Honored in Death: WSOP to Commemorate Reese in $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. Event

The World Series of Poker has created a special award to honor the late Chip Reese.  In addition to the tremendous prize money and gold bracelet, the winner of the $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event will be awarded a new trophy, the “David ‘Chip’ Reese Award.” 

Reese, who passed away suddenly in the early morning hours of December 4, was not only widely considered the best all-around poker player in the world, but was also adored by both competitors and fans.  Emotions ran high in the days following Reese’s death, and many players on internet message boards expressed their desire to see the WSOP do something to honor the three-time bracelet winner, specifically in the $50,000 H.O.R.S.E. event .  Some felt such an honor was unnecessary, as not only are no special awards given at the WSOP, but Reese was also primarily a cash game player.  At the same time, however, proponents of the gesture point to Reese’s reputation as a legendary all-around player, his victory in the first WSOP H.O.R.S.E. event in 2006, and his reputation as a great person. 

Apparently, Jeffrey Pollack, Commissioner of the WSOP agreed with Reese’s supporters.   

“A true gentleman and the youngest person admitted to the Poker Hall of Fame, Chip Reese was recognized by his peers as the most successful player in the biggest mixed cash games of all time,” Pollack said.  “But he was also a great tournament player with three WSOP bracelets, including one for his historic victory in the inaugural $50,000 buy-in HORSE tournament in 2006.” 

“As a tribute to this great player who embodied the very best of our game, next year’s $50,000 HORSE World Championship will be played in Chip’s honor and memory.  And the winner will receive the ‘David “Chip” Reese Award,’ as well as a WSOP bracelet, to commemorate their achievement.”