Top MTA poker player expected to win $2,500
Sandy Jones, perhaps regarded as the Montana Tavern Associa-tion's poker expert, is once again heading up organizing the group's big annual convention tournament, in addition to her duties chairing the convention committee and working on the ladies' luncheon and the banquet. Jones even participated in this year's World Series of Poker.
Jones has run live poker games in the various licensed businesses she's associated with, and has been responsible for the tournaments conducted at both the MTA and Gaming Industry Association conventions for years.
While organizing these competitions is no slam-dunk, Jones has a system down pat.
For the 2009 MTA convention, its 54th annual, she is anticipating about 50 entries who will ante up $100 each to join the action. Subsequent $100 buy-ins will be allowed.
The tournament commences after the 19th Hole Party winds up Monday night, Sept. 21, probably between 8 and 9 p.m. Jones has arranged for seven professional dealers to work the tables Monday night, and three more will deal the finals the following night.
Last year's winner, John Hayes, Jr., walked away with over $2,500. Second place earned $1,100 and third took $700, all in addition to trophies. A trophy is also awarded for "first out."
Earning some cash is merely a bonus for these players, as the tournament is primarily about having fun. Perhaps the real winner is the MTA itself. Total tournament revenues, after expenses, are split between the winners and the MTA. Last year, the event netted MTA over $6,000 for its continuing operations.
The competition is formally known as the Roger Frampton Memorial Texas Hold 'Em Tournament. The late Frampton was an avid player and frequent winner who was associated with the Flathead area Best Bet Group. He won the MTA tournament in 2006.
Players are encouraged to preregister with the MTA office (406-442-5040).