The World Series of Poker is hosting the second annual Ante Up for Africa tournament July 2 to raise money and awareness to support the victims of the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

The benefit tournament was created by Oscar nominee Don Cheadle and poker pro Annie Duke. Last year’s inaugural tournament attracted a number of celebrities and raised more than $700,000.

“After the success of last year’s tournament, we are looking forward to another exciting year while raising awareness for an ongoing crisis,” Duke said.

Celebrities expected to participate this year include Matt Damon, George Lopez, Adam Sandler, Ray Romano, Jason Kidd, Kevin Pollack, Cheryl Hines and Charles Barkley. Of course, a number of the big poker pros will also be on hand.

“The poker community has a unique opportunity to help ease the suffering in Darfur,” said WSOP Commissioner Jeffery Pollack.

Proceeds from the tournament go to ENOUGH (www.enoughproject.org)
and Not On Our Watch (www.notonourwatchproject.org).

By Greg Jones

Greg Jones is managing editor of Casino Connection Nevada, as well as associate editor of Global Gaming Business magazine.

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