A Wimbledon man has a chance to make himself very rich, and it all started with a £2 poker tournament.

Chris Hopgood was competing in a Cheltenham-themed poker tournament that saw him and 14 other players being awarded a horse that ran in the Gold Cup on March 16.

The 30-year-old technician's horse, Native River, romped its way to victory, winning him a $3,000 PokerStars festival Marbella package.

What added to this win was that it included a €1,100 Main Event buy-in, six nights’ accommodation and money for travel and expenses in June.

Last year’s winner Ignacio López walked away with €152K after defeating 948 players.

Fair to say the 30-year-old was excited about getting the chance.

“I can’t believe I’ve won," he said.

"It was thanks to PokerStars Pros Spraggy and Easywithaces/Fintan on Twitch that I heard about the Big Race promotion and I’m endlessly thankful for them promoting this tournament otherwise I wouldn’t have a clue.

"Now I’m off to Marbella all for £2.

"I’m nervous but very excited to get to play in my first big live tournament.

"Native River will be a horse that I will never forget.”