In case you missed it, the PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) wrapped up it’s stop in beautiful Barcelona and it was nothing short of a success. Now the EPT is setting it’s sights on sunny Cyprus as its next stop in the tour on October 11-22, 2023. With that in mind, Gent’s Post got the chance to chat with Canadian pro Parker Talbot about all things poker and why Canada needs to be taken more seriously.
See also: Domination: Simon Wiciak takes home EPT Barcelona title
Poker in Canada
Poker is a global phenomenon that brings out celebrities, pros and amateurs together. It’s reach is widespread and is increasingly growing in popularity. Canadians are increasingly interested in taking up poker both leisurely and professionally. But there are some challenges to growing the game in the great white north. So what would a Canadian pro want to see for this game? “NAPT [North American Poker Tour] in Canada! It would be so incredible to get some reputable poker tournament stops in Canada where people will actually travel here for, instead of Canadians against Canadians only.”
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In order to improve scalability of the game across the country, there will need to be more tournaments held and more lights shined on some of the best and brightest being cranked out of the poker mill. Talbot notes in order for that to happen, there would need to be “more respect from the world as a sport and just more visibility presumably, feel like that’s always the key!”
Career Moments
With every EPT tournament, there is an opportunity make a career. To become a household name. To earn your spot amongst the legends. So when it comes to playing in the EPT, each player has a unique perspective on it. “EPT Barcelona is always a super exciting stop for me. It’s my second-favourite after Prague and it’s always such a good time,” notes Talbot. “Especially as I become an old man and enjoy the beach more and more.”
So for anyone looking to start their journey and compete in one of the many tournaments put on by PokerStars, Talbot has some strategic advice. “My advice is always the same, make some kind of plan: 90% play, 10% study and just GRIND!” he notes. “Just put your head down and truck on as long as you can. Playing lots and getting a feel for the landscape of the game is really the most important thing in poker, in my humble opinion.”
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See also: Win a trip to Las Vegas w/ PokerStars & Oracle Red Bull Racing
Next Stop
EPT Cyprus kicks off October 11-22, 2023 and that will be followed by EPT Prague December 6-17, 2023. EPT Cyprus takes place at the stunning Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa, a 5-star resort on the island’s north coast, boasting a new poker venue that only opened last year. The festival begins with Eureka Poker Tour events before bumping up the buy-ins and prestige for the EPT. For all the latest on tournaments and opportunities, check out PokerStars.
