International Poker Open 2023: A Showcase of Skill and Strategy in Dublin
The vibrant city of Dublin, Ireland, is once again set to host one of the most anticipated events in the poker calendar—the International Poker Open (IPO)—courtesy of PokerStars. From October 22 to October 28, the Bonnington Dublin Hotel will transform into a battlefield for poker enthusiasts as they vie for the coveted title of IPO champion. With an accessible €350 buy-in for the Main Event and a whopping €250,000 guaranteed prize pool, this year’s tournament promises excitement and fierce competition.
A Look Back at 2023’s Success
The IPO’s reputation has been bolstered significantly by captivating tournaments and notable player performances. The highlight of the previous year’s event occurred when Steven Rothheut from Belgium triumphed over a formidable field of 794 entrants, pocketing an impressive €45,240 for first place. In a thrilling heads-up battle, Rothheut bested Ireland’s Barry Moore, who finished in second place with a prize of €27,810. Completing the podium, Daniel O’Herlihy also from Ireland, secured third place and a reward of €19,870.
2023 Main Event Final Table Results
| Place | Player | Country | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steven Rothheut | Belgium | €45,240 |
| 2 | Barry Moore | Ireland | €27,810 |
| 3 | Daniel O’Herlihy | Ireland | €19,870 |
| 4 | Des Farrell | Ireland | €15,050 |
| 5 | Richie O’Neill | Ireland | €11,980 |
| 6 | Ray Wheatley | Ireland | €9,190 |
| 7 | Xuanyu Zheng | Ireland | €6,650 |
| 8 | Darren Harbinson | Northern Ireland | €4,540 |
| 9 | Pablo Villena | Spain | €3,600 |
Main Event Kickoff: What to Expect
The IPO Main Event kicks off today, October 22, at 2 p.m. with the first of six starting flights. Participants are equipped with an initial stack of 30,000, and the tournament will follow a structure of 40-minute levels. Players will battle through 15 levels, and late registration will remain open until the end of level 9. Notably, players can re-enter once per flight if they desire to try their luck again.
The action begins with blinds starting at 100/100—the inaugural level establishing a solid foundation for the tournament. Following this initial phase, a big blind ante will be included in all subsequent levels, intensifying the stakes.
Once Day 1a concludes, the surviving players will join their counterparts from the upcoming five flights for Day 2, which is scheduled to commence at 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 27.
The Schedule: A Week of Poker Excitement
For those planning to participate or follow the tournament, here’s a detailed schedule of the €350 Main Event:
| Date | Day | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oct. 23 | Day 1a | 2:00 p.m. |
| Oct. 24 | Day 1b | 2:00 p.m. |
| Oct. 25 | Day 1c | 2:00 p.m. |
| Oct. 26 | Day 1d | 1:00 p.m. |
| Day 1e (Turbo) | 8:00 p.m. | |
| Oct. 27 | Day 1f (Hyper-Turbo) | 9:30 a.m. |
| Day 2 | 1:00 p.m. | |
| Oct. 28 | Day 3 – Final Day | 1:00 p.m. |
As the series unfolds, players and spectators alike can look forward to a week filled with poker strategy, skill, and camaraderie, all set against the charming backdrop of Dublin.
Stay Tuned for Live Updates
For poker fans eager to catch every twist and turn of the action, PokerNews will provide live updates straight from the tournament floor. Whether you’re following your favorite player or witnessing the unfolding drama of the competition, the IPO is sure to deliver unparalleled excitement for all.
Dublin awaits as players prepare to go all-in for a chance at victory and the rich rewards that come with it. Let the games begin!
