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Kerryjane Craigie, PokerStars Ambassador and Director of Poker at the Hippodrome Casino, is gearing up for the PokerStars Women’s Summer Festival in London, and she’s once again championing the vital role women’s events play in the growth of the game.

Women's tournaments aren’t just about competition, they’re about community, visibility, and creating a more welcoming path for the next generation of women in poker.

We're fast approaching the PokerStars Women's Summer Festival, and with the countdown in single figures, it won't be long before we hear that familiar call: "Shuffle up and deal!"

This summer has already delivered some standout performances from top-tier players like Leo Margets, Esther Taylor, and Shiina O. But every time a woman takes that first step into a mixed-field event, bags up chips, or makes a final table appearance — that matters too. It all counts.

WSOP Ladies Champ Okamoto Heading to PokerStars Women's Summer Festival

Women are no longer just occasional players. Their presence in high-stakes tournaments is rising, and they're showing up not just as contenders but as champions, leaders, and role models. With them comes a fresh energy, new strategies, and a dynamic spirit that elevates the entire poker ecosystem.

"I will always advocate for women's events as an essential part of poker's growth."

There's been some chatter around women-only events recently. And while we all bring our own experiences to the table, for many of us, these tournaments offer something genuinely special. They provide a welcoming space, a sense of community, and yes, more fun (and definitely more volume!).

I will always advocate for women's events as an essential part of poker's growth. They're not about separation, they're about building bridges.

Because this movement is about more than cards and chips. Poker is a game of intellect, instinct, and psychological grit, none of which are bound by gender. When women are underrepresented, the talent pool is limited, and tired stereotypes are reinforced. The more we support, welcome, and encourage women into the game, the better and more competitive the game becomes.

And the momentum is real. We're seeing the message resonate: "You belong here too."

PokerStars recently released data showing year-on-year growth in women's participation at all their live events — a trend worth celebrating.

We've also seen a new chapter open with Women's High Roller events now a regular fixture. From the Women's Winter Festival to Las Vegas Women's Week, the inclusion of high buy-in women-only events is proving to be a crucial stepping stone. These arenas give players the chance to observe, study, and apply advanced skills in a competitive, yet empowering environment.

This is how we build to higher buy-ins and the main mixed events of major festivals. These transitional tournaments help normalize women's participation at the highest levels, and that's where real growth happens — not just in numbers, but in the visibility and legitimacy of women in poker.

The Women's Summer Festival is built with all players in mind, whatever your bankroll. Live satellites start from just £40, a live no-reg fee path into the Main Event. New to this year's schedule is the £110 High Roller Satellite, kicking things off on Tuesday 12th August, and we want to see those numbers grow in the High Roller itself on the 13th.

This isn't just a tournament series, it's a statement. And I'm confident that the next generation of poker's elite will be more gender-diverse than ever before.

Let's journey together.
Play fierce.