The Punta Cana Poker Classic offers players a little bit of poker paradise

“Sun, fun, amazing poker and good people…”

As the Punta Cana Poker Classic (PCPC) enters its eighth year, Phil Nagy, President of the PCPC, says players can expect more of the same good times they’ve experienced in the past when the five-day festival kicks off on October 24.

“…and a bar at the cash games,” Nagy adds. “It makes for better games.”

The desirable tropical destination of the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana combined with a full slate of cash and tournament poker action has made the PCPC one of the most anticipated poker vacations of the year.

Besides the guaranteed great weather and incredible amenities, the PCPC boasts prize pools worth playing for including their $500,000 Guaranteed Main Event, the $1K Second Chance, the $3200 High Roller and new for 2017, something extra for players that like to test their heads-up skills.

“Every year we like to switch things up,” Nagy said “This year we have a multi-day high-stakes heads-up tournament that runs basically all day. As soon as two people sign up, they’ll play to move on to Day 2.”

The new event, along with the constant refinement in the PCPC marquee events, is a direct result of Nagy being open to the wants of his player base, one that consists of a wide international gathering that the festival has historically enjoyed.

“We definitely have built a following over the years for an overall great tournament that lets you take a break from the regular casino grind,” Nagy explained about the festival’s evolution. “But listening to what the customer wants and letting it evolve into what people wanted it to be. It’s amazing what happens when you just listen to your customers and do what they ask you to do to.”

This includes the experience away from the table. The PCPC is headed into its second year at the Melia Caribe Tropical Resort, providing an all-inclusive experience (except for the poker buy-ins). With a year under the PCPC’s belt, players can expect an even smoother experience between the poker and the outdoor pools with Nagy and his team constantly working to enhance the player experience.

“We made some changes to the restaurants, more nightlife, and some super-secret fun stuff,” Nagy said. “Most importantly year after year our customer knows what quality experience they can expect. I joke about being the ‘King of the PCPC’ but we really work to make the players the Kings and Queens.”

When it comes to those ‘super-secret’ activities planned, Nagy wouldn’t budge “You’ll have to ask your VIP Host, Irene.”

Looking to the future of the festival Nagy seems hopefully for another historically successful event. In addition to all of the action, “I’m hoping to see some new faces…and beer pong,” Nagy added, “Two years ago it was amazing and I’m looking to bring that one back.”

The 2017 Punta Cana Poker Classic takes place from October 24-29 with the $500,000 Guaranteed Main Event kicking off on October 25.