The Zavidovo Open Lands in Russia from 16 – 23 August, 2008
Poker is considered a sport in Russia. Yes, the government officially declared the game was a sport, which opens many doors for poker in that country. The Zavidovo Open, an invitational, beginning on the 16th of August, has full government sanction. The biggest names in Russia such as Vitaly Lunkin, Alex Kravchenko and Ivan Demidov (one of the November Nine) have received their invitations. A few big name plays from outside of the nation such as Lithuanian-born Australian player Tony G, the American Phil Ivey and Finnish powerhouse Patrik Antonius will also make their way to the Zavidovo Resort.
The Zavidovo Resort is about 60 miles away from Russia's capital (Moscow). It's pretty posh and frequented by Russia's elite including government officials and other well-to-do people. As a result of casino cash (and perhaps the legalization of poker in Russia), the economy in this former communist country is booming.
The organizers expect at least 90 players for the Main Event, which has a $10,000 buy-in. This should easily break the record held by the Moscow Millions tournament . The tournament structure gives plenty of wiggle room for players. They start with 20,000 chips and the first level of 50/100 lasts for three full hours. Subsequent levels are two hours long.
In addition to the Main Event, there will be several other tourneys including the fourth leg of the Russia Cup, which has a $5,000 buy-in, a few $2,000 buy-in tournaments and a $5,000 pot-limit Omaha event with unlimited rebuys.
For more information on this tournament, visit http://zavidovo-open.ru/en/ .