Thomas Bihl makes history as first World Series of Poker Europe Champion

German Thomas Bihl made poker history this morning by winning the first ever World Series of Poker Europe championship, awarded in the £2,500 HORSE tournament that kicked off the first run of the WSOPE.

Bihl outlasted a notable final three that included well-known pro Jennifer Harman and WSOP bracelet winner Kirk Morrision. The remainder of the final table was similiarly competitive: Chris Ferguson in fourth, Russian pro Alex Kravchenko in fifth place, Yuval Bronshtein and Joe Beevers taking sixth and seventh and Gary Jones rounding out the top spots in eighth.

“Thomas Bihl has earned a place in poker history with this incredible win,” said WSOP Commissioner Jeffrey Pollack. “The fact that he is a Betfair player, when Betfair is our presenting sponsor, makes this even sweeter.”

Bihl took home £70,875 for the win. He entered heads up play at a nearly 2-1 chip disadvantage to Harman, but overcame the different with a few key hands and aggressive play, sealing the win at at 4:15 a,m. GMT.

The second WSOPE event, a £5,000 PLO event, is nearing the final table today.