Microgaming poker tournament raises thousands for charities

The annual poker tournament run by top gambling game developer, Microgaming, has raised over $AUD11,400 for four charities.

Microgaming has recently revealed its inaugural charity poker tournament, which took place during the ICE Totally Gaming trade show in London in February, was a success.

The first day saw over 80 guests participate in the Microgaming poker tournament, which was held at the super yacht hotel, Sunborn London, on the River Thames next to the trade show site.

Operators from the MPN online poker network were among the competitors with “Alon” from Crazy Vegas taking out the main event title.

He chose to donate the $AUD4967 prize to the Teenage Cancer Trust – a charity which offers care and support to young people who have been diagnosed with cancer.

“Thank you so much to Microgaming and the MPN team for continuing to support Teenage Cancer Trust,” the Regional Fundraiser for Teenage Cancer Trust, Sabina Ruta said.

“Every penny donated will help us to support teenagers and young adults facing a diagnosis of cancer.”

Runner-up Sean Auret donated his $AUD3312 in winnings to the Save the Rhino charity. Second runner-up, Christophe Antoine, also chose the charity to donate his $AUD1656 in winnings to.

Microgaming explained the Save the Rhino charity was a beneficiary of its own Gift of Giving initiative for two years in a row.

Partnership Development Manager for Save the Rhinos, Josephine Gibson, said the money will “help us protect endangered rhinos across Africa and Asia.”

“This donation comes at a critical time to help us safeguard the future for rhinos in the wild,” she said.

“Extensive poaching for the rhino horn continues to threaten survival of this iconic species with at least 1054 rhinos being poached in 2016 in South Africa alone.

“We really value Microgaming’s long-term support, having donated £18,000 in total to date.”

There was also a number of side events which saw more money raised for charity.

This included a $AUD828 bounty presented by Microgaming’s Chief Executive Officer, Roger Raatgever. It was won by Rob Deaves from 32Red who selected The Children’s Centre as the recipient of the winnings.

The Children Centre runs community initiatives and services to help children reach their full potential and its Chief Executive Officer, Fiona Dawson, said they were grateful for the donation from Microgaming.

“The funds will make an immediate difference to the lives of local children, young people and families who benefit from the charitable services offered by The Children’s Centre on the Isle of Man,” she said.

“The £500 donation will go towards The Community Farm projects that engage with children and young people to develop vital life skills such as resilience, forming relationships, empathy and preparation for dealing with the unexpected.”

There was also a sit-and-go side event which was won by Betsson’s Rory Cartwright. He donated his $AUD828 winnings to the Isle of Man branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, which provides treatment and support for sufferers.

Its chairman, Derek Patience, said the “money will be put to great use, providing support, guidance and care to those suffering with multiple sclerosis.”