Campaigns run by WPT Global Ambassadors allow free participation of a few poker players in the WPT World Championship, which happens at the elite Wynn Las Vegas. WPT Ambassador Andrew Neeme gave LoriAnn Persinger, a US Navy Veteran and poker enthusiast, a pass to the prestigious tournament, setting her up for the possibility of winning big. Since she resides in Las Vegas, Persinger often participates in daily events with lower stakes around the city. Being invited to the Wynn was a much-desired opportunity that didn’t need traveling.
When December 12 rolled around, the WPT World Championship was not just another day at the office for Persinger. But the largest buy-in event she had ever attended. Day 1 in the Poker Room provided what she needed. A 229,000 stack and even more money to play with on Day 2. And just like the opening day, she kept a high standard of play, taking home a massive 1,155,000 stack after the play ended. Popping money bubble did not faze her whatsoever, let alone the fact that her stack increased to over 3 million. After getting the jitters out and talking to other folks around the table, Persinger stayed strong. She maintained her composure at the live-streamed feature table.
When Persinger’s opponent made a flush with Threes full of Kings, her sense of calm was disrupted. Loses nearly half of her stack. Still, she rebounded with Aces against his Kings and ended the hand after bringing her stack up to 3,055,000. She finished the day 40th overall. A superb finish for one of the game’s rising stars ahead of Day 4’s action. With the final table set, Persinger will play against luminaries. Like 2015 WPT World Champion Asher Conniff, Jeff Madsen, and other pros ready to win the title and $4,146,400 in cash.