The UK and Ireland Poker Tour (UKIPT) recently held one of its most prestigious events at the historic Hippodrome Casino in London.
This year's festival included high-profile tournaments such as the UKIPT Cup and the Main Event, testing both skill and mental endurance. Ivonne Montealegre's outstanding performance in the UKIPT Cup was particularly noteworthy, as she became the highest-scoring woman in the London series.
The UKIPT London took place from August 4th to 11th at the Hippodrome Casino, a historical gem originally opened in 1900 as an indoor circus with a 24-meter swimming pool, elephant shows, and performances by Charlie Chaplin and Houdini.
UKIPT Cup: A Test of Wisdom and Endurance
The entry fee for the UKIPT Cup was £330, attracting 376 participants. Ivonne Montealegre, Vice President of the Women's Poker Association International and co-owner of the Malta Poker Festival, demonstrated remarkable perseverance, making it to the final table and ultimately finishing in fifth place. "I got fifth place, which gives us hope, as a woman and a non-professional player," she said excitedly during the SiGMA news interview.
Ivonne Montealegre's journey in the tournament was intense. "We played poker for 13 hours on the first day and another 10 hours continuously on the second day. Participating in these competitions requires a huge commitment. I came from Malta, where I live, and spent all my time in the casino," she explained, describing the physical and mental endurance needed to compete at such a high level.
Ivonne Montealegre's success in the UKIPT Cup is a memorable achievement, not only because of the prize money but also because of its significance for women in poker. "Being able to sit at the final table was a huge victory for me... It's not even about the money, but about having a seat at the table as a woman," she explained.
Main Event: Victory for Gaspare Sposato
The entry fee for the UKIPT London Main Event was £1,100, the highlight of the London festival. The event attracted 725 participants, with a prize pool of £696,000. After several days of intense competition, 28-year-old Italian professional poker player Gaspare Sposato emerged victorious, winning a career-high prize of £107,660.
"I was only fighting for the trophy. Last year in Paris, I was very close but lost in the final. Tonight, I thought several times that I would repeat that. But this trophy is a gift for my wife, whose birthday was yesterday. It's a beautiful moment to enjoy with friends," Sposato said after his victory.
