Charity Poker

Stars of the screen and poker world gathered at London’s glamorous Sketch restaurant and club for the 2007 One to One Charity Poker Tournament, sponsored by PKR.

Following the champagne reception, tournament proceedings kicked off with Radio 1’s Colin Murray inviting players to take their seats. Colin was joined by fellow poker playing celebrities Dexter Fletcher, Michael Greco, Leilani Dowding, Norman Pace, Benedict Wong and Hardeep Singh Kohli. Each of them had a bounty on their head adding an extra frisson of excitement to the event.

Also vying for the tournament title were TV presenters Grub Smith and Jon Ronson as well as many of the UK’s top poker players, including Roland de Wolfe, Marc Goodwin, Nick Gibson, WSOP bracelet winner, James Vogl and Jeff ‘Jaffacake’ Kimber.

As poker consultant on ‘Casino Royale’, Dr Tom Sambrook was at ease at the tables in such plush surroundings, although he did look somewhat concerned drawing a seat at the same table as Roland de Wolfe, Jeff Kimber and Leilani Dowding.

Proving their worth as poker players, the majority of the celebrities made it to the final two tables. Presenter of Channel 4’s popular gambling documentary “£50 says You’ll Watch This”, Hardeep Singh Kohli went out in 9th place, winning a very special and apt bubble prize – a two hour private poker lesson with top US poker pro, Liz Lieu.

Having bust out of the tournament, Roland de Wolfe stayed to support his brother Edward. He played a great game, but Edward went out just a couple of places away from the final table, looking like he could be joining his brother in the world of professional poker very soon.

The final table featured players accustomed to appearing in the world’s biggest tournaments. Nick Gibson, Jeff Kimber, Jon ‘Hamsterboy’ Huckle and Norman Pace were some of the last men standing.

In the spirit of the evening, Jon Huckle and Nick Gibson agreed a deal when heads up, playing on for bragging rights. Nick Gibson eventually emerged as the 2007 One to One PKR Charity Tournament champion. Commenting on his success, Nick said, "It was wonderful to see so many people turn out to support such a fantastic charity. The tournament was played in great spirit by poker professionals and amateurs alike."

"It’s always a pleasure to win any poker event but this was extra special as I know that when I return to defend my title next year, it will be to support all the brilliant efforts of the One to One Children’s Fund."

The poker tournament ran simultaneously with the 7th Omar Sharif Backgammon tournament sponsored by Partygammon.com. Once again, the event was at full capacity and the evening raised over £180, 000. Plans are already in motion to expand the numbers to meet demand for next year’s event.