Danish Poker Championships

The finals of the Danish Poker Championships took place recently at Casino Copenhagen. The prize pool, the largest ever for Danish poker at nearly half a million Danish kroners, was built through the participation of partner casinos in Odense and Vejle. Qualification rounds held over past weeks saw 312 entries of 1,500 kroners whittled down to 62 players for the seven final tables. Low starting blinds ensured plenty of play for the finalists while battling for the 250,000 kroner first prize.



The second floor of the elegant Casino Copenhagen in the SAS Hotel was a spacious venue for the finals, and the atmosphere was ­especially accommodating. Applause from around the room showed respect to every departing player, and the crowd swelled to watch the play as the end grew near. The tournament was deemed a success by all who participated. Real bright omens are not only the growing popularity of Danish poker, but the existence of casinos and managers who ad­vocate the game, as well. Casinos ­Austria, which operates three casinos in Denmark, is now looking to include poker as a big part of its future. Regular cash games operate in Odense, Vejle, and Copenhagen, and plans are under way to have a comprehensive 2005 tournament schedule ready by the start of the new year.