PokerStars sending player to Mount Everest

(PRESS RELEASE) -- PokerStars has helped thousands of players tackle the theoretical mountain that is the World Series of Poker* main event or a leg of one of the world's most prestigious poker tours, like the PokerStars.com European Poker Tour.

But this week, PokerStars are going further. Or rather higher. Much higher.

PokerStars announced they will be sending one lucky player on an all expenses paid trip to a real mountain - and not just any mountain, but the highest mountain in the world - Mount Everest.

The ascent to the summit of Mount Everest has always stood as one of mankind's greatest feats, a brutal test of endurance achieved by only a handful of experienced climbers.

PokerStars has announced it is sponsoring the ascent of Mount Everest by the Patagonian Brothers Damien and Willie Benegas, as well as a winning PokerStars player who will accompany the pair to the base camp in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Not only that, but the two brothers intend to play poker along the way and even when they reach the top. Which would make it the highest poker game anywhere in the world. Talk about a big deal and high stakes.

They will also be playing for charity, raising money for a foundation that works to keep Everest free from the rubbish that accumulates on the ascent. PokerStars will be donating $5,000 to the foundation.

We may not be able to send anyone right to the top of Everest with them, but one lucky PokerStars player will be able to meet up with the brothers at their base camp before they make their epic ascent.

PokerStars will be holding a single $1.10 tournament at 18.00 ET on 30 May 2010 on PokerStars.com. The winner** will be off to the Everest base camp to see the sheer scale of the mountain themselves