Jamie Gold Hosts Post Oscar Celebrity Poker Tourney

Despite the fact that the 81st annual Academy Awards was taking place at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, many of the world’s greatest Poker Pros weren’t in town to take part in all the glitz and glamour but instead, for the World Poker Tour’s LA Poker Classic which is being held at the Commerce Casino.  One exception to that rule is 2006 World Series of Poker Main Event Champion, Jamie Gold who hosted a late Sunday night charity poker tournament benefitting Children Uniting Nations.

The lucky winner of the fundraising event will receive a $10,000 entry into the 2009 World Series of Poker Main Event which is being held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas starting July 3rd.  The all expense paid trip to Las Vegas also includes a private dinner and coaching with none other than the Champion himself.  The Los Angeles tournament got under way at 10 pm Sunday night at the Beverly Hilton after the Oscars had concluded.  In addition to Gold, Lee Watkinson and Full Tilt Poker pro Howard Lederer were also in attendance.
The event was capped at 30 players and consisted of a mix of celebrities and poker fans.  The charity tournament was graciously hosted by the Merge Gaming Network online Poker Room ACED, which recently signed Gold and the Hollywood Reporter.  Entertainment featured performances by Colby O’Donis, JabbawockeeZ, Sophie B. Hawkins, Doug E. Fresh, Teairra Mari and DJ AM.  According to a press release by the tournament organizer, Jennifer Anniston, Pierce Brosnan, Christina Milian, Jane Seymour, Nancy Pelosi, John Kerry, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bill and Hillary Clinton are all sponsors of Children Uniting Nations.