The Irish Open is legendary for the “craic” both on and off the felt, and this year, we’re turning up the excitement with the Shamrock Showdown – a thrilling mix of fun, fierce competition and outrageous challenges.
Hosted by Irish Open sponsor PokerStars, the Shamrock Showdown is a leaderboard battle with teams fielded by members of PokerStars Team Pro, Irish Open Ambassadors, online qualifiers and poker personalities – all aiming to rack up the most points throughout the festival.
Poker will take centre-stage in the Shamrock Showdown but teams will also be earning points in a series of exciting off-the-felt challenges. No one will forget last year’s hilarious England v Ireland challenge and the sight of a sodden Parker “Tonkaaaap” Talbot barrelling through obstacles on a rapidly deflating inflatable horse outside the RDS.
Among those getting involved this year are Irish Open Ambassadors Chris Dowling and Karen Muir alongside stars from the PokerStars roster such as Global Poker Award winners Benjamin Spragg, Marle Spragg and Caitlin Comeskey plus Dublin’s own Fintan Hand. Other players taking part include Emerald Pass winners such as Newcastle poker player Dan, who will be heading to Dublin for one of his first-ever live poker experiences.
The remaining captains will be awarding more Emerald Passes through competitions and giveaways on their streaming and social media channels – so stay tuned for your chance to join the action!
The PokerStars-sponsored Irish Open, which recently won Best Stand-Alone Festival at the Global Poker Awards, is Ireland’s largest and richest poker event boasting a €2.5 million guaranteed Main Event and an extended 12-day schedule. The festival is taking place from April 10-21 at the Royal Dublin Society. Daily qualifiers are now running on PokerStars so don’t miss your chance to compete in Dublin next month.
