question about wsop?

[Kavorka 0]

i have a question for you guys....read this on cardplayer (just a small piece i cut and paste) "Some pros were relegated to an even more unfamiliar position: railbird. The tournament room can only seat 2,200 players at one time. So, it was nearly the end of the first round of blinds before alternate #108, 1989 World Champion Phil Hellmuth, entered the fray. Unfortunately for the rest of the field, some alternates missed their chance and allowed Hellmuth in. In late day action he was pushing people around with a big chip stack. Freddie Deeb and Joe Awada were also among the early onlookers." my question is waht do they mean by alternate #108 ...i am thinking that as people get knocked out teh alternates get added in? am i right or way off....or is it that they registered late and had to be alternates/waiting list? may be a dumb question but am lost on that part...thanks guys...DN good luck in the WSOP and thanks for this great site.