New Media Creates New Problems for 2007 World Series of Poker

by A Bodog Beat Original  |  June 6th, 2007

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Upon arrival to the 2007 WSOP this morning, fans were greeted by black curtains around one of the final tables due to concerns over potential cheating. (Bodog Beat Image)

Much like the Berlin Wall went up overnight dividing families, friends and a city, ominous black curtains were erected last night around one of the final tables in the Rio's Amazon room dividing players from fans, and potentially, friends from friends and so on.

At this point in the tournament, there are basically two final tables going on at the same time each evening. One is held in the official final table area where the ESPN set is surrounded by bleachers and the Milwaukee's Best "No Limit Lounge". The other final table is just off to the side against the edge of the tournament area where the common folk are allowed to walk.

Yesterday, fans were treated to a rare experience as we stood on the rail next to this secondary table and watched as some of the biggest names in poker battled it out in the final of the $5,000 Pot Limit Omaha event. Annie Duke, Chris Ferguson and David Benyamine all drew a huge crowd to watch them ply their trade.

Unfortunately, this sight will no longer be seen at the 2007 WSOP. We spoke to someone involved with the media side of the WSOP and found out that the Nevada Gaming Commission has requested that these curtains be put in place to curb potential cheating.

The advent of new media at the WSOP means that the final tables are now being streamed live (actually an hour delay, but "live" enough to generate the concern) on WorldSeriesofPoker.com, with hole cards being shown for each hand. The fear is that a player at a final table will be able to find out information about specific hand histories or a player's tells from a friend watching the webcast.

While this is obviously a legitimate concern and should be addressed, this solution comes at the expense of the fan who has come to see their poker heroes in action on the world's largest stage. Now they have been denied access in favor of providing web content to those who are stuck at home, something that is a huge step forward for poker and a great addition to this year's coverage but is a step back for those who prefer to watch the WSOP in person.

Stay tuned for more live coverage of the 2007 World Series of Poker from outside of the curtains at the Rio.