Bradley Ritschel Wins WSOP Circuit Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Main Event

Bradley Ritschel dominated the final day of the 2023 World Series of Poker Harvey’s Lake Tahoe $1,700 buy-in no-limit hold’em main event, leading the pack among the last six contenders. In just over two hours, he translated this advantage into victory, eliminating every opponent on his way to claiming the WSOP Circuit gold ring and the coveted top prize of $115,740.

Reflecting on his accomplishment, Bradley Ritschel exclaimed, “It’s incredible, a dream realized—I never envisioned being in first place.” Speaking to Poker.org live reporters covering the event, he expressed his excitement.

For the 25-year-old New Jersey resident, this marked his second-largest live tournament payday, surpassing his previous record of $141,000 earned as the third-place finisher in the 2021 Prime Poker Open at Prime Social Club in Houston.

Following this breakthrough win, Ritschel’s total live tournament earnings now exceed $465,000. He proudly secures his first WSOPC ring, adding to his list of achievements.

After claiming the first four knockouts of the day, Bradley Ritschel entered the heads-up play with a significant lead over James Chavanarojrit. Although Chavanarojrit narrowed the gap in the early stages, Ritschel maintained a commanding lead until the final hand unfolded.

In the critical hand, Ritschel raised with 4Club Suit3Heart Suit from the button and called a three-bet from Chavanarojrit, who held KSpade SuitKClub Suit in the big blind. The flop revealed JDiamond Suit5Diamond Suit2Spade Suit, prompting Chavanarojrit to lead out with his overpair. Ritschel, with an open-ended straight draw, called. The turn brought the JHeart Suit, pairing the board. Chavanarojrit checked, and Ritschel bet 1,000,000. Chavanarojrit called, and the river, 6Spade Suit, completed Ritschel’s straight. Chavanarojrit checked again, and Ritschel, confident in his hand, moved all in. After thoughtful consideration, Chavanarojrit made the call but found his overpair to be second best, securing Ritschel’s victory and leaving him with $71,000 for his runner-up position.

WSOPC Lake Tahoe Main Event Final Table Results