Poker Dealer Victorious at Red River Round Up
Vikram Vijay
Thackerville, OK – Vikram “Vik” Vijay, of Pittsford, NY, was champion in the $1,000+100 no limit Texas hold'em contest Sunday, August 26th, in the annual “Red River Round Up” at the Winstar Casino. Vik collected $230,000 for 1st in the 1,000-player field.
From August 23-26, players came from all over to drill the tables and strike a well of a payout and a piece of the $1,000,000 prize pool. Among those looking for that Texas Tea were notable professional players Greg Raymer, TJ Cloutier, and Kido Pham.
33 players from days one and two, and 34 players from day three of the tournament came together on Sunday to battle for first place.
Day one of the event was filled with excitement as fans watched TJ Cloutier maintain his chip stack. “I've only had a pair of nines,” TJ said after hours of play. “ I haven't seen any face cards.” He survived.
When day two arrived, locals and amateurs were the main attraction. “We have a lot more action tonight,” commented Poker Room Manager, Jay Wiles. “There are a lot of local favorites we are sweating in!”
With day three came Greg Raymer and Kido Pham whose struggles turned up no profit. They went out early and left the dirty work to Vikram Vijay. The day came to a close and Vik secured his $105,700 chip stack.
The last day of the tournament beamed with energy. Ten remaining players gathered on the final table for a vicious fight to first. Cameras were rolling and a large crowd gathered when TJ Cloutier and Vikram Vijay went heads-up.
31 hands into battle, TJ Cloutier raised from small blind. Vik announced all-in and TJ called. Vik showed a pair of three's against TJ's Ace Jack. TJ flopped an ace and Vik hit a miracle three on the river to win it all.
Upon winning, Vik announced his retirement. “I am retiring as a poker dealer and moving to Vegas!” In response Greg Raymer says, “Now don't spend it all in one place.” Along with the first place prize of $230,000 he also received a Red River Round Up custom bracelet.
“Our players are important to us and we like to show them that. The staff came together and worked really hard and I think it showed tonight,” said Director of Table Games, Daniel Lantz. “Next year's will be even better.” Kido Pham, Greg Raymer, TJ Cloutier and Vikram Vijay all agreed.
The Winstar has an elegant poker room boasting 46 tables and a lavish player's lounge. There is a special high-stakes poker room and plenty of moving room between tables The luxurious casino holds a variety of slots along with 50 table games offering black jack, three-card poker, and more. Now this is a premier casino! For more information contact Winstar Casino at (580) 276-4229 or www.winstarcasinos.com .