The Asian Poker Tour Returns to Manila: An Unforgettable 2024 Experience
The Asian Poker Tour (APT) has made its highly anticipated return to Manila, and this year it promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Kicking off on October 28 and hosting over an exhilarating 11 days, the festival is taking place at the stunning Grand Ballroom of the City of Dreams Manila. This grand event, held in collaboration with Soul Poker, marks the 42nd visit of the APT to the Philippines and heralds a “New Era” for the tournament series after a two-year hiatus.
A Feast for Poker Enthusiasts
Spanning an impressive 109 events, including satellites and a staggering 101 trophy events, this year’s APT Manila is generating waves of excitement among poker enthusiasts globally. The festival has introduced insane prize pool guarantees, exceeding a jaw-dropping ₱170 million (~$3 million), making it an enticing opportunity for both seasoned players and amateurs looking to take their shot at fame and fortune.
The day-to-day competitions have begun aggressively, with 17 players already claiming APT trophies within the first 48 hours, signaling a fierce competition that showcases the immense talent in the regional poker scene.
Timing is Everything: APPT to APT Transition
Interestingly, the APT Manila commenced just a day after the conclusion of the APPT Manila Championship, held at the nearby Okada Manila. This seamless transition allowed several Indian players who were in town for the APPT to extend their stay and take part in the APT. This strategic timing has already paid dividends, with multiple players from the APPT showing early success in the ongoing festival.
Among the notable achievements, Indian player Dilip Ajitkumar Menon made his mark by achieving his first-ever APT cash, finishing fourth in Event #1: ₱12K Philippines National Cup, securing ₱24,000 (approximately ₹34,674), a significant milestone in his poker journey.
Star Players Shine Bright
APT Manila 2024 has attracted some fabulous talent, including PokerStars India ambassador Siddharth Karia, who recently emerged from a successful run at the APPT. Although he found early success with a third-place finish in Event #9: ₱6K Hyper Turbo – NL Single Draw A-5, claiming ₱17,000 (~₹24,561), Karia announced his departure from the festival to celebrate Diwali, likely making this his only score of the series.
As the events unfolded, several players were crowned champions, setting the tone for a thrilling series.
- John Matsuda, a Japanese professional, achieved a spectacular victory in Event #11: ₱130K Single Day High Roller – Mystery Bounty. From a competitive field of 42 high rollers, Matsuda secured a grand prize of ₱2,014,950 (~$34,254), a significant chunk of which was earned through bounties.
John Matsuda – Winner of Event #11: ₱130K Single Day High Roller – Mystery Bounty
- Meanwhile, North American player Marco Espela celebrated a well-deserved win in Event #1: ₱12K Philippines National Cup, outlasting a record-setting 726 entries. His victory brought him a handsome reward of ₱1.17 million ($19,890), further solidifying the event’s acclaim and competitiveness.
Marco Espela – Winner of Event #1: ₱12K Philippines National Cup
Thrilling Moments and Big Wins
The competition has also provided thrilling moments for other players:
- Youngje Ahn from South Korea won his first-ever APT title in Event #10: ₱20K Mystery Bounty Hunter, taking home ₱1,096,680 (~$18,809), which included bounties. His incredible comeback in heads-up play showcased his skill and determination, edging out Edilberto Gopez who took home a solid ₱665,000.
Youngje Ahn – Winner of Event #10: ₱20K Mystery Bounty Hunter
- Nang Quang Nguyen of Vietnam celebrated a similar success, clinching the title in Event #2: ₱100K Single Day High Roller – Freezeout after a heads-up deal that earned both him and his opponent, David Erquiaga, a cool ₱954,750 (~$16,230) each.
Nang Quang Nguyen – Winner of Event #2: ₱100K Single Day High Roller – Freezeout
A Bright Future Ahead
As the APT continues to unfold in the bustling poker capital of Manila, the excitement is palpable. Players from across Asia and beyond are eager to participate in high-stakes games and vibrant festivities. With many more events still on the horizon, the APT Manila 2024 is set to create even more unforgettable moments.
Conclusion
For enthusiasts and casual followers alike, the APT Manila 2024 represents not just a series of poker tournaments but a celebration of skill, strategy, and collaboration in the gaming community. Keep following PokerGuru for all the latest updates and results as this captivating festival continues to unfold!
Content and Images Courtesy: Asian Poker Tour.
