The Thrilling World of Meet-Up Games: Brad Owen’s Experience at WPT Montreal
In the bustling realm of poker, few experiences match the electric atmosphere of a Meet-Up Game (MUG). Among the luminaries who have popularized these grassroots events, Brad Owen stands out as a true pioneer. Recently, he brought his unique flair for connection and entertainment to WPT Montreal, hosted at the renowned Playground Poker Club.
The Excitement of MUGs
On October 21, 2023, at precisely 1 PM, Playground came alive with the sounds of clinking chips and animated chatter as players flocked to partake in cash game action at stakes of $1/$3 and $2/$5. Over 40 tables were in constant motion, all expertly coordinated by Owen and fellow WPT Global Ambassadors like Patrick Tardif and Xuan Liu. Every 30 minutes, they rotated tables, ensuring an evolving experience where players could engage with different opponents and strategies.
Brad Owen, with his characteristic enthusiasm, shared his fondness for Playground. “I always have a great time at Playground,” Owen remarked, his positivity palpable. The sense of community he fostered was evident, as he had formed friendships with numerous local players, who added to the already vibrant atmosphere. Despite facing challenges early on in the day, Owen turned his fortune around, celebrating a win with a thrilling $1,000 flip at the most electrifying table of the MUG.
But the fun didn’t stop there; Owen’s fellow ambassadors echoed similar sentiments. Liu expressed the joy of engaging with fans on a grassroots level, adding a personal touch to the competitive gambling scene. “I always have fun and splash around a bunch,” Liu said, highlighting the casual and jubilant spirit that defines MUGs.
The Heart of the Game: Community and Connection
One of the most striking aspects of these MUGs is the community they nurture. Players come not only to test their skills but to connect with familiar faces and meet new ones. Attendees were treated to complimentary food and drinks, a longstanding tradition that enhances the social experience. Players had multiple ways to sign up for the event through the Poker Atlas app, the Playground website, or walk-up registration—a testament to the accessibility of this vibrant poker community.
The warmth of camaraderie was encapsulated in Owen’s experiences with the local players over the years, cementing Playground’s reputation as a welcoming venue that draws poker enthusiasts from all across the globe.
A Star-Studded Table
The day also attracted poker professionals beyond Owen and Liu. Matt Savage, WPT’s Executive Tour Director, immersed himself in the cash game action, stating, “The cash action here is off the charts.” Savage’s words underscore the magnetic appeal of this event, where both professional and amateur players could engage in thrilling gameplay all while enjoying the atmosphere that only a MUG can provide.
Savage recounted his time at the tables fondly, sharing laughs and some inevitably dusted-off chips—a rite of passage in the poker world.
Capturing the Moments
Thanks to the talented poker photographer Alicia Skillman, attendees and fans alike could relive the excitement through a series of stunning photographs that highlighted the day’s action. Each image captured not just the games, but the jubilant spirit that animates MUGs, from intimate player moments to wide shots of the packed tables, underscoring the vibrant community at WPT Montreal.
Conclusion: The Essence of Poker
As the WPT Montreal MUG drew to a close, the sentiments shared by participants like Owen, Liu, and Savage painted a vivid picture of what makes these events special. For many, it’s not just about the cards dealt or the pots won—it’s about the connections forged and the community celebrated. Owen’s words resonate distinctly: MUGs are indeed a “special way to connect with players,” bridging gaps between professional and amateur while creating lasting friendships along the way.
With PokerNews committed to providing on-site updates during the WPT Playground encounter, fans of the game are in for an exciting week filled with stories that encapsulate the dynamic world of poker. So let’s embrace the spirit of MUGs and continue celebrating the art of poker—one friendly game at a time.
Images courtesy of World Poker Tour (WPT) / Alicia Skillman.
1
20
20
