Mackey and Elezra claim first WSOP bracelets
This year’s World Series of Poker (WSOP) continues to see some of the bigger names being defeated by relative newcomers, with several players claiming their first bracelets in the face of tough opposition.
One of the biggest shocks so far came as the 21-year old amateur James Mackey earned his first bracelet as well as around $730,000 after winning a $5,000 No Limit Hold’em event.
The Columbia, Missouri-based player admitted that he had to take time off from his college studies in order to attend the event and plans to return to school despite his winnings.
Eli Elezra also scooped his first gold bracelet, though the 46-year old pro has been playing at WSOP events since 1999.
Elezra’s victory, which saw him walk away with $198,000, was even more important to him as it came against ‘the Prince of Poker’ Scotty Nguyen.
“He is such a great player,” said Elezra.
“To win this is amazing. But to win against a player like Scotty - that makes it all the more meaningful to me.”