Celebrities Named for World Series of Poker Charity Event

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Saturday July 3^rd will be the date for this year’s World Series of Poker annual charity event, Ante Up for Africa. Being held at the Rio All-Suite Las Vegas Casino Hotel in Las Vegas, the event attracts poker pros and celebrities alike for a chance to play poker and contribute to a worthy cause.

This year’s event will feature a star-studded field with poker pros Annie Duke (who is a co-founder of the event), Howard Lederer, Phil Gordon, Chris “Jesus” Ferguson, Andy Bloch and Erik Seidel all participating, while Phil Hellmuth serves as emcee. The list of celebrities playing includes Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Ray Romano, Brad Garrett, Sarah Rue, Tracy McGrady, and fellow co-founder Don Cheadle.

This is the fourth year for the charity event, which is televised on ESPN. According to Harrah’s, Nevada gambling laws do not allow prize pool money to go directly to a charity, but many players have in the past have graciously donated half of their winnings to benefit the victims of the crisis in Darfur.

Duke commented in a press release, “It is an honor to be working with the WSOP and the Rio for the fourth year of Ante Up for Africa. We created this event to make a positive impact on the lives of those in Darfur and throughout Africa. I am delighted the event continues to grow every year boasting more celebrities, more players, and more poker pros.”

Once again, poker professionals and international celebrities are teaming up to show their generosity in the fourth annual Ante Up for Africa charity tournament. This event not only provides an enjoyable tournament for those who play, but it offers hope for those it benefits.