Mark Seif, Vanessa Selbst Amongst Early Leaders

Published on May 29th, 2012 1:35 am EST

The first open event of the 2012 World Series of Poker got underway earlier today in Las Vegas.

Event #2 ($1,500 No Limit Hold'em) of the 2012 World Series of Poker ended up attracting a total of 2,101 entrants, which means that there is a total prize pool of $2,836,350.

216 players are going to receive at least $2,893 for cashing in the event, while the eventual winner will walk away with $517,725 and the World Series of Poker bracelet.

Most of poker's biggest names turned out for the first open WSOP event of the year, including:

-Phil Ivey (especially notable considering the fact that he boycotted last year's event)
-Daniel Negreanu
-Phil Hellmuth
-Bertrand "ElkY" Grospellier

There are currently around 520 players left in the event with about three hours of play remaining in the day. Some of the notable bustouts so far include Barry Greenstein, Michael "The Grinder" Mizrachi and Jonathan Duhamel.

Things will really pick up on Tuesday with the $3,000 Heads Up No Limit Hold'em / Pot Limit Omaha and $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi-Low 8 or Better events.

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Filed Under: The World Series of Poker