WPT Venice Grand Prix in Pictures

The World Poker Tour Venice Grand Prix wasn't all about the cards and the €229,800 first prize. The player party saw magic, masquerades and carnival displays before Rinat Bogdanov won the event. Here's how it happened.

This weekend, Rinat Bogdanov beat out a 155-strong field at the WPT Venice Grand Prix, securing €229,800 and a WPT Bellagio seat. He bested Alessandro Longobardi in just two hands of heads-up play to net the trophy, the cash and the WPT bracelet.

With such awesome card and sleight-of-hand skills, we wouldn't like to be at a poker table with renowned magician Dynamo. Fortunately, he was just there for the players' party.

The Royal Flush Girls getting into the spirit of Venice.

When in Rome... er, we mean Venice, do as the Venetians do. Apparently that's masquerades.

Mike Sexton took to the stage to spit an obscene rap. Sorry, we're joking, he just made a little speech.

The players were treated to displays, as the tournament ran alongside the world-famous carnival.

Of course, after the party the Royal Flush Girls got back to work. Yes, standing around and looking pretty is work for them.

Mike Sexton and Vince Van Patten, sitting down and looking pretty. Their work is commentary, though.

And we began our final table in the world's oldest casino with six players looking to ship the event.

Rinat Bogdanov, looking at his opponent's chips. He wound up winning all the chips on the table.

The final hand saw Bogdanov call a very small bet on the flop, turning two pair and rivering a full house against Alessandro Longobardi's top pair to seal the deal.

"How do you feel after this victory, Rinat?" "Like I need to put down this trophy - it's heavy!"

Congratulations to Rinat Bogdanov, WPT Venice Grand Prix champion!