MINOT, N.D. (AP) – North Dakota has a new poker champion.

Gregg Dahle (DAW’-lee), of Carpio, outlasted more than 1,400 players from 22 states and Canada at the recent North Dakota Texas Hold ’em tournament in Minot. He won $45,000.

The tournament is held each year at The Vegas Motel in Minot. The Minot State University Alumni Association sponsors the event, and part of the proceeds go toward MSU scholarships.

Dahle was the runner-up two years ago. He’s the first player to return to the final table and claim the crown.

Tom Gullickson, of Hazen, took second place and won $20,000.