Poker enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The second annual PokerStars North American Poker Tour (NAPT) is officially underway, taking center stage at the luxurious Resorts World Las Vegas. This prestigious series has brought together players eager to showcase their skills and compete for substantial prizes. The opening event, the thrilling $550 Mystery Bounty, promises to deliver excitement and suspense from the very beginning.
A Grand Opening: The $550 Mystery Bounty
The NAPT launched its festivities with the first of five starting flights for the $550 Mystery Bounty event, which began at 12:00 p.m. local time. For those unable to participate in the first flight, another chance awaits with Day 1b starting at 5:00 p.m. local time. Players will be vying for a piece of the $300,000 guarantee, ensuring that this event is as lucrative as it is entertaining.
Detailed Flight Schedule
The $550 Mystery Bounty event consists of several starting flights, each offering players a unique opportunity to qualify for the subsequent Day 2. Below is the complete schedule for this exciting series:
| Date | Time | Event | Buy-in | Tournament | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, Nov 01 | 12:00 PM | Day 1A | $550 | Mystery Bounty | $300,000 |
| Fri, Nov 01 | 5:00 PM | Day 1B | $550 | Mystery Bounty | $300,000 |
| Sat, Nov 02 | 12:00 PM | Day 1C | $550 | Mystery Bounty | $300,000 |
| Sat, Nov 02 | 5:00 PM | Day 1D | $550 | Mystery Bounty | $300,000 |
| Sun, Nov 03 | 12:00 PM | Day 1E | $550 | Mystery Bounty | $300,000 |
Tournament Structure
Players start with a hefty 30,000 chips and blinds commencing at 100/200/200, ensuring plenty of playability right from the start. The blinds will increase every 30 minutes, providing ample time for strategic gameplay. There are scheduled 20-minute breaks at regular intervals, along with a hefty 75-minute dinner break after Level 10—only after which registration will close.
An intriguing aspect of this event is its structure, which guarantees that each flight will play down to 15% of the field, allowing those players to cash out as they progress to Day 2. This continuation introduces the much-anticipated bounties, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
A Look Back: Last Year’s Mystery Bounty
Last year’s $1,100 NLH Mystery Bounty event concluded the NAPT series with a solid turnout of 265 players. The champion, Timothy Rutherford from Canada, walked away not only with the coveted spade trophy but also claimed a prize of $24,650. This victory not only marked a significant milestone in Rutherford’s poker career but also set a high bar for this year’s competitors.
Timothy Rutherford: Last Year’s Mystery Bounty Champion
Stay Up-to-Date with Live Coverage
Poker aficionados can catch every thrilling moment of the $550 Mystery Bounty event thanks to PokerNews, which will be providing live updates and detailed coverage throughout all Day 1 flights and the entire NAPT series. This is your chance to follow the action as players vie for a total of $300,000, all while enjoying the atmosphere of one of Las Vegas’s premier gaming venues.
Conclusion
The PokerStars North American Poker Tour is back and hotter than ever, bringing together players from North America and beyond for a chance at glory and cash. With the $550 Mystery Bounty event kicking off the series, it’s clear that this will be an unforgettable experience for all involved. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, there’s no better place to be than at Resorts World Las Vegas during this electrifying poker festival. Don’t miss out—follow along with PokerNews for the latest updates and enjoy the thrill of the game from the comfort of your home.
