Shuffling the deck – Ivonne Montealegre’s poker revolution

In the vibrant world of poker, few figures shine as brightly as Ivonne Montealegre. As the founder of the Malta Poker Festival and the director of international affairs for the Women’s Poker Association in Las Vegas, Ivonne has dedicated herself to transforming the poker landscape into a more inclusive, welcoming, and community-driven environment. With her infectious passion and unwavering focus on success, she is not just a leader in the industry; she is a beacon of hope and inspiration for players everywhere. In an exclusive interview for SiGMA News, Ivonne shares her vision for the future of poker, her excitement about her upcoming poker festivals, and the profound impact of community on the game she loves.

The Malta Poker Festival is more than just cards and chips

“This festival is not merely a competition; it celebrates friendships and connections.”

The Malta Poker Festival, scheduled from October 24 to November 4, 2024, at the Portomaso Casino in St Julian’s, will be a spectacular event, with approximately 1,300 unique players and their guests from all over Europe and beyond attending. “This festival is not merely a competition; it celebrates friendships and connections,” Ivonne explains, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “I designed it with recreational players in mind because they are the heart of our community.” With a range of buy-ins starting at €550 and side events priced at €300 and €200, Ivonne ensures the festival is accessible to players of all levels. “I want everyone to feel included and valued. When players come here, they should feel like they’re part of something special, something that transcends just playing cards.” The idea of accessibility and being part of the poker community ignites a fire within Ivonne. It’s obvious this means a lot to her.

As Halloween approaches during the festival, Ivonne has planned a lively costume party, which has become a cherished tradition. “The players take it very seriously! Last year, the winner wore an illuminated lightbulb costume, and he shared with me how he created it. Quite an illusion!” she laughs, excitement and energy radiating from her, highlighting the joy that permeates the event. “These moments create memories that players will carry with them long after the cards have been dealt.”

Fostering a sense of belonging

At the core of the Malta Poker Festival lies a profound sense of community. Ivonne emphasises this sets her event apart from others. “We are not just about the poker; we are about creating a family,” she insists. “I have 12 hosts from around the world, including renowned players like John Kyte, the Norwegian EPT winner, and Natalie Bromley from the Hearts of Queens Foundation. They come here not just to compete but to connect and enjoy the atmosphere.”

For the seniors Andreas Høivold, a very well-known former high-stakes professional player is attending. “These are friends who come here just for the fun. Can you believe that for them, it’s not about the money? It’s about the community they cherish, which speaks volumes about what we are doing here, and I am very proud of that.” This focus on community is palpable in every aspect of the festival. Ivonne believes that fostering friendships is essential for creating a positive experience for players. “When you’re at the table, it’s about the connections you make, the stories you share, and the laughter that fills the room. That’s what makes poker so magical,” she explains with enthusiasm.

A collaborative effort driving the Malta Poker Festival

A stellar lineup of sponsors and partners bolsters the upcoming Malta Poker Festival, each contributing to the event’s success and vibrancy. The Hippodrome, under the leadership of Kerryjane Craigie, stands out as a key collaborator, promoting inclusivity and supporting events which empower women in poker. Ivonne says, “we are in an age of collaboration; traditionally, casinos have not cooperated extensively. However, Kerryjane and I are setting a new standard. I’m promoting her Women’s Winter Festival during the Malta Poker Festival, and in return, she supports my events. This synergy enhances our events by fostering cooperation rather than competition, and I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration with the Hippodrome. This harmony between organisers is beautiful. Everyone is an ambassador of the game.”

Maureen Blöchlinger from Globetrotting Poker enhances the festival by connecting travel enthusiasts with exciting poker experiences. Robbie Strazynski of Cardplayer Lifestyle ensures the festival receives widespread coverage and recognition in the poker community, helping to attract a diverse audience. The Hendon Mob, represented by Roland Boothby and Hans Kliensmann, adds prestige with their Hendon Mob Championship. Reflecting on her journey, Ivonne shares her pride in the Hendon Mob. “The Hendon Mob started at my championship, and seeing how they have grown and achieved success globally fills me with immense pride.”

“These partnerships are essential because they embody the spirit of collaboration and community that I strive for.”

Additionally, Tom Brady’s APAT plays a vital role in attracting young talent, fostering a new generation of poker enthusiasts eager to learn and take part. PokerTrip.de, a significant German partner, has expanded its involvement over the years, bringing in hundreds of players and enhancing the festival’s international appeal. Unibet and UDSO provide crucial support through online qualifiers, while Grosvenor Poker contributes by sending their players and ambassadors to the festival.

Ivonne states, “These partnerships are essential because they embody the spirit of collaboration and community that I strive for. Together, we enhance the festival’s atmosphere and create unforgettable experiences for all participants.”

Cherishing inclusivity and representation

Ivonne’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the festival. As the director of international affairs for the Women’s Poker Association, which boasts 37,000 active female players in the United States alone, she dedicates her time to championing the voices of women and the LGBTQ+ community in poker. “My work is intensely focused on ensuring that everyone feels respected at the tables. While we’ve made strides in celebrating women’s contributions, the actual numbers remain disappointing. When I began in poker 20 years ago, women comprised about 10% of live participants; now, it’s closer to 3%,” she notes, her passion palpable. The disparity is something Ivonne is determined to change. “If we can raise that 3% to 20 or 25%, just think of the impact on the game!” she exclaims, her optimism shining through. “We need to celebrate and uplift women in poker, showing them they belong here and that their contributions matter.” Ivonne’s belief in the power of representation drives her mission. “Women are excelling in poker, and it’s crucial that we highlight their success stories. We need to pave the way for future generations and create an environment where they can thrive,” she states. “As women organisers, we bring a different perspective to the industry, often focusing on collaboration rather than competition. This can lead to better gameplay and a more supportive atmosphere.”

A personal commitment to responsible gaming

As the poker industry evolves, Ivonne is acutely aware of the challenges that come with it. “We need to be vigilant about who we allow at our tables,” she says firmly. “An addictive gambler is not a good customer. I want participants who enter tournaments knowing they can afford to lose their buy-in and have a good time without incurring debt or risking their financial security.” During the Malta Poker Festival, Ivonne implements strict policies to ensure responsible gaming. “We limit players to two re-entries into the tournament, capping spending at €1,500. That’s the rule for everyone, regardless of who you are,” she explains. “This policy speaks volumes about our commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable environment.” Her dedication to responsible gaming is not just a policy but a personal mission. “I’ve seen too many players get caught up in the thrill and lose sight of what really matters. We need to foster a community of positive, recreational players who enjoy the game for what it is.”

Costa Rica and a vision for the future

As Ivonne looks beyond Malta, her excitement for the Costa Rica event set to take place from January 27, 2025 to February 3, 2025, is palpable. “This is my first time expanding the franchise, and I want players to have an unforgettable experience,” she shares. Speaking about Costa Rica brings a noticeable change in Ivonne’s demeanour, making her more animated, her eyes glistening with a deep-seated pride, reflecting her passion for her homeland. Everything has clicked into place for the Costa Rica event. The Sheraton Hotel Grand Casino in San Jose is the perfect venue for this.

For Ivonne, Costa Rica is not just a venue; it’s a piece of her heart. “This is my country, and I am so proud to be Costa Rican,” she declares, her voice filled with emotion. “Every corner of this beautiful land has a story to tell, and I want our players to feel that magic.” The connection to her roots runs deep, and it’s obvious her passion for her homeland influences every aspect of the upcoming event. What makes the Costa Rica event unique is its emphasis on adventure and exploration. “We have a day where we do NOT play poker! Everything will be closed for that day to allow players to mingle and take part in various adventures,” she explains. The thought of zip-lining through the lush canopy or enjoying a serene coffee plantation tour seems to ignite her spirit even further. “Imagine players experiencing the beauty of Tortuga Island or diving into the clear waters of the Pacific,” she continues, her voice tinged with enthusiasm and nostalgia. “We want players to truly immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and natural beauty, leaving with memories that go beyond the poker tables.” Yet, amid the excitement, there is a hint of melancholy in Ivonne’s reflection. She acknowledges the challenges faced by her country, from environmental concerns to the need for sustainable tourism. “Costa Rica is a land of wonders, but we must cherish and protect it,” she states earnestly. “I want to create an event that celebrates not just poker, but the beauty of our culture and our commitment to preserving it.”

Her dedication to responsible gaming and environmental awareness shines through in her plans for the event. “We are committed to combating pollution,” she explains, “so we will use biodegradable bags instead of plastic for the chips in the event.” Ivonne’s passion for her homeland extends to her vision for the future of poker. “I see the SiGMA Poker Tour becoming a catalyst for positive change in the industry,” she asserts. “By showcasing Costa Rica, we can inspire players to appreciate the culture and communities that make our game so special.” Through her efforts, Ivonne aims to weave the spirit of Costa Rica into the fabric of the poker tournament, infusing it with the warmth, joy, and resilience that define her homeland. “We are all part of this beautiful community, and I want everyone to feel that they belong,” she concludes, her voice filled with hope and determination. I inquire about Ivonne’s food recommendation, and smiling, she instantly suggests trying the local specialty of ceviche, served alongside plantain. A delightful way to experience the vibrant flavours of Costa Rica.

Podcasting and sharing stories of resilience

It is clear of the immense thrill Ivonne radiates as she embraces her new role as SiGMA Poker Tour Operations Manager, seeing it as a fantastic opportunity to expand the poker community on a global scale. “I can’t wait to collaborate with incredible partners and bring fresh, innovative events to life, all while sharing the joy of poker with enthusiasts from around the world!” Ivonne’s creativity and drive don’t stop with organising poker festivals. She’s also venturing into the world of podcasting. In January 2025, she will launch the ‘PokerFace’ podcast, which aims to provide a platform for sharing personal stories and insights from people within the poker community. “We’ll feature one-on-one interviews with individuals who have made it and those who have faced challenges,” Ivonne explains, her voice filled with excitement. “We all wear a poker face in life, and it’s about conquering our demons and coming out of it with a positive mindset.” This initiative reflects Ivonne’s belief in the power of storytelling. “Every person has a unique journey, and I want to highlight those experiences. Poker is about more than just winning or losing; it’s about the connections we make and the lessons we learn along the way,” she adds thoughtfully.

A legacy of passion and positivity

As Ivonne Montealegre looks ahead, her vision for the future of poker is clear. A mission to building a legacy that emphasises community, inclusivity, and responsible gaming is vital to her. “At my age, I often contemplate my legacy and what I want my life in the poker industry to reflect. It’s not about accumulating wealth; that’s for sure,” she reflects. “My ambition is to keep building and expanding the SiGMA Poker Tour, reaching new players and fostering connections.”

She adds, “On November 11, during the Sigma Malta event, we will announce the details of the SiGMA Poker Tour, outlining our plans and how we are collaborating with all our partners. We want to engage super affiliates in a poker tour open to every brand. We’re also introducing exclusive super high-roller tournaments for professionals, making the SiGMA Poker Tour an exciting prospect filled with surprises, influencers, and ambassadors to help promote our brand globally.

Our core ethos centres on networking, healthy fun, and well-run tournaments, adhering to TDA guidelines, which we believe will lead to our success.” Ivonne’s dreams extend beyond borders, with aspirations to organise events in Brazil and establish more presence in vibrant Manila. “I envision the SiGMA Poker Tour becoming the biggest tour in the world. It’s about creating an experience that brings people together.”

A community with spirit

Ivonne’s journey has not been without challenges, but her passion for poker and her unwavering commitment to creating a supportive community drive her forward. “I want to retire negativity and bad press from this industry,” she says. “My job is to bring a great experience to people, but I also want to have a great experience myself while doing it. That’s incredibly important to me.” With each festival and initiative, Ivonne aims to foster a sense of joy and connection among players. “The poker community is beautiful; it’s fun, but it’s also incredible in so many ways. I’m not going anywhere. First, we have to make sure the SiGMA Poker Tour is a success,” she concludes, her infectious smile lighting up the room. She is unequivocal in her support of mental health in poker. “If you have been in poker as long as I have, you have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, so mental health is important. Now I am putting a lot of value in my partners. My partners not only have to deliver on their terms, they have to bring a good working environment. To have happy people around us lets us fix any problems. For me, knowing how to talk to each other is very important nowadays. Have fun and a positive, healthy environment. SiGMA is giving me a lot of that. Many people are encouraging me. There’s no way to fail.”

“As Mrs Water Works, when I open the event, I’ve not yet done it with dry eyes!“

Finally, when asked how she will feel seeing all of her dedication, organisation, planning, commitment and passion come into fruition during the tournament, Ivonne laughs and covers her eyes. “As ‘Mrs Water Works’, when I open the event, I’ve not yet done it with dry eyes! Seeing the room with 100 poker tables serviced simultaneously by 100 dealers, and at each table, there’s someone I know makes all the effort worthwhile.” As the Malta Poker Festival approaches and excitement builds for the Costa Rica event, Ivonne’s new role with SiGMA, and the launch of the ‘PokerFace’ podcast, she stands as a testament to the transformative power of community, resilience, and passion in the world of poker. Her unwavering spirit, boundless energy, and contagious positivity reflect a hard work ethic and relentless drive for success, qualities that would be worth millions if we could bottle them. You can find full details of the Malta Poker Festival , while the details of the Costa Rica Poker Festival are available . Follow Ivonne on her journey and stay tuned for updates on the SiGMA Poker Tour!

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