Media Advisory - Canadian Olympic Gold Medalist, Roberto Luongo to kick-off the World Series of Poker Circuit Event at the River Rock Casino Resort on Saturday, Oct. 27

RICHMOND, BC, Oct. 25, 2012 /CNW/ - Together with Roberto Luongo and PlayNow.com, River Rock Casino Resort will kick-off the first ever World Series of Poker Circuit Event (WSOP) in Canada on Saturday, October 27 at noon.

"What a thrill to be able to host such a highly popular and world-renowned poker tournament at our four-diamond resort, the River Rock Casino Resort," said Howard Blank, Vice President, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.  The World Series of Poker Circuit at River Rock has ten events lined up from October 27 to November 7; and two online events via PlayNow.com on November 18 and 25.

Players will compete for more than $2.5 million in prize money, with the winner getting invited to play for a million dollars and a trademark gold bracelet at the National Championships' Main Event in New Orleans in May 2013.

Before the start of the tournament, Luongo will take the time to speak with the media about his WSOP experiences. Luongo finished in 639th place out of 6,598 entrants at the 2012 World Series of Poker in Las Vegas.

Information for players is available at River Rock Casino http://www.riverrock.com/wsopc/.

Two WSOP online events take place on November 18 and 25 on www.playnow.com. Online events are open to residents of B.C. and Quebec and players must be legal age to participate.

Poker fans are welcome to come and watch the tournament unfold.

River Rock Casino Resort is a four diamond resort, with all the favourite table games, over 1,000 slot machines, extraordinary food and beverage amenities and a world-class show theatre which is home to many performers and entertainers from around the world.

SOURCE: River Rock Casino Resort

Media members interested in arranging an interview with Roberto Luongo, please contact:

Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.6169
[email protected]