From Reporting to Playing: The Evolution of Tyler Warken in the World of Poker
In the high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled world of poker, playing at the felt is only part of the equation. Beneath the glitz and glamour, there’s a dedicated crew of live reporters who work tirelessly to bring the excitement of tournament play to audiences around the globe. One such reporter-turned-player is Tyler Warken, a former PokerNews journalist who has transitioned from behind the scenes to the forefront of competitive poker.
The Life of a Live Reporter
For many, live reporting a poker tournament is a thankless job filled with long hours. Live reporters work under the relentless pressure of the tournament clock, frequently arriving before players and staying long after they leave, often with fewer breaks and modest pay. Yet, many are drawn to this challenging role out of sheer passion for the game. Tyler Warken, originally from Medicine Hat, Alberta, embraced this lifestyle, dedicating countless hours to covering poker events.
In 2019, Warken made his debut as a live reporter for PokerNews at the prestigious World Series of Poker (WSOP). “That was my first event reporting. I did that for about a year and then COVID happened,” he recounted. The pandemic brought a halt to live reporting, but it opened a new path for Warken — he began focusing more on his own game.
Transition to Poker Player
Once live poker tournaments resumed, Warken made the pivotal decision to shift his focus entirely to playing. As his reporting days faded, he embraced the competitive spirit that poker demands. Having played poker casually since childhood—starting with family card games at age 10—Warken had honed his skills over the years. He accumulated nearly $275,000 in lifetime tournament earnings, a testament to his growth as a player.
Among his achievements, he notably finished sixth in the 2018 DSPT Championship in Calgary, which earned him $33,705. More recently, he secured a third-place finish at the 2024 Aria Poker Classic, earning $21,654 for his efforts.
Exploring New Horizons
At the beginning of 2023, like many young adults seeking adventure, Warken set off on an ambitious travel journey. “I toured Asia all over Cambodia,” he shared. The vibrant poker scene in Asia presented new opportunities, although he noted that finding quality cash games could be a challenge. While traveling, he made connections with fellow Canadians and took advantage of the burgeoning poker tournament landscape.
Warken had successful runs in several tournaments, cashing in both the WPT Prime Cambodia and multiple events in Vietnam’s Asia Poker Tour and U Series of Poker. His travels brought not just financial success but a wealth of experiences that shaped his view of the poker world.
Settling Down and Finding a New Home
After extensive travels, Warken decided to pause his wanderlust and establish a temporary home base in Montreal. “I haven’t really had a home in three years. So, I’ve been living in Montreal for two months now,” he revealed. This new chapter allowed him to settle into a routine while still pursuing his passion for poker. He now frequents Playground, his local poker venue, and dives deep into the competitive scene.
“I’ve been playing maybe six days a week here,” he mentioned, further explaining his decision to join the WPT Main Event. “It’s the biggest tournament of the year here. I don’t have to travel for this one, so it’s convenient. It’s in my backyard now, I guess.”
The Future of Tyler Warken
As Warken preps to compete in the WPT Playground Championship, his journey remains an inspiring testament to the fluidity within the poker community. Transitioning from reporting to playing has given him a unique perspective on the game he loves. Players and fans alike can now follow him as he navigates this major tournament, shedding light on the evolution of his career.
To stay updated on how Tyler fares in the WPT Playground Championship, follow live updates here.
In a world that often blurs the lines between work and passion, Tyler Warken stands as a reminder of the many paths within the poker ecosystem, each shaped by dedication, resilience, and the thrill of the game.
Photos courtesy of World Poker Tour (WPT) / Alicia Skillman
Author Bio
Chad Holloway
PR & Media Manager
Chad Holloway is the PR & Media Manager for PokerNews, a podcast host, and a 2013 WSOP Bracelet Winner.
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