With the Asian Poker Tour (APT) kicking off in Macau on August 12th, a six strong ‘Poker Pack’ has formed consisting of some of Asia’s top talents.
In an attempt to bring publicity to the event and heighten the profile of poker in the region, the Pack will adopt an unofficial ambassadorial role. The untapped Asian market is seen as a potential financial goldmine. The inception of Chinese players into the online poker world would signify a new ‘boom’.
The ‘Poker Pack’ is fronted by savvy poker pro J.C. Tran. With two WSOP bracelets, a WPT title and $7.8 million in career winnings to his name, Tran has excellent tournament pedigree. He is joined by Vietnamese sensation Nam Le, who triumphed in the APPT Macau High Roller event last year, and totals $5.9 million in career earnings.
Quinn Do and Steve ‘MuGGyLiCiOus’ Sung are two of lesser known members, although both have racked up over $2 million in tournament winnings, and endured success in the World Series. David ‘Chino’ Rheem, known for his relentless aggression and rebellious image, is known for his 2008 WSOP Final table exploits and victory in the $15,000 Doyle Brunson Five Diamond Classic.
Kwan Soo Lee is the unknown entity from the group, and with a background in MMPORG Starcraft, he is hoping to emulate the likes of Bertrand ‘Elky’ Grospellier and Hevad Khan, who also made the transition from fantasy realm to poker felt.
The first event of the APT in Macau is August 12-15, with satellites running on PokerStars and Titan Poker.