PokerStars is putting female poker players in the spotlight this International Women’s Day with the KJ Open, an online tournament designed exclusively for women. Named after Kerryjane Craigie, PokerStars Ambassador and Director of Poker at the Hippodrome Casino, this event is more than just a game—it’s an opportunity to secure a seat at one of Europe’s biggest live poker tournaments.
A Tournament Designed to Celebrate Women in Poker
Women have long been underrepresented in the world of poker, but PokerStars is taking a step toward changing that. The KJ Open is an online event exclusively for female players, emphasizing inclusivity and providing a platform for women to showcase their skills.
The stakes? A chance to win entry into the prestigious Irish Open Ladies Championship. At least two €250 seats are guaranteed, with the potential for more as the prize pool grows.
One of the most exciting aspects of the tournament is the bounty placed on Kerryjane Craigie herself. Any player who knocks her out in her first entry will automatically win a seat in the Irish Open Ladies Championship.
How the KJ Open Works
The KJ Open is structured to maximize opportunities for female players to transition from online to live poker.
- The tournament guarantees at least two €250 Irish Open Ladies Championship seats.
- For every additional €250 in the prize pool, another seat is added—up to a maximum of 10 seats.
- The knockout bounty adds an extra layer of excitement: eliminate Kerryjane Craigie (in her first entry), and you’ll win a €250 seat.
- Male players are strictly prohibited—any man attempting to enter will be disqualified and forfeit any prizes.
This format ensures that the KJ Open isn’t just about competing for cash; it’s about giving women the chance to take their game to a major live poker event.
Why This Matters for Women in Poker
Poker remains a male-dominated game, but initiatives like this can help shift the balance. According to a 2023 survey by Poker League, women make up only about 4% of total poker tournament participants worldwide. Efforts like the KJ Open aim to increase that number by making the game more accessible and encouraging more women to step into the spotlight.
The Irish Open Ladies Championship itself has been growing in prominence, attracting top female talent from across Europe. By securing a seat through the KJ Open, winners will get a chance to test their skills in a major live setting.
KJ Open: Key Details
Here’s what players need to know about the tournament:
| Event | The KJ Open |
|---|---|
| Date | March 8, 2024 |
| Time | 7 PM UK |
| Entry Fee | Varies (Prize pool determines available seats) |
| Prize | At least 2 x €250 Irish Open Ladies Championship seats |
| Additional Seats | 1 extra seat added per €250 in prize pool (up to 10 seats) |
| Knockout Bounty | Knock out Kerryjane Craigie (first entry) to win a seat |
| Eligibility | Open to female players only |
A Step in the Right Direction
PokerStars has been vocal about increasing female participation in poker, and the KJ Open is another step toward making the game more inclusive. While there’s still a long way to go in achieving true gender balance at the tables, creating opportunities like these could be key in shifting the landscape.
For now, female poker players have a unique chance to make their mark. With the KJ Open offering direct access to one of Europe’s most prestigious poker festivals, this International Women’s Day is set to be a big one for women in the game.
