skalie and Laddies

Ladbrokes Poker has revealed its newest pro signing, Jonathan Kalmar. Known as skalie online, Kalmar came fifth in last years WSOP Main Event, cashing for $1.25m, and was the only Brit to make the final table.

The sponsorship deal, which has been on the table since the beginning of 2008, was finally agreed on Tuesday night in Vegas. Jon, however had no time to celebrate as he was playing in the WPT World Championship and signed the contract in his break!

skalie said: "I’m thrilled, I can’t wait to take up my role of Ladbrokes Poker pro in an official capacity! I’m raring to go. As part of Team Ladbrokes in 2006 I came 82nd in the main event and then finished in 5th last year let’s hope I continue to improve upon my performance."

skalie will join a core group of four sponsored players, within a 110 strong Ladbrokes Poker Team. The team will descend on Las Vegas on 2 July ready to celebrate at the exclusive Ladbrokespoker.com party held at the Voodoo Lounge on the 3rd July. Ladbrokes Poker is allowing players one day for recovery and has booked everyone to play in the $10,000 main event on day 1C (July 5th).

Edward Ihre, Ladbrokes Poker MD commented: "The signing is a formality really, Ladbrokespoker.com already considers skalie a member of the team and Laddies has been skalie’s online home for the past few years. It was only a matter of time before he joined our poker pro stable" He continued: "Skalie’s multi table expertise in tournaments will be a great asset to our team."