World Series of Poker's championship event starts in Vegas

LAS VEGAS (AP) The bluffing and betting began this afternoon for thousands of poker players in Las Vegas risking $10,000 each in hopes of winning several million dollars and being crowned the next champion of the World Series of Poker's Main Event.

The days-long Texas Hold `Em matchup played by pros, amateurs and celebrities is the culmination of the 52-day annual tournament at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino that started May 27.

The nine players remaining by July 15 will advance to the final table when they return in November for the chance to win several million dollars and poker's ultimate achievement.

If close to 7,000 people enter like they did last year, the top winner could earn an $8 million prize and a gold bracelet tournament organizers value at $500,000.