888.com UK Poker Open champion named
UNITED KINGDOM – (PRESS RELEASE) -- In a thrilling final showdown, Estonian Marek 'The Maverick' Kolk scooped the top prize at this year's 888.com UK Poker Open. He defeated UK #1 Roland De Wolfe, Theo Dalton, Dave Clayton, Simon Zach and online qualifier Alan Parkinson.
Having already beaten off competition in his heat from England rugby star, Matt Dawson, Marek dwarfed his previous biggest win of $18,000 to take the massive $250,000 first prize.
Despite strong performances from Graeme Dott, Austin Healy, Ray Parlour and Eastenders star Billy Murray the final saw 5 professional players and an online qualifier battle it out for the $540,000 prize pot.
Marek (dubbed the Maverick) has been playing poker for 8 years and beat over 100 poker professionals and online qualifiers to reach the coveted final table. His journey to take the 888.com UK Poker Open III title will broadcast on Challenge TV everyday at midnight during 23rd October – 14th November 2006.