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: 2025.12.22

Gary Thompson is an Irish professional poker player who has established himself as a prominent figure on the international circuit, particularly within the Asian and European high-roller scenes. He is currently ranked in the top 20 on the Ireland All Time Money List.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Gary Thompson has total earnings of $1,216,880. His career is marked by several significant scores across various tours, with a best live cash of $91,000.

Thompson has been exceptionally active in the 2024 and 2025 seasons, particularly in the Philippines. At the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila Championship 2025, he recorded multiple deep runs, including a 2nd place finish in the PHP 60,000 6+ High Roller Turbo for PHP 177,000 (~$3,020) and an 8th place finish in the PHP 90,000 Mini High Roller for PHP 200,000 (~$3,430). His dominance in Manila also includes a 4th place finish in the PHP 500,000 APPT Super High Roller for PHP 1,180,000 (~$20,600). Additionally, he secured a runner-up spot at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Taipei in the NTD 75,000 High Roller – Ultra Stack, earning NTD 2,840,000 (~$87,293).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Ireland and residing in County Meath, Thompson has transitioned from European regional events to becoming a regular fixture in high-stakes Asian markets like Taiwan, the Philippines, and South Korea. He achieved a major career milestone by crossing the $1,000,000 in total live earnings mark in 2024.

His background includes a presence at the World Series of Poker (WSOP), where he has recorded numerous cashes, including a deep run in the 2023 WSOP Paradise Main Event in the Bahamas for $22,500 and a 56th place finish in the GGMillion$ High Roller Championship for $46,100. Thompson is also a recurring participant in the Irish Poker Open, where he has competed in high-roller events on his home soil.

Play Style & Strategy

Thompson is recognized for his versatility and technical proficiency in both No Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha. His ability to navigate elite fields is evidenced by his chip-leading performances in the early stages of major tournaments like the APPT Manila Main Event and Super High Roller.

Known for a calculated and aggressive approach, Thompson is particularly effective at maintaining pressure during the late stages of high-roller events. His strategic depth allows him to transition fluidly between various formats, as seen by his back-to-back final tables in 6+ Hold’em, PLO, and standard NLH events during the 2025 APPT circuit. This adaptability, combined with high-volume play, has made him one of the most consistent Irish regulars on the modern global circuit.

Recent Attendances