Maria, who is from Grantham and one of Britain's top female players, qualified for the tournament just days after deciding it was time to end her poker career.


The prospect of playing against the best poker stars in one of the world's biggest tournaments has revitalised her enthusiasm for the game.


Maria said: "It's the biggest tournament I'll have competed in by far.


"I can't wait, it's absolutely unbelieveable. This could be the turning point in my career.


"I don't have to win it for good things to happen - if I do well and get to the last two or three tables I will get exposure and maybe interest from a sponsor, which is my ultimate goal."


For the last two years Maria has been at the London leg of the EPT - not as a player but reporting on the tournament for blondepoker.com


This year's tournament will be held at the Victoria Casino in London on Wednesday, October 1.


The winner will not only take home £1m but win entry to the tour grand final in Monte Carlo next year.


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