Irish poker professional and author Dara O’Kearney recently took part in his very first WSOP Super Seniors Event at the 2025 World Series of Poker. Just seven days past his 60th birthday, Dara qualified for the exclusive tournament and stepped into the field with a mix of curiosity, excitement, and reflection. His experience in the event was both humorous and deeply insightful, providing a unique window into the evolving landscape of senior poker.

Embracing the Super Seniors Field

Dara noted a striking difference between this and the traditional Seniors Event, which he had played before. In the Super Seniors field, players were notably older, and the pace of play was slower and more deliberate. The environment was reminiscent of early Seniors events, giving him a feeling of nostalgia and camaraderie.

Knowing that the average pace would be more relaxed, Dara adjusted his strategy, deciding to open up his range and play a more aggressive style early on. This shift worked in his favor, helping him to quickly build a comfortable stack and gain control at the table.

The Longest Bubble

The most dramatic part of Dara’s tournament came on Day 2 during the bubble period. With just five and a half big blinds left, he found himself hanging on by a thread. The hand-for-hand play dragged on for two full hours, testing the patience of everyone in the room.

A particularly comical moment occurred when two players simultaneously claimed to have pocket aces, and yet no one was eliminated. Dara quipped that the bubble “might be more likely to break from natural causes,” a comment that lightened the mood momentarily but reflected the high tension in the room.

When the bubble finally burst, it brought a wave of relief and an emotional shift for Dara. Suddenly, the tournament felt like a freeroll—a gift to be appreciated rather than a stressful battle.

A Perspective Shift on Poker and Aging

Beyond the cards and chips, Dara shared that the experience taught him something valuable: that poker truly is a game for all ages. The Super Seniors Event wasn’t just about slower play or softer competition—it was a testament to how sharp, focused, and motivated players remain even into their 60s and 70s.

He remarked that while some used to consider 60 the end of competitive poker, it now feels more like a second prime. With many online grinders transitioning into these events and tools like solvers helping players stay sharp, age is no longer a barrier to success.