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: 2026.01.07

Yaochen Cai is a Chinese professional poker player who has become a prominent figure in the Asian poker circuit, particularly known for his frequent deep runs in major festivals across Taiwan and South Korea. He is widely recognized as a versatile competitor who excels in both large-field No Limit Hold’em events and specialized formats.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Yaochen Cai has total live earnings of $12,486. His career-best live cash of $9,186 was achieved at the Tiger Poker Cup 2021 Season 1 in Beijing, where he finished 3rd in the Runner Runner Member’s Event.

He has been a consistent performer in the CTP Taipei weekly series, where he has secured numerous cashes, including a victory in a No Limit Hold’em event for $3,257 in August 2019. His resume also includes scores from the TJPT Transnational Jubilee Poker Tour and various high-stakes events in the region, contributing to his growing reputation on the China All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Cai has established himself as a regular fixture at major Asian hubs such as Taipei and Jeju. He began building his reputation in the local Chinese circuit, cashing in events like the China Tianjin Poker Tournament (TJPT) before expanding his reach to international tours like the WPT and APT .

His career is characterized by high volume, often playing multiple events within a single festival. Whether competing in the KPC x LPT Series in Jeju or grinding daily deepstacks at the CTP Asia Poker Arena in Taipei, Cai has demonstrated a commitment to the live circuit that has made him one of the more recognizable faces in the mid-to-high stakes community.

Play Style & Strategy

Cai is known for a highly adaptable and resilient play style, which allows him to navigate both specialized small-field events and massive tournament fields. He is particularly proficient in No Limit Hold’em, but he has also shown significant skill in Short Deck formats, where he has recorded several first-place finishes.

His strategy often involves a calculated aggression that pressures opponents during the middle and late stages of tournaments. This tactical flexibility, combined with his extensive experience in the fast-paced Asian markets, makes him a dangerous opponent at any final table.

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