The World Series of Poker (WSOP) circuit event at Turning Stone Resort Casino once again proved to be a massive success, drawing poker enthusiasts from across the United States and Canada. Held from March 13 to March 24, 2025, this 12-day extravaganza attracted more than 15,000 entries, representing players from 39 states and parts of Canada, and generated over $6 million in prize money for the second consecutive year.
Turning Stone, owned by the Oneida Indian Nation, remains the exclusive host of a WSOP Circuit event in New York State, securing its place as a premier poker destination in the Northeast.
Taylor Hart Triumphs in the Main Event
The spotlight of the tournament fell on Taylor Hart from Portland, Oregon, who emerged victorious in the Main Event, pocketing a remarkable $280,770. Speaking with Poker.org after his win, Hart shared,
“I flew in from Portland last Wednesday to come on my way to Florida for a few weeks and figured I’d play the Main Event here at Turning Stone because I’ve seen it growing a lot. I will probably be back. I really like the area and playing with the people around here. The floor, the staff, and everything else were top-notch.”
Hart’s victory was not only financially rewarding but also underscored Turning Stone’s reputation for providing a world-class poker experience.
Final Table Highlights
- Runner-up: Michael Aman from Wilton, Saratoga County — $187,172
- 5th place: Anthony Runza from Ulster County — $68,767
- 6th place: Allen Krouth from Rochester — $50,769
These results highlight the strong showing from New York players, showcasing the depth of local talent at one of the year’s most prestigious events.
Beyond the Main Event: A Festival of Champions
While the Main Event was the crown jewel, Turning Stone’s WSOP Circuit stop featured a full schedule of events hosted across the Turning Stone Event Center and its acclaimed Poker Room.
A major attraction was the opportunity for players to win one of 18 coveted WSOP Gold Rings — each symbolizing excellence and granting automatic entry into two major upcoming tournaments:
- A seat at the 2025 WSOP Main Event in Las Vegas
- A free seat at the $1 Million WSOP Free Roll Tournament
Notable Gold Ring Winners from New York
Several New York state residents shone brightly, capturing Gold Rings and boosting their professional poker profiles:
- James Vandemark of Schenectady (Event #1 / $34,411)
- Klyde Forte of Syracuse (Event #3 / $27,546)
- Russell Dizer of Pine City (Event #4 / $43,267)
- Jose Rivera Ramirez of New Rochelle (Event #6 / $34,214)
- Tyler Culpepper of Liverpool (Event #8 / $76,068)
- Danielle Moran of Auburn (Event #12 / $10,839)
- Shane Friedlander of Kerhonkson (Event #16 / $20,600)
- Jerod Cassidy of Rochester (Event #18 / $20,500)
Their triumphs further underscore the high level of poker talent in New York.
A Bright Future for Turning Stone and New York Poker
The success of this WSOP event continues to build Turning Stone’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination for serious poker players. With such strong attendance and massive prize pools, it’s clear that Turning Stone is now firmly on the national poker map.
The tournament’s seamless organization, supportive staff, and vibrant atmosphere earned praise from participants across the board. Many players, like Taylor Hart, indicated their eagerness to return, solidifying Turning Stone’s reputation for delivering a world-class poker experience outside of Las Vegas or Atlantic City.
As the poker world gears up for the 2025 WSOP Main Event in Las Vegas, many of Turning Stone’s top performers — armed with their hard-earned Gold Rings — are ready to make waves on the grandest stage of them all.
Source: Syracuse.com