Aaron Massey Wins WinStar River Poker Series For $660k

Aaron Massey has just won the WinStar River Poker Series, after defeating a field of 1,396 players over five days to lift the title, and collect the $659,559 first place prize.
Aaron Massey is one of the hardest working grinders on the circuit and has been dealing with the ups and downs of the game over the past few years. Following his remarkable win at the WinStar World Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma, the Illinois poker pro has now pushed his $357,709 in live tournament earnings past the million dollar mark. News of Massey’s victory immediately drew congratulations and advice from well-wishers, including Mark S Smith, who tweeted:
“@nevermissmassey Be smart with your good fortune. Treat this like the business it is, If you lose your money, you just fired yourself !!!”
The $2,100 re-entry tournament had three starting days with Massey eliminated on both Day 1A and Day 1B before making it through at his last attempt. Amongst those top pros buying in three times but leaving empty-handed was Vanessa Selbst, Dwyte Pilgrim, Greg Raymer and Allen Kessler.
As the tournament progressed, notable players cashing along the way included Maria Ho in 90th, Chris Moneymaker in 87th, WSOP October Nine Robert Salaburu in 60th and David “Doc” Sands in 20th. Eventually, the last day of play then saw the final table of eight get underway with Aaron Massey holding a slight chip lead.
Massey was then able to press his advantage forward and finally overcome Andy Robinson heads-up to capture the $651,559 first-place prize and become the 2012 River Poker Series Main Event Champion.
The final table payouts were as follows:
1: Aaron Massey – $659,559
2: Andy Robinson – $334,030
3: Matt Newcombe – $195,160
4: Jay Merchant – $139,400
5: Peter Zhmutski – $111,520
6: Patricia Cardner – $97,580
7: Cord Garcia – $83,640
8: Chris Hooper – $69,700
9: Matt Shepsky – $62,730