The Thrill of the Eureka Main Event: Day 2 Update from the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour Cyprus
The excitement of live poker reached new heights as we transition into Day 2 of the highly anticipated $1,100 Eureka Main Event at the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus. After six exhilarating starting flights that attracted a staggering 2,803 players, only 418 hopefuls remain in the fight for glory, with all of them now officially in the money following a monumental turnout that has created a prize pool of $2,662,850—a figure that comfortably outstrips the previous year’s event.
Setting the Stage for Day 2
Players will reconvene today, October 12, at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa in Northern Cyprus, as they prepare to navigate a challenging schedule of eight 60-minute levels. With each level presenting new opportunities and dangers, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The focus will be on who can survive this crucial phase and advance to Day 3, inching closer to the coveted title and a substantial payday.
Leading the Charge: Marian Virlanuta
The spotlight shines brightly on Marian Virlanuta from Romania, who has emerged as the chip leader with an impressive stack of 1,156,000 chips coming out of Day 1c. His current position marks a significant milestone in a career that has previously netted him just under $150,000 in tournament cashes. His biggest score to date was a commendable $27,185 for finishing 15th in the €2,200 High Roller at EPT Barcelona in 2018. With aspirations to set a personal best this time around, Virlanuta has the opportunity to turn that ambition into reality.
Close Pursuit: Mark Smith and Atanas Pavlov
Hot on his heels is Mark Smith from the United Kingdom, who has managed to eclipse the million mark with 1,050,000 chips. As a newcomer to the European Poker Tour circuit, Smith is on the lookout for his first EPT cash and is determined to make a significant mark in this competition.
Completing the top three is Bulgaria’s Atanas Pavlov, holding 972,000 chips. With over $1.5 million in career earnings, Pavlov stands as a seasoned competitor, currently ranked 16th in Bulgaria’s all-time money list. His previous high of $56,724 for finishing third at the €2,200 Deep Stack at EPT Barcelona 2022 further solidifies his reputation as a formidable player.
Day 2 Chip Leaders Overview
As the players gear up for today’s action, let’s take a closer look at the top ten chip counts heading into Day 2:
| Rank | Player | Country | Chip Count | Big Blinds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marian Virlanuta | Romania | 1,156,000 | 231 |
| 2 | Mark Smith | United Kingdom | 1,050,000 | 210 |
| 3 | Atanas Pavlov | Bulgaria | 972,000 | 194 |
| 4 | Roman Korenev | Russia | 692,000 | 138 |
| 5 | Recep Aydemir | Turkey | 629,000 | 125 |
| 6 | Omer Cubukcu | Turkey | 607,000 | 121 |
| 7 | Sergei Bortsov | Russia | 598,000 | 119 |
| 8 | Azizjon Rakhimov | Uzbekistan | 589,000 | 117 |
| 9 | Murat Taysi | Turkey | 583,000 | 116 |
| 10 | Tian Hao Zheng | China | 583,000 | 116 |
Stellar Performances from PokerStars Ambassadors
In an exciting twist, seven PokerStars Ambassadors remain in contention, including notable names such as Georgina James (156,000), Sebastian Huber (155,000), and reigning EPT Paris Main Event champion Barny Boatman (100,000). Their presence guarantees not only high-level poker but also a showcase of strategic play, charisma, and entertainment that fans have come to expect from such seasoned competitors.
Navigating the Next Steps
With 12 minutes left in Level 16, and blinds currently at 2,000/5,000 with a 5,000 big blind ante, the day’s action will surely bring more intensity as players must brace themselves for the increasing stakes and the relentless competition.
As payouts are set to be confirmed, anticipation builds across the tournament floor. The thrill of the EPT remains palpable, promising not just high-stakes drama, but inspiring stories of perseverance, strategy, and camaraderie within the poker community.
Keep your eyes on PokerNews for continuous updates and coverage as we head into a day packed with action, excitement, and perhaps even a few surprises!
