LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Chiab “Chip” Saechao, the 35-year-old blackjack dealer from Visalia, California managed to bag the Casino Employees Championship; the special casino employees event. In fact, the winner himself was amazed with his win that enriched him with $70,859 in the shape of prize money. He received the first WSOP gold bracelet too. Saechao was filled with joy. He said that now he would be able to repay his entire loan and give a considerable amount to his wife for buying some good things. The winner was overwhelmed with the jewelry, which he now wanted to wear and make its show. He opined that only few persons like him could come to Las Vegas and return with such huge winnings.
Born in Thailand, the blackjack dealer at the Tachi Casino in Lemoore; had to spend much of his childhood in a refugee camp. Just at his tender age of 15, he shifted to United States and joined College of the Sequoias, but could not complete his studies. Thereafter, he joined the casino industry as he considered it to be a swift money making tool. He believes in low-stakes cash games. Having started playing poker just two years ago, he secured position in the WSOP first tournament. He took part in two Main Events before participating in this particular tournament that made him rich enough.
The Casino Employees Championship is meant only for the employees of the casino industry. Total number of gamblers who participated in the event was 732 whereas during the last year, the entries touched 850. Patricia Baker, the Little Torch Key. Fla. poker dealer was declared as the runner-up. James Routus, the Seattle, Wash. Dealer secured the third position while the fourth place was bagged by Ray Pulford, the 27 year old dealer from Chicago, III. Similarly, different players from different places secured other positions.