Bally's Blackack Offers $150,000

"We had a great turnout and we attribute the great response to the fact that we had a $60,000 guaranteed top prize," said Adolph Lepre, director of table games and a solid force in the steady growth and success of the event, now about to be played for the 23rd time.

"But besides the high level of prize money the tournament has become a social event for many repeat players and this is supported by the total package that is offered with the $500 buy-in," he said. That package includes a two-night hotel stay, royal reception, comp breakfast, private banquet, awards ceremony and magical tournament gift.

The banquet will actually be a live poolside feast with a theme harkening back to days of old when knights were bold. The theme for this event is Bally's "Sir Ace A Lot's" so don't be surprised if you see a side of beef being turned on a spit over a fire, or serving wenches and tankards of ale. Bally's always has a surprise at the tournaments.

The total prize money, which depends on the amount of players entered, will hit advertised levels if 250 players sign up. After the guaranteed first place for $60,000, other projected payoffs for the final table include: 2nd- $25,000, 3rd- $20,000, 4th-, $13,000, 5th-$7,000, 6th-$4,500, wild card $3,500 and 7th through 36th, $500 each.

"We already have a good amount of entries as apparently the success of the last event and the amount of prize money has been spread by word-of-mouth from those who played with us last April," said Lepre. "If the pace of sign-ups continues, we could very well be looking at a record turnout and that means the prize money will be increased as this is a full-equity tournament for players."

To enter this realm of riches, call Merlin at 1-800-38BALLY, ext. 1511 for more information and reservations.

Heard it on the River is published courtesy of Jackpot Magazine, the South's leading gaming newspaper.