Patrick “Egption” Tardif: A Rising Star in the Canadian Poker Landscape
When discussing notable figures in the Canadian poker scene, Patrick Tardif, affectionately dubbed “Egption”, undeniably stands out. With his roots in Saskatchewan and now calling Toronto home, Tardif has firmly established his reputation as one of the most formidable online poker players in Canada, boasting over $11 million in earnings on the virtual felt.
A Perfect Fit for WPT Global
Tardif’s journey in the world of poker has recently taken another exciting turn. WPT Global, an influential player in the poker community, sought to enhance its ambassador team and Tardif was a natural selection. Joining a stellar roster that includes legends like Phil Ivey, Brad Owen, and newcomer Phil Kessel, Tardif has embraced the ambassadorship role with dedication. His commitment is evident through his active participation in tournaments and events, including a recent trip to Montreal for the WPT Playground Championship.
The New & Improved Playground
Reflecting on his experiences, Tardif shared his thoughts on the evolution of the WPT Playground since his last visit in 2018. “I hadn’t been here since pre-COVID, like 2018. I think the first time I came back was when the WPT came here back in May. So, it had been like six plus years and I got to see from what they used to be to what they are now,” he commented.
The changes are striking. Tardif praised the transformation into a full-fledged casino resort with three floors, a revamped poker room, and a vibrant atmosphere that retains a nostalgic charm. “They kept the same dungeony vibe, which if you’ve never been here before, you might be confused about it,” he noted, revealing insights into the ambiance that keeps players returning.
Tournament Highlights
During his time at the WPT Playground Championship, Tardif showcased his talent by qualifying for the CAD $1,100 WPT Playground Prime Championship online and finishing in 73rd place, netting $2,601. He also participated in the Main Event, bagging a spot and cashing out on Day 2 with a 101st place finish worth $4,607. However, his foray into the CAD $10K High Roller ended abruptly, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of live poker.
“It’s crazy trying to bluff Darren Elias,” Tardif admitted candidly. “That was stupid. And then a good hand runs into a better hand.” Despite a rollercoaster of results, Tardif’s enthusiasm for the game remains intact.
Beyond Tournaments: Live Cash Games
In addition to tournament play, Tardif has been enhancing his live poker skills through cash games. Recently, he participated in a massive cash game “meet-up” alongside fellow WPT Global ambassadors such as Xuan Liu and Brad Owen. He humorously remarked, “Anytime I play the meet-up game here, I know the player pool jumps for joy. They know I’m there to dump money,” while acknowledging that he had lost a substantial amount at the $1-$3 tables.
Notably, Tardif witnessed Xuan Liu’s impressive play, where she turned the tables with a $2K pot win. Such experiences contribute to Tardif’s learning curve in the live arena.
Welcoming Phil Kessel
A highlight of Tardif’s ambassadorship is the addition of NHL star Phil Kessel to the WPT Global team. Recognized for his spectacular achievements on the ice, Kessel’s transition into poker has been met with enthusiasm. Tardif, who was initially starstruck, shared, “I don’t watch a lot of hockey but I know who Phil Kessel is… He is one of the coolest guys I’ve ever met,” emphasizing Kessel’s down-to-earth nature and passion for poker.
Excitement for the $5 Million Freeroll
As Tardif looks ahead, he is particularly enthusiastic about the upcoming $5 million freeroll event scheduled for December at the WPT World Championship. He revealed, “Club WPT Gold is hosting the freeroll. So far I think I’ve given about 18 seats out. We still have plenty more to give away,” inviting aspiring players to participate for a chance to win a seat through various qualifying activities.
Echoing his excitement, Tardif confirmed his attendance at the WPT World Championship in Las Vegas, revealing, “I think it will be the first time I play a full series in Vegas in years.” He expressed his admiration for the Wynn, where the event will take place, acknowledging it as one of the best venues for poker.
Conclusion
As a prominent figure in the poker community, Patrick “Egption” Tardif continues to forge his path, showcasing his skills and making meaningful connections. Whether through tournament play, cash games, or engaging with fans, Tardif represents the spirit of modern poker and its vibrant community. With exciting events on the horizon and the potential for further growth, Tardif’s journey is one to follow as he strives to elevate his game and expand his impact in the world of poker.
With the WPT Global team behind him and his passion for the game ignited, there’s no telling how far Tardif will go in his poker career.
Photos courtesy World Poker Tour (WPT) / Alicia Skillman
