RIYADH – Riyadh has recognized the popular Saudi card game Baloot andkicked off its national first-ever cards tournament in the capital.

The first national Baloot championship is being held at the King AbdullahPetroleum Studies and Research Center in Riyadh from April 4 and will beheld until April 18.

According to the Saudi General Sports Authority, the top four players willreceive prize money totaling more than $270,000, including $133,350 for thewinner.

According to Saudi media reports, more than 12,000 people are participatingin the tournament. Several prominent personalities have visited thetournament venue, reported Al Arabiya.

The card game, similar to the French game Belote and Rummy played in Indiaand Pakistan, is popular with Saudi men of all age groups and is commonlyplayed by youth in open places in Saudi neighbourhoods and even duringfriendly meetings, family gatherings, and weddings. It was considered tabooby many in Saudi society and an addictive game that deprived God’s blessing.