World Series Of Poker -- Dana Castaneda Wins $1,000 No-Limit Hold'em Event

Inspired by her 94-year-old grandmother’s dying words, Dana Castaneda entered into the World Sereis of Poker ladies event last week where she, coincidentally, finished in 94th place. She took her $1,768 in prize money and entered into event no. 54, a $1,000 no-limit hold’em tournament. She was determined to win for her grandmother.

“I was like, ‘Grammy, you said we were going to win,’” Castaneda said. “It’s truly amazing. I love her. I just wish she could have been here to see it.”

The 31-year-old waitress and recreational poker player (who learned to play just seven years ago) was the first woman to win an open event in the World Series of Poker since Vanessa Selbst did last year. Castaneda topped a player field of 2,883 taking home her first gold bracelet and $454,207.

Castaneda started the final table as the shortest stack. She told her husband she would be the first out, but ninth place still came with a $30,000 cash. She was surprised every time she went all in and doubled up. She was more shocked when other players were busting out before her.

She played heads up with Jason Bigelow who was trying to win Canada an 11th gold bracelet, but it was Castaneda who came out on top.

Castaneda’s victory marks the 22nd non-ladies event win by a woman in WSOP history.

Take a look at the final table results:

For complete coverage of the summer poker festival, check out our WSOP landing page.

Photo Credit: Eddie Malluk/WSOP

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