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: 2025.12.20

Hori Shintaro is a Japanese professional poker player who has recently made his mark on the Southeast Asian poker scene, specifically establishing a presence in the competitive Manila tournament circuit.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Hori Shintaro has accumulated total live earnings of $1,305. His breakthrough performances occurred during the Manila Megastack 23 festival in December 2025 at the PokerStars LIVE Manila . His career-best score came in the PHP 13,200 + 1,800 No Limit Hold’em +6 event, where he finished as the runner-up for PHP 55,500 (∼$941).

Shintaro demonstrated strong consistency throughout the series, securing multiple deep runs:

Manila Megastack 23 (December 2025): He finished 17th in the PHP 8,200 + 1,800 + 5,000 No Limit Hold’em – Knockout event, earning PHP 21,500 (∼$364).
Rising National Rank: These results earned him significant Global Poker Index (GPI) points, contributing to his current national ranking of 2,442nd in Japan.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Shintaro is part of the emerging wave of Japanese players traveling to the Philippines to take advantage of the robust regional tournament schedules. While currently early in his professional live career, his decision to compete in international festivals like the Manila Megastack indicates a focus on building a resume within the Asian poker market. His recent successes in 2025 suggest he is a rising talent to watch within the Japanese poker community.

Play Style & Strategy

Shintaro is recognized for a disciplined and effective tournament strategy, particularly in short-handed and knockout formats. His runner-up finish in the “+6” event, a format often requiring high adaptability, highlights his proficiency in navigating diverse field sizes and pressure-filled final table environments. By successfully securing points in both standard and bounty structures, he demonstrates a versatile approach that balances survival with aggressive chip accumulation during critical tournament phases.

Recent Attendances