World Series of Poker raising number of players cashing in

LAS VEGAS (AP) World Series of Poker organizers aim to raise the number of winners in the 2016 tournament in Las Vegas, and say the roster of entrants should top 100,000 for the first time.

Event spokesman Seth Palansky at Caesars Interactive Entertainment said Tuesday that table start times will be earlier for many of the 69 events, and a new prize distribution format means up to 50 percent more players should cash in.

The 47th annual tournament begins May 31 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. It runs through July 18, when a final table of no-limit Texas Hold `Em players emerges.

They'll return Oct. 30 to play for the championship on Nov. 1.

Pennsylvania poker pro Joe McKeehen won the gold bracelet last year, and a $7.68 million top prize.