WPF Ladies Weekend: A Global Initiative for Women in Poker
An unprecedented event will unfold next month as the World Poker Federation (WPF) organizes poker tournaments in 15 cities across 10 countries. This initiative focuses on increasing female participation in the game and is set to occur from October 24 to 26.
Overview of the Event
The WPF Ladies Weekend, spearheaded by the WPF Women’s Committee, will not only feature women-only poker tournaments but also offer educational talks, workshops, and networking opportunities. The goal is to create an inclusive environment for women to explore poker and develop connections within the industry.
Locations and Participation
In North America, events are scheduled in key locations including:
- Canada
- California
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Nevada (Resorts World, Las Vegas)
Internationally, events will take place in:
- Brazil
- Bulgaria
- Colombia
- Hong Kong
- Nigeria
- The Philippines
- South Africa
- Taiwan
Resorts World Las Vegas will host the Nevada leg of the WPF Ladies Weekend, one of six in the USA.
Making Poker Welcoming for Women
Roberto Lifschitz of the WPF expressed concerns over the traditionally low participation of women in poker, highlighting that while the environment has improved, further outreach is required. “We’ve always been interested in why the participation of women in poker isn’t bigger,” said Lifschitz. “They need idols and opportunities, but outreach and communication are crucial.”
Women Leading the Charge
Organizers at the local level will include prominent women from the poker community. Lifschitz emphasized that the management of these events will be female-led. “It was important for us that the event should be for women, and by women,” he stated.
Karina Bupp, Vice President of the WPF Women’s Committee, along with leaders like Luana Borges in Brazil, will play significant roles in executing the weekend’s events.
Lupe Soto, left, with Jeanne David of the PokerOrg Player Advisory Board.
A Look at the Event Structure
The WPF Ladies Weekend is designed to promote education and networking alongside the main event. In addition to the tournaments, numerous panels and workshops will be scheduled throughout the three days.
As a general guideline, the event at Resorts World Las Vegas will follow this structure:
- Friday, October 24: Satellites, opening tournament, and Welcome Mixer
- Saturday, October 25: Main Event Day 1 and cash games
- Sunday, October 26: Main Event Day 2, Coffee Mixer, and closing tournament
Future Aspirations
This inaugural event sets the stage for future endeavors, with hopes of expanding in subsequent years. Lifschitz has mentioned the possibility of integrating the tournaments into a global women’s championship. “We want to make it bigger next year, so next we want to go to 20 countries and possibly combine these tournaments,” he noted.
The WPF Ladies Weekend promises to be a significant step towards enhancing female representation in poker, fostering an environment of growth, leadership, and connection among women worldwide.
For more information, visit the WPF website.
