The poker tourney fielded 79 participants of various skill levels to compete in a Texas Hold ‘Em style competition with prizes ranging from $300-$5,000 in cash. The event drew approximately 200 people.
Daphne Rosen earned the distinction of being the final adult star to remain in the game after Wicked Pictures’ Carmen Hart was taken out on the next to last table.
b.a.b.e. founder Marcia Hrichison told XBIZ that she was floored by the large turnout and felt indebted by the amount of support and solidarity the adult entertainment community has shown her and the charity. The final tally wasn’t in, but Hrichison was hopeful that the total amount of money raised was greater than last year’s.
“This year’s tournament has definitely grown, and I think we did a good job of capturing a cool, party atmosphere,” Hrichison said. “We had twice as many sponsors and I can’t thank the adult industry enough for its dedication to this cause. All of the stars have just been great to work with — they get what we are trying to do. b.a.b.e is all about embracing the breasts’ sexuality and raising awareness. Who better to do that than the gorgeous ladies in this room?”
In addition to supporting the Eileen Stein Jacoby Fund at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, donations also will be made to other organizations such as the Wellness Centers; Westside Family Health Center, Los Angeles; and the nationwide Check 'Em, Don't Neglect 'Em Campaign.
“I’m here because b.a.b.e. is a great cause,” Sunny Lane told XBIZ. “I wouldn’t even think about missing this, even though my poker game isn’t that good.”
Other adult stars, like Courtney Cummz, practiced playing Hold ‘Em online before the event to brush up on their poker skills.
The event attracted mainstream media attention as well. KLSX 97.1 (Free-FM) was the tourney’s radio sponsor, and FOX 11 and CBS sent reporters.
Tournament participants included Digital Playground’s Jesse Jane, Shay Jordan and Sophia Santi; Wicked Pictures’ Carmen Hart and Stormy Daniels; SexZ Pictures’ Paulina James; Adam & Eve’s Ava Rose; Sunny Lane, Jules Jordan, Jenna Haze, Tera Patrick, Evan Seinfeld, Taylor Wane, Gina Lynn, Travis Knight, Alektra Blue, Pat Myne, Courtney Cummz, Eva Angelina, Lexi Lamour, Penthouse Pet of the Year Heather Vandeven, Sasha Grey, Brooke Haven, Tommy Gunn, Flower Tucci, Cousin Stevie, Monica Mayhem; and mainstream celebrities like rapper Coolio and former Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean.