Mark's Page

World Series Day Two
By Mark Napolitano

With a great sense of pride I can announce that Kathy Liebert is leading the World Series Of Poker with $283,500 after two grueling days of play. I spoke with Kathy yesterday when her chip count was $57,775 and said that I believed she would end Day Two with $375,000. Maybe that was a bit optimistic, but she did not let me down. I now believe she has a great chance of winning the event. When we started Poker Pages, we wanted to invite a top women's player to head the women's section and I had no doubt that Kathy was the one. I believe that there is a huge potential for the poker industry to attract more women into poker and this would be good for the whole poker community. Keep going, Kathy!!!

I would also like to give a mention to Barney Boatman from England. He is currently in second position with $282,000. Being from England myself, Barney is a friend of mine and we have played each other many times on the European circuit. Barney is an extremely tough opponent and will not give up his chip position without a serious fight. I think you could compare Barney to "THE BRITISH BULLDOG." Good luck to Barney.

I do not personally know Annie Duke, but obviously I am well aware of her class at the poker table. I am very surprised to learn that she is eight months pregnant. Now that would be a story!! Annie is currently in 8th position with $187,000. Just like Kathy, I believe that a woman winning the WSOP would be great for poker. Good luck, Annie, both with today's play and the birth of your baby.

T.J. Cloutier, 11th place with $146,000, is obviously a major threat to every other player. T.J. is certainly one of the best players never to win the main event at the WSOP. Maybe this could be his year. Good luck, T.J.

Mel Judah, holds 13th place with $139,000. Mel is a very good friend of mine and one of the nicest-mannered players I know. He is always supportive of other players and is also very capable at the WSOP. He is playing very consistently right now and has a great chance. Good luck, Mel.

Mike Sexton holds 14th place with $130,500. Mike does not need any introduction in any poker arena. He is a great ambassador for poker, and I am sure there are so many players that would like to see Mike win. He has been here before and knows how to proceed. Mike has had a dry spell for a few years but finally maybe the cards are starting to break even for him. Good luck, Mike.

Jeff Shulman, in 20th place with $115,500, is a fairy tale story. I remember meeting Jeff only 18 months ago at the Rio tournament. His game has improved out of all recognition since then. It is a great achievement to come through two days of poker at this level. Congratulations, Jeff, and good luck today.

Good luck to all 45 players left in. I will give a much more detailed report tomorrow when we are finally down to last six players.

"SHUFFLE UP AND DEAL"