FAQ

What are the requirements to play in the league and how much does it cost?
There is absolutely no cost to play. The only requirement is that players are at least 18 years of age, and that they meet the minimum age requirement of the hosting establishment (currently 21 years of age at all hosting establishments) . And, you don’t have to be an expert poker player. In fact, if you don’t know how to play poker, there are people who will help you learn the game!!

When and where are the tournaments held?
Currently, tournaments are held every Monday and Thursday evening at the Office Lounge in Bloomington, and Sunday afternoon at the Twisted Tap (previously “Tap Hole”) in Ellettsville.

Can I win anything?
Yes!! the winner of each tournament, whether a veteran player or a new one, receives a cash prize of $75 or $100 depending on the hosting establishment . The more tournaments you play in, the more opportunity you have to win.

Does BTown use standard ranking of poker hands?
Yes, poker hands are ranked based on poker rules used at virtually all poker venues. A synopsis of poker hand rankings can be found at the end of the Rules section.

Do I have to deal cards when playing in the tournaments?
No: Although once familiar with the dealing and betting process, you can be the dealer if you choose to. One person will be selected as the dealer for the table . To keep the game moving, the player to the right of the dealer button (or other person if desired) will shuffle the second deck of cards and have it ready for the next hand.

What is the seasonal Tournament of Champions (TOC)?
A Tournament of Champions (TOC) is held at the end of each 4 month season, which is a special event for players who are qualified to participate. Prizes are awarded to the players making it to the final table (usually 8 players). Typically, a cumulative total of $600 to $800 in cash prizes are awarded .

Can I qualify for the Tournament of Champions (TOC)?
Yes! You can qualify for the TOC by earning both Regular Points and Bonus Points, which are accumulated throughout the season. Typically, a minimum of 1500 Regular Points and 1500 Bonus Points are required, but the exact number can vary somewhat based on the length of each season .

How do I earn Regular Points toward qualifying for the TOC?
Regular points are earned by making it to the final 16 in any of the regular tournaments during the season. The first place winner receives 1200 Regular Points, and the other placing positions (16th to 2nd place) receive from 50 to 800 Regular Points. Also, if you play a winning hand that takes out one or more players, you receive bounty chips from those players: each bounty chip is worth 50 Regular Points. Regular points are also awarded for playing out any premium hand (4 of a kind, straight flush, Royal Flush)..

How do I earn Bonus Points toward qualifying for the TOC?
Bonus points are earned based on food and beverage purchases from the hosting facility (20 Bonus point for each $1 spent) and also by winning at a Second Chance table. Bonus Points are also awarded for playing out a Royal Flush..

What is the “Second Chance” table?
After players have been eliminated from the main tournament, they have an option to play poker at the Second Chance table. This is an excellent opportunity to hone poker skills, especially for newer players. .

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