CHECKIN' IN WITH THE BIG STACKS

WPT BORGATA POKER OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Aminov Near the Top

As players return from their first break the big stacks continue to navigate the minefields. "Trying to stay consistent," says Gabriel Aminov (Fresh Meadows, NY) who's slightly higher than the 214k he began the day with as chip leader.

"I'm cautiously optimistic," he adds after watching Allen Kessler bust from his table with pocket aces. "I'm playing the cards and trying not to take advantage of my stack too much. That's what gets you into trouble."

Starting third in chips is Rhett Butler (Rockville, MD), the 5th place finisher of the 2006 WSOP Main Event. His starting stack of 154k is down nearly 100k after losing two sizeable pots."I'm alright, but it's a long day. I'm tired already, I think I'm getting old," says the 47 year old insurance agent.

Nerves effects Frank Molinari and his second place chip count (169k) when he see's poker pro Gavin Smith at his table. "When he sat down I got nervous," says the Moonachie, NJ resident." Then I started playing bad. I'm good now. Check back in an hour I'll have it back over 100," he says while shuffling 71k.

Level 11 (500/1k/100 ante) underway.