Calm before the storm

We're closing in on the first deal back in the Gran Casino Madrid and while the heavens open outside, the dealers are awaiting the rush of players due any minute.

It's far brighter indoors courtesy of the black cloud, thunder and lightning outside, but once the clock starts our players will be in a poker Paradise.

Right now the growing field are registering upstairs and will soon join the casino staff and gathered media in the cardroom.

We'll pick out the familiar faces regular PPT blog readers will have come to know once play gets under way, but for now, here's at a peek at the calm before the storm!