Last night, Day 1A reached its ultimate end with 17 minutes remaining before the clock would have run out on Level 15. So with 27 minutes remaining today, the final number of hands was determined. By a random draw, it was decided that 3 more hands would be played.

And on the third hand, Michael Esquivel reached a massive 380,000 total.

Robert Michener and Michael Esquivel were the competitors, both of whom had hefty stacks. Michener raised first from early position, but then Esquivel raised to 22,000 from the button, and Michener asked to hear the official raise number. Esquival did not respond in any way, causing a bit of a slowdown as Michener had to ask the dealer for assistance. Regardless, Michener called and action went to the flop.

Michener checked, Esquivel wagered 20,000, and Michener called.

Michener checked, Esquivel bet 40,000, and Michener called.

Once more Michener checked. Esquival shipped his remaining 103,000 into the middle. After a brief think, Michener asked for an official count from the dealer. Once he verified the number, he called.

Esquivel:
Michener:

The monster final hand sent 380,000 in tournament chips towards Esquivel, rocket propelling him into the overall lead, while Michener will lose the lion’s share of his chips but still bag a Day 2 appearance with 34,000.