HK $5 billion in World Cup wagers, from rich clients around the world. Punters placed their bets on live sports results via telephone or online.

A raid on a local hotel found that three rooms had been turned into an operation base for the illegal betting syndicate. According to the latest gambling news, 22 people (including two women) aged 23 to 50 were arrested. Among them were four men from Hong Kong, nine Malaysians and nine mainlanders. The ring was lead by two men, one from Malaysia and one from the mainland.

One day later, the police conducted a second raid and arrested four new suspects at the same hotel. Officers are now conducting further investigations to find out who was placing the bets.

Suen Kam-fai, a spokesman for the local police, told reporters: “Information indicates that this syndicate accepted bets before and after the matches kicked off. That’s why they needed a lot of manpower to take bets via the internet and telephone.”

CNN: Macau busts $645 million World Cup betting ring

Police have smashed a gambling ring operating from a hotel located in Macau. The illegal betting syndicate allegedly took the equivalent of US $645 million in World Cup wagers. According to local authorities, this was the biggest ever raid on an unlawful bookmaking racket in the Asian casino capital.

Working from three hotel rooms, the suspects took internet and phone bets from around the world. Authorities discovered that one gambler placed a wager valued at around US $5 million.

The police arrested 22 people from mainland China, Hong Kong and Malaysia, including two suspects believed to be the ringleaders. They also confiscated US $248,000 in cash, 17 computers, at least 10 cell phones and several betting slips.

A few hours later, the police busted a second gambling operating from the same hotel. Four Chinese men allegedly took US$645,000 in illegal bets on World Cup matches in one day.

The raids were part of a cross-border campaign to combat illegal sports betting in Macau, Hong Kong and the southern province of Guangdong, China.

The Guardian: Police bust gambling racket in Macau after huge World Cup bets

A bookmaking racket that allegedly took HK $5 billion ($645 million, or GBP 379 million) in illegal bets was recently uncovered by the police in Macau. The illicit football syndicate operated from a local hotel and allowed punters from all over the world to place World Cup wagers online and via telephone, the South China Morning Post said.

Police have arrested 22 suspects in what is thought to be the biggest unlawful football betting operation in Macau, as initial investigations found evidence of HK $5 billion worth of World Cup wagers, including a single HK$40 million bet on one match.

Since the beginning of the 2014 World Cup, authorities in Macau, Hong Kong and the Guangdong province have been working together in a campaign to put an end to illegal gambling operations. Investigators seized more than HK $2 million in cash, 17 computers, more than 10 mobile phones and betting slips.

During the first week of the World Cup, authorities in the area have arrested 39 people suspected of being involved in illegal betting operations and confiscated HK $85 million worth of betting slips.

Despite the fact that both FIFA and gambling authorities across the world warned that they would intensify efforts to combat betting corruption, illegal wagers on World Cup sports scores proved to be too tempting for leaders of underground gambling rings.

The football event of the year has barely started, but the police in Macau already arrested a few punters from Hong Kong after evidence suggested they had placed HK $5 billion in illegal bets, including one staggering wager worth HK $40 million on a single match.

The illegal gambling operation was run from a hotel in Macau, which was raided by the local police. Officers found and removed betting slips and accounts, as well as more than HK $2 million in cash, 17 computers and 10 mobile phones.

Since the beginning of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Hong Kong police officers have also arrested 39 people suspected of unlawful gambling. HK $85 million worth of betting slips were confiscated from the illegal bookmakers.

South China Morning Post: Macau police smash illegal betting ring that took HK$5b in World Cup wagers

The Macau police busted a huge bookmaking operation. It is said that the illegal betting ring took a total of HK $5 billion in World Cup wagers, from rich clients around the world. Punters placed their bets on live sports results via telephone or online.

A raid on a local hotel found that three rooms had been turned into an operation base for the illegal betting syndicate. According to the latest gambling news, 22 people (including two women) aged 23 to 50 were arrested. Among them were four men from Hong Kong, nine Malaysians and nine mainlanders. The ring was lead by two men, one from Malaysia and one from the mainland.

One day later, the police conducted a second raid and arrested four new suspects at the same hotel. Officers are now conducting further investigations to find out who was placing the bets.

Suen Kam-fai, a spokesman for the local police, told reporters: “Information indicates that this syndicate accepted bets before and after the matches kicked off. That’s why they needed a lot of manpower to take bets via the internet and telephone.”

CNN: Macau busts $645 million World Cup betting ring

Police have smashed a gambling ring operating from a hotel located in Macau. The illegal betting syndicate allegedly took the equivalent of US $645 million in World Cup wagers. According to local authorities, this was the biggest ever raid on an unlawful bookmaking racket in the Asian casino capital.

Working from three hotel rooms, the suspects took internet and phone bets from around the world. Authorities discovered that one gambler placed a wager valued at around US $5 million.

The police arrested 22 people from mainland China, Hong Kong and Malaysia, including two suspects believed to be the ringleaders. They also confiscated US $248,000 in cash, 17 computers, at least 10 cell phones and several betting slips.

A few hours later, the police busted a second gambling operating from the same hotel. Four Chinese men allegedly took US$645,000 in illegal bets on World Cup matches in one day.

The raids were part of a cross-border campaign to combat illegal sports betting in Macau, Hong Kong and the southern province of Guangdong, China.

The Guardian: Police bust gambling racket in Macau after huge World Cup bets

A bookmaking racket that allegedly took HK $5 billion ($645 million, or GBP 379 million) in illegal bets was recently uncovered by the police in Macau. The illicit football syndicate operated from a local hotel and allowed punters from all over the world to place World Cup wagers online and via telephone, the South China Morning Post said.

Police have arrested 22 suspects in what is thought to be the biggest unlawful football betting operation in Macau, as initial investigations found evidence of HK $5 billion worth of World Cup wagers, including a single HK$40 million bet on one match.

Since the beginning of the 2014 World Cup, authorities in Macau, Hong Kong and the Guangdong province have been working together in a campaign to put an end to illegal gambling operations. Investigators seized more than HK $2 million in cash, 17 computers, more than 10 mobile phones and betting slips.

During the first week of the World Cup, authorities in the area have arrested 39 people suspected of being involved in illegal betting operations and confiscated HK $85 million worth of betting slips.

New Jersey has once again been dealt a blow as the Supreme Court reached a verdict to keep the ban sport gambling in the Eastern state. There have been numerous attempts to revert the bill prohibiting bets on sports, however all have been futile so far.

Nevertheless, there is still hope. Important statesmen from New Jersey remain confident in their battle, as a new bill that is due to be published bears a more promising effect than previous attempts.

Bloomberg: New Jersey Sports Betting Bid rejected by Supreme Court

Latest gambling news states that New Jersey’s quest to legalize sports gambling has been dampened. Despite tabling an appeal, Governor Chris Christie was not able sway the US Supreme Court. The Court claimed that New Jersey sports gambling pursuit came in conflict with a 1992 federal law that was passed to prevent the expansion of state-lead sports betting.

New Jersey aimed to make betting on professional and college sports legal, by offering to provide the services through the state’s racetracks and Atlantic City casinos. It is evident why prominent officials from the state supported the proposed change. Estimates show that the business would generate over $1 billion in bets and more than $100 million for the state.

White House representatives contested the action pointing to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League, National Football League and Major League Baseball.

They indicated that the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act allows sports gambling only in Nevada, while Delaware maintains a sports betting to lesser degree. Governor Christie highlighted that the federal law does not enable New Jersey to exercise its sovereign rights. Virtually all New Jersey residents voted in favor of sports betting in 2011.

NorthJersey: N.J. officials vow to change state law to permit sports betting

So far the state has spent over $3 million in research and legal expenses to see sports betting become a reality, however nothing has come to fruition due to the Supreme Court’s rejection. The overall process lasted for two years and saw the state lose on two occasions.

A US District Court judge supported the views of the NFL and four other sports organizations, and decided not to reverse the original ban. Governor Christie expressed his disappointed and acknowledged that New Jersey’s chances were slim. “They don’t give an explanation, so there is nothing to really react to. They said no, so we have to move on.”

Sports scores news reports that some other state officials remain adamant in legalizing sport gambling in New Jersey. Senate President Stephen Sweeney stated, “We are not giving up. The economic impact that sports wagering can have on New Jersey is far too important to simply shrug our shoulders and move on.”

Many like-minded people believe that this has the potential to help New Jersey’s fading horseracing and Atlantic City gambling industry. Sports betting would help the ailing economy in many terms and raise millions of dollars in taxes for the treasury.

CBS New York: Supreme Court Leaves In Place a Ban on Sports Betting in NJ

Despite recently losing a legal battle against the Supreme Court to legalize sports gambling, a New Jersey official brought up the idea of a revised bill that would see them achieve their goal.

New Jersey lawmakers submitted a case arguing that illegal betting on sports is valued at over $500 billion per year. Overturning the gambling law would create an opposite effect and lead to better standards. Legalization would see illegal gambling activities subsided, while in the same time generate income for the government and create employment opportunities.

The revised bill should see New Jersey challenge the law prohibiting them from offering sports betting services to players.

State Senator Raymond Lesniak hopes that US Department of Justice will not fight their reinvigorated attempts. “Aren’t they selling marijuana in Colorado and Washington? Isn’t that against federal law? Nothing stops is from repealing all our gambling laws on sports betting as long as we don’t regulate it, as long as we don’t promote it.”

Unlike other officials who seem to have given up on hopes to legalize sports betting, Lesniak is determined to succeed. He stated that is the Supreme Court does not accept the new case, then he would proceed with plans to offer sports gambling as soon as Week 1 of the NFL season. “I’m not saying “one day.” I’m saying September. ”

New Jersey has once again been dealt a blow as the Supreme Court reached a verdict to keep the ban sport gambling in the Eastern state. There have been numerous attempts to revert the bill prohibiting bets on sports, however all have been futile so far.

Nevertheless, there is still hope. Important statesmen from New Jersey remain confident in their battle, as a new bill that is due to be published bears a more promising effect than previous attempts.

Bloomberg: New Jersey Sports Betting Bid rejected by Supreme Court

Latest gambling news states that New Jersey’s quest to legalize sports gambling has been dampened. Despite tabling an appeal, Governor Chris Christie was not able sway the US Supreme Court. The Court claimed that New Jersey sports gambling pursuit came in conflict with a 1992 federal law that was passed to prevent the expansion of state-lead sports betting.

New Jersey aimed to make betting on professional and college sports legal, by offering to provide the services through the state’s racetracks and Atlantic City casinos. It is evident why prominent officials from the state supported the proposed change. Estimates show that the business would generate over $1 billion in bets and more than $100 million for the state.

White House representatives contested the action pointing to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League, National Football League and Major League Baseball.

They indicated that the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act allows sports gambling only in Nevada, while Delaware maintains a sports betting to lesser degree. Governor Christie highlighted that the federal law does not enable New Jersey to exercise its sovereign rights. Virtually all New Jersey residents voted in favor of sports betting in 2011.

NorthJersey: N.J. officials vow to change state law to permit sports betting

So far the state has spent over $3 million in research and legal expenses to see sports betting become a reality, however nothing has come to fruition due to the Supreme Court’s rejection. The overall process lasted for two years and saw the state lose on two occasions.

A US District Court judge supported the views of the NFL and four other sports organizations, and decided not to reverse the original ban. Governor Christie expressed his disappointed and acknowledged that New Jersey’s chances were slim. “They don’t give an explanation, so there is nothing to really react to. They said no, so we have to move on.”

Sports scores news reports that some other state officials remain adamant in legalizing sport gambling in New Jersey. Senate President Stephen Sweeney stated, “We are not giving up. The economic impact that sports wagering can have on New Jersey is far too important to simply shrug our shoulders and move on.”

Many like-minded people believe that this has the potential to help New Jersey’s fading horseracing and Atlantic City gambling industry. Sports betting would help the ailing economy in many terms and raise millions of dollars in taxes for the treasury.

CBS New York: Supreme Court Leaves In Place a Ban on Sports Betting in NJ

Despite recently losing a legal battle against the Supreme Court to legalize sports gambling, a New Jersey official brought up the idea of a revised bill that would see them achieve their goal.

New Jersey lawmakers submitted a case arguing that illegal betting on sports is valued at over $500 billion per year. Overturning the gambling law would create an opposite effect and lead to better standards. Legalization would see illegal gambling activities subsided, while in the same time generate income for the government and create employment opportunities.

The revised bill should see New Jersey challenge the law prohibiting them from offering sports betting services to players.

State Senator Raymond Lesniak hopes that US Department of Justice will not fight their reinvigorated attempts. “Aren’t they selling marijuana in Colorado and Washington? Isn’t that against federal law? Nothing stops is from repealing all our gambling laws on sports betting as long as we don’t regulate it, as long as we don’t promote it.”

Unlike other officials who seem to have given up on hopes to legalize sports betting, Lesniak is determined to succeed. He stated that is the Supreme Court does not accept the new case, then he would proceed with plans to offer sports gambling as soon as Week 1 of the NFL season. “I’m not saying “one day.” I’m saying September. ”

In efforts to re-enter the US poker market, PokerStars agrees sale to Canadian gaming supplier Amaya Gaming for $4.9 billion.

Amaya Gaming completes a deal to become the world biggest online poker firm after a $4.9 billion purchase of Pokerstars. Many observers see the acquisition as a way to re-enter the US market as they have previously had differences of opinion with certain government departments, namely with the US Department of Justice.

The DOJ claimed that PokerStars violated the codes of the Wire Act, which prohibits certain gambling activities. PokerStars eventually relocated its headquarters to the Isle of Man, off the coast of UK, but continued the legal battle with the DOJ.

The company enlisted the services of some insightful attorneys and law firms that challenged the decision by the DOJ. They claimed that PokerStars did not violate any US gambling laws.

Subsequently, PokerStars made its mark in the US by taking over the biggest online poker market in the world. Soon after President George W. Bush signed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which spelled the end for PartyGaming in the US. Nevertheless, PokerStars continued to operate in the US, while Full Tilt claimed the whole market.

Forbes: Amaya Gaming in Deal to Buy PokerStars for $4.9 Billion

In 2011, US federal prosecutors challenged PokerStars’ gambling operations in the country. US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Preet Bharara, charged the founder of PokerStars along with 10 other relevant individuals.

The founder, Isai Scheinberg, was one of the people accused of money laundering, bank fraud and most importantly providing illegal betting services. PokerStars took in bets and staged online poker tournaments on a regular basis.

The US Attorney claimed that Scheinberg and others went against the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, which makes it illegal for companies to accept bets online where it is not deemed legal.

Following the indictment, PokerStars relented in their legal battle in 2012 and agreed to pay a settlement fine of $731 million to the Department of Justice. Despite paying the hefty fee, the poker firm did not admit any wrongdoing to the charges brought against them.

Bloomberg: PokerStars Sale a Jackpot for New Online Billionaire Scheinberg

Gambling news reports that since the onset of the legal charges Scheinberg has been living on the Isle of Man. His son Mark Scheinberg makes regular visits to the US to keep track of further business and legal developments.

The Department of Justice has labelled Isai Scheinberg as the main “founder, owner and principal decision-maker for Pokerstars.” They also consider the mobile gaming founder as being “at large.”

Amaya Gaming disagrees with the statements made by the DOJ. The company has made an official announcement after the sale, stating that poker site was started and run by the son, Mark Scheinberg, and not the father. Mark also expressed his version by commenting, “I am incredibly proud of the business Isai and I have built over the last 14 years.”

The Guardian: Family behind PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker to sell business for GBP 2.9bn

Amaya Gaming primarily deals with supplying betting equipment and hardware for other gaming firms, however the purchase of PokerStars will potentially see it become the greatest online poker provider. Currently, the industry is estimated to be worth a staggering $4 billion while Amaya seeks to hold a significant portion of that through PokerStars.

To help broker the deal Amaya has hired the financing services of several prominent banking institutions. Deutsche Bank AG (DBK), Barclays Plc (BARC), Macquaire Group Ltd. and Blackstone Group LP were all involved in providing their expertise.

In order to make the purchase, Amaya had to take out huge loans from the aforementioned banks. Billions have been borrowed, however considering the future potential for online poker in some states it appears to be simply a matter of time before they make a substantial return on their investment.

Amaya Chairman and chief exec, David Baazov, indicated the importance of acquiring PokerStars for the US market. “Having this brand and this company in the US is going to be very significant for states.”

Baazov has been credited with transforming the company into what it is today. He joined Amaya in 2006, two years after it was initially founded, and after successful acquisitions of smaller firms he saw Amaya’s growth rise exponentially.

Baazov commented on the company’s effective business model. “Everyone had a very fragmented approach. We built it all on a vision of convergence. It’s a very large industry and it’s going to continue to grow.”

Bloomberg Businessweek: Amaya Soars to record After $4.9 Billion PokerStars Deal

In efforts to re-enter the US poker market, PokerStars agrees sale to Canadian gaming supplier Amaya Gaming for $4.9 billion.

Amaya Gaming completes a deal to become the world biggest online poker firm after a $4.9 billion purchase of Pokerstars. Many observers see the acquisition as a way to re-enter the US market as they have previously had differences of opinion with certain government departments, namely with the US Department of Justice.

The DOJ claimed that PokerStars violated the codes of the Wire Act, which prohibits certain gambling activities. PokerStars eventually relocated its headquarters to the Isle of Man, off the coast of UK, but continued the legal battle with the DOJ.

The company enlisted the services of some insightful attorneys and law firms that challenged the decision by the DOJ. They claimed that PokerStars did not violate any US gambling laws.

Subsequently, PokerStars made its mark in the US by taking over the biggest online poker market in the world. Soon after President George W. Bush signed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which spelled the end for PartyGaming in the US. Nevertheless, PokerStars continued to operate in the US, while Full Tilt claimed the whole market.

Forbes: Amaya Gaming in Deal to Buy PokerStars for $4.9 Billion

In 2011, US federal prosecutors challenged PokerStars’ gambling operations in the country. US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Preet Bharara, charged the founder of PokerStars along with 10 other relevant individuals.

The founder, Isai Scheinberg, was one of the people accused of money laundering, bank fraud and most importantly providing illegal betting services. PokerStars took in bets and staged online poker tournaments on a regular basis.

The US Attorney claimed that Scheinberg and others went against the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, which makes it illegal for companies to accept bets online where it is not deemed legal.

Following the indictment, PokerStars relented in their legal battle in 2012 and agreed to pay a settlement fine of $731 million to the Department of Justice. Despite paying the hefty fee, the poker firm did not admit any wrongdoing to the charges brought against them.

Bloomberg: PokerStars Sale a Jackpot for New Online Billionaire Scheinberg

Gambling news reports that since the onset of the legal charges Scheinberg has been living on the Isle of Man. His son Mark Scheinberg makes regular visits to the US to keep track of further business and legal developments.

The Department of Justice has labelled Isai Scheinberg as the main “founder, owner and principal decision-maker for Pokerstars.” They also consider the mobile gaming founder as being “at large.”

Amaya Gaming disagrees with the statements made by the DOJ. The company has made an official announcement after the sale, stating that poker site was started and run by the son, Mark Scheinberg, and not the father. Mark also expressed his version by commenting, “I am incredibly proud of the business Isai and I have built over the last 14 years.”

The Guardian: Family behind PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker to sell business for GBP 2.9bn

Amaya Gaming primarily deals with supplying betting equipment and hardware for other gaming firms, however the purchase of PokerStars will potentially see it become the greatest online poker provider. Currently, the industry is estimated to be worth a staggering $4 billion while Amaya seeks to hold a significant portion of that through PokerStars.

To help broker the deal Amaya has hired the financing services of several prominent banking institutions. Deutsche Bank AG (DBK), Barclays Plc (BARC), Macquaire Group Ltd. and Blackstone Group LP were all involved in providing their expertise.

In order to make the purchase, Amaya had to take out huge loans from the aforementioned banks. Billions have been borrowed, however considering the future potential for online poker in some states it appears to be simply a matter of time before they make a substantial return on their investment.

Amaya Chairman and chief exec, David Baazov, indicated the importance of acquiring PokerStars for the US market. “Having this brand and this company in the US is going to be very significant for states.”

Baazov has been credited with transforming the company into what it is today. He joined Amaya in 2006, two years after it was initially founded, and after successful acquisitions of smaller firms he saw Amaya’s growth rise exponentially.

Baazov commented on the company’s effective business model. “Everyone had a very fragmented approach. We built it all on a vision of convergence. It’s a very large industry and it’s going to continue to grow.”

Bloomberg Businessweek: Amaya Soars to record After $4.9 Billion PokerStars Deal

The Scottish independence referendum is just three months away and it will happen on 18th September 2014. The decision about it came after the Scottish and the UK governments signed an agreement, followed by the Scottish Independence Referendum Bill, which dealt with the details around this historic event.

The Bill was passed by the Scottish Parliament in November 2013 and it received Royal Assent in December 2013. The Electoral Commission put forward the following wording for the referendum question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” which people have to answer when they go to vote.

Naturally, this issue is pretty hot in Scotland and there are a lot of scenarios and speculations discussed among people and the media. The latest impressive gambling news came from a Surrey punter, who gambled GBP 400,000 that Scottish voters will say no at independence referendum. More about one of largest political bets even placed can he found on:

TheGuardian: Scottish independence referendum: man bets £400,000 on no vote

Bookmakers around the country are extremely excited about the impressive bet calling it the “biggest political bet ever struck.”

One of the biggest betting houses in the UK William Hill reported that the bettor in question showed a banker’s draft for GBP 400,000 in a branch in south-west London. Keeping in mind that the odds are at 1/4 for a no vote, he will most probably earn profit of GBP 100,000.

Additionally, William Hill reported that it already has a GBP 200,000 bet placed again on a no vote, which isn’t surprising as people’s support for a no vote has grown by eight points to 61%, while backing for a yes vote has declined to 18%.

Graham Sharpe, spokesman of William Hill commented: “As far as we can ascertain, this is the biggest political bet ever struck.”

Moreover: “The previous record was a GBP 200,000 bet also struck on a no vote in the Scottish referendum earlier in the campaign, and the same amount was gambled by a customer who backed David Cameron to become Tory leader.”

And: “We are now well on the way to turning over GBP 1 million on the outcome of the Scottish referendum, which is exceeding our expectations.”

TheIndependent: Scottish referendum set to be the most gambled on political event ever

William Hill is definitely one of the big winners, who are discussed in numerous gambling blogs, as this referendum will most probably earn the company more than any other political vote.

Sharpe added the revenue results on the referendum outcome are very impressive, especially keeping in mind that “our total turnover on the last General Election in 2010 was no more than one and a half million.”

With the current bet of GBP 400,000 the UK is pretty high in the table of political bets, very close behind the biggest reported non-UK bet, which was GBP 419,000. It was placed by an Australian gambler, who bet that Tony Abbott would win the 2013 Australian general election.

TheTelegraph: Man bets £400,000 on Scotland saying ‘no’

The GBP 400,000 wager on the outcome of the independence referendum in Scotland is definitely one of the most commented issues in the UK, prior the vote, which will happen in September this year.

William Hill reported that the bettor, who is part of all conversations in the gambling circles, is middle-aged man from Surrey and didn’t have Scottish accent. He placed the bet through a banker’s draft and will have the chance to “make profit” of GBP 100,000 if his prediction comes true.

In reality, “there are less than 100 campaign days to go until Scottish voters go to the polls to decide whether their country should remain part of the United Kingdom.”

Naturally, all three parties in UK’s parliament offered deals to Scotland if it rejects the independence, like more powers on the issues of tax and spending.

However, there are some controversies regarding the support, as last week Gordon Brown, who supports the “No” campaign against independence, accused David Cameron of making a “big mistake” in confronting Scotland against England in his attempt to save the union.

The former Prime Minister expressed his concern that threatening the Scottish population with cuts of jobs and bankruptcy if they vote for independence, transformed the debate and made it simply “Scotland versus Britain.”

Reuters: Gambler in England bets 400,000 pounds that Scots will reject independence

One of the “world’s biggest ever political bets” will most probably bring the bettor who placed it quite impressive revenue.

The GBP 400,000 bet is twice as big as the one of GBP 200,000, also placed on a no vote, by a Scottish man at an earlier stage of the independence referendum campaign.

Despite the larger percentage of people who will most probably vote “No”, in comparison to the supporters of Scottish independence, there are still a lot of voters who haven’t made up their minds.

Thus: “The bookmakers said they had shortened their odds on a “no” vote to 1/5, suggesting this was now more likely to happen than previously thought. Their odds on a “yes” vote stand at 10/3, meaning winners getting 10 pounds back for every three they bet.”

The Scottish independence referendum is just three months away and it will happen on 18th September 2014. The decision about it came after the Scottish and the UK governments signed an agreement, followed by the Scottish Independence Referendum Bill, which dealt with the details around this historic event.

The Bill was passed by the Scottish Parliament in November 2013 and it received Royal Assent in December 2013. The Electoral Commission put forward the following wording for the referendum question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” which people have to answer when they go to vote.

Naturally, this issue is pretty hot in Scotland and there are a lot of scenarios and speculations discussed among people and the media. The latest impressive gambling news came from a Surrey punter, who gambled GBP 400,000 that Scottish voters will say no at independence referendum. More about one of largest political bets even placed can he found on:

TheGuardian: Scottish independence referendum: man bets £400,000 on no vote

Bookmakers around the country are extremely excited about the impressive bet calling it the “biggest political bet ever struck.”

One of the biggest betting houses in the UK William Hill reported that the bettor in question showed a banker’s draft for GBP 400,000 in a branch in south-west London. Keeping in mind that the odds are at 1/4 for a no vote, he will most probably earn profit of GBP 100,000.

Additionally, William Hill reported that it already has a GBP 200,000 bet placed again on a no vote, which isn’t surprising as people’s support for a no vote has grown by eight points to 61%, while backing for a yes vote has declined to 18%.

Graham Sharpe, spokesman of William Hill commented: “As far as we can ascertain, this is the biggest political bet ever struck.”

Moreover: “The previous record was a GBP 200,000 bet also struck on a no vote in the Scottish referendum earlier in the campaign, and the same amount was gambled by a customer who backed David Cameron to become Tory leader.”

And: “We are now well on the way to turning over GBP 1 million on the outcome of the Scottish referendum, which is exceeding our expectations.”

TheIndependent: Scottish referendum set to be the most gambled on political event ever

William Hill is definitely one of the big winners, who are discussed in numerous gambling blogs, as this referendum will most probably earn the company more than any other political vote.

Sharpe added the revenue results on the referendum outcome are very impressive, especially keeping in mind that “our total turnover on the last General Election in 2010 was no more than one and a half million.”

With the current bet of GBP 400,000 the UK is pretty high in the table of political bets, very close behind the biggest reported non-UK bet, which was GBP 419,000. It was placed by an Australian gambler, who bet that Tony Abbott would win the 2013 Australian general election.

TheTelegraph: Man bets £400,000 on Scotland saying ‘no’

The GBP 400,000 wager on the outcome of the independence referendum in Scotland is definitely one of the most commented issues in the UK, prior the vote, which will happen in September this year.

William Hill reported that the bettor, who is part of all conversations in the gambling circles, is middle-aged man from Surrey and didn’t have Scottish accent. He placed the bet through a banker’s draft and will have the chance to “make profit” of GBP 100,000 if his prediction comes true.

In reality, “there are less than 100 campaign days to go until Scottish voters go to the polls to decide whether their country should remain part of the United Kingdom.”

Naturally, all three parties in UK’s parliament offered deals to Scotland if it rejects the independence, like more powers on the issues of tax and spending.

However, there are some controversies regarding the support, as last week Gordon Brown, who supports the “No” campaign against independence, accused David Cameron of making a “big mistake” in confronting Scotland against England in his attempt to save the union.

The former Prime Minister expressed his concern that threatening the Scottish population with cuts of jobs and bankruptcy if they vote for independence, transformed the debate and made it simply “Scotland versus Britain.”

Reuters: Gambler in England bets 400,000 pounds that Scots will reject independence

One of the “world’s biggest ever political bets” will most probably bring the bettor who placed it quite impressive revenue.

The GBP 400,000 bet is twice as big as the one of GBP 200,000, also placed on a no vote, by a Scottish man at an earlier stage of the independence referendum campaign.

Despite the larger percentage of people who will most probably vote “No”, in comparison to the supporters of Scottish independence, there are still a lot of voters who haven’t made up their minds.

Thus: “The bookmakers said they had shortened their odds on a “no” vote to 1/5, suggesting this was now more likely to happen than previously thought. Their odds on a “yes” vote stand at 10/3, meaning winners getting 10 pounds back for every three they bet.”

Until July 14, the 2014 World Series of Poker will be the main attraction in Las Vegas. All eyes are on the world’s best poker players, as they battle it out for poker’s most coveted bracelets. This year’s edition of the tournament is already proving to be the largest ever, with the senior’s event drawing a record number of players.With more than 4,400 players joining the game, the total prize pool added up to almost $4 million. Dan Heimiller managed to make his way to the top, winning his second bracelet and a prize of $627,462. Read more about the 2014 WSOP here:

CardPlayer: Dan Heimiller Wins World Series of Poker Seniors Event and Second Career Bracelet

This year’s tournament drew the largest seniors event field in WSOP history. A total of 4,425 players paid the $1,000 buy-in, hoping to get a bigger share of the $3,982,500 prize pool. However, only three notable players made it to the top. David Tran and Dennis Phillips tied for 5th place; Dan Heimiller fought 58-year-old Iowa firefighter Don Maas for the title and won.

CardPlayer has described Heimiller as “one of the quirkiest players on the tournament circuit”. The poker pro has won his second career bracelet and pocketed his biggest cash prize so far – $627,462. Heimiller’s total tournament earnings now add up to $4.7 million.

“Back in 2002, it wasn’t for as much cash, so that makes this one a lot more important,” Heimiller said about his first win. “It was also a smaller field and wasn’t as prestigious back then. It was a great feeling, but this one feels extra spectacular because it was for such a big prize.”

ESPN: Heimiller outlasts 4,425 in Seniors

The 2014 WSOP schedule includes some spectacular events, such as the $1 million buy-in One Drop, the $50,000 Poker Players’ Championship, the $25,000 mixed-max and the Main Event. But the $1,000 buy-in Seniors Championship always gets a lot of well-deserved attention. This year, the event drew a massive field of 4,425 players over the age of 50.

Dan Heimiller proved he is not ready to retire from poker just yet, by making his way to the final table and defeating his rival Don Maas heads-up. Maas won his first cash prize at the WSOP. The 58 year-old is captain of the Cedar Rapids Fire Department. For Dan Heimiller, winning the event meant grabbing his second WSOP bracelet and taking home $627,462 in cash.

PokerUpdate: Dan Heimiller Wins WSOP Seniors Title

PokerUpdate offers a detailed account of the largest Seniors Event in WSOP history, which started out with more than 4,400 players. At the beginning of the third day, there were only 32 players left; a couple of hours more and the number was reduced to 10.
One of the players at the final table was Dennis Philips, who finished third place 2008 Main Event and came in second in the Seniors Event in 2012. The poker pro seemed confident that he could get a better result this year, but in the end he came in 5th, winning a prize worth well over $150,000.

Donald Maas, David Smith and Dan Heimiller were the last three players standing, with Maas having more chips than the other two combined. Heimiller knocked Smith into 3rd place, claiming his chips and leaving him with a $279,412 cash prize. With a chip advantage of about 3:1, the player managed to eliminate Maas, who earned $388,054 for his efforts. Heimiller became champion and claimed his second WSOP bracelet, as well as over $600,000 in cash.

Bluff Heimiller Scores the Eagle While Kitai Wins Third Bracelet

Sunday was a big day for players who participated in the 2014 WSOP. The schedule included seven tournaments and two ceremonies, and Bluff offers a detailed account of each and every event. Davidi Kitai beat Gordon Vayo, taking the big prize at the Six-Max event and securing his third bracelet.

Meanwhile, the Seniors Championship started at 11 am and took 12 hours to go from a total of 32 players to the final three. The Golden Eagle Trophy ended up in Dan Heimiller’s hands, who held the chip lead with 4,140,000. Throughout his career, Heimiller sat at 60 final tables and won 8 of them. This is his second WSOP bracelet.

The $10,000 Razz Event was another popular competition on the schedule, with 12 players remaining in the game by Sunday. David Bach started out well, as chip leader, but he was soon eliminated and came in 8th. Daniel Negreanu was really hoping to win his seventh WSOP bracelet, but ended up finishing in 10th. The title went to George Danzer, who defeated Shack-Harris to win his first bracelet and the $294,792 prize.

CardsChat WSOP Day 13: Danzer, Kitai, and Heimiller Collect Gold

CardsChat also offers a thorough report on the 13th day of this year’s WSOP, which brought three players some impressive cash rewards and new bracelets. Davidi Kitai, a Triple Crown winner, has won his third WSOP bracelet. George Danzer is at his first, and Dan Heimiller took home his second one.

It wasn’t a good day for James Woods, one of the celebrities present at WSOP; the poker pro started to experience chest pain while he was playing. It is believed that the pain was caused by heart problems and the player was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Later that day, he tweeted that the incident was in fact caused by food poisoning.

Until July 14, the 2014 World Series of Poker will be the main attraction in Las Vegas. All eyes are on the world’s best poker players, as they battle it out for poker’s most coveted bracelets. This year’s edition of the tournament is already proving to be the largest ever, with the senior’s event drawing a record number of players.With more than 4,400 players joining the game, the total prize pool added up to almost $4 million. Dan Heimiller managed to make his way to the top, winning his second bracelet and a prize of $627,462. Read more about the 2014 WSOP here:

CardPlayer: Dan Heimiller Wins World Series of Poker Seniors Event and Second Career Bracelet

This year’s tournament drew the largest seniors event field in WSOP history. A total of 4,425 players paid the $1,000 buy-in, hoping to get a bigger share of the $3,982,500 prize pool. However, only three notable players made it to the top. David Tran and Dennis Phillips tied for 5th place; Dan Heimiller fought 58-year-old Iowa firefighter Don Maas for the title and won.

CardPlayer has described Heimiller as “one of the quirkiest players on the tournament circuit”. The poker pro has won his second career bracelet and pocketed his biggest cash prize so far – $627,462. Heimiller’s total tournament earnings now add up to $4.7 million.

“Back in 2002, it wasn’t for as much cash, so that makes this one a lot more important,” Heimiller said about his first win. “It was also a smaller field and wasn’t as prestigious back then. It was a great feeling, but this one feels extra spectacular because it was for such a big prize.”

ESPN: Heimiller outlasts 4,425 in Seniors

The 2014 WSOP schedule includes some spectacular events, such as the $1 million buy-in One Drop, the $50,000 Poker Players’ Championship, the $25,000 mixed-max and the Main Event. But the $1,000 buy-in Seniors Championship always gets a lot of well-deserved attention. This year, the event drew a massive field of 4,425 players over the age of 50.

Dan Heimiller proved he is not ready to retire from poker just yet, by making his way to the final table and defeating his rival Don Maas heads-up. Maas won his first cash prize at the WSOP. The 58 year-old is captain of the Cedar Rapids Fire Department. For Dan Heimiller, winning the event meant grabbing his second WSOP bracelet and taking home $627,462 in cash.

PokerUpdate: Dan Heimiller Wins WSOP Seniors Title

PokerUpdate offers a detailed account of the largest Seniors Event in WSOP history, which started out with more than 4,400 players. At the beginning of the third day, there were only 32 players left; a couple of hours more and the number was reduced to 10.
One of the players at the final table was Dennis Philips, who finished third place 2008 Main Event and came in second in the Seniors Event in 2012. The poker pro seemed confident that he could get a better result this year, but in the end he came in 5th, winning a prize worth well over $150,000.

Donald Maas, David Smith and Dan Heimiller were the last three players standing, with Maas having more chips than the other two combined. Heimiller knocked Smith into 3rd place, claiming his chips and leaving him with a $279,412 cash prize. With a chip advantage of about 3:1, the player managed to eliminate Maas, who earned $388,054 for his efforts. Heimiller became champion and claimed his second WSOP bracelet, as well as over $600,000 in cash.

Bluff Heimiller Scores the Eagle While Kitai Wins Third Bracelet

Sunday was a big day for players who participated in the 2014 WSOP. The schedule included seven tournaments and two ceremonies, and Bluff offers a detailed account of each and every event. Davidi Kitai beat Gordon Vayo, taking the big prize at the Six-Max event and securing his third bracelet.

Meanwhile, the Seniors Championship started at 11 am and took 12 hours to go from a total of 32 players to the final three. The Golden Eagle Trophy ended up in Dan Heimiller’s hands, who held the chip lead with 4,140,000. Throughout his career, Heimiller sat at 60 final tables and won 8 of them. This is his second WSOP bracelet.

The $10,000 Razz Event was another popular competition on the schedule, with 12 players remaining in the game by Sunday. David Bach started out well, as chip leader, but he was soon eliminated and came in 8th. Daniel Negreanu was really hoping to win his seventh WSOP bracelet, but ended up finishing in 10th. The title went to George Danzer, who defeated Shack-Harris to win his first bracelet and the $294,792 prize.

CardsChat WSOP Day 13: Danzer, Kitai, and Heimiller Collect Gold

CardsChat also offers a thorough report on the 13th day of this year’s WSOP, which brought three players some impressive cash rewards and new bracelets. Davidi Kitai, a Triple Crown winner, has won his third WSOP bracelet. George Danzer is at his first, and Dan Heimiller took home his second one.

It wasn’t a good day for James Woods, one of the celebrities present at WSOP; the poker pro started to experience chest pain while he was playing. It is believed that the pain was caused by heart problems and the player was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Later that day, he tweeted that the incident was in fact caused by food poisoning.