Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.10

Congya Zhang is a Chinese professional poker player who has become a prominent fixture in the international high roller scene and the Asian poker circuit.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Congya Zhang has accumulated total live earnings of $273,443. Her most significant career score occurred in May 2025 at the Mediterranean Poker Party (MPP) in Cyprus, where she finished 13th in the $5,300 No Limit Hold’em Main Event for $42,000.

She also showcased her ability to compete at the highest levels during the Triton Poker Series Jeju in September 2025, securing a 36th-place finish in the $8,000 Triton One Main Event for $27,900. In early 2025, she found success on the Poker Dream circuit, taking 6th place in the KRW 7,000,000 High Roller at Poker Dream 16 Jeju for KRW 33,141,315 (∼$24,816). Additionally, she earned a title at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Jeju in October 2025, winning the KRW 400,000 No Limit 8-Game event for KRW 2,420,461 (∼$1,725).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China and currently residing in Shanghai, Zhang has transitioned into a global circuit regular. While she maintains a strong presence in Asian festivals like the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and Poker Dream, she is increasingly active in Western markets. Her 2025 campaign was particularly busy, featuring multiple deep runs at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, including a 52nd-place finish in the $2,500 Freezeout for $9,490 and a 6th-place finish in the Wynn Summer Classic Ladies High Roller for $11,483.

Play Style & Strategy

Zhang is recognized for a disciplined yet adaptable tournament strategy that allows her to navigate both massive fields and elite, small-field high rollers. Her success in mixed formats, such as her 8-Game victory at APT Jeju, highlights a versatile skill set beyond standard No Limit Hold’em. She often displays strong ICM awareness in deep-stack environments, a trait that has led to her consistency in major events across Cyprus, South Korea, and the United States.

Recent Attendances