Cornel Cimpan(credit: WPT Live Video Updates)
The final table of the 2009 LA Poker Classic got underway at 4pm local time (Pacific) on Thursday, February 26, 2009. Chris Karagulleyan had the chip lead with 4.08 million clay pieces in his stack while Chris Ferguson brought up the rear with 1.565 million.
Despite making a valiant effort, the one-time chip leader and former WSOP Main Event champion was unable to capitalize on the bold moves he made early. 66 hands into the match, Jesus hit the rail.
Karagulleyan also saw a reversal of fortune and went from first to out in fourth place. The Commerce regular pocketed $430,963 for his efforts. Following him out to the spectator seats was online millionaire Mike “SowersUNCC” Sowers.
Tournament newcomer Binh Nguyen held the chip lead as the heads-up match against
Cornel Cimpan began. However, five and a half hours later – yes you read that right – Cimpan emerged victorious. He collects $1,686,760 for the win as well as the 2009 LA Poker Classic Crown.
Here are the final results:
1) Cornel Cimpan - $1,686,760
2) Binh Nguyen - $935,424
3) Mike Sowers - $654,797
4) Chris Karagulleyan - $430,963
5) Pat Walsh - $310,964
6) Chris Ferguson - $240,538
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