WPT to hold event in Slovakia

BRATISLAVA, Slovakia -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Slovak Poker Sport Federation and WPT Enterprises announced today that they have partnered to launch the first land-based World Poker Tour® (WPT) event in Central and Eastern Europe —WPT Slovakia. The €4,000 + 400 Deep Stack Main Event will take place August 31 – September 4, 2009 at the Herna Golden VEGAS Casino in Bratislava, the Slovak capital.

"Slovak Poker Sport Federation is delighted to be associated with a top brand like the World Poker Tour in the creation of this unique and attractive event in the territory of Central and Eastern Europe. With the creation of WPT Slovakia we intend to emphasize Bratislava's attributes as a highly desirable destination for all poker players," said Dag Palovic, the President of the Slovak Poker Sport Federation. "The casino partner was also important to us, and Golden VEGAS is truly a location worthy of the players, the poker media, and the WPT Event."

"WPT Slovakia is a unique and exciting addition to the World Poker Tour's expanding international tournament offering," said Steve Lipscomb, WPT Founder and CEO. "We have found a great partner in Slovak Poker Sport Federation, who are truly dedicated to growing the sport of poker in the Central and Eastern European territory."

Central European Summer Poker Championship side events with buy-ins ranging from €50 to €1500 will begin August 26 and will run through the duration of the Main Event. Steve Frezer, a well-known and respected Tournament Director from the United States, will bring his professional team of dealers from around the world to provide the highest quality tournament staff.

WPT Slovakia is the fifth stop to be added to the 2009 International World Poker Tour schedule.