/ Editor / 30 August 2007 /

Do you still need confirmation that poker is a legitimate pastime? Is endorsement going too far and what is it doing to poker's image?

Word reaches us that US spots broadcaster ESPN has recently aired a commercial for KFC that featured well-known professional poker players, including Paul Wasicka, Gavin Smith and David Williams.

The ad focused on Smith, Wasicka and Williams's ability to read their opponents' hands while chomping on a bucket of fried chicken. (Clue: The King of Spades has a spot of ketchup in one corner and his Queen of Diamonds wears a coleslaw moustache.)

Says Wasicka: "I am very happy to be affiliated with KFC. This new relationship with KFC presents me with a fantastic opportunity to reach a broader base of fans. It was an honor to be asked to work with them."

Indeed, what poker player would not want to be associated with fried chicken, the food of champions?

And this isn't the first time KFC has invested in poker. In 2006, KFC sponsored Poker SuperStars III. Players were turned on to the esoteric delights of the Snacker sandwich.

But is this good for the image of the game?

To our mind, poker is clean sport and should take care when associating itself with products that some consider to be less than wholesome...

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