Experience could be key for Cuccurullo

Many of our qualifiers are playing in the WSOP for the first time, but one man who won’t be overwhelmed by the sense of occasion is Jeff Cuccurullo (pictured right) after he cashed in the Main Event last year.

Having qualified with Paradise Poker, the Canadian finished in a hugely creditable 284th place, winning over $30,000 for his troubles – and even making an appearance at the feature table along the way.

Although the hands didn’t come during his time in the spotlight, keen WSOP viewers will remember one hand that took place before Jeff’s eyes, as Russian pro Vitaly Lunkin had his Aces cracked by 5-2 off.

“It looked like a crazy play on TV but Lunkin had been raising pre-flop a lot, so the guy was entitled to three-bet on his table image alone,” recalled Jeff, “But of course he got lucky in the end.”

Joined by friend and fellow Paradise player Robert Lima (pictured left) in today’s event, Jeff admits he hasn’t been running particularly well of late, but is hopeful he can make an impact.

“I had to accrue 32,000 FPPs to earn this package, while Robert used his FPPs to buy-in to one of the freeroll events,” he began.

“Neither of us is a professional so it’s just a great chance to enjoy a holiday in Vegas and entry into the WSOP.

“But that doesn’t mean we won’t be taking it seriously, we’re going to play our game and with a little luck along the way, we’re hopeful we can do well.”

Shuffle up and deal!

We're under way at the Rio and there's a sense of anticipation in the pavilion, with the chatter centred on which big name pro could be seated at their table.

Sponsored players, VIPs and qualifiers alike will all be craving the WSOP bracelet on offer at the climax of Event #45, but they must first negotiate a field containing the likes of Phil Hellmuth - even if he is yet to turn up!

The $1,500 buy-in has once again attracted a large number of players, with the game’s recognisable faces expected to join the poker mortals as time goes on.


The structure is one of the more aggressive in the WSOP, with 4,500 starting stacks soon put under pressure by the introduction of antes at Level 5, so expect some fireworks on Day One.

We’ll be following the Paradise Team throughout as they seek to make their mark on the world’s best poker festival.

Good times, great shots at Lavo

It was a night to remember as the Palazzo's own Lavo played host to the Paradise VIPs on Wednesday, with a few sore heads - but some great photos - from our big night out.

Our players were treated to bottle service on a private balcony, before moving upstairs for drinks and the dancefloor.

And even when the lights came on at 4am, there was no stopping the party spirit, as our 40-strong group hit the gaming floors and bars on the Vegas strip.

Here are the photos...

Party Time!

Paradise knows how to party in Vegas and right now we're engaging in a little pre-party drinks in the Palazzo suite.

Next stop is Lavo, the Italian restaurant/nightclub downstairs, but for now we can make do with a free bar, karaoke and some pool!

Check out the pictures below...

The United Nations of Paradise

The considerable English contingent braved hangovers, jet lags and sleep deprivation to support their boys in the World Cup this morning.

With the US playing simultaneously on another screen, even the effects of a first night in Vegas couldn't keep the fans down, as the nerves jangled until the final kick.

There was jubiliation first at Jermaine Defoe's opener and further girlish screams as Rooney, Gerrard and Lampard all had chances to make it more comfortable - yet the celebrations at the final whistle were quickly muted by a late USA winner.

It meant England lost the Group C summit to their trans-atlantic cousins, leaving little sentiment for the 'special relationship' in the Palazzo Suite.

The result also means another early morning on Sunday for the English, giving the US soccer team even less fans than on the gaming floor downstairs! ;-)

Welcome to VIP Vegas

Our players are starting to arrive in Sin City and their first stop has been the incredible suite here at the Palazzo.

With a complimentary bar, pool table, gym and cinema at their disposal, they'll feel like they're running hot from the moment they arrive.

Check out the pictures below...


Your wish is our command! Players get glamorous service in the Palazzo suite.


Never miss a beat... We've had World Cup action on this morning.


Jet lag becomes a distant memory in the glorious bathroom on offer.


Shoot for the stars - the pool table is already proving popular.

Team Paradise set to hit Vegas

Team Paradise is on its way to the home of poker for the 2010 WSOP and we're taking around 40 players with us as we highroll into Las Vegas, NV.

Sponsored stars and online qualifiers alike will be treated to a VIP view of Sin City, complete with chauffeur driven jeeps, concierge service and seven-day access to a complimentary suite and bar.

Our guys will be staying at the heart of the strip with the Venetian's cousin - the Palazzo - with plenty of action planned even before we stump up their $1,500 buy-in for WSOP Event 45.


The Paradise blog will give you gory details of the party at the legendary Lavo, snaps from the Grand Canyon and every prop bet or bad beat tale from across the pond.

We'll also have the very latest news, gossip and reaction once we shuffle up and deal at the Rio, with hopes running high that the Paradise players can go deep in the No-Limit Hold'em tournament.

So make sure you join us from Tuesday, June 22nd and follow the VIP experience as it unfolds, because what happens in Vegas is worth shouting about!

See you soon folks...