The day that Lebanese poker players have been longing for has finally arrived. Today is the day that we will crown the National Champion of poker, awarding the lucky man or woman the largest payday this region has ever seen, $606,000 in crisp cash.
Our field of 207 has been cut down to just 28, and by early morning light we should have one player holding all of the chips. The room is abuzz with power saws, welders, carpet layers, and light technicians as the staff is hurriedly preparing the room for the conclusion of the event. There is a final table arena being built in the center of the stage, anxiously awaiting our final nine players later in the day.
The action gets underway in a little more than 30 minutes, at 4:00pm local time. We'll be back then with all of the bets, raises, and folds live from the Casino du Liban.