Deaf poker Australian champions cause controversy
Doubts about DPA Community Championship eligibility
The Australian Deaf Poker Competition has attracted 100 runners from all over Australia. Chris Smithton won the competition and made $3,300 in prize money, but other competitors doubt his win. It is not an allegation of cheating in poker, but has been accused of not being deaf enough to win the Australian Deaf Poker Competition.
The DPA stipulates that players should "prove minimal hearing loss through audiograms or medical certificates." Smithton says his right ear is very deaf and his left ear is slightly deaf.
Players became somewhat suspicious when players introduced themselves using sign language while Smithton restrained himself. Instead, he pointed to a tattoo with a mute symbol near his ear. However, it was only after his victory that other DPA members called him to say his condition was serious.
The DPA said it will open an investigation into the matter. This is a very complicated situation, and the organization will likely have to consult with other members of the deaf poker community as well as doctors.
The issue also has the potential to cause the DPA to reevaluate its standards. While there has to be moderate hearing loss in order for players to compete in the team's events, the degree of hearing loss still varies. Therefore, the DPA's rules may have to be explained in much more detail when defining players' qualifications.
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