Imperial Palace BJT Review
The Imperial Palace Held a traditional BJT this past weekend. As a participant there I wanted to let others who didn’t attend what I observed.
First the basics: This was an open event with a 499 buy-in and a 150 re-buy. Now when you paid the 499 you also received a free room for 2 nights (Friday and Saturday). Their registration was on Friday from 3-9 pm.
Immediately upon driving up to the IP they had the BJT advertised on their big screen outside the building. Throughout the first floor there were numerous signs and posters describing the 150,000 Blackjack tournament.
At the tournament registration area the crack staff took about 2 minutes to take you payment, give you a gift, and have you sign up for the playing time and out of line. They ran it like a well oiled machine. The player gift was an ice holder and two glasses. Nice but bulky for flying. In addition there was a registration party in the main lobby that night with finger foods. I didn’t attend that party. REGISTRATION GRADE: A
The following day the actual BJT was held on the 3rd floor. Once again the IP went out of their way and decorated the playing area. There was a complimentary bar (soft drinks) and a spectator’s area present. My preference is that I LIKE this set up – away from the floor of the casino, not clanging slots or milling crowds. There were 10 tables with 6 players at a table. 2 advance. Players were given 5,000 in chips. 30 hands. Min bet 25, Max bet 5,000. Clear concise rules, well lit area – organization EXCEPTIONAL. GRADE A
The re-buy was held on Saturday after Round 1. Cost – 150.00. The only difference is that only 1 of 6 advanced. Hmmm didn’t like that one too much but I guess I should have advanced in Round 1 instead of relying on the re-buy. My fault.
The money from the rebuys was added to the prize pool (in promo chips) but still it presented a great value. In addition if the winner of the BJT was an elite member (players club) they received additional player’s chips – a great incentive for their players.
With only 249 players I asked myself what is wrong with the BJT community. This event at the IP was a great value, well run, the tournament director extremely nice. The dealers were friendly.
OVERALL IMPRESSION: GRADE: A