Resorts World Las Vegas has partnered with the WPT Foundation and the One Drop Foundation to hold The Big Deal, an exclusive philanthropic poker tournament at its Allé Lounge on 66. The funds raised will go to benefit global water initiatives.
The Big Deal will kick off during Race Week on November 24. Cirque du Soleil, Maison Frooogs, and One Drop Founder Guy Laliberté will host this year’s tournament.
During the past decade, the WPT Foundation and the One Drop Foundation have raised more than $75m to aid charitable causes. Both focus on climate and sustainability, with the One Drop Foundation raising funds for sustainable and safe water.
Resorts World Las Vegas President Peter LaVoie said, “It gives us great pride to host an event with such a notable cause that resonates deeply in Las Vegas.
“Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, and we look forward to partnering with the One Drop Foundation to further this effort while having some fun during Race Week.”
The event will have a $10,000 buy-in and can accommodate up to 54 players that will include poker pros and celebrities.
Laliberté took a moment to share his thoughts on the upcoming tournament.
He commented, “In the past 12 years, One Drop has created iconic poker tournaments that are going to be in the big history book of poker for a long time. The Big Deal for One Drop is going to be one of those, for the fun aspect and for the people it will draw.
“I haven’t played poker much lately, but I really look forward to playing this one. I think the intensity of poker and adrenaline of Race Week in Las Vegas are a perfect match, especially since the funds raised will support the vital cause of safe water.”
Poker legend Phil Hellmuth will be the MC for the event.
Hellmuth commented, “It gives me great pleasure to be the MC for the Big Deal for One Drop charity tournament in Las Vegas during Race Week. It will be hosted by my friend Guy Laliberté.
“So far, I have MC’d charity events raising over $75m for many great charities. I look forward to raising more funds for worthy causes in November.”