Unabomber Among Those Leading at Irish Open Poker

Following Day 1 play at the 2009 Irish Open Poker Tournament, sponsored by Paddy Power, Phil Laak placed at number 8 among the top 10 chip leaders.  Laak, also known affectionately as the "Unabomber" because he often appears in hooded sweatshirts and dark sunglasses, is romantically involved with "Bride of Chucky" co-star and accomplished poker pro, Jennifer Tilly.  His live career poker winnings to date total just over $1.5 million. 

Leading the pack in Dublin was a slew of relative unknowns including Bradley Verburg, Maurice Harmon, Andrew Pantling, William Kassouf, Matias Knaapinen, Andy Bradshaw, John Larkin and Aiden O'Connell.  Also in the top 10 was Julian Thew, an English professional poker player who has made 8 money finishes in the European Poker Tour (EPT).   As of 2008, his total live tournament winnings exceed $2,300,000. He is sponsored by William Hill Poker.

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Here was your 2009 Irish Open Poker Leaderboard as of Saturday morning:

Bradley Verburg -- 108,800

Maurice Harmon -- 106,375

Andrew Pantling -- 104,350

William Kassouf -- 87,050

Matias Knaapinen -- 86,425

Andy Bradshaw -- 72,275

John Larkin -- 67,825

Phil Laak -- 63,675

Julian Thew -- 61,050

Aiden O'Connell -- 59,700

Ace King, Gambling911.com