Changes Discussed in Exclusive Interview:
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The WSOP Toronto is gearing up for its return this week at the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, following a successful debut last year. This marks the second consecutive year that WSOP and GGPoker ON are bringing the prestigious series to the Canadian province of Ontario.
Last year, the festival gathered a large crowd, received high praise, but also faced challenges such as long lines, capped entries, and registration frustrations due to cutoffs. This time around, the GC Casino has implemented changes to enhance the experience, particularly by expanding tournament capacity and offering online registration.
Registration commenced on April 1st, and seats are quickly filling up. The casino has also continued its partnership with GGPoker for online satellites for the Main Event. Hundreds of players have already snagged their seats online on GGPoker Ontario.
However, an online registration fee of 5.5% has stirred some criticism in the community.
Let's chat with the casino on the changes made since last year, preparations for a potentially larger turnout, and what players can expect this year and beyond.
Recalling Last Year's WSOP-C Toronto
When the poker room at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto opened in August 2022, it represented the first casino poker room in the city. Despite teething problems as live poker was new for many team members, the team was incredibly proud to host the largest poker tournament in Ontario after just seven months of operation. While there were a few hurdles, they were generally content with the turnout, despite it being their first time handling such a massive event.
Learning from the Past
The primary challenges from last year revolved around securing various approvals and discussions with stakeholders. One of the key challenges was the lack of online registration for out-of-province players or those from distant areas of Ontario. Although they managed well with in-person registrations, they acknowledge that online registration would have broadened the attendee base.
Improvements for This Year
This year, they have added online registration, aiming to cater to a wider player demographic.
Furthermore, the Great Canadian Rewards membership is now part of the participation requirements, and they have introduced a more diverse tournament lineup, including events for Ladies, Seniors, and Pot Limit Omaha players. Additionally, the number of tournament tables has increased, increasing their capacity for participants.
Impact of GGPoker Partnership
GGPoker does not own the poker room at GC Toronto, but they have an exclusive partnership granting GC Toronto the privilege to host WSOP events, including Circuit Rings and Bracelet events. This partnership has led to upgrades such as high-definition TVs, modern furniture, and a dedicated player lounge in the poker room. However, the day-to-day operation of the poker room remains under the management of GC Toronto and Great Canadian Entertainment, as GGPoker does not operate land-based gaming services.
Addressing Queues and Registration Issues
To accommodate more players, they have increased the number of tournament tables from 45 to 60. Additionally, online registration is expected to streamline the process, reducing long queues when in-person registration opens.
5.5% Registration Fee and Its Rationale
The 5.5% fee that goes with online registration covers service and processing costs to ensure a secure, fast, and efficient online ticket-buying experience. The fee structure is comparable to those of other online purchase platforms, with service fees typically ranging between 10% to 20% of the ticket price.
Are there any exclusive promotions or incentives for players who qualify online through GGPoker?
Players can qualify for Main Event flights through online satellites on GGPoker.
Expansion Plans for WSOP-C Toronto and Other Major Poker Events
We are currently in talks with GGPoker regarding future plans for WSOP-C Toronto. While we don't have specific details to share at this moment, our goal is to continue providing world-class poker experiences at GC Toronto and grow the event progressively in the years to come.
Beyond WSOP-C, there are plans afoot to host additional major poker festivals at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto. While we can't disclose any details yet, our commitment to bringing more top-notch poker events to GC Toronto remains unwavering.
Events often make adjustments to improve attendee experiences. These changes might include efficient queue systems, increased capacity for entries, or flexible registration policies. For specific updates about WSOP Toronto 2023, it's best to check WSOP announcements or press releases.
- The 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Toronto at Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto is expected to attract a larger crowd, as it is held for the second consecutive year in collaboration with GGPoker ON.
- Casino stakeholders have made adjustments to tackle challenges from last year's WSOP-C Toronto, such as securing approvals, implementing online registration, and improving tournament capacity for 2023.
- To cater to a broader player demographic, changes have been made this year, including the addition of online registration, expanded tournament lineup, and increased number of tournament tables, aimed at providing world-class poker experiences.
- The online registration fee of 5.5% at WSOP Toronto 2023 covers service and processing costs to ensure a secure, fast, and efficient online ticket-buying experience, comparable to those of other online purchase platforms.
