Working in the Gardens: Saya Ono Makes it Two WPT Deep Runs at Home Casino

By Sean Chaffin

Playing at her home casino has been good for local player Saya Ono (pictured). After finishing 21st for $21,780 this week in the WPT Gardens Poker Championship, she made it two deep runs in a row here at the property. At the inaugural WPT Gardens Poker Festival in July, she made the final table – finishing fifth for $151,995.

Before poker, she worked in modeling and acting and also as a realtor. Born in China, The 31-year-old moved to the U.S. about 10 years ago and lives in L.A. She now has almost $345,000 in live tournament winnings including $195,052 on the WPT.

“I’ve been [playing] poker full-time for four years,” she says. “My ex-boyfriend was a professional, and taught me how to play.”

Apparently, the tutoring worked quite well. When not playing cards, Ono loves working out. After her recent run of success, has she surpassed her ex in winnings?

“I don’t think I want to disclose that,” she says laughing. “If I do, I don’t think he’s going to be happy if I say the numbers.”

Sean Chaffin is a freelance writer in Crandall, Texas. His work appears in numerous websites and publications. Follow him on Twitter @PokerTraditions.