Patrick “Egption” Tardif: From Saskatchewan to Poker Stardom
Image courtesy of World Poker Tour (WPT)
When it comes to the Canadian poker scene, few names stand out as prominently as Patrick Tardif. Known in the online poker community as “Egption,” Tardif has carved a unique niche for himself, boasting an impressive record of over $11 million in earnings across various online platforms. Originally from the vast prairies of Saskatchewan, he now calls Toronto home, where he continues to make waves in the world of poker.
A Natural Fit for WPT Global
Given his immense success and popularity, it was only fitting that Tardif was welcomed into the prestigious roster of ambassadors for WPT Global. He joins an elite circle that features poker icons such as Phil Ivey, Brad Owen, Xuan Liu, and even NHL star Phil Kessel. Since taking on this role, Tardif has dedicated himself to traveling and representing the brand, including a recent trip to Montreal for the WPT Playground Championship.
The New & Improved Playground
Reflecting on the changes at the Playground Poker Club since his last visit in 2018, Tardif shared his astonishment at the transformative upgrades: “It’s like a full-fledged resort, three floors, all the tables and slot machines, the new and improved poker room,” he remarked in an interview with PokerNews. He emphasized how the venue maintained its unique vibe, which may puzzle first-time visitors who enter the “dungeony” yet welcoming atmosphere.
Tournament Insights
During his time at the championship, Tardif showcased his skills by entering multiple tournaments, including a CAD $1,100 WPT Playground Prime Championship. Although he managed to cash in for $2,601 with a 73rd-place finish, he faced a tough time in subsequent events, including the CAD $10K High Roller, where he ultimately lost out after facing off against poker veteran Darren Elias.
His tournament statistics tell an interesting story: while Tardif has accumulated a respectable lifetime earning of over $500,000 since his debut in 2014, this includes notable finishes like a runner-up position at the WPT Fallsview and a solid performance at the 2023 WSOP Main Event.
Live Play and the Meet-Up Game Experience
Beyond tournament play, Tardif has been actively engaging in cash games, further enriching his poker experience. Recently, he participated in a meet-up game (MUG) featuring fellow WPT Global ambassadors and poker personalities. Tardif humorously noted, “Anytime I play the meet-up game here, I know the player pool jumps for joy. They know I’m there to dump money.” Despite his losses at the lower stakes, he gained valuable table experience and observed his peers, particularly Xuan Liu, racking up considerable wins.
Welcoming Phil Kessel
In a striking crossover of sports and poker, Tardif shared his excitement about the latest addition to the WPT Global ambassador team—three-time Stanley Cup champion Phil Kessel. “He is one of the coolest guys I’ve ever met,” Tardif expressed. “Very chill, and the biggest thing I appreciate with him is just that he’s very passionate about poker.” This interaction emphasizes the camaraderie that poker fosters, bridging gaps between different worlds of skill and competition.
Upcoming Opportunities and $5 Million Freeroll
Looking ahead, Tardif highlighted an exciting opportunity for both seasoned players and newcomers alike: the $5 million freeroll scheduled for December at the WPT World Championship. “Club WPT Gold is hosting the freeroll, and I think I’ve given about 18 seats out,” Tardif explained. Interested participants can use the code ‘EGPT’ for a chance to win a coveted seat, creating an additional layer of excitement around the upcoming events.
Tardif himself will be present at the WPT World Championship in Las Vegas, noting this will mark his first time playing a full series there in years. He described the Wynn as “one of the most beautiful places for poker,” reflecting on the high standards of the venue, which pair perfectly with the allure of Las Vegas.
Conclusion
With Patrick “Egption” Tardif leading the way, poker enthusiasts in Canada and beyond can look forward to an energized and vibrant future for the game. With his wealth of experience, passion for poker, and a growing network of poker players and personalities, Tardif is sure to leave an indelible mark on the poker landscape.
Stay tuned as we follow Tardif and other WPT Global ambassadors throughout their journeys, bringing you insights and updates from every thrilling event within the poker community.
Article by Chad Holloway, PR & Media Manager for PokerNews
Photos courtesy of World Poker Tour (WPT) / Alicia Skillman
