James Anderson Wins Skycity Auckland's World Series of Poker Finals

NEW ZEALAND – (PRESS RELEASE) -- Confidence, luck and lots of practice proved to be a winning combination for Scottish-born Aucklander James Anderson, who walked away from SKYCITY Auckland's World Series of Poker Satellite final yesterday with an amazing prize package worth nearly $40,000.

The prize includes automatic entry into the showpiece event of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in the United States, the $US10,000 entry No Limit Texas Hold'em Championship, held from July 28 until August 10, as well as accommodation and return airfares for two to Las Vegas and NZ$10,000 spending money.

The World Series of Poker is the biggest event on the world poker stage, it is universally considered the ultimate achievement in any poker player's career to gain the coveted title of World Champion. It is anticipated that this year's field will exceed 8000 players, with an overall prize pool of more than $US80 million.

Anderson was presented his prize yesterday by Auckland's General Manager of Gaming, David Christian who wished Anderson all the best as he chases his ultimate poker dream in Las Vegas next month. "It will be one of the greatest experiences of his life, and I wish him all the best at the WSOP. We'll certainly keep a close eye on his progress."

Anderson's final winning hand of an Ace and a Seven nudged out second place winner Martin Cardno's Ace and Four when another Seven turned up in the community cards.

Cardno, who chose to wear dark sunglasses and a baseball cap for the finals, took away $6,000 cash. Andres Birt received $5,000 for his third place.