The 2011 World Series of Poker has now officially started, and the action’s getting more and more intense. It really looks as if the whole affair will be a huge success despite all the setbacks. It also seems like all the changes they implemented this year were for the better. They’ve increased the buy-in of the Heads Up Championship event and it was a huge success – it even broke some records in terms of the prize pool it generated. Next year, however, the World Series of Poker is going to up the ante by adding a new event. They are going to host a $1 million buy-in event. Instead of a gold bracelet, it’s going to be a platinum bracelet, the first ever in WSOP history.

Only the Elite

I know what most of you are probably thinking right now – “1 million dollars!? That’s insane!!” Am I right, or am I right? $1 million is the kind of thing you win for first prize. It’s not supposed to be a buy-in. Yet, this is exactly what the tournament organizers are planning for 2012. The tournament will be called the $1 million BIG ONE for ONE DROP Tournament, and it’s going to be Huge with a capital H. What’s even more amazing is that there are already a bunch of pros who have committed to joining. Of course, as you would expect, these pros are the best of the best. Among those who have signed up are Tom “durrrr” Dwan, Gus Hansen, Patrik Antonius, Tony G, and the Godfather of Poker himself, Doyle Brunson. CEO of MGM-Mirage Resorts, Bobby Baldwin will also be joining, and so will Guy Laliberte and Phil Ruffin. There aren’t that many who have committed yet, but there’s only space for 48 players. So, assuming that all 48 seats are filled, there’s going to be a humongous prize pool of $48 million. Those who wish to join will have to pay a deposit of $50,000.

For Charity

However, don’t think that all the money generated at the event will go to the winners. 11.11 percent of each entry to the event will be taken and subsequently donated to One Drop. One Drop is Guy Laliberte’s foundation. Its aim is to provide everyone with access to clean water. As such, the money earned through this tournament will certainly go a long way for a good cause. Of course, the winner will also get a huge cash prize, plus the prestige of winning the first ever Platinum Bracelet.