The Festival Series, created by Martin Franke von Zweigbergk, is set to return to Malta from September 8-15. Franke, a colorful character in the world of poker, is known for his larger-than-life personality and love for the game. His passion for poker is evident in the way he approaches the game, always willing to take risks and go all-in, both on and off the felt.
I first encountered Franke at a Unibet Open in Bucharest, where he made quite an impression. Loud and boisterous, Franke was the life of the party, always ready to take on the next challenge. Despite being on his umpteenth bullet in the side event, he never backed down, always eager to re-enter and try his luck again. However, on this particular occasion, Franke found himself in a predicament – he had run out of cash and his cards were maxed out after a long day of drinking and playing poker.
In a stroke of genius, Franke looked around the table and singled me out as the likely candidate to lend him the money he needed to continue playing. Without hesitation, I handed over the cash, and Franke was back in action. Grateful for the assistance, he even offered his passport as collateral, knowing he might not remember the transaction the next day. True to form, Franke busted out of the event shortly after re-entry closed, but not before leaving a lasting impression on everyone at the table.
Despite his wild antics, Franke is also a man of many talents, most notably as the mastermind behind The Festival Series. The event, which took place in Malta last year, saw 50 champions crowned over eight days of intense competition at the Portomaso Casino. The Main Event, with a buy-in of €550 ($608), was won by Oystein Brenden of Norway, who took home €60,700 ($67,127). However, what sets The Festival Series apart is its unique approach to catering to fans of mixed games, blending elements of poker and casino games to create a truly unforgettable experience.
This year, The Festival Series is making a triumphant return to Malta from September 8-15, with stops in Rozvadov and Bratislava also on the horizon. Partnering with Unibet, the event is offering package and seat satellites every week on UnibetPoker, giving players a chance to qualify for the prestigious tournament. With Franke at the helm, The Festival Series promises to deliver another action-packed week of poker, entertainment, and camaraderie, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
In conclusion, Martin Franke von Zweigbergk is not just a poker player; he is a larger-than-life personality who brings a sense of excitement and adventure to everything he does. From his wild antics at the poker table to his innovative approach to event planning, Franke is a force to be reckoned with in the world of poker. As The Festival Series gears up for another thrilling edition in Malta, all eyes will be on Franke and his team as they strive to create an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike.