VANCOUVER November 23, 2009 – Ross Rebagliati, the first ever Olympic gold medalist for snowboarding is making history again by joining GR88.com to host a Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament during the 2010 Olympics. Ross in partnership with GR88.com, the premier online gaming site (pronounced Great Eight .com) will help to raise money for Food Banks across Canada which are desperately in need of donations.

Ross solidified his place in sports history by being the first gold medal winner for snowboarding in Nagano, Japan in 1998. Today, Ross is still a Legend of Extreme Sports, and spends his time working to make the world a better place.

“Ross’ passion for giving back is what made for the perfect combination with GR88.com to host a Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament during the 2010 Olympics,” commented Peter Karroll, CEO of International Arts Management. “Ross is joining forces with us to help raise money for Food Banks across this country. As an Olympic Hero and an avid Poker player, Ross is joining his passions together for the GR88.com & Ross Rebagliati Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament.“

Over the years Ross has been actively participating in the Make-a-Wish Foundation, as well as offering his snowboarding expertise in silent auctions to benefit an array of charities. Ross is regularly involved in events with the Big Brothers organization and the Kids Help Phone.

With the Olympics being a huge part of Ross’ life, and the 2010 Olympics taking place in the Ross’ hometown of Vancouver, British Columbia Canada, it made perfect sense to hold the Tournament in Vancouver during the Olympics. “I am excited to be able to host this tournament,” said Ross Rebagliati. “Millions of people play poker. It is a thrilling game of skill and risk. I can’t think of a better setting for the tournament than in Vancouver during the excitement of the Olympics. The people who make it to the finals are going to have an amazing experience.”

Poker players around the world are welcomed to visit GR88.com to sign up for the online tournament in which the winner will be given a seat at the Live Tournament in Vancouver during the 2010 Olympics.