In an inaugural World Series of Poker moment, Raymond Rahme became the first African to appear at a Main Event final table in 2007, and the first top-five finisher when he took third and its $3 million-plus prize.

Though he isn't well known on the North American circuit, the 62-year-old pro has been sweeping tournaments in his native South Africa. Rahme has finished first and second in two major events in his backyard, not to mention a fourth-place finish in the largest tournament ever held on his home continent - the All Africa Poker Championship.

It was through that tournament that Rahme won his seat at the 2007 WSOP Main Event, where he went into the final table ranked fourth in chips.

But if years of practice counted, the South African would be on top. Rahme has been playing Stud for 30 years and took up Hold'em two years ago.

Rahme is married and has six children. Before retiring he owned and operated a bed-and-breakfast.