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July Instruction

12

Beat People With a Stick

14

Tricknology

16

Pro Pool Workout

18 20

Contents

Own the Line

I Get a Kick Out of It

Knowing Your Limits

The Year of Pro Secrets Pacing Beats Chasing

Banking With The Beard Romancing the Stone

Features

On the Cover: She started playing pool when she was only 7 years old, and now 13-year-old Taylor Reynolds talks about growing up in the sport, the competition, and what it's like to be a local legend.

For the full story, please visit page 30.

22

Corteza Caps off Hard Times Victory

24

APA Awards $450,000 at National Singles Championships

26

Bustamante Rounds up First Bonus Ball Win

31

Taylor Reynolds – Growing Up in the Sport

34

Orcollo is World Pool Masters Champion

38

They Came, They Played, They Conquered

40

2010

August

July/August

World’s Largest Pool League Crowns Seven Amateur Champions in Las Vegas

Defeats Kuribayashi for Title

2010 BCA National 8-Ball Championships Heat up Las Vegas

Corteza Captures 10-Ball Title Claims Second Title in Two Weeks

44

Rocket Takes off in California

46

Summer Buying Guide

4 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Page 34

August Departments

July 8

Pool on TV

10

Advertiser Directory

52

League Player of the Month

Regional Roundup

54

Northeast

59

Southeast

62

Central

Page 22

Columns

50

Industry News

52

Places to Play

Publisher Advertising Sales Director Instructional Staff JR Calvert Bill Perry Johnny Archer, Freddy Bentivegna, publisher@insidepoolmag.com sales@insidepoolmag.com Shannon Daulton, Bob Henning, Jason Lynch, Grady Mathews, Editor Feature Photo Credits Matt Sherman, Tom Simpson Sally P. Timko JR Calvert, Nicole Vellieux editor@insidepoolmag.com Contributing Writers E-mail Fred Agnir, Lea Andrews, Alison M. Graphic Artists info@insidepoolmag.com Fischer, Matt Jackson, Rob Laura Luzier Johnson, Keith Loria, Gerry Mayen, art@insidepoolmag.com Website Ashley Nandrasy, Ken Shuman Maria Olgilvie-Lawrence www.insidepoolmag.com Administrative Offices Editorial Assistant Toll Free PO Box 972, Kittanning, PA Lea Andrews 888-428-7665 16201 6 InsidePOOL Magazine â—Š July/August 2010

Page 44

InsidePOOL Magazine Volume X, Issue 6 (ISSN15473511) is published monthly except June and August

by Spheragon Publishing, PO Box 972, Kittanning, PA 16201. Single copy price: $3.95 in U.S.A., $5.95 in Canada. Subscription prices: $19.99/yr in the U.S.A., $28/yr in Canada, $39/yr international. Periodicals postage at Kittanning, PA, and additional mailing offices. Submissions of manuscripts, illustrations, and/or photographs must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The publisher assumed no responsibility for unsolicited material.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: InsidePOOL Magazine, PO Box 972, Kittanning, PA 16201.PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

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To contact any of our advertisers, visit their website, send an e-mail, or give them a call.

Iwan Simonis, Inc. www.SimonisCloth.com

Inside Front Cover

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Tiger Products www.TigerProducts.com

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Tom Simpson, Billiard Instruction www.PoolClinics.com

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Instructions

< by Tom Simpson

Own the Line

I’ve said the same thing about a thousand times in W hen pool class, I figure I probably oughta write about it. A thousand is a low estimate for this one: “Own the line!”

Which line are we talking about? The line of the shot, i.e., the line you intend for the cue ball to travel as it moves toward the target. It’s the line the center of the cue ball travels—the line it would paint on the table if it had been dipped in paint. That line can be pointed at some spot or fraction of an object ball, or it can be pointed at a rail target. Doesn’t matter. It’s the line of the shot, and you must own it.

•

•

As we prepare to execute a shot, we plan to hit an exact point on the cue ball, with our stick aimed where we think it should point, at the speed we have in mind. One way or another, we must deliver that cue ball down the line—hopefully, with the correct speed and spin. If we can’t deliver pretty accurately and reliably down the line, we’re not going to be happy with our play.

Accordingly, much of what we do at pool school is about acquiring the line, seeing it correctly, and then owning the line through the entire shot process. Here are a few tips that can help: •

•

•

•

•

Own it from afar: Once you’ve decided on your plan, step back from the table and acquire the line from a little farther back.

Get your eyes looking right down that line. You really can see it better when you step back.

Lock it in: I no longer remember who I learned this one from, but it’s known as “chin lock.” Once you see the line, lock it into your body with a small chin tuck. It’s like “radar lock” on the enemy plane­—once it’s locked on, there’s no escape. Does this move help you know you’re ready? Worth a try.

Eyes sharp down the target line: Once you’ve acquired the line, keep your eyes focused sharply on the distant target (not the cue ball). If the line runs through empty space next to the object ball, try focusing on the edge of the object ball and judging the line relative to that.

Step forward into your stance: Some players never step back and acquire the line. They walk into the shot from the side, plop their bridge down and expect to be perfectly on it. It’s much harder to accurately get on the line when you’re standing close to the shot. Consider stepping forward into your stance and even sliding your bridge forward toward its final position. You can own and stay on the line easily while moving forward.

Own the line while dropping into your stance: As you step forward into your stance, continue to stay sharp on the target.

Sharp eyes, sharp mind. During the drop, the cue ball is a fuzzy object in your peripheral vision. Once you’re down, you can check your bridge and confirm your tip placement and readiness. And of course, you’re going to see the cue ball sharply during that confirmation. If you looked away from the target during the drop, there’s a good chance you’ve lost the line.

12 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Many players are watching the cue ball during the drop.

Then, after they’re down, they have to try to acquire the line.

Too late.

Longer bridge: While a longer bridge requires a straighter stroke, it also puts your eyes farther away from the cue ball.

This gives you more stick line to sight down to help you see where you’re pointed. Make good use of the nice long straight line the stick gives you.

See the line correctly: If your cue ball is not going where your eyes and brain tell you it should be going, you may have a visual perception issue. This is a common problem and is related to your head position. Come to pool school.

“ •

”

Solid fundamentals: Obviously, on the hit stroke, your stick line is critical. Many players know where the line is and fail to deliver well, due to poor stroke fundamentals. One of the biggest sources of error occurs at the back of the backswing—“transition error.” If you don’t come forward on the same line as you started on, you’ve lost the line and probably missed. Watch where your tip finishes with respect to the line. It should finish past where the cue ball was, and not swerve to either side of the line. These types of problems are often difficult to diagnose. Seek fundamentals analysis and help from an experienced instructor if you have any of these issues.

All your fancy knowledge and experience is helpful only to the extent that you can deliver down the line. Own that line!

Play Play Video Video Tom Simpson

Tom Simpson is a Master Instructor in both the BCA and ACS Instructor Programs. He delivers his acclaimed 3-Day Weekend Intensive in Columbus, Ohio, and in selected cities nationwide. As inventor of Elephant Practice Balls®, the Stroke Groover™, and the Ghostball Aim Trainer®, and authorized instructor for Secret Aiming Systems™, Tom’s innovations in training have helped thousands of players. Listen to an audio description of the Intensive, and read 35 instructional articles at www.NationalBilliardAcademy.com. Contact: Tom@PoolClinics.com.

Play Play Video Video

Play Play Video Video

>>>

Instructions Instructions Instructions Lynch < byI GetJason a Kick Out of It

I Get a Kick Out of It

by Jason Lynch

I

think that all of us have been in a situation in a game where a normal kick shot just isn’t going to do it. With that thought in mind, I am showcasing three shots this month that may come up in an actual game of 8-ball and would require some trick shot madness.

The first of the three came up in a game of 8-ball at the VNEA State tournament. My opponent played a really good safety, or so he thought, until I proceeded to kick the 3 ball in off the end rail. I chose to do this because if you shorten the angle for the cue ball on the return from the kick, you have a better chance of either making the ball or clipping the 3 ball on the side and sending the cue back up table. To make this shot, pick a point on the end rail that will allow enough room to kick past the 8 (I chose the first diamond).

Our last shot is one that can be calculated fairly easily. We use what is called a designator track, which in this particular case is the first diamond on the rail between Pockets E and F. Draw an imaginary line through the cue ball and that diamond for your aim point. To determine how much english to use, take the same line and extend it back through the cue ball to the foot rail. If that line crosses the first diamond, put one tip of right english, and if that line crosses at one and a half diamonds, put one and a half tips of right english. All english is done with a medium stroke.

B

A

C

Hit the cue ball with extreme right english and a cue stick elevation of about 35 degrees. You may have to play with speed to get it just right.

B

A

3

C

2

5 1

D

4 8

E

F

Be advised that all the english that I have indicated is a starting point. You should experiment on the table you normally play on to see the outcome. Remember, a major component of trick shots is making the adjustments.

8

D

3

F

E

The second shot is one that comes up quite frequently, especially on the smaller tables, and is quite an easy shot if you know the technique. Tom “Dr. Cue” Rossman teaches a twisting stroke of the cue in making this shot. To make this shot, aim through the rail a half diamond from the pocket on the foot rail. As you stroke through the cue ball, twist your cue clockwise and watch the cue bend to make the 8. To be perfectly honest, I thought Tom was nuts when I first heard him explain this, but trust me—it works. You can elevate your cue stick, but if this is hit correctly, you won’t need to.

A

B

7

D

C

5

1

E

14 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

4

2

8

F

Play Play Video Video Jason Jason Lynch Lynch Jason Lynch grew up playing pool in Michigan. In Jason Lynch grew up playing pool in Michigan. In his early twenties he started playing in the VNEA and his early twenties he started playing in the VNEA and placed as high as 16th in 8-ball and 9-ball. In 2005, he placed as high as 16th in 8-ball and 9-ball. In 2005, he won the Michigan VNEA speed pool contest. He has also won the Michigan VNEA speed pool contest. He has also pocketed 11,100 and 12,011 balls in 24 hours as pocketed 11,100 and 12,011 balls in 24 hours as fundraisers for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for fundraisers for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. In 2007 he had his best finish to date, placing sixth Life. In 2007 he had his best finish to date, placing sixth at the Artistic Pool U.S. Open and winning the stroke category. Jason is ranked 14th in at the Artistic Pool U.S. Open and winning the stroke category. Jason is ranked 14th in the world by the WPA. His sponsors are Shelti Pool Tables, Seybert’s Billiard Supply, the world by the WPA. His sponsors are Shelti Pool Tables, Seybert’s Billiard Supply, Pechauer Cues, Dieckman Cues, OB-1 Shafts, and Leisure Elements. Visit his website at Pechauer Cues, Dieckman Cues, OB-1 Shafts, and Leisure Elements. Visit his website at www.michigankid.com. www.michigankid.com.

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>

Instructions

< by Bob Henning

Knowing Your Limits of match strategy must start with knowing A nyyourexamination own limits, because that, in a very large degree, determines what strategies will or won’t work. Your skills are your tools, and every successful competitor has learned to stay within the capabilities of his own toolbox. Your opponent also has a set of tools, and if you know them, you can focus your game to avoid his strengths and exploit his weaknesses.

There are two other reasons to look for weaknesses in your competitor.

First, if you find any (and you always will if you keep looking), you will see him realistically—as someone who can be beaten. Secondly, and most importantly, when you are able to see specific weaknesses in others, you are better equipped to uncover them in yourself.

“ ” For most people it’s tough to look honestly at their own game.

Usually it’s easier to see flaws in others. At a tournament, whenever a great player is playing, the seating around the table is filled with serious players who come to watch in hopes of learning how to play better. They learn some moves and shots and get a sense of the smoothness and effortlessness of championship level pool.

Sometimes, however, it is can be more valuable to sit and watch players who are closer to your own skill level. They may make more mistakes and exhibit more flaws, but they will also give you the opportunity to see yourself in an objective manner. When you note a flaw, ask yourself, “Do I ever do that?” When you see a strategic error, ask, “When did I last do that?” When you see a player try something he can’t do, remember when you did the same. For every mistake or flaw you notice, remember an incident, in the near past, where you did the same. Don’t project any emotion into the memory, but keep your perspective objective. Then imagine replaying each situation in a more intelligent fashion and let that image replace the earlier one.

Another way to learn your weaknesses is to analyze games and matches that you have lost. You probably make the same errors when you win, but they stand out more significantly in matches that you lose. In fact, it’s been said that a player can gain more from a

16 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

painful loss than he can from an easy win, and that’s true to some extent. Most of the dramatic growth spurts a pool player will experience come from losing. Playing hard and losing forces you to face your limitations and ultimately makes a better player out of you.

You can exaggerate this natural process by carefully analyzing each loss and learning what you can. If you really want to maximize the process, put it down on paper.

Good strategy is also based on strengths. Most players have ready answers when asked about their strong points, but sometimes these are neither realistic nor accurate. It’s easy to think you’re good at something just because you feel good about it.

That doesn’t always mean you really have the skill. The best way to get clear about your strengths is to ask your peers. They may not tell you the truth about your weaknesses, but most people will gladly acknowledge the areas in which you shine. The players to ask are the ones that you most often compete against. If you play in a weekly local tournament, for example, the other regulars may know your game better than you do. Just ask over a cup of coffee when you’re in a friendly conversation between matches or when you’re hanging around after the event. “I’m looking to get an objective evaluation of my game. Can I ask you a couple of questions?”

Start the conversation with questions, but let them talk if they get on a roll. Your value will come from listening.

Whenever you win a match with a strong player, you are in an ideal position to examine your game in terms of strength. What you did to win will be clear at those moments. and looking at it closely will reinforce it. Sit down with a sheet of paper and evaluate your performance by asking the following questions: “What did I do in that match that allowed me to win? What were the skills that held up for me under pressure? When did the match turn in my favor?” If you have a copy of The Pro Book, run through the entire “Match Review” section and answer whatever questions are relevant.

Good luck and good shootin’!

Bob Henning Bob Henning is the author of The Pro Book, widely considered to be the most advanced training resource for competitive pool players. It brings the latest techniques of the top coaches and trainers of all sports into pool. It is intended for those who wish to prepare physically, mentally, and psychologically for pool competition. Bob is also the author of “The Pro Book Video Series,” a complete, on-the-table training system, and he also released The Advanced Pro Book and The Stroke Zone: The Pool Player’s Guide to Dead Stroke. In addition, he has authored Cornbread Red, a biography of the colorful Billy Burge.

>

Instructions

< by Matt Sherman

Pacing Beats Chasing S

8 3 6

4

peed control is everything in billiards. Anyone can cut a ball to a pocket, but rolling to the next shot is all about speed.

Most speeds are a threefold choice between soft, medium, or hard strokes, and not between slow, medium, or fast strokes. “I’ll hit this hard” is not “I’ll stroke this fast.” You hammer a nail with a single stroke using measured intention—going too fast risks a thumb or finger.

Take most strokes about the same pace but tighten or lighten your grip a little to shoot harder or softer. Let the suckers stroke too fast and miss, hitting balls like they hate their cue stick and stroking other shots far too slowly for accuracy. Have you ever attempted a very slow stroke to limit cue ball movement after a cut? The pro avoids risk by hitting more firmly instead, using the rails to send the cue ball away and back to the impact zone.

Here’s a prime technique I call “Come Home Again Practice” to teach you pro speed. Place a ball where you like in Box A and the cue ball somewhere in Box B. Cut the shot into the corner of your choice, bringing the cue ball off several cushions to rest near where you began, close to Rail C. Attempting five of these shots thoughtfully will improve skills more than two hours playing 8-ball or 9-ball.

11 13

Box D Cue Ball

2

1

14 12

7 5

Here are three speed zones you ought to reach with ease: Shoot a ball to your choice of corner pocket from somewhere in Box D and land the cue ball (1) near an end rail, or (2) off a cushion(s) and back into the table’s middle, or (3) still farther to land near the opposite end rail. These three “speeds” should be automatic for an intermediate player to score the next ball or make a safety (some sample second ball positions are shown). If your cue ball has good roll and a bit of angle for the cut, you only need medium speed and an occasional tad of running english for the longer rolls.

Let’s learn one more speed shot you’ll want to use 10,000 times in your career. Shoot the 13 to Pocket A then roll to Position B using two tips of draw and a soft stroke. Fast or slow cloth matters little—you can still stroke much softer than you think.

A

Rail C

14

Box B Cue Ball

Box A Object Ball

13

B

Trust your speed choice—if you miss the corner using a consistent stroke you can always adjust your aim. But if you stroke hard and fast like the bangers, you’ll miss left or right in random fashion. Stroke slowly enough to see the play as it develops, using medium speed.

See how your cue ball rolls beautifully around the table after a gentle stroke? The suckers add topspin and english. If your first thought on these shots is not “medium speed” you need pool lessons.

X

8

The cue tip’s top edge will make contact. Don’t give up until you make the shot at least twice in a row and absorb this play! With this technique, you’ll earn shape over and over again while the suckers pound their draw shots far too hard and lose control of the cue ball—if they even pocket the ball in the corner.

I shoot mostly medium or soft all the time, and add english only when necessary. You? Next issue: Secrets of english I shouldn’t share free of charge!

Matt Sherman

9

Y

Our next speed technique is used constantly in 9-ball. Cut the eight in Pocket X and roll onto the rail for a straight shot at the 9 into Pocket Y using a dash of bottom spin. Accurate speed trumps precise aim on the 8 ball to score it, anyhow. I land along the rail for my out every time. And you guessed right, I want you to play this shot for the rest of your life using medium speed and a tip below center.

18 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Matt “Quick Draw” Sherman has appeared dozens of times in major print media and popular TV channels promoting billiards and entertainment. He has taught hundreds of students and has directed pool leagues, pool tournaments, pool fundraisers, and pool adult ed courses. Sherman directs the University of Florida’s leagues, which have produced six national champions, and is the Guide to Pool & Billiards at About.com, one of the world’s most popular websites. He is the author of Picture Yourself Shooting Pool, available at Amazon.com as a book/DVD combo and also as an electronic book.

>>>

Instructions Instructions Instructions

< by Freddie Bentivegna

Romancing the Stone

Romancing the Stone

by Freddie Bentivegna

whether a bank shot lays in the “kiss zone” is D etermining often misunderstood, and it usually winds up as an edu-

Line of aim to center of pocket indicates kiss.

cated guess. In the following diagrams I have outlined exactly when a bank cannot normally be made using a rolling cue ball with or without english.

When the balls line up on a straight line to the middle of the facing of the corner picket, the bank is a dead kiss. It is extremely difficult to beat the kiss when the balls are on the line to the middle of the facing.

7

7

4

4

When the balls line up on a straight line to the middle of the pocket, there is no kiss.

Diagram 3 is another variation that must be considered. It involves crossing, or passing over, the object ball from a much more severe angle. Rather than calculate off of a straight-in angle as in the first two diagrams, the kiss/no-kiss reference point is determined by lining up the actual cut angle needed to make the bank. If an imaginary line from the center of the cue ball, extending through the cut area on the object ball, continues into the middle of the back of the pocket, the kiss is “on.” If the line instead is aiming at the short rail, you can go ahead and shoot the shot with impunity, provided, of course, that you are using a natural rolling ball, center ball, left english (in this case), or draw. Right-hand english when the bank is “on” could result in a kiss.

20 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

2

In Diagram 1, I deal with the shorter angle cross-corners. If the straight-in angle of the cue ball and object ball is lined up and aiming into the pocket facing, the shot is a certain kiss. Left or right english, follow, center, or draw is not going to help you beat that kiss.

With a slight angle adjustment, per Diagram 2, now lined up to the middle of the back of the pocket, the bank can be easily made with rolling or center ball, no english.

When the cue ball and an imaginary ball at the contact point for the bank are on a line to the center of the pocket, there is a dead kiss if you use follow with no english.

These kisses are usually easy to evade by using english or draw to send the cue ball on a non-kiss path.

The aim on the object ball must be adjusted to allow for the ball action needed for a non-kiss bank.

About three years ago I was commentating an Accu-Stats bank pool match that involved Francisco Bustamante. A bank came up similar to the one in Diagram 1, and Busty pondered it and finally decided to try and make it. The outcome was predictable: He caught a kiss, and it cost him the game. The next day Busty was playing a one-pocket match, and I was again commentating. At a key juncture in the match, the same shot came up, and if he could have made the bank he would have gotten behind the balls and ran out. He apparently remembered the problems he had with the shot the day before, so he hesitated and eventually played a passive safety and lost that game too.

I looked upon his distress sympathetically, and so I cornered Busty after the match and showed him how the shot could be made. Oh, I didn’t bother to tell ya’ll that it was possible to beat the kiss in Diagram 1? You may have noticed that I italicized the word “normally” in the opening paragraph. I have beaten every kiss I have ever encountered in my whole life. Sorry, but to explain the solution properly I would have to show it on a table in person. Suffice to say that it requires a massé. What I did release should hold y’all for awhile.

FreddieBentivegna Bentivegna Freddie Chicago-born Freddy “The Beard” Bentivegna has been Chicago-born “Theunderbelly Beard” Bentivegna hasover been50 in the mainstreamFreddy and the of pool for inyears. the mainstream and the underbelly of pool for over In 2005 Freddy was elected on the first ballot into50the years.

In 2005Hall Freddy was elected on the first Bank Pool of Fame.

He has written twoballot booksinto andthe two Bank Pool Hall of Fame.

He has written two books and two popular DVDs on his specialty, bank pool. He is widely popular on ofhisthe specialty, pool.

He isgame widely regardedDVDs as one premierbank experts on the and regarded as one of the premier experts on the game and science of banks. science of banks.

Corteza

Caps off Hard Times

Victory

Inaugural Hard Times Mezz 10-Ball OpenbyaInsidePOOL Success Staff

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Lee Van Corteza took first place at the First Annual Hard Times Mezz 10-Ball Open, defeating “Rocket” Rodney Morris in the finals.

The 76-player field gathered at Hard Times Billiards in Bellflower, CA, May 7-9 for the $5,000-added event, sponsored by Mezz Cues.

he eliminated 2009 Player of the Year Mika Immonen, Grau, Hunter Lombardo, and Harper to make it to Sunday’s matches. His opponent there was Gomez, who, after his 9-1 loss to Morris, went hill-hill with Marc “Spain” Vidal and won.

At the end of Saturday’s matches, local player Oscar Dominguez was one of four players remaining on the winners’ side, having defeated both Eddie Mataya 9-5 and then Sal Butera 9-2 today. Mataya, as the highestfinishing amateur in this event, earned a Mezz break cue. “The Big O”’s next match was against another L.A. player, Max Eberle. “Mad Max” bested Dave Grau 9-6 and then former world 9-ball champion Thorsten Hohmann 9-4.

Going into Sunday’s matches, Corteza was one of the final four undefeated players, but his first meeting with Morris changed that.

The two players seesawed to a hill-hill score, with Morris moving on to the hot seat match. His opponent there was Eberle, who had just defeated Dominguez 9-7. Morris bested Eberle handily 9-5 and wait in the hot seat for a finals opponent.

Morris had to play two tough Filipinos Saturday, starting off with the legendary Efren Reyes. After a 9-6 defeat of “Bata,” Morris went on to face Roberto Gomez, whom he bested in record time 9-1. Sunday Morris started off with another Filipino, Corteza, whose day consisted of a 9-1 routing of Stevie Moore followed by another 9-1 drubbing, this time of hometown favorite Corey Harper.

On the one-loss side, Bernardo “King Kong” Chavez narrowly missed his chance to return Sunday, having defeated Moore 9-7 only to have been then edged out by Hohmann hill-hill. Hohmann next match was against Warren Kiamco, who suffered an early loss and worked his way through the west side, ousting players such as Reyes, Manny Chau, and Butera.

Rafael Martinez was another player who endured a long day on the left side of the chart. But Rodney Morris 22 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

On the one-loss side, Kiamco challenged Hohmann and advanced 9-6 to meet fellow countryman Corteza, just over from the right side of the chart. This was a close battle, but Corteza eked out a 9-7 victory to send Kiamco home in fifth place. After Gomez eliminated Martinez 9-2, he went on to face Dominguez. In another tight match, it was Dominguez who advanced to the quarterfinal match 9-7.

Corteza was in full stride by now and was able to best Dominguez 9-5 and move on to the semifinals against Eberle. The L.A. resident made a few errors at the beginning of the match and they cost him, as Corteza used them against Eberle to take the match 9-7. The single race-to-11 finals were a rematch, as Morris had been responsible for Corteza’s sole loss.

Corteza was not about to see that happen again, and he won the final match with a decisive 11-7 score.

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Lee Van Corteza Rodney Morris Max Eberle Oscar Dominguez Warren Kiamco Roberto Gomez 7th Thorsten Hohmann Rafael Martinez 9th Sal Butera Bernardo Chavez Marc Vidal Corey Harper 13th Manny Chau Stevie Moore Eddie Mataya Hunter Lombardo

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teur C a m A n e v e Crowns S e u g a e L l In the Green Tier (Skill Levels 1-3), Tina Johnson of gest Poo r a L ’s ld r Wo Fayetteville, NC, defeated Alyssa Popiela of San Diego, ff a t LS

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by InsideP

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ore than $450,000 in cash and prizes was awarded to APA members at the APA National Singles Championships held April 28 through May 1 in Las Vegas at the Riviera Hotel and Casino. The National Singles Championships consisted of both the 8-Ball Classic and 9-Ball Shootout Singles Championships and the Jack and Jill Doubles Championship.

The APA and its championships are sponsored by Aramith, Action Cues, and PoolDawg.

More than 3,300 pool players made it to the regional level of the 9-Ball Shootout before the field was whittled down to 265 men and women competing for 9-ball crowns in each of three skill level tiers. The final round of the 9-Ball Shootout featured three championship matches, one for each skill level tier, with two shooters in each match competing for $10,000 in cash and prizes.

Tina Johnson 24 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

CA. Johnson advanced to the finals after a semifinalround victory over George Merchan of Carrollton, TX, while Popiela advanced to the finals after defeating David Halbritter of Albuquerque, NM. Merchan and Halbritter tied for third place.

In the White Tier (Skill Levels 4-5), Angel Palomarez of Tucson, AZ, bested Seth Prentiss of Newfield, NJ. Palomarez defeated Shaun Bardell of Harvest, AL, in the semifinal round to advance to the finals. Prentiss advanced to the finals by defeating James Schenck Jr. of Paragould, AR. Bardell and Schenck Jr. tied for third place.

In the Black Tier (Skill Levels 6-9), Nelson Montierth of Longmont, CO, won over Michael Crowley of Richmond, VA. Montierth advanced to the finals after defeating Rick Halls Jr. of Danville, IL, in the semifinals. Crowley advanced to the final-round match after a victory over William Moye Jr. of Macon, GA. Halls Jr. and Moye Jr. tied for third place.

Each of the three champions received a prize package worth $10,000. Runners-up in each tier took home a prize package worth $5,000. Third-place finishers each received $3,000.

More than 6,000 APA members advanced to regional competition of the 8-Ball Classic, and just over 450 of those players advanced to the championship in Las Ve-

Angel Palomarez

Nelson Montierth

gas. In the finals of the 8-Ball Classic, four champions each took home a prize package worth $15,000 for their performances.

In the Blue Tier (Skill Levels 2-3), Davis Lastrapes of Macon, GA, defeated Dean Veros of Atlanta, GA. Lastrapes bested Melissa McWhirter of Vanduser, MO, in the semifinals to advance, while Veros defeated Victoria Clayton of Dry Fork, VA. McWhirter and Clayton tied for third place.

In the Yellow Tier (Skill Level 4), Anthony Marseco Jr. of Luzerne, PA, defeated Spring Saylor-Gillis of St. Petersburg, FL. Marseco Jr. advanced to the finals by eliminating Shanon Shackelford of Niles, MI, earlier in the day in the semifinal round. Saylor-Gillis defeated Patrick McGuire of Scranton, PA, in the semifinals. Shackelford and McGuire tied for third place.

In the Red Tier (Skill Level 5), Craig Feyler of Dover, Del., bested Amy Encinias of Las Vegas. Feyler defeated Jeff Knox of Tylertown, MS, in the semifinals to advance, while Encinias ousted Kim Mickulas of Manteno, IL. Knox and Mickulas tied for third place.

In the Purple Tier (Skill Levels 6-7), Raymond Procell of Coushatta, LA, defeated Brandon Ryan of Hatfield, MA. Procell defeated Wayne Hardee of Harrington, DE, in the semifinal round. Ryan advanced after defeating Shane Fisher of Hot Springs, AR.

First-place winners received cash and prizes worth $15,000. Each runner-up received cash and prizes worth $9,000. Third-place finishers each received $3,000.

In the annual Jack and Jill Doubles Championship, held in the MiniMania Room during the Singles Championships, Gene Steele and Becky Orwig of Toledo, OH, won the title over Justin Mixon and Michele Thrasher of Gordon, GA. Steele and Orwig took home $5,000, while Mixon and Thrasher received $3,000 as runners-up.

Sportsmanship Awards were presented to Amy Nevills of Waxhaw, NC, and Victoria Clayton of Dry Fork, VA, for outstanding conduct throughout their matches in the 9-Ball Shootout and 8-Ball Classic, respectively.

Davis Lastrapes

Craig Feyler

Anthony Marseco Jr.

Raymond Procell

Gene Steele, Becky Orwig July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 25

T

here was a movie in the ‘60s about a gunslinger named “Django” who hauled a coffin behind his horse and took out an entire force with a Gatling gun hidden inside the coffin. Francisco “Django” Bustamante acted the part of gunslinger the weekend of May 6-9 and took out anyone in his way to the winner’s circle of the inaugural World Professional Billiard League event. In a final race to 5, after Johnny Archer ran the first two tables to go up two games to nothing, this gunslinger won five straight games to take top honors at the tournament.

The first Bonus Ball event was hosted by McPhillips Station Casino in Winnipeg, Canada. The noon match featured fifth-place finisher John Schmidt against sixthplace finisher Erik Hjorleifson, a “raised in Winnipeg” product. In this consolation event, Hjorleifson got a couple of bad breaks, scratching after making his object ball once in each of the first two games and allowing “Mr. 400” to go up 2-0 in a race to 3. After a back-and-forth battle, Schmidt prevailed in the third game to finish fifth in the standings after the first event.

Francisco Bustamante “Big Red” Hjorleifson stated afterward, "I need to practice more to bring my game up. Banking was so important this weekend.”

In the quarterfinal match-up, Shane “The South Dakota Kid” Van Boening, who finished third after the round robin portion of the tournament, was up against his Mosconi Cup teammate, Johnny Archer. "The Scorpion" jumped out quickly to a 1-0 lead, but Van Boening won three straight, two of them in overtime, to get to the hill. Archer fought his way to the hill as well and ran out the final game to face Nick “The Kentucky Colonel” Varner in the semifinals.

e t n a m a t s u B in W ll a B s u n o B t s ir F p U s d n Rou

Play Play Video Video 26 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Play Play Video Video

Play Play Video Video The semifinal match, like the quarterfinal, was a race to 4. Varner came back from being down 7-0 to capture the first game 9-7. At that point "The Scorpion" once again found his stinger and won four straight games to sideline Varner.

In the quarterfinal and semifinal matches, Archer had won seven of his last eight games and was on a roll! Bustamante was well-rested for the final. Winning the round robin rewarded him with a spot in the playoff finals, while Archer had just come through some pressure situations and had a couple of barn-burners to get there.

Archer came out focused in this race to 5 and ran out the first two games. That was when Bustamante took over and proved to be too much for Archer. Bustamante played tough from Thursday evening right through the entire event and was deserving of the win.

"The game of Bonus Ball uses a scoreboard and time clock, and they operated flawlessly," stated owner Larry Chiborak. "The players made a few mental mistakes due to the challenge of having to think fast on their feet, but at the end of the event, all eight players were showing why they are called professionals!"

Barry Bremner said, “Corey Deuel, who seemed at odds with the new game, came storming back on the final day, playing flawlessly! I was very impressed with the size of his heart. Most players would have packed it in the final day.

That was not the case with Deuel. I expect Corey to be vastly improved in the next event."

World champion trick shot artist Mike Massey was also on hand at the event and had a crowd everywhere that he went. Massey was the player who convinced Chiborak to use only three pockets in his game to help make Bonus Ball more challenging for seasoned players.

WPBL “Super Series of Billiards”

POINT STANDINGS 1. Francisco Bustamante 2. Johnny Archer 3. Nick Varner 4. Shane Van Boening 5. John Schmidt 6. Eric Hjorleifson 7. Charlie Williams 8. Corey Deuel

106 84 75 70 65 60 55 50 July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 27

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32 InsidePOOL Magazine â&#x2014;&#x160; July/August 2010

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Photos courtesy of Nicole Vellieux and JR Calvert July/August 2010 â&#x2014;&#x160; InsidePOOLmag.com 33

hi f tt Ja

Event Reaches New Heights The event, which hosted 64 international players for the first time in its 17-year history, kicked off May 12 and crowned a winner May 16. The first two days whittled the field down by half, and there were plenty of big-name casualties who fell by the wayside on a day when the strength in depth of field shone through. Those who fell at the first hurdle included Efren Reyes, Francisco Bustamante, Shane Van Boening, Corey Deuel, Oscar Dominguez, and Earl Strickland.

The latter half of the event went to a single-elimination format, with the final 16 revealed by the end of Thursday’s rounds. In the opening match of the last 16, Orcollo made light work of Raj Hun-

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ver 750 players from around the world attempted to win the 2010 PartyPoker.net World Pool Masters, but after five days of play at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV, it was Dennis Orcollo of the Philippines who claimed the title and with it the $20,000 first prize.

He defeated the relatively unknown 25-year-old Japanese player Toru Kuribayashi 8-3 in front of an enthusiastic crowd to cement his position of one of the world’s top players. For Kuribayashi it was a week of superb performances, and his name will now be known throughout the pool world.

“I’m very happy, and you can see the tears in my eyes. If I could fly in the sky then I would fly. This tournament is really hard to win, but I made it and I’m really proud to have won this. It’s my biggest win,” said a jubilant Orcollo.

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dal, going through to the quarter finals by an 8-1 scoreline. Hundal, who looked composed as he negotiated his way through the opening two rounds, made too many mistakes for a player of Orcollo’s obvious caliber.

Hundal’s safety game wasn’t tight enough to contain Orcollo, and the sharp-shooting Pinoy completed four break and runs as he ran away with the match.

The second game of the evening was a nervy affair as up-andcoming Canadian talent John Morra put paid to John Schmidt’s World Pool Masters hopes, winning through by an 8-4 margin. It was a scrappy encounter with both players making errors, but Morra rode his luck to pull away after leading 5-1.

In the final match of the evening, five-time Masters champ Ralf Souquet had just enough to stay ahead and close out Indonesia’s Ricky Yang in a tough encounter. Souquet opened up a big lead, but the dogged Yang, now emerging as one of Asia’s premier players, came back at him. Souquet, though, held him off for the win.

Quarterfinalists Revealed The following day Scottish qualifier Jayson Shaw made a few too many mistakes for a player of Roberto Gomez’s standard, and the Filipino joined compatriot Orcollo in the quarterfinals.

Shaw lost the initiative in the third game as he made an elementary error going from 6 to the 8, as he left the cue ball behind the 9 ball. That handed the rack to Gomez for 2-1 and another shocker,

Toru Kuribayashi

scratching when the run-out was elementary. It was a choker for the young Scot as Gomez increased his lead to 3-1.

A run-out in the next increased his lead, but Gomez tried a Bustamante-style “behind-the-back” shot instead of using the bridge and completely miscued. He made contact with the 6 ball but failed to reach a rail.

With ball in hand, Shaw took full advantage and he ran the next following a decent break to get to within one rack of Gomez at 4-3. A missed pink 4 down the rail, though down the rail, let the Filipino back in, and he increased his lead to 5-3. From there it was all Gomez as he took the last three racks to seal the win and move into the quarterfinals.

In the second match of the afternoon, Charlie Williams was all business as he disposed of entertaining Japanese player Naoyuki Oi, coming from 4-1 down to win 8-5. Having been used to race to 9 matches in the first two rounds, Williams assumed that this match was race to 9 also and returned to his chair after potting what was the case 9 ball. Referee Nigel Rees had to tell the American that he had indeed won the match, much to his pleasure.

Break Gives Kuribayashi an Edge In the final match of the afternoon, Japanese qualifier Toru Kuribayashi looked a million dollars as he mastered the break superbly to record an 8-0 whitewash over England’s Daryl Peach.

Making two and three balls at a time and leaving easy run-outs, Kuribayashi left Peach seated for most of the match.

“I played really well, and I am really happy with my performance. If I keep playing like that then I know I can win the tournament,” said the Japanese.

In the opening quarterfinal match, Germany’s Thomas Engert defeated Rodney Morris 8-5 to leave Williams the sole remaining U.S. hope in the event. Engert, a two-time winner of this event in 2004 and 2007, clearly had the Masters mojo as he looked very comfortable throughout.

There was another guaranteed German in the quarterfinals as former world champions Oliver Ortmann and Thorsten Hohmann squared off, and it was 1996 WPC champ Ortmann who proved superior. It was an excellent show from Ortmann, who came from 4-1 down to complete an outstanding 8-6 victory.

Roberto Gomez

“At the end of the day the victory was right as I was playing good and he was a bit lucky,” said Ortmann.

In the final match of the evening, Orcollo continued his rich vein of form as he overcame Morra 8-3 to book his semifinal spot.

“It was the same type of performance as in the other matches - I didn’t change my game so the momentum was always there. I was always thinking positively and my mind was focused,” said Orcollo.

Gomez Upends Souquet In their quarterfinal match, Gomez established a 6-1 lead over Souquet with some free-wheeling break-and-run pool. An illegal break from Souquet in the third game when the score stood at 1-1 cost him dearly as Gomez took the score to 4-1 without his opponent leaving his chair.

That soon moved to 6-1 before Souquet got back into it, winning the next two to take the score to 6-3 Gomez. The German was running out in the next but ran out of position going from the 8 to the 9, and a tentative attempt with the rest left the 9 hanging and Gomez moved to the hill at 7-4.

Souquet won a couple more, but it was Gomez’s match as won the thirteenth game to reach the semifinals, where he faced Orcollo.

“I’m so happy to win as I’ve beaten the best player here. He is the best player because he is so consistent. He never changes as I was on seven racks but he was always there,” exclaimed Gomez.

The next match saw young Japanese lad Kuribayashi continue on his fairytale run in Vegas. He qualified for this event in March in Yokohama, Japan, and has never before competed on the international stage.

His opponent Williams put in a dogged performance, but Kuribayashi’s break was always his most potent weapon as he took the match 8-6.

That was also the scoreline in the final quarterfinal match as 2004 Masters runner-up Ortmann won the all-German battle against two-time Masters winner Engert. Again, it was a close-fought encounter, but the veteran Ortmann won the final two racks.

“It was my worst match of the tournament but I can be happy that I won,” affirmed Ortmann.

July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 35

Kuribayashi Shines in Semifinal Both semifinal matches turned out to be high-quality events, with Orcollo and Gomez ending up tied at 6-all after twelve racks. It was anyone’s but went in Orcollo’s favour as he edged the final two racks to make his second Matchroom Sport pool final, following his World Pool League victory in Poland in 2006.

In the other semifinal, Kuribayashi put on a display of shot-making and power-breaking to best Ortmann. Playing fluently throughout, the young Japanese came with all the shots when required to seal an 8-3 win. It was a great performance from Ortmann, though, in reaching the semifinals.

Orcollo Takes the Lead Kuribayashi left the 3 ball hanging over the pocket after an attempted safety, and Orcollo dished up to take the lead for the first time and increased his lead to 5-3 in the next with a break and run.

Orcollo began to find his groove in the ninth game as he ran out his second consecutive rack to put some space between himself and Kuribayashi as the score went to 6-3. More great play from Orcollo put him on the hill at 7-3.

In fitting style, Orcollo ran out what was the final rack to win 8-3 and claim the title of 2010 PartyPoker.net World Pool Masters Roberto Gomez champion.

Orcollo looked set to take the first rack of the final match but left a green 6 ball wobbling, which cost him the rack, and Kuribayashi broke and ran the second to go into a 2-0 lead. But Orcollo took advantage of a few opportunities and was able to level the score at 3-3.

Oliver Ortman

“It was very difficult to play in the final as you try to not think that if you win this game then you are the champion. In the semifinal I wasn’t feeling like that but in the final I had to tell myself to just try and control my emotion,” asserted an excited Orcollo.

“If you can’t stay in control of your emotions then you can’t do anything and your mind goes blank. So I just controlled myself and continued my game right until the end,” he added.

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Dennis Orcollo Toru Kuribayash Roberto Gomez Oliver Ortmann Ralf Souquet Thomas Engert Charlie Williams John Morra Raj Hundal John Schmidt Ricky Yang Jayson Shaw Naoyuki Oi Daryl Peach Rodney Morris Thorsten Hohmann Ernesto Dominguez Marcus Chamat Rafael Martinez Jason Klatt Stevie Moore Do Hoang Quan Dennis Hatch Huidji See Evgeni Novosad Lo Li-Wen N Karl Boyes PIO M A Kuo Po-Cheng itle rT CH i fo ash Mark ayGray b i ur ts K fea Johnny Archer De Darren Appleton Niels Feijen

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They Came 2010 BCAPL They Played They Conquered National 8-Ball Championships Heat Up in Las Vegas

by InsidePOOL Staff Photos courtesy of Fred Stoll, FilmlessArt.com

W

hile the temperature was unseasonably cool in Las Vegas during the 34th BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships, the pool playing was hot. Held May 14-22 at the Riviera Hotel & Casino, approximately 7,000 amateur and professional players traveled from across the world to battle for their chunk of the $750,000 prize fund and be crowned the best in their respective divisions.

Prior to the BCAPL 8-ball event starting on May 14, the 9-Ball Challenge took place May 12-13. The event, limited to 256 players, was open to all BCAPL and player members from Open to Grand Master level. Chris Melling took home the early event honors and then defeated Shane “The South Dakota Kid” Van Boening in the Men’s Grand Master division of the BCAPL 8-Ball National Championship, making history by winning both the 9-Ball Challenge and the Men’s Grand Master Singles.

The BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships started with the Scotch Doubles events. The Open Scotch Doubles had 341 entries. Kim Sanders and Brian Sanders of the A.P.P.L.E. (Austin Pool Player’s League), remained undefeated, taking home first place. In the Master Scotch Doubles, which had 82 entries, the French Canadian duo of Veronique Menard and Francis Crevier had to grind their way to victory. Starting off on the one-loss side of the final Master Scotch Doubles board, Menard and Crevier won eight matches to make it to the finals and then double-dipped the dynamo team of Glenn Atwell and Linda Carter from Washington State to take first place.

Saturday the crowd swelled as thousands of individuals prepared for the singles events. There were 11 separate singles divisions: Men’s Super Senior, Men’s Senior, Men’s Open, Men’s Master, Men’s Grand Master, Men’s Player Member, Women’s Open, Women’s Senior, Women’s Master, Women’s Grand Master, and Women’s Player Member.

In the Men’s Super Senior division, Bob Oliver (MacDaddy’s InHouse League, Little Rock, AR) breezed through the winners’ side to take first place. Tom McGonagle (Silver Cue 8-Ball League, Dorchester, MA) had several close matches to stay on the winners’ side and take the Men’s Senior division hot seat. McGonagle almost lost his momentum as Shane Harvey (Action Billiard League, Lubbock, TX) took the first set of the finals 5-1. In set two, McGonagle regrouped, besting Harvey out 5-4 to win first place.

38 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

The Men’s Open Singles is a test of endurance and skill, with a little luck as well. With 1,291 contestants and 32 preliminary doubleelimination boards, it took a large dose of all three elements to win this division. The winner was Nuno Santos (Federacao Portuguesa de Bilhar, Lisbon, Portugal), who strode through his preliminary bracket only dropping six total games. On the finals board he had a tougher road, going hill-hill on a majority of his matches towards securing victory.

The BCAPL Men’s Master division was stocked with well-known and seasoned players including Ryan Solleveld from Canada, Jim Carmona from Las Vegas, Chip Compton from Oklahoma, and Nick Tafoya from New Mexico, but the finals came down to the 2009 Men’s Open winner Bruno Sousa and his fellow teammate from Portugal, Manuel Gamma (both from the Federacao Portuguesa de Bilhar, Lisbon, Portugal). Sousa won the hot seat, sending Gamma to the one-loss side. However, later it was Gamma’s turn, as he doubledipped Sousa by a slim margin (7-6, 7-3) to win the division.

The Women’s Open Singles was also a study in how the strong survive. After qualifying through the preliminary bracket stages, the final bracket included several well-known regional players such as Amy Chen from Georgia, Stacy Alsup from Las Vegas, Tara Williams (née McCracken), Melinda Bailey from Texas, and four members of the NYC team Kiss of Death—Borana Andoni, Emily Duddy, Olga Gashgova, and subsequent division winner Gail Glazebrook.

The top two finishers of the Women’s Master divisions are also well-known players. Ming Ng, the 2009 WPBA Regional Tour champion, faced Gari Jo Bloomberg, the aunt of top U.S. pro Shane Van Boening. Bloomberg cruised into the hot seat without facing even one hill-hill match. In the finals, she retained that momentum as she defeated Ng 7-3.

If it could be said that if a player nearly dominated a division, that player was Debbie Snook (Triple “P” Handicapped League, Pueblo, CO) in the Women’s Senior Singles. Although she lost in her third round to Lucille Donahue 4-2, that was her only sign of weakness as she plowed through the one-loss side, playing nine matches and losing only ten games total before meeting Kim Anderson in the finals. Snook took both sets 4-1 to secure the division’s top spot.

The BCAPL Men’s and Women’s Grand Master divisions are opportunities for top professional players to challenge themselves in bar table 8-ball. Amateur players also get to study up close the stroke and game of some of their favorite pros. The Men’s Grand Master division had 46 players from four continents and included several national and international champions, with U.K. pro Melling hoisting his cue in victory. The Women’s Grand Master division featured 22 women, including several world and U.S. champions. The finals featured two pros, Vivian “The Texas Tornado” Villarreal and currently fourth-ranked world champion Kelly Fisher. Villarreal prevailed, taking home the $2,600 for first.

Both the Men’s and Women’s Player Member divisions gave the opportunity for those who are not able to participate in a sanctioned BCAPL league the chance to play in the BCAPL Nationals. The Men’s Player Member had 123 entries, with two South Dakota men, Justin Brandt and Dan Olson, crossing cues in the finals. It was 17-year-old Olson who took the match. Stacy Lantz from Florida took the firstplace prize in the Women’s Player Member group.

May 18 was a day where the singles started to wind down and everyone began prepping for the team event, while Tuesday evening the BCAPL and the Billiard Education Foundation hosted “Challenge the Stars,” an annual event where the amateur players could challenge their favorite pros as a fundraiser for the BEF.

The team competition got underway May 19 with six divisions: Mixed Open, Mixed Trophy, Women’s Open, Women’s Trophy, Mixed Master, and Women’s Master. The mixed teams could have up to ten people on their team roster and play five players per match. This year women’s teams only fielded four players per match and could have up to eight players on each team roster.

The Mixed Open Team division had 16 preliminary brackets, 674 teams, and was a double-elimination race to 13 with $11,000 going to the first-place team. Minneapolis, MN, team “Who Needs a Billiard Coach,” headed by Mike Fieldhammer, took the top honors. The Mixed Trophy Team division had 74 entrants. The “The Italian Job” came from the hot seat and took on the “Rack Pack.” The “Rack Pack” decisively took set one 13-6, but it was a nail-biter in set two as the two teams went hill-hill, the “Pack” pulled it out to win the second set 13-12.

The two final teams in the Mixed Master Team division had divergent experiences on the board. “Good Eggz” went down in the first match against former division winners “Hustlin.’” In the hot seat was “Portugal Masters,” containing Manuel Gamma, who finished first in the Men’s Master Singles. It was a good week for Team Portugal, as their momentum never wavered, besting “Good Eggz” 13-8.

This year there were 20 more Women’s Open Teams than in 2009.

The Dallas, TX, ladies “We’ve Got the Runs” went undefeated and bested Wisconsin team “Jackson Cue—Mickey’s.” The Women’s Trophy Team division had eight teams in a double-elimination race to 8.

“Pocket Aces” from San Francisco, CA, took the honors by dominating the bracket and defeating “Full House” from Edgemere, MD, 8-2. The Tulsa, OK, women’s powerhouse team “Magoo’s Masters” took out the Chicago team “Tick Tick Boom” to be the division top women.

July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 39

Corteza

Captures 10-Ball Title Claims Second Title in Two Weeks

T

by Ashley Nandrasy

he U.S. Open 10-Ball Championships took a three-year hiatus between events, but was well worth the wait. In 2007, Holland’s Huidji See took top honors, but in 2010 a new champion was crowned over an expansive and talented field. Lee Van Corteza of the Philippines, fresh off a victory at the Hard Times Mezz 10-Ball Open, came through again with top honors to win another title. The star-studded event took place at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV, May 17-22, alongside the BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships.

Lee Van Corteza

The tournament kicked off with the top 117 men and 11 female players all vying for the top prize of $20,000. There was no short list of perennial favorites as the field included such names as Efren Reyes, Francisco Bustamante, Johnny Archer, and Jasmin Ouschan.

First-round matches kicked off on Monday with results that set the tide for the tournament, with many players barely getting by their respective opponents. Gabe Owen, Jose Parica (by way of a forfeit), Yu Ram Cha, Ouschan, and Corey Deuel were among the players who had to begin the long trek on the one-loss side.

Kim Earns Ladies’ Bonus

Along with the top men, some of the world’s top women came out to compete. The 2009 Amway Cup champion, Chieh Yu Chou of Taipei; Veronique Menard; Ouschan; Kelly Fisher; Ga Young Kim; Cha; Vivian Villareal; Kelly Fisher; Liz Ford; Sarah Rousey; Jennifer Barretta; and Melissa Little ventured to the Riviera to show their prowess in this predominantly male tournament. The tournament directors added incentive in the way of $1,000 for the top-finishing woman participant, which was ultimately claimed by Kim with her wins over Greg Harada and Paul Juarez.

As the tournament progressed, one of the most intriguing players became qualifier entrant Manny Chau of Silver Springs, MD. He made it through to the final four on the winners’ side by besting Vivian Villareal, Sylver Ochoa, and Rodney Morris before dropping his first match to Corteza 9-8. On the one-loss side, Chau ran into the massive 10-ball roadblock that is Shane Van Boening and was put out of the tournament in fifth place with a score of 9-7.

Canada Comes Through

One of the other big stories was the strong play of the Canadian contingent. Calgary’s Edwin Montal scored an extremely lopsided victory over Bustamante 9-1. Fellow countryman Tyler Edey roared to an 8-0 lead over 40 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Germany’s Oliver Ortmann only to see Ortmann rally back to make the match hill-hill. Through a little safety play in the final rack on a tricky 6 ball, Edey ultimately closed the match, ending the dream comeback of Ortmann. Stan Tourangeau of Vancouver also managed to best newly crowned World Pool Masters champion Dennis Orcollo with a score of 9-7.

Li Wen Lo

Shane Van Boening

The fierce competition continued, eventually dwindling down to the final eight players. On the winners’ side, Corteza faced Chau and escaped with a hill-hill victory. Twice consecutive U.S. Open 9-Ball Championships winner Mika Immonen squared off against Lo Li-Wen with Lo coming out the 9-5 victor. On the one-loss side, Bustamante bested Morris 9-6 as Van Boening sent Charlie Williams home 9-5.

Manny Chau

Immonen then faced off against the tenacious Bustamante, who avenged his 9-1 loss to Tourangeau with a 9-1 victory over “Iceman” to move on to the quarterfinals. Van Boening took on Chau in a close match that saw Van Boening come out ahead 9-7.

In an epic match-up, Van Boening took on Francisco Bustamante.

Both players kept the match interesting with back-and-forth games until a safety battle in the fifteenth rack gave “The South Dakota Kid” the game and an 8-7 lead. Van Boening’s break was picture perfect, and he pocketed four balls. The writing was on the wall for Bustamante, who never got back to the table and had to settle for fourth place.

After dropping the hot seat match to Lo 9-6, Corteza now faced Van Boening in the semifinals. A similar story to Van Boening’s previous match unfolded, as neither player succeeded in putting any distance over the other. All that changed, though, with a dry break from Corteza with the score at 5-all. This misstep let Van Boening string together three racks and put himself on the hill. Corteza rallied back with two racks of his own, as he proved he was not ready to give up on this match yet and fall down. In the sixteenth rack, one of the newly implemented rules came into play, causing amazement in the crowd. After a missed 6 ball by Corteza, Van Boening was left with an almost impossible cut or a low-percentage bank. Van Boening called the bank and missed but sent the 7 sailing into a corner pocket made larger by a strategically placed 8 ball. Since the rules in place were meant to prevent any “slop” and Van Boening had called the 6, the table was turned over to Corteza, who was left with an elementary four-ball out to force one final game. After an intense and somewhat controversial match, Corteza took the final rack and went on to try to exact his revenge for his only loss against Lo.

Mika Immonen

Mike Dechaine

Nerves Claim Both Finalists in Hill-Hill Battle

The final match was a single race to 13 to crown the winner. Nerves seemed to take center stage for the first few racks, most notably in Lo, who seemed to take more and more time on even straight-in stop shots. As this was the finals, the tournament directors agreed that no July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 41

shot clock would be put in place, nor would any games be added per their newly instituted rule. The pace soon became too much for the spectators, and it was obvious something had to be done. Over an hour and a half had gone by and the score was 7-3 in favor of Corteza. Through careful contemplation, tournament director Ken Shuman came to the players and issued a warning to try to speed up the rate of play or else a shot clock would be implemented. Most thought Lo would be the player to which this affected negatively, however, it was quickly shown that this was not the case. A noticeably quickened Lo proceeded to step up his game and not only made his decisions sooner but actually sharpened his cue ball control and position.

The four-game lead enjoyed by Corteza swiftly vanished as Lo tied up the score at 7-7. What seemed to be a match that Corteza was running away with then turned into a dogfight, with the Filipino finally getting a two-rack lead and the hill at 12-10. However, yet again, unusual misses from Corteza let Lo and his pinpoint position play tie up the match at hill-hill. In the final rack, a somewhat careless miss on the 1 ball from Lo seemed as though it would seal his fate as his opponent was handed an open table. Corteza seemed on his way to sewing up the match without any more table time for Lo when an unfortunate roll from the 2 to the 3 forced a dejected Corteza to play safe. Lo was left looking at a long jump shot, which he executed, but he failed to pocket or hide the 3 ball, leaving a long, straight-in shot. Corteza proceeded to run out the rack and put an end to this intense finals match. Lo Li-Wen was sent home with a consolation prize of $12,500 for his second-place finish.

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th 9th

13th

17th

For his stellar play throughout the tournament, Corteza was rewarded with $20,000. In a surprising move, it was also announced that Mark Griffin and Barry Behrman would be working in conjunction with each other and gift Corteza with paid entry into this year’s U.S. Open 9-Ball Championships in October.

* * * *

Replaces Existing Linen or Leather Wrap Uniquely Designed Handcrafted Pyrographed Artwork FREE INSTALLATION for a Limited Time

Lee Van Corteza Li Wen Lo Shane Van Boening Francisco Bustamante Manny Chau Mika Immonen Rodney Morris Charlie Williams Edwin Montals Darren Appleton Mike Dechaine Roberto Gomez Corey Harper Dennis Hatch Dennis Orcollo Tony Drago Po Cheng Kuo Pin-Yi Ko Ralf Souquet Thomas Engert Stan Tourangeau Warren Kiamco Raj Hundal Jeremy Sossei

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ster Crockett 7-3 and Arturo Rivera 7-4 and then won a hard-fought match against a hot Morris 8-7. Owen then faced a familiar foe in Deuel. Deuel ended Owen’s winning run with an 8-2 victory and sent Owen to the west side of the bracket. There Owen grinded out a win against Dominguez to once again face Morris. This time around the result was different, as Morris came away with the win 8-4.

a disappointing loss to Los Angeles’ Corey Harper 7-4. The loss did not faze Lombardo as he strung together a series of victories over Jeffery Jamerson 7-4, Reid Feming 7-2, Alex Laski 7-3, Fach Garcia 7-5, Crockett 8-7, and Eddie Abraham 8-3. This set up a match against Morris, which would go back and forth until it ended with Morris coming from behind to win 8-7.

Stevie Moore, winner of the recent Bankshot Billiards Tour stop, started the tournament with a hill-hill victory over Max Eberle.

Moore continued his run with wins over tour veteran William Dunsmore 7-1, Christian Johannessen 7-5, and Switzerland’s Marco Tschudi 8-2. He ended the second day of play poised to play Martinez for a shot at the hot seat match. On the third day, though, Moore’s game did not seem to be on point.

After missing a straight shot on the 9 ball while being up 5-3, Moore watched as Martinez ran five consecutive racks to take the win 8-5. Moore’s next match against Morris proved to be unfavorable, as Morris coasted The first round of matches involved to an 8-1 victory. some thrilling hill-hill matches, including Gabe Owen who shot his way past Michael Lombardo, who has played at every tour Williams 7-6. Owen then cruised past young- stop this season, began the tournament with

The crowd favorite for the first two days of the tournament was the 15-yearold Crockett, who played a strong tournament and finished in the money. This sharp-shooting kid showed a few of the pros that he indeed will be a force to be reckoned with in the near future. Crockett posted victories over Ken Mendoza 7-4, Rodney Wynn 7-3, Kengo Matsumoto 7-5, and Christian Johannessen 7-4.

ocket” Rodney Morris claimed the Memorial Weekend stop of the Seminole Pro Tour, besting the undefeated Corey Deuel in the finals to take first place. The $8,500-added event was hosted by Hollywood Billiards in Hollywood, CA, and attracted a 59-player, star-studded field.

Some familiar names to the tour came to Hollywood, such as James Roberts, Mike Davis, Charlie Williams, Deuel, and Hunter Lombardo, and some new players made their first tour stop of the 2010 Seminole Pro Tour, such as Morris, Rafael Martinez, Oscar Dominguez, Jose Parica, and U.S. Junior National champion Brendan Crockett. This three-day tournament was packed with great action and also included some surprising results.

44 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Seminole Pro Tour staple Deuel had an impressive weekend. Deuel’s smooth stokes and sharp shooting helped post some convincing wins throughout the tournament.

His closest and toughest match came in the hot seat match with Martinez, which went to hill-hill. This match could have gone either way, but Deuel got the king of the hill

and played Morris for the tournament championship and $5,000 first prize.

The championship match began with Deuel winning the first four racks and jumping to a quick 5-0 lead. Morris then began a run of his own by winning the next seven games going up 7-5. Deuel finally ended Morrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; huge run to pull within one. Morris answered back on the next rack to widen his lead again to 8-6. Deuel continued to battle, by sinking a stunning combination bank shot to sink the 10 ball and win the next rack. Morris put an end to the match and the tournament by winning the next rack with a 9-7 victory.

Jay Helfert, Rodney Morris, Gerry Mayen

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th 9th

13th

Rodney Morris Corey Deuel Rafael Martinez Gabe Owen Stevie Moore Oscar Dominguez Marco Teschudi Hunter Lombardo Sal Butera Frank Almanza Max Eberle Eddie Abraham Manny Chau Ramin Bakhtiari Charlie Williams Brendan Crockett

$5,000 $3,000 $2,000 $1,250 $750 $550 $400

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Whats New

> Summer Buying Guide J. Pechauer Break Cue

J. Pechauer Custom Cues introduces their new break cue featuring new forward-weight technology, a flex-free MST shaft taper, and a high-density Black Diamond tip that meets the latest BCA requirements. For ordering information, please contact J. Pechauer Custom Cues at 800-934-7735, or e-mail sales@ pechauer.com.

Diamond Pool Jewelry

Diamond Pool Jewelry is high-quality, detailed, billiard-inspired jewelry. The pendants, rings, earrings, and belt buckles are crafted from yellow gold, white gold, and sterling silver and feature brilliant diamonds. Pieces in 14-karat gold start as low as $85. To order, please log onto www.

PoolJewelry.com or call 812-820-7100.

Super Slippy Tip Tool

The Super Slippy Tip Tool is a multi-functional tip tool made of brass. It features both dime and nickel shapers with replaceable pads, a tip dimpler, a burnisher, and a trimmer. It also comes with a leather carrying case and instructions for use. Please contact Sterling Gaming at 877-283-7444, or log onto www.sterlinggaming.com for ordering information.

Element Pool Cues

Brand new from McDermott, Element Cues feature McDermott’s F2 dual fiber core technology. The dual fiber core interweaves two layers of carbon fiber to provide a solid hit and precision control. Element cues utilize the latest technology and cue-building techniques to provide a high-performance cue that is moisture- and warp-resistant. Element cues feature a unique adjustable weight system, stainless steel joints, and “Element” engraved butt plates. Prices range from $89-$139. See all 15 Element cues at www.mcdermottcue.com, or call 800-666-2283 for more information.

46 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

IMPACT Break Cue

The IMPACT break cue is the latest from Tiger Products. The butt and shaft are made with the same laminated system. IMPACT is one of the hardest break cues ever made but still provides the player with total control of the cue ball. The suggested retail price for the IMPACT break cue is $399. For more information, please visit www. tigerproducts.com or call 818-238-9906. Stop by Tiger’s booth at the trade show and see the new products.

X-PRO and X-Ultra LD

These two new high-performance, lowdeflection shafts from Tiger Products will blow your mind. They feature solid construction with Tiger’s patented system but the new, light front end eliminates deflection while the performance shaft still provides the best feel possible. The X-PRO has a gradual taper with an 11.75 millimeter tip size, while the X-Ultra LD 15-inch pro taper has a 12.75 millimeter tip size. The X-Pro retails for $239, and the X-Ultra LD for $229.

Please visit Tiger’s booth at the BCA Expo for more information, call 818-238-9906, or visit www.tigerproducts.com.

EzBridge™

Onyx-LTD Laminated Cue Tips

New from Tiger Products, these laminated medium tips will only be produced in limited numbers each year and will come standard on Tiger’s X-Pro low-deflection shaft. Their suggested retail price is $24.95 each tip. For more information, please visit www. tigerproducts.com, or call 818-2389906. Visit Tiger Products’ trade show booth and see the new products.

G-Series 2010 Cue Line

McDermott launches the new G-Series, featuring over 100 brand new cues, plus the 2010 Jim McDermott Cue of the Year. Drawing on cuttingedge technology, quality craftsmanship, and breathtaking designs, McDermott’s G-Series is the next generation of American art. McDermott uses the finest materials, exotic woods, and performance shafts. Cues ranging in price from $235-$699 come standard with McDermott’s GCore shaft; cues over $700 come standard with the high-performance I2-shaft. All cues are made in Menomonee Falls, WI. To order, please log onto www.mcdermottcue.com, or call 800-666-2283.

The portable EzBridge™ with pivoting ball joint and six bridge grooves provides a stable bridge anywhere on a 9-foot table, even in or over a cluster of balls. The EzJump Bridge provides a tall stable bridge for jump and massé shots. It can be used as a stand-alone bridge near the rail or attached to the edge of the EzBridge for positioning anywhere on a 9-foot table. To order, please call toll free 877-906-1818 or visit www.ezbridge.us.

Star Pool Cues

The 2010 Star pool cue line by McDermott comprises premium maple and exotic wood cues mixed with intricate four-color overlays.

The 36 new models feature stainless steel joints and butt plates, real index rings, and exotic woods with overlays. Manufactured globally using McDermott’s technology and materials, Star cues range in price from $109-$189. Please visit www.mcdermottcue.com to see the all-new Star lineup.

July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 47

> Summer Buying Guide Kaiser Cue

J&J America introduces a new line of high-quality cues made with OB-XL shafts for competitive pool players and professionals. The Kaiser cues feature selected hard-rock maple wood or other high-quality exotic woods, a Uniloc joint, and Irish linen wrap. Other shafts, such as Tiger or Predator, are available. The suggested retail price for Kaiser cues is $320-$450.

For ordering information, please call J&J America at 562-229-9688, or visit www.jjcue.com. Kaiser cues are available from J&J America authorized dealers.

Wave Case

The Sterling Wave series of cue cases incorporates the new Sterling ultra-pad interior, designed to keep all the cue parts separate and immovable during transport. Each case features the organic rebound function, allowing ease of access to cue parts without using springs. The cases have large top and bottom pockets with zippers around the entire length of the pockets, offering easy access to the contents. The bottom pocket also has an individual sleeve for a jump handle. These cases also incorporate non-slip rubber bottoms to keep them stable when leaned against a table or wall. Each case has two removable, ergonomically designed backpack straps and a sport grip handle.

They are light and durable and come in a variety of nylon and vinyl options wrapped around a reinforced PVC exterior shell. For ordering information, please contact Sterling Gaming at 877-283-7444, or log onto www.sterling-gaming.com.

Grim Reaper Jump Cue

Training Wheels for Your Bank Pool Game

Infinite aiming options are reduced to just three for the single rail banks game. Pinpoint and standardize visual target data input. Average-ability players can now attain credible banking consistency.

Please visit www.gpisci.com to watch 27 different bank shots that are made easier when accomplished by aiming at an emplaced Training Wheel.

The instruction set and two training wheels cost $17.95 plus shipping. To purchase, please log onto www.gpisci.com.

48 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

One of the most innovative jump cues ever built, this cue features the new patented indestructible FT2 ferrule/tip and Shaft Freeze, a permanent coating that keeps the shaft straight, slick, and clean.

This cue is unconditionally guaranteed against normal wear and tear. The Grim Reaper offers three connections for any range of jump shots: a 12-inch section for close jumps, a 6-inch bottom section, and a 13-inch section to provide a 25inch jump cue for long-distance jumping.

The material in this cue is unbreakable, canvas-based phenolic. The retail price is $230, and the cue comes with a velour bag for easy carrying. To order, please call 864-458-7662 or 864-430-7797, e-mail mike@babysproshop.com, or log onto www.babysproshop.com.

Orange Crusher Break Cue

This break cue comes with a new legal leather break tip that jumps full-cue shots and breaks as good as phenolic tips. It can be adjusted to come in any weight, from 17-21 ounces. It also features an FT2 ferrule/tip, Shaft Freeze, and an unconditional guarantee. The retail price is $275, and the cue comes with a velour bag for easy carrying and joint protectors. Please call 864-4587662 or 864-430-7797, e-mail mike@ babysproshop.com, or log onto www. babysproshop.com to order.

Play Play Video Video Pneu Power Cue

Xtreme Billiards Gear, LLC, introduces the world’s first pneumatically powered, point-and-shoot billiard cue. Throw away the rule book and create your own “Xtreme” cue sport games. These unique and collectible billiard cues are individually crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and finished with a high-gloss, black anodizing process. Fully adjustable from break-shot power down to the finer, touch-shot power, the Pneu Power Cue adds an exciting new layer of fun to the world of cue sports. Gadget lovers on your list will thank you for years to come.

The Pneu Power Cue is produced in very limited quantities and retails for $229. To order, please visit www.pneupowercues. com. Ask about deals on two or more.

How to Play Bonus Ball

Please visit www.playbonusball.com to view the new Johnny Archer “How to Play Bonus Ball” video. You can get a DVD copy for $5.95, which covers shipping and handling. Learn this great game, taught by “The Scorpion.” Also check out the World Professional Billiard League site by clicking on the top header.

Castillo Cue Tattoo

The Cue Tattoo is a leather wrap with uniquely designed artwork that is burned into the leather by hand. It’s similar to tattoo art work, but instead of ink, heat is used to create the image. The process is called pyrography and is the same process that Gil Castillo has used on his beautifully decorated cue cases for years. The Cue Tattoo can replace any linen or leather wrap currently on your cue and can be installed by any qualified cue repair shop or cue maker. If you’ve ever wanted to transform your cue into something extraordinary, then let Castillo Leather Goods create a custom Cue Tattoo for you today. It’ll be sure to turn heads and give you a bit of individualism. For a vast selection of Cue Tattoo designs, as well as Gil’s other beautiful and functional products, please visit www.CastilloLeatherGoods.com.

Molavia Cue Tips

These nine-layer pigskin and cowhide leather tips from Japan are maintenance-free. The composition of the tips allows players to apply extreme english and also reduces deflection. The tips are tanned with vegetable tannins and dried naturally. To order, please log onto www.molavia.com, e-mail e-mail@molavia.com, or call +42-697-3112.

Simonis X-1™

The truth is, most methods for cleaning billiard cloth are lacking. A vacuum sucks up chalk dust but it can damage your cloth if not used correctly. A traditional brush just moves chalk dust around, and other maintenance products can stretch or discolor your cloth. Now there’s a better way to clean and condition your Simonis cloth—the new Simonis X-1™. The Simonis X-1™ removes chalk dust by creating its own static charge, which lifts chalk particles out of the cloth and traps them in its revolutionary high-tech structure. It’s quiet, it’s effective, and it keeps The Truest Playing Cloth playing truer longer. The Simonis X-1™. To order, please visit www.simoniscloth.com, or call 800.SIMONIS. July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 49

>

Stripes

< by

Ken Shuman

was the last time you entered a tournament of any W hen significance that did not conduct a players’ meeting?

the meeting is held on the same day the event begins, players not scheduled for a match the first day may feel unduly punished by having to show up just for the meeting. This is especially true for local players who drive to the venue or those who are not staying at the host hotel.

Ah, the dreaded players’ meeting. Nobody wants to go. Unless attendance is mandatory, I estimate only about 50% of the field attends. So let’s discuss whether player meeting attendance should be required, and we’ll also examine some past and present policies on the subject.

Because of overlapping schedule conflicts, there may be players who are legitimately unable to travel from one event to another and be present for a mandatory meeting.

And how many times have you either said, or overheard someone say, “I’m not wasting my time at some stupid meeting. I’ve been playing pool all my life and I know the rules.”

First, it’s important you remember that player meetings are not exclusively about the rules of play on the table. They often include topics like schedules of play, formats, length of races, dress code, flowchart locations, scoring and/or score sheet procedures, practice areas, hours of venue operation, smoking, time-outs, forfeits, calling a referee, and how you’ll receive your prize money, to name a few. Just imagine trying to play in an event without knowing these things.

“ If you don’t go,

don’t complain.

”

So what criteria do we have in favor of making attendance mandatory?

Doing so ensures a level playing field because each player will have the same knowledge and information, especially about issues unique to the specific event.

Most professional events stipulate that any changes to published rules will be discussed at the players’ meeting. Questions and concerns raised at the meeting will be clarified for everyone to know. There have been instances where rules or policies were changed or modified as a direct result of the players’ input. If you don’t go, don’t complain.

Tournament or match progress won’t be delayed unnecessarily because a player has to stop and find something out that they already should have known.

The lame excuse of “I wasn’t at the players meeting” goes away.

Tournament directors won’t have to deal with requests for delayed first round matches, juggle start times, and worry about impacting the event schedule.

On the negative side, mandatory attendance does present problems.

If the meeting is to be held the day or evening before play begins, players traveling to the site may incur added expenses for another night’s lodging, food, and incidentals. Conversely, if

Each event would need a procedure for players to “check-in” prior to, or otherwise certify their attendance at the meeting. This would likely require additional staff to handle the process. Taking verbal attendance at the meeting or passing around a sign upsheet are not viable solutions in events with large fields.

The most controversial aspect would be enforcement of the mandatory attendance rule. What would be an appropriate penalty for missing the meeting?

Although my research was somewhat limited, the only organization I found that currently requires mandatory attendance is the Euro Tour, which is organized by the International Billiard Promotion Foundation (IBPF) and the European Pocket Billiard Federation (EPBF). Their regulation 1.4 states, in part, “All players are obligated to check at the accreditation desk and participate in the players’ meeting.” However, their regulations do not specify the penalty for failing to do so.

Here in the USA, the current practice at events like the U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship and the Derby City Classic makes attendance optional.

I’m sure there are other valid reasons on both sides of the argument. My intent was not to take sides, but rather to heighten your awareness of the issue and encourage you to make every effort to attend player meetings, required or not. It’s in your best interest to do so, and it just may give you an edge over your opponent. At a minimum, attending will enhance your tournament experience.

I’ve never heard a player tell me they were worse off because they attended. But I have heard from many players how appreciative they were for the information we provided. See you at the next meeting.

Ken Shuman Ken Shuman of Sacramento, CA, is one of the top professional referees and tournament directors in the country. He is the referee instructor for the BCA Pool League’s national referee school and is considered by his peers to be an expert on the rules of play. Ken has served as head referee for the International Pool Tour and currently directs or co-directs several major events, including the Reno Open, the Derby City Classic, and the U.S. Bar Table and U.S. Open 9-Ball Championships. Contact him at shucue@yahoo.com.

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Industry

>

News News

World Professional Billiard League Unveils New Uniforms

World Wide Sport of Billiards Vice-President Barry Bremner is a firm believer that Bonus Ball is to be marketed as a sport. All professional sports have one thing in common: uniforms and a numbering system that will be incorporated into the WPBL. “Like NASCAR, football, and other sports, the WPBL will have numbers associated with each player,” stated Bremner. “Larry and I also are firm believers in uniforms. Image is very important when presenting yourself to the public. Our players are some of the very best players in the world, and we want to represent them as such.”

Each player has chosen or was given a number that is incorporated into the WPBL logo design.

If the audience members in Winnipeg are not familiar with the players, they can look at the number and instantly know the name of the player. A larger banner will bear the name and number of each player. Each player’s name will also have his country’s flag next to it. The American flag will be most prominent, with six players heralding from the United States.

Each player will wear a different color during the games. World champion many times over, Nick Varner fittingly choose to wear the number 1 on his jersey. New Hall of Fame member Johnny Archer will wear the number 9. Filipino superstar Francisco Bustamante was given the number “perfect” 10. Canadian Erik Hjorleifson will be wearing the number 4, which was worn by the hockey legend, Bobby Orr. John Schmidt has taken the number 7, and Corey Deuel chose to go with “lucky” 13. Rodney Morris wanted “007” but had to settle for 00. Shane Van Boening will be wearing the number 22.

Please visit playbonusball.com for all the new information on Bonus Ball and the WPBL.

Poison Billiards Becomes Title Sponsor of 9-Ball Tou r Poison Billiards is the new title sponsor of the highly successful 9-ball tour managed by top professional player Tony “The Sniper” Crosby. The tour, which has run continuously since September 2008, brings professional and amateur pool players together and averages 20 stops throughout Florida annually.

“This nine-ball tour has been successful since its inception because it uniquely blends both amateur and professional players, encourages interaction, and creates a great playing experience,” said Karim Belhaj, 50 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

president and CEO of Predator Group. “Poison Billiards is a perfect sponsor for this tour, as we have as our key objective to bring players of all levels together and to offer great products to all players that helps them pocket more balls.”

Each two-day event on the Poison 9-Ball Tour takes place on a weekend with an average of 100 players participating. Registration fees range from $15 to $90, and every winner receives prize money and a trophy. Interested players can register for each event online at www.uspoisontour.com, or onsite at 11 a.m. prior to the start of the event.

Accu-Stats Announces Simonis Arena Thanks to its continued association with the world’s most respected billiard cloth, all live, streamed video productions will be broadcast from the newly titled Simonis Arena.

On seeing the incredible increase in web streaming viewership, Simonis President Ivan Lee realized the potential to expand its worldwide branding campaign with the Internet’s most visited live streaming network, accu-stats.com.

“Simonis is proud to be working with BCA Hall of Famer Pat Fleming and Accu-Stats. Their association with the world’s most respected tournaments is legendary. Their pay-per-views garner the most viewers, and we like the prospect that the Accu-Stats’ on-line audience can only increase,” stated Ivan.

“It’s the perfect combination—Simonis and Accu-Stats. Pretty much every tournament we’ve ever captured has Simonis Cloth on the tables. The pros love it. Room owners love its durability. Everyone loves Simonis,” Accu-Stats’ owner Pat Fleming effused.

Accu-Stats has seen an incredible increase in traffic to their website over the last four years. The visitors downloading the Accu-Stats Catalog of pro tournament match DVDs from accu-stats.com has jumped 2000%. That has driven the traffic to the 8-, 9-, and 10-ball game shows airing three nights a week. Now the Simonis Arena, located at Breaker Billiards in Clifton, NJ, has a whole new clientele coming to run a rack of 10-ball for thousands of dollars in the game show jackpot and, of course, to “be on TV.” Pat continued, “The Simonis Arena partnership can only grow.

Internet viewership will increase as we are seeing less and less pool on TV, and Accu-Stats is pleased to be at the forefront as industry leaders like Simonis see the benefits and marketing opportunities.”

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APA Player of the Month

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he APA Player of the Month is Senior Airman Davis Lastrapes of Macon, GA. He is a member of the United States Air Force stationed at Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. Davis is scheduled to be deployed to Afghanistan in September. When he learned of his upcoming deployment, he was determined to qualify for the Singles Regionals so he could have a chance to go to Las Vegas before being deployed. But Lastrapes managed to do a lot more than that. Not only did he qualify at the Regionals, he won the Blue Tier (SLs 2-3) of the 8-ball division at the APA National Singles Championships in May, taking home $15,000 in cash and prizes!

“It was one of my biggest accomplishments ever,” said Lastrapes. “It was my first time ever winning anything. It let me know that anything is possible, even for me,” he added. Lastrapes was also named APA Military Player of the Month for June.

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Places to play 150 N Out Billiards and Darts

L

ocated in the heart of “Race City USA,” 150 N Out Billiards and Darts in Mooresville, NC, is a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for all who are interested in the sports of pool and darts.

150 N Out boasts seventeen 9-foot Olhausen Grand Champion pro pool tables, all with Simonis cloth and Aramith pro balls. They also have six Nodor Supawire bristle dart boards, ten TVs—including a 4’ x 8’ HD projector—a full-service restaurant, and a beer and wine bar.

Get your tip replaced while you wait at the pro shop, which offers all of your pool and dart accessories from entry-level cues and darts up to high-end custom equipment.

150 N Out has reasonable pool table rates, the darts are free, and they will even supply customers with a good-quality set of darts if they don’t have their own. 150 n Out has several discounts avail52 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

able for all active league members such as APA and BCA, as well as senior and multiple-player rates. They are also family friendly—kids under the age of 16 can play for half price when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In a room designed with leagues and tournaments in mind, 150 N Out will also be the host for several touring tournaments, including the Kwikfire Tour, in-house leagues, weekly 8- and 9-ball tournaments, and monthly 14.1 and one-pocket tournaments.

Whether you are a beginner, recreational player, or an all-out pro, 150 N Out Billiards and Darts is the place for you to play. You can check out their info on Facebook, or give them a call at 704-6605363 and their customer-service-oriented staff will be sure to answer any of your questions.

> >>

Regional Roundup

Brothers Double-Dips Krah Mezz Pro-Am Tour / Egg Harbor, NJ

by Jose Burgos

Bauer Conquers West Side to Win Tri-State Tour / Sunnyside, NY

by InsidePOOL Staff

Geoffrey Bauer worked his way through the west side of the chart to take top honors at the May 1 installment of the TriState Tour. Hosted by Master Billiards in Sunnyside, NY, the $750-added, B-D stop attracted 30 players.

Bauer suffered a second-round loss to Andrew Kane 7-2 and fought his way through the one-loss side. Kane, though, Billy Cheng, Andrew Kane, Geoffrey Bauer breezed through to the winners’ side final four, where he faced Emily Duddy in a hill-hill match Amateur Results: that he ended up taking 7-6. Moving on to the hot Geoffrey Bauer $540 seat match, Kane played Billy Cheng, who had just 1st 2nd Andrew Kane $300 bested Kevin Early 7-4. It was another hill-hill match 3rd Billy Cheng $200 for Kane, and he again won 7-6.

4th Kevin Early $120 5th Emily Duddy $70 On the west side, Bauer faced down Chris Karp Rajesh Vannala 7-5 and Sam Li 7-6 before meeting up with Duddy after her loss to Kane. Duddy fell to Bauer 7-5 and took home fifth place.

Tying with her was Rajesh Vannala, who was bested by Kevin Early 8-5. In the quarterfinals, Bauer took on Early and sent him home in fourth with a 7-4 victory.

After a tight 7-5 win over Cheng, Bauer moved on to the finals to face Kane for the second time that day. He wreaked revenge on Kane, winning the final match with a strong 9-4 score.

Josh Brothers, Gary Conover, Matt Krah Josh Brothers took down the Mezz ProAm Tour’s May 2 stop, double-dipping Matt Krah in the finals. The $1,000-added event was hosted by Atlantic City Billiard Club in Egg Harbor, NJ, and drew a field of 31.

Lou Patrikios led the top half of the bracket with wins over Jose Burgos 7-3, Randy Mackin 7-3, “Forty” 7-5, and John Alicea 7-5. Leading the bottom half of the bracket was Krah, who scored victories over Bill Gallagher 7-3, Bob Burt 7-4, Derek Schwager 7-4, and Joe Wright 7-6. Krah and Patrikios collided in the hot seat match, which went hill-hill, but in the end it was Krah who came away with the 7-6 win.

After a hill-hill loss to Eddie Abraham, Brothers worked his way through the west side of the chart, eliminating Denise Reeve 7-0, Ed Medina 7-0, Wali Muhammad 7-2, “Forty” 7-6, Wright 7-1, and Joey Testa 7-2.

He then met Patrikios in the semifinals, and after a lopsided match, Brothes ousted him 7-2.

In the true double-elimination finals, Brothers had to defeat Krah twice to win the event. The first set saw Brothers easily handle Krah, evening the playing field with a 7-2 win. In the second set, Brothers prevailed by the same 7-2 score to win the tournament.

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th

54 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

Josh Brothers Matt Krah Lou Patrikios Joey Testa John Alicea Joe Wright Derek Schwager “Forty”

$935 $400 $330 $150 $75 $80

Patarino Prevails to Take First Title Tri-State Tour / Edison, NJ

by InsidePOOL Staff

<

Once on the west side of the chart, Wong and Osipovitch were quickly eliminated. Muaz Arshad took care of Wong 8-7, while Joe Varvaro ousted Osipovitch 6-1. In the quarterfinal match, Arshad continued to press on, defeating Varvaro 8-5. His momentum grew even more after the semiResults: final match, where he sent Sandie Patarino $495 Palmiery home in third 1st $245 place with a 9-5 victory. But 2nd Muaz Arshad John Palmiery $150 Patarino was too much for 3rd Joe Varvaro $90 him in the finals, and she 4th Allen Wong took home her first Tri-State 5th George Osipovitch title 9-6.

Sandie Patatino, Muaz Arshad, John Palmiery

Sandie Patarino went undefeated at the May 22 installment of the Tri-State Tour, winning her first title on this tour. The 24-player field was hosted by Sandcastle Billiards in Edison, NJ, and boasted a $750-added prize purse.

In the winnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; side final four, Patarino found herself matched up against Allen Wong and defeated him handily 6-3, while in the other match, John Palmiery dispatched George Osipovitch to the one-loss side 6-4. The hot seat match was a hill-hill affair, but Patarino prevailed 6-5 over Palmiery.

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<

Guimond and Reyes Storm Predator Field Ozone Billiards Predator Tour / Queens, NY

by Jerry Tarantola, NYCGrind.com

Kevin Guimond and Wellington Reyes took the top spots at the May 8-9 installment of the Ozone Billiards Predator Tour in the respective amateur and open divisions. The $1,000-added stop was hosted by BQE Billiards in Queens, NY, and drew a 51-player field.

In the amateur event, Melvin Aguilera made a strong statement coming in as a D player and going straight through the bottom of the winners’ bracket. After a 7-5 defeat of Sam Li, was one of two players remaining on the right side. The other was Brent Boemmels, who was rated an A in this event. He cruised through the top half of the winners’ bracket and, with a 7-4 victory over Reyes, reached the hot seat match against Aguilera.

In the hot seat match, Boemmels came out strong, but a combination of a few bad rolls and costly errors shifted the momentum.

Reyes capitalized and took over the flow and control of the set, winning 7-3.

Zvi Zaps Joss Tour Field Joss Northeast 9-Ball Tour / West Hempstead, NY

by Lea Andrews

Zion Zvi may have entered Raxx Pool Room in West Hempstead, NY, on May 22 without a Joss Northeast 9-Ball Tour win on the record, but it was there when he left undefeated on May 23. As the last man standing out of the original field of 31, Zvi pocketed the biggest chunk of the $1,500-added purse.

Zvi took care of tour regular Kevin Guimond 9-7 to reach the hot seat match against Mhet Vergara, who’d just notched a strong 9-4 win over George “Ginky” Sansouci. Zvi earned the hot seat with a breezy 9-2 victory over Vergara, who moved into the semifinals for another chance at the finals.

On the left side of the bracket, Brian Veska squeezed past Mike Wong 9-8 before marking up a 9-2 win over George Rodriguez, who’d just ousted Jarrod Clowery 9-4. Meanwhile, Scott Tollefson held Stu Warnock to six games to face Chance Chin, who’d blown past Ray Romanski 9-3. Chin found himself at the wrong end of another 9-3 match against Tollefson, though, to finish in seventh, and Tollefson followed him soon after running into Guimond, who advanced to the quarterfinals 9-6. There Guimond met up with Veska, who’d continued his winning streak 9-4 over San Souci, and while Veska fought hard to keep it going even further, he came up one game shy, landing in fourth 9-8. In the semifinals, Zvi’s two most recent victims went head to head to try to face him again, and Guimond rose well above 9-5 for one last shot at Zvi. Results: But Guimond’s last shot 1st Zion Zvi $1,000 in the true double-elimina2nd Kevin Guimond $700 tion final match fell short, as 3rd Mhet Vegara $500 Zvi jumped out to an early 4th Brian Veska $400 3-0 lead and didn’t let up, 5th George Sansouci $250 finishing up his undefeated Scott Tollefson weekend with a decisive George Rodriguez $100 9-5 win. Another winner on 7th Chance Chin

The stage was set for a final match-up between Reyes versus Aguilera. After returning from the oneloss side, Reyes capped off a stand-out day with a 9-8 victory in the finals.

Open/Pro Results: 1st 2nd 3rd

Kevin Guimond Jeremy Sossei George Sansouci

$600 $300 $100

Results:

1st $800 Wellington Reyes $600 In the open/pro field, 2nd Melvin Aguilera 3rd Brent Boemmels $400 things got shaken up 4th Sam Li $300

by Kevin Guimond. GuiJohn Hacsi $200 mond, who had won the 5th John Alicea Empire State Amateur Alberto Estevez $125 Championships in March, 7th Wali Muhammad stormed through Oscar BoMike Wong $85 nilla 8-6, Zion Zvi 8-6, and 9th Ramilo Tanglao George “Ginky” Sansouci Scott Simonetti 8-7 to make it to the finals.

Steve Way Jeremy Sossei came from the one-loss side to meet Guimond in the finals but was unsuccessful, and Guimond claimed the case game to win the final match.

Sunday was Mike Panzarella, who topped the $500-added second chance event, a single-elimination, race-to-3 tournament open to any non-pro eliminated on Saturday. Panzarella earned $280 for his quick 3-2 win in the finals over room owner Holden Chin, who pocketed $180. Scott Murphy and Hector Nau took home $120 and $80 for third and fourth, respectively.

Simonetti Slays Tri-State Field Tri-State Tour / East Rutherford, NJ

by InsidePOOL Staff

Scott Simonetti took down all challengers at the May 15 stop of the Tri-State Tour, going undefeated to take the title. A field of 45 players showed up at Castle Billiards in East Rutherford, NJ, to participate in the $1,000-added 9-ball event.

In the winners’ side final four, Simonetti sent Ed Culhane to the one-loss side 7-4, while Tony Eglesias did the same to Paul Raval 7-4. The hot seat match was a close contest, but Simonetti edged out Eglesias 7-5 to wait for a finals opponent.

Once on the west side of the chart, Culhane foundered, going home in fifth place after being bested by John Trobiano 7-5. Raval bounced back, though, and was able to oust Sandie Paterino 8-4.

However, Raval had trouResults: ble in the quarterfinal 1st Scott Simonetti $930 match against Trobiano 2nd Tony Eglesias $560 and ended up in fourth 3rd John Trobiano $365 place 7-2.

4th Paul Raval $240 5th Ed Culhane $100 Trobiano went on to Sandie Paterino face Eglesias in the semi7th Ken Debroskie $90 finals, which went hill-hill Scott Bannon and saw Eglesias eke out 9th Guy Iannuzzi $70 a 7-6 win. But in the fiRaj Vannala nals, it was all Simonetti, Kyle Bubet as he pushed forward to a George Osipovitch strong 7-2 victory.

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Sansouci and DaBreo Take Predator Titles Ozone Billiards Predator 9-Ball Tour / Sunnyside, NY

by Alison M. Fischer, NYCGrind.com

William Finnegan, George Sansouci

Asif Mostafa, Raphael DaBreo

George Sansouci and Raphael DaBreo took home top finishes from the May 29-30 stop of the Ozone Billiards Predator 9-Ball Tour.

The $1,000-added event brought a crew of 64 players to Master Billiards in Sunnyside, NY. With the bracket for the amateur event being divided with A-B class players on the top half of the bracket and C/D level players on the bottom, one player from each grouping would meet in the winners’ side finals. DaBreo solidly defeated Stewart “The Lion” Warnock 7-4 in the A-B half of the bracket. On the bottom half, Asif Mostafa sent Arturo Reyes packing to the one-loss side 7-5. In the hot seat match, Mostafa claimed the hill-hill battle 7-6.

The quarterfinal match between Warnock and Sam Li was another close set, with Warnock pulling ahead to close it out 7-5 and move on to the semifinals. He and DaBreo went toe to toe, where DaBreo finished out the hill-hill game to win 7-6. In the single race-to-9 finals,

the undefeated Mostafa and DaBreo went all in, fighting through to the very last game, with DaBreo coming out victorious.

< Amateur Results:

1st 2nd 3rd 4th In the open/pro 10-ball 5th division, Sansouci was on point, defeating Carl Yusef 7th Khan 8-2 and Oscar Bonilla 8-5 to meet with Frankie 9th Hernandez for the hot seat, whom he also sent to the one-loss side.

Raphael DaBreo Asif Mostafa Stewart Warnock Sam Li Arturo Reyes John Alicea Chris Karp Mike Wong Billy Chang Nicholas Chan Borana Andoni Derek Schwager

Bonilla was also showing Open/Pro Results: dominance in this event, having George Sansouci defeated Tony Robles 8-6 before 1st Oscar Bonilla 2nd his loss to “Ginky.” Following that Frankie Hernandez loss, Bonilla bested Shaun 3rd Wilkie 8-6 and then Robles 8-4 before eliminating Hernandez in the semifinals 8-2.

$1,000 $650 $450 $325 $250 $150 $100

$600 $400 $160

Although Bonilla did not pose that much of a threat to Sansouci earlier on in the winners’ bracket, he came back with a vengeance in the finals. However, he came up short, with Sansouci winning the hill-hill game to close out the event with an undefeated victory.

July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 57

< Simonetti Scores Again Tri-State Tour / East Rutherford, NJ

by InsidePOOL Staff

Scott Simonetti, Bill Focaccia, Scott Bannon

Scott Simonetti took home his second Tri-State Tour title in less than a month’s time, defeating Scott Bannon in the finals.

The June 5 event brought out 38 players to Castle Billiards in East Rutherford, NJ, for the $1,000-added, B-D tournament.

Simonetti went unchallenged through the field, besting Duane Toney 7-5 in the winners’ side final four to make it to the hot seat match. There he faced Pat DiBuono, who had just sent Bannon to the one-loss side of the chart 7-4, and defeated him 7-4 to wait for a finals opponent.

From the west side, Bannon fought his way back, eliminating Tony Eglesias 7-4 in fifth place. Tying with Eglesias was Kevin Kemp, who was ousted by Toney 7-2. In the quarterfinal match, Bannon triumphed over Toney 7-4, who went home with fourth place.

Bannon faced a tough opponent in DiBuono in the semifinals, and eked out a tight 7-5 victory to advance to the finals.

But Simonetti was primed for another tour victory, which he accomplished with a 7-2 win.

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th

Scott Simonetti Scott Bannon Pat DiBuono Duane Toney Tony Eglesias Kevin Kemp Rich Sacco Ted Lapadula

$850 $520 $350 $180 $100 $70

Wan and Robles Cool Down Predator Competition Ozone Billiards Predator Tour / Queens, NY

by Jerry Tarantola, NYCgrind.com

Thomas Wan and Tony Robles won their respective divisions on the Ozone Billiards Predator Tour’s June 5-6 stop, taking first place in the amateur and open/pro events, respectively. The tour’s ninth stop of the season was hosted by Master Billiards in Queens, NY, where 66 of the strongest players in the tri-state area came out to compete at the $1,000added event to show they have the grit to fight through the tough field.

Dinko Busanich showed a lot of heart in the amateur division, going through several gritty matches as he fought through the winners’ bracket to earn a spot in the finals. Busanich went through Carl Yusef Khan 7-3, Mike Panzarella 7-6, Jerry Tarantola 7-6, Daniel Dagotdot 7-5, Thomas Wan 7-4, and Mike Hertz 7-5 to reach the finals.

On the one-loss side, there were a lot of warriors battling for the chance to come from behind to make a statement. While there were stand-out performances by Raphael DaBreo, John Hacsi, Dave Shlemperis, Arturo Reyes, Lionel Rivera, Michael Hertz, and Daniel Dagotdot, only one player reached the finals unscathed. Long-time tour player Wan was impressive by defeating Mike Wong 7-3, Rivera 7-5, Stewart Warnock 7-6, Rivera again 7-5, Shlemperis, and Hertz 7-4 to get a shot at Busanich in the finals. There Wan was dominant by putting up a solid 9-5 score to capture his first Ozone Billiards Predator Tour win.

Early on in the open/pro 10-ball event, Master Billiards house pro George “Ginky” Sansouci made a big statement by playing nearly flawless pool in a dominant 8-2 victory over reigning U.S. Open champion Mika “Iceman” Immonen. Immonen won his next match 8-6 against a game Arturo Reyes before getting bumped out of the event by Marc “Spain” Vidal.

On the lower half of the bracket Tony “The Silent Assassin” Robles was silently taking down his competition, going through Ron Mason, Zion Zvi, Marc Vidal, and then an impressive 8-4 win over Jeremy Sossei to reach the hot seat. Sossei bounced back from the loss to Robles by defeating visiting player Marco Tschudi of Switzerland 8-3 to set up a rematch with Robles. Tschudi was turning heads with his fast-paced game with wins over Mike Miller 8-4, Zvi 8-5, Sansouci 8-3, and Vidal 8-6 before Sossei eliminated him. In the finals, the Ozone Billiards Predator Tour founder and battle-tested veteran Robles defeated Sossei 8-4 for his second win of the season.

Thomas Wan, Dinko Busanich

Amateur Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th 9th

Thomas Wan Dinko Busanich Michael Hertz Dave Shlemperis Lionel Rivera Chuck Giallorenzo Raphael DaBreo Arturo Reyes Daniel Dagotdot Asif Mustafa Stewart Warnock John Hasci

$900 $600 $400 $300 $200 $150 $90

Tony Robles, Jeremy Sossei

Open/Pro Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Tony Robles Jeremy Sossei Marco Tschudi Marc Vidal

$850 $500 $335 $200

ollow F ollow F

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It did not start out auspiciously Immonen 97-ball run. eventually held able to focuswith betteraafter that, and herHe trademark aggressive styleCohen for Kim, though, when her cue ball fl ew off the table on her fi rst world title Thenext match started heavy favorite to a devastating in a matter lessKim than an hour. kicked in asin shepool. won145-15 the three racks in of awith row. fouled break and Hofstatter cleared to win the first game. But Kim was on a jump shot attempt on the 8run. ball He in the following game, andCohen Immonen with a 97-ball eventually held able to focus better after that, and her trademark aggressive style took that to145-15 draw within and then aless carom into an the toHofstatter a But devastating aone, matter kicked inCohen as she won the next in three racks in of a row.

Kim fouled hour. way back athan couple 9 brought the scoreclawed to even athis 3-all.

A couple ofwith tactical errors by small on a jump shot attempt on the 8 ball in the following game, and but helpful runs, Immonen made twoa more the Austria gave Kimand a two-rack lead again, and then long 2-9errors.

Hofstatter took that to draw within one, and then a carom into the combo put Kim onclawed the players hill 6-3.

Away defensive battle over the 2with ball small But Cohen his back with a couple Eventually both were very close, 9 brought the score to even at 3-all. A couple of tactical errors

by Imleft Hofstatter in charge of the table, and though she missed the 6 but helpful runs, and Immonen made two more errors. the Austria gave Kim a two-rack lead again, and then a long 2-9 monen 160-145.

Immonen hadwon another ball, Kimleading then missed a kick shot, and Hofstatter that rack.turn at combo put Kim on the hill 6-3.

A defensive battle over the 2 ball Eventually both players very close, with Imthe and it seemed hewere would close the Buttable, it was not enough, for Kim broke and ran out the fiout nal rack ofmatch left Hofstatter in charge of the table, and though she missed the 6 that match to win 7-4. monen leading 160-145.

Immonen had another turn at still expected, atshot, 181and heHofstatter left himself with ball,as Kim then missedbut a kick won that rack.either the table, and it seemed he would close theofmatch it was not enough, for Kim broke ranor out fiout nalshot rack a But jacked-up onagainst the 4and ball athekick Kim went cut on toshot the finals Corr, and though they trad-on the thatas match to win 7-4. but at 181 he left himself with either still expected, ed the fiHe rst two games, Kim pulled to but a two-rack after 12ball. opted for the kickaway shot onlylead managed to ajacked-up break and run and then a dry break by Corr.

She broke and ran ahit cut shot on the 4 ball or a kick shot on the the threaten the and pocket.

Cohen Kimball wentand on to not the finals against Corr, though they trad- came out again despite a dicey shot on the 9 ball, but with a missed 2 ed theand fiHe rst ran two games, Kim pulled away to but a two-rack lead after 12ball. opted for the kick shot only managed to back out.

Cohen left himself a tough backwards ball in the next rack, she allowed “The Irish Invader” back into a break and run and not then athreaten dry break by Corr.

She brokeCohen and ran came hit the ball and the pocket. the shot match,on andthe Corr4grabbed by shot clearing thehit table cut ball asher thechance break but it to beautiout again despite a dicey shot on the 9 ball, but with a missed 2 makeThis it 4-2ran Kim.out.

Though they the next two Corr tookmatch back and Cohen left himself aracks, tough backwards fully. started finalsplit run, and closed the ball in the next rack, his she allowed “The Irishhe Invader” back into advantage of poor position on the part of Kim to even the score at the shot match, andthe Corr by shot clearing thest table cut on 4grabbed ball asher thechance break but hit it to beautiout 200-181 with a jubilant shout and the air.

5 apiece.

Kim had to push out on her next break, and fi Corr in again make it 4-2 Kim. Though they split the next two racks, Corr took fully.

This nal run, and the match pressed her started advantagehis and fi began running out,he but closed an ugly miscue advantage of poor position on the part of Kim to even the score at on the 5 ball handed that toundefeated Kim.shout Corr thenand broke and made out 200-181 with agame jubilant fiCorr st in the the air.

Cohen had gone throughout 5 apiece.

Kim had to push out on her next break, and again a ball but had to play safe on the 1 ball. Kim made the tough pressed her advantage and pocketed began running out, but an ugly miscue entire 1300 balls.

Emotionlong shotevent but had toand two-rail kick at the 2 ball, which she clipped, on the 5 ball handed that game toundefeated Kim. Corr then broke and made the Cohen had gone throughout hooking Corr behind the 6. Afterout getting her jump cue,and Corr ally, a out few tearsthe a ballCohen but had tosqueaked play safe on the 1 ball.

Kim made tough went sent the event cue ball into the pocketed 2 but left it by1300 the sideballs. pocket. EmotionKim entire long shot but had toand two-rail kick at the 2 ball, which she clipped, pocketed the ball and went two rails for position on the 4. With hooking Corr behind the 6. Afterout getting her jump Corr went ally, Cohen squeaked a out few tearscue,and that accomplished, Kim successfully cleared the remaining balls sent the cue ball into the 2 but left it by the side pocket. Kim to win 7-5, collecting her first WPBA title in two years. pocketed the ball and went two rails for position on the 4. With that accomplished, Kim successfully cleared the remaining balls to win 7-5, collecting her first WPBA title in two years.

to Danny Diliberto, Accu-Stats commentator and former billiards champion, and embraced him. to Allison DannyFIsher Diliberto, Accu-Stats commentator and former billiards champion, andeverything embracedI know him.

“I owe this world title and Allison FIsher of straight pool to this man. He gave me all his “I owe this title andhave everything I know knowledge, andworld I wouldn’t won without 1st He Ga Youngme Kim all his of straight pool to this man. gave him,” said Cohen in his victory speech to the fans.

2nd Karen Corr knowledge, and I wouldn’t have won without 3rd Allison Fisher 1st Ga Young Kim him,” said Cohen in his victory speech to the fans.

Gerda Hofstatter

Results: Results:

Karen Corr Xiaoting Pan Allison Fisher Vivian Villareal Gerda Hofstatter Helena Thornfeldt 5th Xiaoting Pan Monica Webb Vivian Villareal 9th Line Kjorsvik Helena Thornfeldt 1st Stephan Cohen Tracie Hines Monica Webb 2nd Mika Immonen Jasmin Ouschan 9th Line Kjorsvik Kyoko Sone 1st StephanArcher Cohen 3rd Johnny Tracie Hines Kim White 2nd Mika Jasmin Ouschan OliverImmonen Ortmann Angelina Paglia Kyoko Sone 3rd Johnny Archer 5th Thorsten Hohmann Jeanette Lee Kim White Kelly Fisher Oliver Ortmann Tony Robles Angelina Paglia 17th Iris Ranola 5th Thorsten Hohmann Jeanette Lee Charlie Williams Megan Smith Kelly Fisher Tony Robles Jonathan Fulcher 17th Yu Ram Cha Iris Ranola Michell Monk Charlie Williams Megan Smith Brittany Bryant Tournament brackets available online at Cha Jonathan Fulcher Yu Ram Morgan Steinman Michell Monk www.InsidePOOLmag.com Kim Shaw Brittany Bryant Tournament brackets available online at Keeney Nicole Morgan Steinman www.InsidePOOLmag.com Kim Shaw Nicole Keeney

Results Results

2nd 5th 3rd

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> >>

Regional Roundup Mullins Mows Down Great Southern Field Great Southern Billiard Tour / Sanford, NC

by Lea Andrews

tah” sprinted through the strong field of 52 that gathered at Speakeazy Billiards in Sanford, NC, on May 1-2 for the $1,500-added event.

Mullins edged out fellow B player Glen Smith to reach the hot seat match against AA-ranked Jeff Abernathy, who’d breezed

by Mike Hagood 11-2. A strong 7-6 victory earned Mullins the ticket to the finals, while Abernathy moved over to the other side of the bracket to try for a rematch.

Paul Mullins, Jeff Abernathy

Paul Mullins is no stranger to the Great Southern Billiard Tour, but he found himself in uncharted territory when he reached the finals, and he staked his claim when he sunk the final 9 ball. “The Chee-

WHO

but

HOW you play the game

is important...

On the one-loss side, another of Mullins’ victims was already on his own quest for a rematch. A-ranked Glenn Russell, who’d fallen to Mullins 7-5, ousted B-ranked Steve Jenkins 9-3 and A-ranked Brad Shearer 9-7 to meet up with Hagood. Meanwhile, Branked Shawn Ray took care of A players Larry Faulk 7-2 and Greg Taylor 7-7 to face Smith, whom he put in fifth 7-6 to reach the

quarterfinal match. There he faced Russell, who’d had a smooth 9-3 win over Hagood. A 9-6 victory over Ray put Russell one step closer to a rematch with Mullins, but Abernathy had other ideas, and holding Russell to six games, Abernathy claimed the rematch for himself.

Both Mullins and Abernathy were in the finals of the Great Southern Billiard Tour for the first time, and they fought back and forth for the victory that had so far eluded them. But Mullins, overcoming a tendency toward late-tournament timidity, snatched the win in one set 7-9.

Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th 9th

Paul Mullins Jeff Abernathy Glenn Russell Shawn Ray Glen Smith Mike Hagood Greg Taylor Brad Shearer Larry Faulk Roy Musser Cody Wilkie Steve Jenkins

$1,000 $500 $300 $200 $125 $75 $35

you play it with

is just as important

< McDermott Gambler Pool Tour Kicks Off McDermott Gambler Pool Tour / Holiday, FL

by InsidePOOL Staff

Stephanie Mitchell, Trevor Braymore The brand-new McDermott Gambler Pro Tour kicked off its inaugural event the weekend of May 15-16 at Hammer Heads Billiards in Holiday, FL. The event saw Trevor Braymore, Stephanie Mitchell, and Mike Davis take home titles in their respective divisions.

The handicapped amateur 9-ball division saw 26 players show up to vie for the $1,480 purse. Braymore made his way through the winners’ side with wins over Allen Auman 9-5, Mike Staubes 7-6, and Van Phan 9-8 to put him in the hot seat match.

The bottom bracket saw Mitchell move to the hot seat match with wins over Angel Riviera 5-3, Gary Blatt 5-1, James Roberts 9-7, and Michell Monk 5-3. A double-hill affair saw Braymore escape Mitchell to claim the hot seat. Now on the west side, Mitch-

ell faced down Jerry Troisi 6-5 to earn a reSunday’s open 9-ball event saw a strong match with Braymore. Their second match 16-player field taking a shot at the $1,385 again went hill-hill, with the same results, as purse. “Iron Mike” Davis made his way to the Braymore claimed the match 9-8. hot seat match with wins over Ben Diaz 7-4, Dan Dennis 7-6, and Julio Aquino 7-6, while Amateur Results: Mike Staubes met him there after taking 1st $500 Trevor Braymore wins over Tim Witherspoon 7-5, Mark Wathen 2nd Stephanie Mitchell $300 7-2, and Jerry Troisi 7-5. With a strong perfor3rd $225 Jerry Triosi mance, Davis moved to the finals with a 7-2 4th $155 Michell Monk win over Staubes.

5th $100 Julio Aquino Van Phan On the one loss side Adam Wheel7th $50 James Roberts er made his way back to the finals after his Chip Dickerson second-round loss to Aquino 7-6. It was a single race to 9, and Davis took an early lead The ladies’ event drew a field of five. 3-1. However, Wheeler countered to win six Amateur division runner-up Mitchell suf- racks in a row, making it 6-3 in his favor. Davis fered a first-round loss to Nikki Rasmussen fought back, and soon the score seesawed to 7-1 but rebounded, making her way to the 8 apiece. In the final rack, Davis played a safefinals to meet the undefeated Michell Monk. ty on the 6 ball, allowing Wheeler enough It was another hill-hill final match, this time to see a bank. Wheeler attempted the shot with Mitchell coming out the winner 7-6. but hung it in the pocket, and Davis closed out the rack with a bank on the 7 ball to get shape and finish the match, becoming the first Sharkbite Classic Open 9-Ball champion.

Mike Davis Open Results: Stephanie Mitchell, Michelle Monk Ladies’ Results: 1st 2nd 3rd

Stephanie Mitchell Michell Monk Niki Rasmussen

$250 $100 $50

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Mike Davis Adam Wheeler Mike Staubes Julio Aquion Bobby Livrago Jerry Triosi

Play Play Video Video 60 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

$500 $350 $225 $150 $100

< Smith Sails to Victory Great Southern Billiard Tour / Asheboro, NC

by Lea Andrews

against AA-ranked Derek “Chew” Leonard, who’d sent A-ranked Adam Stanton west 10-4. Smith’s strong 7-6 victory over Leonard earned him the hot seat, while Leonard moved over to the semifinals to try for the rematch.

On the left side of the bracket, B-ranked Wayne Briles ousted AA-ranked Jeff Abernathy 7-1 and A-ranked Chris Adams 7-7 to meet up with Poste. Meanwhile, B-ranked Hilton, who’d taken a second-round hill-hill 10-6 loss to Abernathy, notched solid wins over A-ranked Glenn Russell 7-6 and B-ranked James Blackburn 7-1 to reach Stanton. Holding Stanton one game shy of his goal of 9, Hilton advanced 7-8 to the semifinals against Briles, who’d edged out Poste 7-6. Dealing Briles his own 7-6 loss, Hilton moved on to Leonard in the semifinals, where another hill-hill match ensued. Once again, Hilton came out on top, advancing to Smith in the finals 7-9.

Todd Gosnell, Brad Smith, Jerry Hilton, Shannon Daulton Two first-time finalists met up at the June 5-6 stop of the Great Southern Billiard Tour, and it was Brad Smith who emerged the firsttime winner. Smith and runner-up Jerry Hilton faced off at Zoo City Billiards in Asheboro, NC, where 32 entrants vied for the $1,500added purse.

Having coasted through the winners’ side, B-ranked Smith pushed aside fellow B-player JR Poste to reach the hot seat match

Riding his winning momentum into the true double-elimination final match, Hilton eased through the first set, sailing to a comfortable 7-2 victory over Results: Smith. But in the second Brad Smith $1,000 set, Smith fought back, 1st $500 taking control of first-time 2nd Jerry Hilton Derek Leonard $300 finals nerves to mark up 3rd 4th Wayne Briles $150 the final game in the hillAdam Stanton $55 hill set, earning his first 5th JR Poste GSBT win 7-6.

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8/21

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8/28-29 Great Southern Billiard Tour

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9/4-5

Seminole Pro Tour

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Regional Roundup Abood, Ochoa, and Yi Lone Star Victors Lone Star Billiards Tour / Port Arthur, TX

The semis saw yet another hill-hill bout with Ochoa and Bryant that saw Bryant adby InsidePOOL Staff vance to the final match against Abood.

From the start, Abood controlled the table Louisiana’s own Gary Abood took top and the set. He bested Bryant 9-5 and took honors at the Lone Star Billiards Tour’s June 5-6 home his first Lone Star Tour victory. stop in the 9-ball division, while Sylver Ochoa winning the one-pocket event and Kyu Yi the ladies’. The tour visited Tony Nguyen’s milliondollar creation, Crazy 8’s Pool Hall, which played host to 44 open players, 8 one-pocket players, and 12 ladies. It was a record event for the brand-new room, which sits on almost four acres of land in the heart of Port Arthur, TX.

The ladies also demanded center stage when Yi and Courtney Peters played on the stream table for the hot seat. It was 6-6 when Peters missed an 8-9 combo and Yi took it home. Meanwhile, Loretta Lindgren made fast work of her opponents on the one-loss side with four consecutive wins until she met up with Peters. Yi faced off with Peters once more and secured a final 7-5 victory.

Open Results: 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 7th 9th

In Sunday’s first one-pocket match, Charlie “Hillbilly” Bryant bested Abood in the semifinals and moved on to play Ochoa in the final match. It was a hill-hill thriller and anyone’s game until Bryant made an unforced foul and relinquished control of the game—and the victory.

Gary Abood Charlie Bryant Sylver Ochoa Eric Renteria James Davis Jr. Aaron Remijio John Newsome Derek Fontenot Troy Woodard Jason Abate Mike Alonzo Viet Do

$700 $460 $350 $230 $116 $89 $80

One-Pocket Results: 1st 2nd

In the open hot seat match, Abood came back from 8-4 down to Bryant and then executed a phenomenal hill-hill run to close it out.

Eric Renteria gave Ochoa a run for his money in the quarterfinals, but Ochoa overcame a 6-2 deficit and captured the win.

Sylver Ochoa Charlie Bryant

$500 $300

Ladies’ Results:

Charlie Bryant, Gary Abood

Upcoming Central Tournaments

Olathe, KS

1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Kyu Yi Courtney Peters Loretta Lindgren Tasha Salandanan

$260 $150 $80 $40

7/8-11

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Shooters

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Pros

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8/28-29

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9/18-19

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9/25-26

Lone Star Billiards Tour

Q Stix Billiards

Houston, TX

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Ladies

Upcoming Western Tournaments 7/24-25

Arizona Women’s Billiard Tour

Pockets

Tucson, AZ

480-272-2016

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Ladies

8/28-29

Arizona Women’s Billiard Tour

Bullshooters

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9/25-26

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62 InsidePOOL Magazine ◊ July/August 2010

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July/August 2010 ◊ InsidePOOLmag.com 63