It looks as though 2008 will be a good poker year as it was announced very late last year that there would be a Latin American Poker Tour commencing in 2008 playing in 8 countries. The LAPT countries are Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica. At the end of the season one player will be crowned by winning a Tournament of Champions event. While these events will be hosted in Latin America, players from around the world will be coming to play. In one format twist the events will be invitational, with players winning seats via live local events and online qualifiers.

The host of the LAPT will be Bob the Butcher. Bob the butcher will be providing on-air commentry. Vega are still in talks with professional poker players to see who will be joining Bob the Butcher.

The programming will be produced by Vega and aired through out Latin America.

More details about the LAPT will be announced as they become available.

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PokerStars Review

Qualify for the LAPT at PokerStars now

PokerStars will be running satellites for LAPT Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) from March 10, 2008, with buy-ins starting from just $2.20. This means everyone has a chance to take part.

Players can also qualify with the PokerStars Steps Sit & Go satellites from only $7.50 or 500 FPP credits.

The LAPT Rio de Janeiro prize package is worth $5,000 and includes $2,500 event buy-in, 4 nights hotel accommodation and $1,900 for expenses.

To enter an LAPT satellite: open the PokerStars lobby, click ‘Events', and then ‘LAPT'.