PokerWorks

Poker Royalty, an agency for professional poker players, has announced the signing of two popular pros to its roster of clients – Bill Edler and Patrik Antonius. The worldwide management and representation of both pros will include marketing, sponsorships, licensing, and speaking appearances.

Edler has been a professional poker player for a number of years but recently made a splash on the tournament poker circuit with several World Poker Tour final tables, including a win at the 2007 WPT Gulf Coast Poker Championship. He also won a 2007 World Series of Poker bracelet in the $5000 no-limit hold’em six-handed event, in addition to finishing in an impressive 23rd place in the 2007 WSOP main event. He made nearly $3.5 million in tournament winnings in 2007 alone.

Since signing with Poker Royalty, Edler has secured an online poker sponsorship deal with Full Tilt Poker and was invited to play in the 2008 NBC National Heads-Up Poker Championship.

Edler commented, “It is an honor to be represented by Poker Royalty. They are, of course, on top of the profession. In addition, it is a fantastic group of my friends who work at Poker Royalty. I could not be more pleased.”

Antonius, 27, has quickly risen in the poker world to become one of the most widely respected online and live tournament and cash game pros. He regularly plays at the highest levels of the game, including the “Big Game” in Bobby’s Room at Bellagio in Las Vegas, and ranks as Finland’s all-time leading tournament money winner.

“Poker Royalty works with some of the biggest names in poker,” said Antonius, “creating for them the kind of opportunities no other company can provide. I am very excited about the new relationship with Poker Royalty.”

The company’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Chris Porter, discussed both signings. First, about Edler, he said, “Bill has a very bright future ahead of him, and we look forward to working with him throughout his career.” And of Antonius, he added, “Patrik is one of those rare combinations of natural abilities, looks and raw talent that can transcend the game of poker. Add Poker Royalty’s resources and core business relationships, and Patrik will be an even brighter star on the tour and off.”

Poker Royalty was founded in 2003 by Brian Balsbaugh, who is now the CEO of the ever-growing Las Vegas-based company. The agents have negotiated over 300 sponsorships, endorsements, appearances, media sales, and licensing and consulting agreements for poker players. The team consists of agents, two lawyers, two MBA graduates, marketing professionals, and event management specialists.