WSOP Circuit Returns with New Schedule

The 2010-2011 World Series of Poker Circuit schedule has been released, with a brand new model designed to expand upon the series’ strengths while addressing some of the weaknesses of the series. This year’s circuit will include 12 events, with the first one occurring at Horseshoe Council Bluffs in Iowa on August 19.

The new format of the circuit is designed to attract more players who may have been intimidated by the high cost of entry traditionally associated with WSOP Circuit events. At most of this year’s events, the buy-in for the Main Events will be reduced to $1,500. In addition, structures and payouts at all events will be standardized so that players know what to expect going into any WSOP Circuit event.

The biggest events on the WSOP Circuit tour will be four “regional championships.” These four events will have the traditional $10,000 buy-in, and will have two hours of national television coverage each.

Another exciting addition to the circuit will be a rankings system. In each event, players will be able to earn points based on how they finish. At the end of the season, the top 100 players in the point standings will qualify to play in a season-ending national championship event.

World Series of Poker Ty Stewart said that these chances were made to reinvigorate the WSOP Circuit.

"We recognized the WSOP Circuit Events needed a shot in the arm,” Stewart said, “and we believe we’ve responded with steroids. The new model is exactly what the WSOP is all about, giving poker players of all bankrolls the chance for compete for the kind of fame, fortune and respect that comes only with a WSOP bracelet and a national television audience.”

This season marks the 7^th year of play on the World Series of Poker Circuit. The tour was started to extend the World Series of Poker brand beyond the yearly tournament series in Las Vegas. This year’s circuit will include stops in Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Biloxi, Lake Tahoe, Atlantic City, Tunica, San Diego, St. Louis and Las Vegas, before coming to a conclusion in New Orleans.