PokerWorks

The 2009 World Series of Poker schedule was announced in January, and ample time has been provided for players to examine it, compare desired tournaments to bankrolls, and look into Las Vegas accommodations for the summer. Now is the time to put the money where their poker dreams are by pre-registering for any of the 57 events.

Registration can be done most easily at the main cashier cage at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, which will again be the location of the 2009 WSOP. But for those residing everywhere else in the world, pre-registration for any of the events can be done at the World Series of Poker website. Simply click the “event registration” tab and follow the instructions.

Each event for which a player wants to register has a specific PDF form next to it on the website. The completed form must accompany the funds transfer, which should total the full amount of the event buy-in plus fee. Payments of cash, cashier’s checks, and wire transfers will be accepted, though sending cash through the Postal Service is not recommended. For those sending international wire transfers to pay for events, there are special instructions on the registration page with bank information and other important notes.

It should be mentioned that third-party payments will not be accepted unless pre-approved through Harrah’s sponsorship or licensing agreements. If the player name does not match the name of the person supplying payment, registration will not be confirmed.

Why register so early? Some events at the 2009 WSOP will have a cap, and to ensure a seat in some of the bigger events, especially the $1,000 NLHE or any of the $1,500 NLHE events, pre-registration is recommended. Space is limited in such events, and last-minute registrations near the starting date and time might result in an entrant finding registration closed.

WSOP tournament director Jack Effel noted, “As now customary, no alternates will be seated at the 2009 World Series of Poker. We encourage players to pre-register early to guarantee their seats.”

The pre-registration option will remain available until two weeks prior to the start of each event. And players must be prepared to verify their identity at the Rio upon arriving for confirmation and seat assignments.

The 40th year of the World Series of Poker officially begins on May 26 and runs through July 15, with the main event beginning on July 3, 2009. All events will take place in the convention center of the Rio in Las Vegas.