A lucky poker player has hit the jackpot, winning a dream holiday to Las Vegas after a surprise victory against comedian Johnny Vegas in a high-stakes public challenge.
The King's Cross Showdown
The extraordinary event unfolded at London's bustling King's Cross Station, where gambling firm GGPoker staged a live stunt. A giant screen displayed a virtual Las Vegas, inviting passers-by to face the virtual Johnny Vegas in a single hand of poker.
Hundreds of people of all skill levels stepped up to the challenge throughout the day. The rules were simple but thrilling: participants had to dare to go 'all in'. Anyone who managed to beat the virtual Vegas was then entered into a random prize draw.
An Unexpected Victory
The winner, Charlie Rome, 27, was crowned at the end of the event. He was visiting the capital for a long weekend with his girlfriend and was about to catch a train back to Darlington when he decided to try his luck.
Charlie said: "I wasn't even going to play this afternoon as I've not played poker for years but it just looked like a laugh going up against a giant Johnny Vegas so I thought I would give it a go."
He expressed his disbelief at the win, adding: "This is the last thing I expected when I turned up to King's Cross this evening. I literally cannot believe I've won. I'm going to take my girlfriend next year to Vegas. She had played a hand before me and lost so I've got bragging rights there as well."
Beyond the Poker Table
His prize is an all-expenses-paid, five-night trip for two to Sin City, with GGPoker covering all flights and hotel costs.
Angela Martin, Director of Ace360 representing GGPoker, commented on the success of the event. She said: "We wanted to take poker beyond the tables and into real life, giving everyone a chance to experience that all-or-nothing moment that makes the game so thrilling."
She also hinted at future plans, stating: "Fans can expect to see more high-profile face-offs and even bigger challenges from GGPoker in the months ahead. This is just the start."
