World Series of Poker Champ Dodges Bullet

  When Joe Hachem won the 2005 WSOP main event, he would occasionally show up in the news, with his new found celebrity making his actions noteworthy. The same holds true for reigning World Series of Poker Champion Jamie Gold, but where Hachems news stories are centered around additional poker victories and his tax victories in Australia, Golds news stories are focused on controversy. A recent press release from Harrahs, however, could be the start of good things for Gold, as it addresses two rules infractions the former Hollywood agent had copped to.  During the 2006 WSOP main event Jamie exposed a hole card to a fellow player, and in another incident told a fellow player - and friend - that he held top pair and top kicker to keep him from losing a lot of money. Gold admitted to both infractions during a recent interview with The New York Times. Both instances would have earned him at least a ten minute penalty if observed by Harrahs officials.  In the press release Jeffrey Pollack, commissioner of the World Series of Poker, says that Jamie will not face retroactive penalties and is welcome back to the WSOP this year. After reviewing tapes and interviewing Jamie, Harrah's is satisfied that he broke the rules for the reason he stated - excitement and naivety - rather than seeking to gain an advantage.