Caribbean Poker Party could suffer from overlay issues

The Caribbean Poker Party organized by partypoker has, for the most part, been an overwhelming success. However, a couple of key events didn’t reach their intended draw, leaving to several overlays that have had organizers breaking out their wallets to make up the differences.

The 10-day festival got underway on November 9, offering millions in guaranteed cash. The $25,500 High Roller was the first event to not reach its goal, falling well short of the required number of players to cover the $10-million guarantee. In total, only 394 entries were recorded – well under the number necessary to avoid an overlay.

The $5,300 Main Event has also fallen short of expectations. Between the first three Day 1 registrations and Day 2a from yesterday, there have been 1193 entries. It’s nowhere near enough to cover the $10-million prize pool.

John Duthie, who became the CEO for partypoker LIVE in February of last year, had high hopes for the Caribbean Poker Party. Duthie, who founded the EPT, said at the time, “I believe there is a gap in the market for an operator whose primary focus is poker and who will listen to, and work with, the poker community as this was something that was absolutely key to the growth and success of the EPT.” It might possibly be that Duthie bit off more than he could chew with partypoker.