The Genting International Casino in Birmingham hosted the final of the UK dealer championship last weekend. There were 26 finalists from various land based casinos in the running to take the £2000 first prize, under sponsorhip from game developer and manufacturer Novomatic.
The croupier is key for a land based casino in using their skill and charm to keep players interested and focused on the next big win. There are various skills needed and all these were tested in a series of contests to determine the best and most efficient. Skills such as stack pushing, chipping, card handling, chip cutting and mathematical arithmetic are all part of the top croupiers skillset.
UK Dealer Championship Winner, Catalina Huzum (picture courtesy of Casino Life)
The top 3 were announced and it was a very close fought battle. The eventual winner was the first female to be crowned champion. Catalina Huzum, representing Les Ambassadeurs Club used her charm, professionalism and skill to beat runner up Chris Hall of Crockfords Casino London and 2nd runner up Damon Ryan of Hippodrome Casino. Who won £1000 and £500 respectively.
Catalina Huzum, and runner up Chris Hall, will now go on to represent the UK at the European Dealer Championship later this year in Tallinn.