The Irish Open has a rich history – and never fails to attract the great and the good of the poker world, looking to add this prestigious trophy to their bulging mantelpieces.
Among the notable faces partaking today, you can find John Hesp, who defied the odds to finish up in 4th place at the 2017 WSOP, winning $2,600,000. Apart from this startling result, Hesp also stands out by virtue of the array of multi-coloured, sparkling jackets and oft-sequined hats he is famed for dressing in. He’s hard to miss!
Andy Black has a personal history almost as colourful as the Irish Open’s. It would be a tough task to paint it all here, suffice to say he’s one of Ireland’s most interesting and successful poker players. Despite his near $5 million in cashes though, the Irish Open Main Event is one to have eluded Mr Black. Can he rectify that here? The next few days will tell…