Abstract: A method inviting members of the public to participate in various free, computer network implemented gaming events awards prizes to those participants that have obtained some predetermined ranking in the event. The method divides eligibility criteria in each gaming even in accordance with a plurality of intersecting and non-intersecting subsets of demographically significant indicia. The process of collecting the prize includes comparison of the recipient's personal data against the particular subset, thus insuring a highly reliable data base in each of the subsets. In this manner accurate data is collected that may be useful in marketing endeavors.

Abstract: A computer assisted poker tournament is conformed for computer network display where observers can view various virtual poker tables and decide if they want to participate at this table. Upon deciding to participate the observer pays an entry fee, is given a corresponding number of virtual playing chips and then can bet these chips over the network. Now as a participant the network player can elect to withdraw from the tournament for any desired period of time and may re-enter any virtual tournament table that has openings in it. At a specified time the participant's total winnings are compared against those of other players to determine the tournament winner.