Professor-Q-Ball’s
Publisher/Editor Graphic Design Photographers
Rack for April/May 2016 Issue 2 • Vol XVII
☜ Florida Billiards Expo
6/7
2016 Rivers US Open
8
Ga-Young outlasts forty seven contenders
8th Annual Empire State Championships
9
2nd Annual Texas Open 10-Ball
12
Tri State at Steinway Billiards
12
☜ Jay Swanson “Swanee” Memorial Oscar Dominguez takes Title
16
The Man Who Saw it All
20/21
Remembering Conrad Burkman
2016 Wisconsin Junior State 9-Ball
36
Mosconi Cup Coaches named for 2016
38
Chamat and Wilson selected ☜ New
York Junior State 9-Ball
Pool Instructional… You can only get so much out of a Shot…Mark Finkelstein Chico Billiard Academy…Jacqueline Karol First Trick Shot…Robert Byrne The Expanding “Art” of Artistic Pool…Tom Rossman A Hide and Seek Safety…Mike Roque Rail Draw Arc…Tim Chin Overlooked Fundamentals…Tom Simpson Bar Box 8-Ball…Marty Kaczmarowski DPM Universal Pocket and Carom Billiard Systems 84…Darrel Martineau Departments …
Places to Play National Tournament Directory
USBA Newsletter • 3-Cushion Chris Billiards host Qualifier Burbank Elks holds USBA Qualifier President’s Desk Upcoming USBA Tournaments Ken Higgins Memorial Russville 3-Cushion Tournament 2016 USBA 3-Cushion Nationals Championship
4 PQB April/May
46 10 14 15 15 16 17 22 23 40 33-35 45
26 27 27 28 28 29 30-32
Paul Frankel Gary Tate Ricky Bryant Joseph Ratke Josh Gilmore
Contributing Writers Samm Diep • Tom Simpson • Darrel Martineau • Robert Byrne • Tom Rossman • Marty Kaczmarowski • Jacqueline Karol • Ricky Bryant• Tim Chin • Mike Roque • Mark Finkelstein • Phil Panzera SPECIAL AFFILIATIONS
APA, BCA, WPBA, USBA, AZBilliards.com, ACS, TAP PQB News is a bi-monthly publication dedicated to providing pool & 3-cushion news. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the written permission of the publisher. Professor-Q-Ball is not responsible for claims made by it’s advertisers. All dates, times and added tournament money is subject to change without notice. All persons interested in submitting articles for publishing consideration, are welcomed.Material submitted becomes the property of Professor-Q-Ball. Submissions may be returned if accompanied by a self addressed envelope. All advertising, articles, and photos must be submitted by the 15th prior to the issue date to be considered for the following issue.
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A New Spirit for Billiards Arrives in Florida
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owhere in world is there 110,000+ residents in a 50+ community with 630 holes of golf, Disney-like town centers, numerous swimming centers, tennis and pickleball courts along with 50,000+ golf carts. Now add our sport of billiards to the scenario. Nowhere in the world, within a community, is there 23 Recreation Centers with 130 pool tables, opportunities to have free play every day, over 50 leagues including APA and BCA, lesson programs from learn to play to advanced levels, travel teams, numerous tournaments and on and on. And, all of this is growing. The foundation behind this movement is the Villages Billiards Club (VBC), the official voice of billiards in The Villages with its 500+ members who represent thousands of casual through serious enthusiasts of the sport. Included in the VBC is the newly formed WVBC (Women of the Villages Billiards Club) that fosters and represents women who are attracted to and participate in playing pool. All of this is accomplished in social through competitive playing environments as well as numerous social activities and events. So, says Phil De Angelo, President of the VBC, “Simply put, our organization is dedicated to the promotion of billiards as a wholesome and healthy lifestyle activity for all of the residents of The Villages and beyond”. Enter into this scenario, as a continuing experience in The Villages, for residents and the overall billiards community, is the FLORIDA BILLIARDS EXPO. De Angelo said, “we want to expand our opportunities for learning and growing beyond our internal capabilities. To do so, we are reaching out through vehicles like the EXPO to bring professional level and national amateur level participation to the event. We are marching toward our objectives with professional events, amateur tournaments, workshops, exhibitors and social events”. This past January the VBC, along with its industry partner Dragon Promotions, produced a first-time event - “Legends of Pool” - as the leading draw to the 3rd annual FLORIDA BILLIARDS EXPO. Putting together industry icons and notables including Ewa Mateya Laurance, LoreeJon Jones Hasson, Joann Mason Parker, Buddy Hall, Ray Martin and Jim Rempe provided the centerpiece attraction for the 1,200 EXPO attendees. Following a proven formula that has previously brought numerous celebrities to The Villages including Jeanette Lee, Nick Varner, Allison Fischer, Johnny Archer, Mike Massey and Tom Rossman, the EXPO has grown due to its comprehensive approach to its activities and events. Although the pool events at the EXPO were competitive in nature, there was a consistent spirit of camaraderie between the “celebrities”, amateur participants and audiences. Add to this the special “Ladies Night Out” with Ewa, LoreeJon and Joann, the PRO/AM golf tournament and the Sunday Brunch with the Pro’s and what resulted was a well planned, executed and attended 2016 FLORIDA BILLIARD EXPO. 6 PQB April/May
Buddy Hall and Ewa Mateya Laurance
Moving forward, Expo planners are considering a professional level tournament, national level amateur tournaments, increased Exhibitor participation as well as workshop opportunities, and a “headliner star level” kick-off concert for all Expo attendees. De Angelo said, “Our sport needs more opportunities, more wholesome and worthwhile experiences, more positive image makers, activities and events. We are poised to do our part in Florida, as we promote the brand of billiards to not only the 50+ niche of our market, but also to the general pool playing population everywhere”.
above, Ray Martin & crowd left, Rempe, Laurance, Hasson, Martin, Mason-Parker and Hall ‘hand-lag’ for teams in ring game.”
floridabilliardsexpo.com
Joann Mason Parker, Ewa Mateya Laurance, and LoreeJon Jones
Ewa Mateya Laurance April/May PQB 7
Ga-Young Kim Wins 2016 Rivers US Open
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oing in with three titles already to her name, South Korea’s Ga-Young Kim(right) again proved her dominance at the latest edition of the WPBA US Open. Held on March 9-13, 2016 at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, Pa., Kim outlasted the forty-seven other contenders making up the field in one of the most prestigious titles in women’s professional pool. However, the Open was not without its challenges for the #1 world-ranked Kim, who was also the #1-seeded player in the tournament. To start, Kim went into the event struggling with a stye in her left eye, and came up short in her opening match—with a hill-hill upset loss to veteran player Jeannie Seaver, to set her on a course through the one-loss bracket. Despite a ten-year hiatus from the tour, Florida-based Seaver was in top form, and went on to defeat tour legend Ewa Laurance (9-5). In her following match-ups, Seaver would then be eliminated by two of the eventual semifinalists and toughest names on the tour: Line Kjorsvik and Monica Webb. This performance would land Seaver in the 5th-6th place position for her second-best career tour finish. Along with Seaver, former WPBA “Rookie of the Year” Emily Duddy also had a noteworthy showing, ending up tied for 7th-8th place, her career best finish on tour. One of the tour’s notable European champions, Line Kjorsvik (Trondheim, Norway) positioned herself in the semis in undefeated fashion after her 9-3 win over Seaver, to then be met by Ga-Young Kim. After her early loss to Seaver, Kim came back with a vengeance with seven match wins to make it to the semis. Under the pressure of the ESPN lights and cameras, each semifinal featured two races to four games. If a given player were to win both races to four, they would proceed to the finale, while if each player won one set, a “sudden death”
Line Kjorsvik, Monica Webb, Ga-Young Kim, and Allison Fisher 8 PQB April/May
tiebreaker game would determine the match winner. In the first semifinal, Kim stayed steady and stunned the crowd with impressive kick and jump shots, while Kjorsvik was not able to capitalize on her opportunities. The first set of the semi was a 4-0 shutout, while the second went to 2-2 before Kim closed out with a 4-2 win. For the title match, Ga-Young Kim would face a hungry Monica Webb, who had just come away from a harrowing win over Allison Fisher. Fisher, an eight-time US Open Champion and recent WPBA Masters Champion was the other player to enter the semifinal undefeated, with hopes of a second tour win in 2016. However, Webb came out of the gate strong and put down a 4-1 win in their opening set. In the second set, Fisher turned things around to win 4-2, which forced the final “sudden-death” game to determine who moved on to the final. Although Webb had an open table to run out in final rack, she lost position on the six and was forced to play a safe. This successful play resulted in a foul from Fisher, and Webb ran out with ball in hand to take the set. The finale of the 2016 WPBA US Open was then set to feature the two players who had earlier losses on their records, Kim and Webb. With victory in sight, Ga-Young Kim had a deadly-focused demeanor, which was reflected in her end result. Kim did not allow Webb to win a single game in either of their two sets, as she ran away with matching 4-0 wins to secure the title. In total, Kim won ten straight games on her final run to victory, including the last two games of the semifinal. For those in attendance at Rivers Casino and watching the live ESPN3 stream, another brilliant display was put on by GaYoung Kim—which was particularly impressive under the difficult condition of her eye, as WPBA president and commentator Kim White-Newsome explained. “Ga-Young’s performance was nothing short of amazing, since we all know, as players, the slightest of issues can affect not only our physical, but mental game as well. I believe her resilience is part of what makes her one of the greatest players in our sport,” said Newsome. The WPBA Women’s Professional Billiard Association would like to give special thanks to its sponsors for their support of the 2016 US Open 9-Ball Championships: Aramith, Delta-13, Diamond Billiards, Rivers Casino, and Simonis Cloth.
Dechaine Defeats Defending Champion Rodriguez at 8th Annual Empire State Championships
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ecoming a qualifying event for consideration as a member of the 2016 Mosconi Cup team, the 8th Annual Empire State 10-Ball Championships, held on the weekend of February 20-21, doubled the number of entrants from last year that signed on to compete in the Open/Pro event of those championships. Mike Dechaine, soon to be inducted into the New England Pool and Billiard’s Hall of Fame, went undefeated through the 2016 field of 32, defeating defending Open/Pro champion, Jorge Rodriguez in the finals. The $1,000-added event was hosted by Raxx Billiards in West Hempstead, NY. Rodriguez’ attempt to defend his title was initially sidetracked in a winners’ side final four matchup, in which Hunter Lombardo sent him to the loss side. Dechaine, in the meantime, went nose-to-nose against Mike Davis, who, one week prior, had become North Carolina’s 10-Ball Champion and the week before that, the Series VII American Rotation Champion in Indiana. Lombardo defeated Rodriguez 7-5, as Dechaine was busy surviving a double hill battle against Davis. Dechaine then defeated Lombardo in the hot seat match 7-5. On the loss side, Rodriguez met up with Edwin Guzman, who’d gotten by Lee Kang 7-3 and just did get by Miguel
Jorge Rodriguez, Hunter Lombardo, Mike Dechaine and Mike Davis LaBoy 7-6. Davis ran into a familiar opponent, Shaun Wilkie, who eliminated another rival on the Action Pool Tour, Brandon Shuff 7-4 and downed Brooke Meyer 7-1. Rodriguez and Davis got right back to work; Rodriguez shutting out Guzman and Davis eliminating Wilkie 7-5. Rodriguez then defeated Davis 7-4 in the event quarterfinals, for a second shot at Lombardo in the semifinals. Rodriguez wreaked his vengeance 7-4 on Lombardo for a chance to defend his title against Dechaine in the finals. It was not to be. Dechaine completed his undefeated run 9-6, sending him north to Rhode Island for his induction into the New England Pool and Billiard’s Hall of Fame with an added victory to his resume.
Justin Muller, in honor of a Deceased Friend, Wins the Empire State Amateur Championships
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hree days before the Empire State Amateur Championships (February 20-21), a very close friend of Justin Muller's, John Kalsky, passed away. By the time Muller hit the tables on Saturday, he was sporting a tshirt, in commemoration of that friend. He wore it throughout the $2,000-added event that drew 125 entrants to Raxx Billiards in West Hempstead, NY. All the way to the finish line, which he crossed ahead of Gabriel Palacios in the event finals. "It's been one of my biggest goals, to win this tournament," he said in the AZBTV broadcast booth, shortly after winning, adding that in the midst of on-going grief over the loss of his friend and the exhilaration of his victory, he was "just happy" that he'd won it for his friend.
Gabriel Palacios & Justin Muller By Sunday, the date of the memorial service for Kalsky, Muller had made it to a winners' side semifinal, facing Elvis Rodriguez. Palacios, in the meantime, squared off against Dany Recinos. Muller gave up only a single rack to Rodriguez and advanced to the hot seat match versus Palacios, who'd sent
See Muller page 17 April/May PQB 9
You can only get so much out of a Shot by Mark Finkelstein Pro at Slate and Eastside Billiards, New York City; Instructional Columnist fter watching some of the young guns taking on the older, established names in pool, I thought I’d pass on a lesson from the past that defies what some of the younger players are trying to do today. The idea is that you can only do so much with any given shot. How many times have you seen someone (or done it yourself )juice up the cue ball with a long distance shot, cheat the pocket, jack up and spin the shot to get back in line for your next shot? Well, if you are like most of us, probably more times than you care to admit. Maybe not to this extreme, but table length draw or spin shots are of this type. What usually happens is that you miss the shot, miss the position, or make the shot and miss the position. You tried to do more than you reasonably could with the shot at hand. It is easy to forget how demanding pool really is. Here is an example of this type of thinking in a recent game of 8 ball.
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on the 13, or perhaps drawing the cue ball and pulling under the 1. You might even consider drawing the cue ball between the 1 and the 6. But I think all of these shots are just asking for trouble. What I did is take what the table gave me. I stunned in the 14 and got the cue ball between the 1 and the 7 and slowly went toward the 13. I didn’t want to go too far so I could keep an angle to get back down table for the 8 and be able to reach the cue ball when I shot the 13. Now all I had to do was make the 13 and get back down table. Here is where another old timer rule came in to play. When you are playing a tough shot to a tough position, just try to get close to the ball you want! Take a close look at the 8 ball. It can go into 4 pockets, so no matter which side I get on, I’ll most likely have a shot. Now I grant you that I’m playing a little bit of luck here, but the odds are in my favor. What this
As you can see here in this diagram, I had a simple pattern on one end of the table, but an orphan way up table. I didn’t have much of an angle on the 14 and the choices were not the greatest. I could draw, follow, spin, etc., but every option had trouble lurking. Another old time rule that I live by is never, and I mean never, bump into a ball unless you want to. Well, this pattern didn’t leave me many options. You might think about inside spin and going two rails to get
outlook does is give me the chance to concentrate on the shot and not try to do too much with it. Shooting this long cut with any kind of spin and speed to get perfect on the 8 is just asking for trouble. Take what the table gives you and get close to the 8 ball. In this case, I made the 13, landed under the 8 and made the shot in the upper left hand pocket. See you on the road.
10 PQB April/May
2nd Annual Texas Open 10-Ball Championship...
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full 128-player field arrived at Skinny Bob’s Billiards in Round Rock, TX, to compete in the Texas Open 10-Ball Championship. Now that this tournament is a Mosconi Cup XXIII qualification event, the talent level was the best that we’ve ever seen at SBB. There was an appreciative crowd of spectators there throughout the three-day tournament, observing some great pool. PoolActionTV streamed the main table throughout the event. Local player Jennifer Kraber made it to 33rd place tie, taking home the $500 Last Woman Standing prize. Local player Junior Jueco played extraordinarily well taking 4th place over many of the pro players. Although Dennis Orcollo beat Skyler Woodward (right) during the hot seat match, Skyler won the hill-hill match with Roberto Gomez to earn a rematch with Dennis in the double elimination finals. Skyler won both matches 7-5 to earn the Champion trophy. Skyler is the first player to be the reigning champion in both the Texas Open 10-Ball Championship and the Texas Open 9-Ball Championships. Payouts: 1st $4000 2nd $2300 3rd $1520 4th $980 5-6th $600 7-8th $440 9-12th $330 13-16th $250 17-24th $200 25-32nd $175
Tri-State event at Steinway Billiards
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ax Druminski undefeated in his first Tri-State hosted by Steinway Billiards, Astoria, NY. Dax’s tournament trail included wins over Bob Toomey 6 - 2; Nyam Roy 6 - 2; Erick Carrasco 6 - 4; Jaydev Zaveri 6 - 5 and Steve Kaminow 8 - 2 for the Hot Seat. During this time, Shivam Gupta been sent to the loss side by Steve Kaminow 7 - 6 won 4 matches to once again face Steve. Shivam pulled out their second match 7 - 6 to clinch 2nd and face Dax in the Finals. It was a tougher battle in the Finals than the score reveals. Dax pulled ahead to a 5 - 1 lead and Shivam tied it up at 5 - 5. Shivam had an opportunity to take the lead but snookered himsef with only the 7 and 9 ball on the table. Dax made a good out to make it 6 5. Another miss by Shivam and the match was all but over with Dax finishing 8 - 5. Steve Kaminow and Jaydev Zaveri deserve recognition for their solid 3rd and 4th place finish, respectively. 1st $640.00 2nd $320.00 3rd $200.00 4th $130.00 12 PQB April/May
l-r, 3rd place Steve Kaminow, 1st place Dax Druminski, and 2nd Shivam Gupta
Chico Billiards Academy
by Jacqueline Karol • House Pro at Oais Bar & Grill Chico Ca., League Operator & Tournament Director .
Throwing Frozen Balls The game is 9-ball here.
In Diagram 1, the cue ball is frozen to the 8-ball and their line of centers are aimed to miss to the right hand corner of the pocket. The 9-ball is on the same end of the table. How would you make the 8-ball and also get position for the 9-ball? Diagram 3 reveals that the answer is by using direction-induced throw. Remember that throw is counter-intuitive. Contact the cueball on the right side of the line of centers of the cue ball and the 8-ball and aim towards the left side of the line of centers. The balls will actually stick together because of friction and throw the 8-ball in the pocket while the cue ball follows the path of the dotted line for position on the 9-ball. Diagram 2 is the exact same set up as diagram 1, except the 9-ball is at the other end of the table. Diagram 4 shows that now we must use english-induced throw. Aim parallel to the same line of centers of the cue ball and 8-ball using right english. The right will throw the 8-ball to the left and the cue ball will follow the path of the dotted line, leaving you beautiful shape on the 9-ball at the same end of the table.
14 PQB April/May
diagram 1
diagram 2
diagram 3
diagram 4
First Trick Shot
by Robert Byrne From “Byrne’s Complete Book of Pool Shots” with permission
The first trick shot I learned as a lad was a sink-in. Place the balls as shown and announce that you will make the 3-ball in the diagonally opposite corner pocket without touching or moving the 5-ball. Point out that the 3-ball, one would think, can only go along the rail if the 5-ball is to remain in place. The deed is done by hitting the 3-ball full in the face with enough force to compress the rubber. As you can see from the location of the dashed ball, the cueball easily clears the 5-ball. That part is easy; skill is needed to actually pocket the ball in the corner, but it becomes easier the more often you try it. Coming close is no problem at all.
The Expanding “Art” of Artistic Pool by Tom Rossman • drcue@artisticpool.org Contributing Writer
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he “Art” of Artistic Pool started at the junior and amateur levels in 1993 with a simple format of competition and continues to present day under the promotional arm of Dr. Cue Promotions, as an introduction to “artistic” challenge for many. In 2000 an official and sanctioned “professional” Artistic Pool movement began under the WPA international umbrella using 40 shots / challenges in a “fixed program” format with 8 disciplines of artful presentation and the following “standard” sport elements: cue, set of pool balls, triangle, bridge, and chalk. Expansion of program challenges, prop/equipment allowances, and much more continues to present day under the WPA Artistic Pool Division. While the WPA was introducing a pro side for Artistic Pool, ESPN decided to release a new “private promoter” form of “artistic” challenge via a “freestyle format” with player submitted shots / challenges enhanced by a worldwide scope of TV promotions. A “symphony of artistic beauty” became evident on the pool table in rapid fashion, with the sight and sound of each cue sport movement providing a special appeal to thousands of players/fans in those early days of vision and promise. The infant nature of Artistic Pool (trick shots and so much more) was maturing quickly, and yet continued to expand exponentially with enlightened levels of challenge and magnetic appeal to a growing and very receptive fan base. A progression of unique player ideas and new “artistic” creations revealed special equipment and / or prop inclusion that released the unlimited beauty, promise, and vision of the sport for new dimensions of player attraction. Online videos and special promotions via You Tube and Facebook, plus various websites
(private promoter, player, and political) catapulted the “art” to a level of excitement that remains a catalyst to entice and prompt players, fans, media, and sponsors worldwide to join the crusade opportunities before them. New Artistic Pool Playing Artists are discovered daily with innovative “types of art” being shot both on, and often, off the table, emerging in a perceived perpetual motion manner. Each amazing creation exhibits a special talent that the followers / fans of Artistic Pool can truly enjoy, and that each “artist” of the challenge being presented can absorb via the spectacular nature of the “gift” before them. Just when there appears to be a limit to the “art”, another “artist” comes up with something original that encourages new stars of the art form to join the crusade in the hope of making his or her own mark in Artistic Pool history and / or to become the next viral sensation online for a legacy foundation. I believe that each “artist” on the table (or “off the table,” in some cases, with an exotic shot or two) is a unique “artist in life” that imagines the unimaginable, creates it, perfects the “art” with countless hours of practice, presents the “gift”, encourages others to engage in the process, and enjoys the magnetic appeal of shots most often only dreamed of. May each of you truly “enjoy the artistic roll” and demonstrate your special gifts and talents both “on and off” the table for others whenever you get the chance. A special blessing will be experienced in the expanding “art” of Artistic Pool you share with others, transforming our beautiful game / sport to an entirely new level of excitement, enjoyment, and personal attraction! April/May PQB 15
A Hide and Seek Safety
by Mike Roque From “Build Your Game”365 Days of Instruction, Motivation and Insights for Pool Players" www.bebobpublishing.com - 1- 888-33-BEBOB
“He gently nipped his ball and stopped, right behind it, almost touching it.”
Willie Jopling
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espite your best efforts, there will be times when you fall short of the mark and end up with difficult position. When this happens, your safety game can bail you out. The illustration to the right presents an interesting problem. The game is eight ball. Your cue ball came to rest very close to the six, and you have no offensive shot. To make matters worse, your opponent has cleared all of his stripes and the eight ball is only six inches from the opposite corner pocket at the other end of the table. Don’t panic. You can save the game by hiding behind your own ball! Just skim the six, bump the rail and hide behind the six! It’s simple and easy once you get the feel. Best of all, it turns a bad situation into a game winner. The touch safety is an awesome weapon. A devastating move that turns the table fast!
Oscar Dominguez Wins 20th Annual Jay Swanson “Swanee” Memorial By AZ Staff Photo by JP Parmentier
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scar Dominguez (right) came back from a hot seat loss to meet and defeat Rodney Morris in the finals of the 20th Annual Jay Swanson (Swanee) Memorial Tournament, held on the weekend of February 20-21. The event’s $10,000 prize package drew a full field of 128 entrants to On Cue Billiards in La Mesa, CA. The tournament came within a match or two of featuring a finals contest between Oscar and his father, Ernesto, who faced separate opponents in the winners’ side semifinals. Oscar met up with Amar Kang, as his Dad faced Morris. Oscar defeated Kang 8-5, as Ernesto was sent to the loss side by Morris 8-4. Morris took the hot seat 8-5 and waited on the younger Dominguez’ return. On the loss side, Ernesto ran into Johnny Kang, who’d defeated Jonny Martinez 7-5 and Santos Sambajon, Jr. 7-3 to reach him. Amar Kang picked up last year’s runner-up Vilmos Foldes, who’d eliminated Max Eberle 7-4 and Brendan Crockett 7-2. Ernesto locked up in a double hill battle that he won versus Johnny Kang, while Amar Kang fell to Foldes 7-2. Ernesto then downed Foldes in the quarterfinals 7-5, setting up a father-son semifinal, which, by family tradition, they chose not to play; Ernesto allowing Oscar to face Morris in the finals. “When we first started playing together,” Oscar explained, “we were both so bad that it was funny, so we decided that we wouldn’t play against each other, and it stuck. “It’s usually me who advances,” he added, “because my father always wants me to get more experience.” It paid off handsomely, although there’s no way to determine whether it would have paid off just as handsomely if Ernesto had faced Morris. As it turned out, Oscar got his second shot at Morris and delivered, 11-9, to claim the 20th Annual Jay Swanson Memorial title.
16 PQB April/May
Rail Draw Arc
by Tim Chin – www.trickshottim.com Ranked 6th by WPA-APD
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his month features a mind- and cushion-bending shot that can prove useful in some not so straightforward situations. The cue ball is trapped between cushion 3 and blocker ball ‘X1’ at the second diamond. Blocker balls ‘X2’ and ‘X3’ are along the centerline of the table, spotted on the third diamond and down. These block the natural kick angle to get directly to ‘C’ ball. Instead, you can aim long to get around these blockers and use draw to curve shorter to make the hit. First, let’s go over what to do with the cue ball. Since it’s sandwiched between the cushion and ‘X1’, you have to hit into cushion 3 and compress the cushion in order to get the cue ball out without contacting ‘X1’. In order to do this, you need to shorten your follow through, otherwise your cue tip will hit the cushion and your shaft will clatter into the blocking ball. This can feel unnatural for some players who have developed a long, smooth stroke. Aim at the third diamond on rail 3. This should get you past the ‘X2’ and ‘X3’ balls. Then add some draw. It is possible to over-draw this shot, so use small increments. Keep your speed consistent too. If you shoot too hard, the draw won’t have time to take. Too soft and you’ll run into the blockers. There are practically an infinite number of combinations of aiming, amount of draw, and speed that will work with this shot. You’ll have to find what is most consistent for yourself and your stroke. Now, if you want to apply this outside of trick shots, you can get the same curve effect even if the cue ball is off of the rail. It will take a little more draw and, of course, gauging how much and the right speed won’t be easy, but it can be a handy option if the straight kick angle is impeded by other balls. Muller from page 9
Recinos to the loss side 7-3. It was Palacios who moved into the hot seat, with a double hill win. On the loss side, Rodriguez and Recinos ran right into their second straight losses. Rodriguez picked up Manny Stamatakis, owner of Steinway Billiards, and winner, at that point, of four loss-side matches on a march to the semifinals. Stamatakis had eliminated Austin Tripp 7-3 and Rhys Chen 7-2 to reach Rodriguez. Recinos picked up Rick Miller, who'd gotten by Jessica Lynn 7-2 and Rene Villalobos 7-4. Stamatakis, chalking up his fifth loss-side win, and Miller advanced to the quarterfinals over Rodriguez and Recinos, both 7-4. Stamatakis went on to defeat Miller, double hill, in the quarterfinals.
1st- Justin Muller's 2nd- Gabriel Palacios 3rd- Manny Stamatakis 4th- Rick Miller 5-6 7-8 9-12 13-16 17-24
$2,500 +Side pot $600 $1500 +Side pot $400 $1000 +Side pot $250 $600 +Side pot $150 $450 $350 $250 $175 $100
For the latest Event News www.pr ofessor qball.com
Though Stamatakis would force a deciding game against Muller in the semifinals, it was Muller who advanced back for a second shot at Palacios in the hot seat. Muller prevailed in the single set final 10-5 to complete his undefeated run and honor his friend, John Kalsky. April/May PQB 17
18 PQB April/May
Conrad Burkman, longtime Publisher of The National Billiard News, passed away in Northville, Michigan on Monday March 14. Conrad was one of the truly good guys of the game; one who always gave to the sport and never took from it. In his memory we are reprinting part of an article written by AZBilliards on Conrad in 2010.
The Man Who Saw It All Courtesy by AZ staff
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ith his seventieth birthday recently eclipsed, Conrad Burkman (right) has cemented his place as the elder statesman of pool. The long-time publisher of The National Billiard News has been deeply involved in the pocket table games for well over forty years and his memories over that time are priceless. We recently had a conversation with Mr. Burkman that point out the sources of his expertise and highlight the depth of his experience. Our first question was a query as to how he had first become immersed in the game. “My first involvement with the game was back in the early sixties when I began playing in a local pool league. I played out of Cushion and Cue in Livonia in a league owned by Ray Abrams. One of the drills with this league was that you were required to help referee his yearly pro tournament, The Motor City Open. Ray owned three poolrooms at the time, Livonia, Oak Park and Allen Park.
“As it turned out, Balsis and Crane met again in the finals. The finals were televised on local TV and that was my first time to ref a televised match. The next year the US Open was held in Las Vegas at the Sahara and ABC’s Wide World of Sports was televising it nationally. They were looking around for someone with TV experience to do the refereeing. I volun“Our league played Straight Pool and the Motor City Open teered that I had that experience, left out the little bit about it was a Straight Pool tournament, so it was kind of a natural and being local, and got chosen to be the TV ref. From they’re the easy thing for us to do. I did my bit there and there was a fellow refereeing just snowballed and before I knew it I was the BCA watching named Joe Farhat from Lansing and he owned a room Head Referee. called The Velvet Rail. Joe thought I was a pretty good referee so he asked me for my help with the State tournament. It We asked Conrad what matches he had officiated over the seemed like a pretty good gig so I said, ‘Sure, I’ll come up’. years that really stood out in his memory. He mentioned three. “The next year the US Open (Straight Pool) was going to be in Lansing. I agreed to referee there and the very first match I drew was between Irving Crane and Joe Balsis. I was scared to death. Here were two of the legends of the game and I had to go make calls on them. But after the match was over Crane walked over to Bob Freshley (Tournament Director) and said: “I want that fellow to referee all of my matches. He’s the best referee I’ve seen in years”. 20 PQB April/May
“One was between Jim Rempe and Joe Balsis. Rempe was playing masterfully, running out, and he got to where he only needed one more ball to win the match. He chose the nine ball in the side pocket and played some draw on the ball to leave Balsis safe in case the shot missed. He did miss the shot and Balsis wasn’t left safe enough. Joe ran 47 and out on him to win 150-149! Jimmy didn’t recover from that loss for years. We also wanted to know about Conrad’s history with the National Billiard News. As publisher of the oldest billiard publica-
tion we knew the road could not have always been smooth. “Two friends of mine, Ray Abrams and Bob Mullins, bought the National Billiard News and got into a bit of a hole right from the get-go. After only three issues they needed another partner to buy in to supply the money to keep it going. “So I thought about it and told them that I would come on board if I could have say in how the money was spent and the advertising and the subscriptions. They agreed and I’ve been here ever since. When I came on we had only 300 subscribers and maybe 200 of those were freebies. We righted the ship and eventually Ray and I bought everyone else out. Ray continues his presence on the masthead but hasn’t visited the office in a number of years, so I have control of the publication. Conrad and Editor John Cash (top right) gather the news of the game every month and they fill the paper with photos of the stars of the game and tournament results and news from around the country as well as the international news of note. Their have been some, well, interesting, times for the NBN. Conrad remembers the first color cover that wasn’t. They had spent over $800 for color separations to do the cover and someone dropped the ball and never got the separations to the printer. Not long after that an editor, who had been storing all the file photos at his apartment, had an apartment fire. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when it was learned that the photos had escaped the blaze. But there was another fire the very next night and that one ate all the pictures.
“I played out of Cushion and Cue in Livonia in a league owned by Ray Abrams.”
Conrad still very much enjoys his role in the game. “There are travel benefits to this job. You get to go to some neat places and I still really enjoy watching the matches. Plus, I have made some really great friends over the years.” The memories and the stories could go on forever. Goodbye Conrad. You were loved as few have been loved by many, many people. And thanks for the memories. The rest of the story can me found on AZbilliards.com website. Burkman getting a little help from above April/May PQB 21
Overlooked Fundamentals
by Tom Simpson, Master Instructor • PoolClinics.com Contributing Writer
S
o, your ball-pocketing is fairly reliable, and your position play is occasionally pretty good. You have days when things are working nicely. Days when you’re “seeing the shots” and you know it. Days when you’re imagining your position, and getting it. But, frustratingly, we all have days when we’re not quite seeing the shots and we’re erratic with our position play. We struggle onward, feeling awkward, doubting our ability, doubting our skills, not trusting our bodies. Sometimes, these slumps are brief. One bad shot can serve as a wake-up call that reminds us that what we’re doing takes everything we have, and we’d better “bring it” right now. A slump that goes for an hour or more can start you wondering what’s wrong, which can lead to tightening up, which of course leads to even worse results. A slump of several weeks can make you wonder whether you should switch to shuffleboard. When your thoughts and emotions are undermining your game, stop struggling with them. Focus your attention on fully executing your physical shooting process. Not thinking. Just feeling and doing. Without hurry, without effort, move step-by-step through each aspect of your personal pre-shot routine (everything up to pulling the trigger). Fall back on what you know, what you’ve trained your body to do consistently. Approach every shot in the same way. Give every shot the same respect. Give every shot your full attention. Here are some of the helpful fundamentals I stress in my 3Day Intensives. These are important, but often-overlooked aspects of getting your body aligned to the shot and ready to shoot down that line. Try this stuff. In a game this precise, everything counts. Own the line: Stand back on the line of the shot and acquire the shot line clearly into your body. Own the line as you step into your stance and drop down into shooting position. Eyes sharp: Before you bend down into your stance, focus your eyes sharply on the distant target (not the cueball). Keep them sharp on the target until your bridge hand is on the table. Sharp eyes, sharp mind. Breathe: With your eyes sharp, before you bend down, inhale through your nose. Flare your nostrils if you’re really serious. Exhale through your nose as you bend down into your stance. Settle. Enter forward: 22 PQB April/May
“Beat People With a Stick!” National Billiard Academy 3-Day Intensives • 10 cities Don’t enter your shot from the side as you round the table. Instead, once you own the line of the shot, move forward into the shot. Try planting what will be your rear foot first, and step in from there. Form your bridge in the air: Part of your shot plan is your tip height. Build your bridge in the air, so it’s at the right height and has already begun to firm up as you land it. Take air strokes to feel your stick speed: As you’re standing, owning the line, eyes sharp, bridge formed, take strokes in the air to “put your speed into the stick.” Feel your speed before you bend down. And get that grip softer. Slide your bridge forward to final position: Many players plop their bridge down on the table and expect it to be right. You’ll do much better landing your bridge hand farther back and sliding it forward. You’ll make better unconscious adjustments as you move forward into the shot. Anchor your bridge: Once your bridge is fully formed and you’re happy with your bridge structure and tip height, stop fiddling with it. Solidify your bridge by anchoring it to the cloth. If you’re using an open hand bridge, anchor it to the cloth with a little pressure through your forefinger and/or middle finger. Alternatively, try pulling down on the forefinger with your thumb. A closed (loop) bridge can be anchored through the middle finger. Nail it down. Your bridge should never move. Settle: Sink softly into your stance. Settle in. Are your eyes still sharp? Don’t shoot until you’re ready. If you’ve fidgeted a lot, you might want to get up and land the shot again. By keeping your focus on the physical, you won’t have time to have problems from your fearful, doubting, attentionseeking, endlessly-chattering “monkey mind.” Thinking and planning happen when you’re standing. Doing happens from that point forward. Make doing your full focus. You own the line, you’ve felt your speed, you’re down and ready. Pull the trigger. Just doin’.
Cheqio is the perfect help in stressful situations. When the pressure is mounting and the tension is at its peak, Cheqio helps you to stay calm and focused. Ignore negative influences and keep your concentration. From nerve wrecking exams to reaching your dream final: In combination with a healthy lifestyle and proper training, Cheqio is the perfect partner on your journey to success. “Even 1% more focus can mean the difference between winning or losing”. After a couple of years of research, development and the finishing touches, Cheqio launched it’s dietary supplements on the European market on the 1st of January 2015; for all sports in which a huge amount of focus, concentration and stamina is needed, like shooting, golf, gaming, darts, baseball, chess, pool billiard, and 3-cushion billiard. The latter two were their launching markets. In Europe Cheqio has expanded to a lot of different sports rapidly and also to more daily activities such as studying and giving presentations; moments in which focus and concentration is required. Hence their general slogan: Be in the moment! The dutch company offers two products: The Cheqio Precision capsule and the Cheqio Precision Drink. Both the products increase focus, concentration and stamina. The capsules provide more alertness and longer concentration. The drink also improves concentration and focus, but is mainly developed to reduce tensions and to combat mental fatigue. The products can be used separately but are also complementary to each other. For more information about the products and how to use them, visit the website www.cheqio.com. As mentioned before, their first focus was on the billiard market. A lot of professional pool, snooker and 3-cushion players are already using Cheqio; Darren Appleton, Jayson Shaw, Frédéric Caudron, Niels Feijen and many more. Since the beginning of this year Cheqio started their introduction on the US-market. For this reason they will attend the Super Billiard Expo, coming April. Here you can try their products and find out if it works for you also: Visit their booth(#761) and get your Cheqio samples for free!
Bar Box 8-Ball
By: Marty Kaczmarowski, APA 7 Contibuting Writer
Let’s take a look at creating more cue speed for that explosive 8-ball break. Wrist motion and grip tension are extremely important. First, lighten the grip. The grip hand should only be holding on to the butt of the cue with just enough tension to keep it from coming out of your hand. A gentle hold with two fingers and the palm are enough. I’ll bet you are holding on way too tight. The cue needs to be “cradled”, not squeezed. Now let’s talk about the wrist motion. Cock back your wrist just a bit at the end of the back swing…then snap it forward as the cue comes forward. This is an art. Get your timing of the wrist motion with repetitive practice. Be sure to keep that cue level during the break and smash’em!
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April/May PQB 25
USBA Officers President Mazin Shooni Nashua, NH 248-910-4466
Chris Billiards
Chris Billiards in Chicago Illinois held a USBA Nationals Qualifying event February 12-14. Thirteen players competed for a chance to win a paid entry into the National Championship. Four players emerged victorious in their quest. The thirteen players who assembled were split into one flight of 7 and one flight of 6. Round Robin play continued where the top three players from each of the two preliminary flights moved on to the round robin finals. Felipe, Alfredo, Thang and Olegario will now move on to compete for the 2016 USBA title.
Secretary Tom Paley Fenton, MO 636-861-3437
Treasurer Merrill Hughes Huntington Station, NY 631-338-9698
Ricardo Carranco Los Angeles, CA 323-490-8075
Victor Cuzzi Miami, FL 786-366-7293
Pedro Piedrabuena San Diego, CA 213-458-3950
James Watson Bronx, NY 347 255-4330
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Five of the six finalists are pictured above (left to right): Sabina Manriquez (5th), Felipe Razon (1st), Alfredo Sanches (2nd), Luis Milan (6th) and Olegario Gallo (4th). Not shown is Thang Le (3rd).
USBA Qualifier at Burbank Elks Lodge 1497 – Burbank, CA.
This year, local player and tournament organizer Gilbert Najm had something special planned for his comrades at the Burbank Elks Lodge. Gil organized an intimate and prestigious 3-cushion billiard qualifier event for his fellow playmates in the United States Billiard Association. What was special was the fact that play in the event was shared with hundreds of players and fans around the country through the Live-Stream feed provided by Daniel Busch and POVPool.com. For two days we all watched these great local players fight it out on the tables for a chance to compete in the USBA National Championship. We hope to see more events like this in the future, especially when we can all enjoy them through the Internet. The eighteen players who came were split into 3 groups of 6.
Play began in round robin format with the top two from each group, along with the two best third place finishers overall, moving on to the final round. The finals were played in single elimination knockout format. Another special feature of this event was that no prize money was awarded. Instead, all the tournament prize money was used to maximize the players rewards by providing six of the eight finalists a paid entry to compete in this year’s USBA National Championship. The 2016 National Championship tournament is scheduled to take place March 16-20 at Milllion Dollar Billiards in North Hollywood California. The players who qualified were: 1.Francisco Palafox 2.Ricardo Carranco 3.Vicky Pineda 4.Carlos Alvarez 5.Hillario Augustin 6.Billal Khalifa
L to R) Kelly Kendrick, Ross Bradley, Axel Brutz, Don Schall, Hector Ocampo, Joe Bello, Gilbert Najm, Vicky Pineda, Francisco Palafox, Bilal Khalifa, Hillario Augustin, Ramon Mesa, Carlos Alvarez, Ricardo Carranco and Peter Banyai
President’s Desk
Congratulations to Hugo Patino, our 2016 USBA National Champion! I am so proud of Hugo and all of the players who provided the audience at Million Dollar Billiards in Hollywood, California with beautiful and exciting matches during the recent USBA Nationals. I hope viewers at home also enjoyed the wonderful play broadcast live by PovPool.com Next big event scheduled is in Oaks, Pennsylvania where an invitational 3-Cushion tournament is being sponsored by Professor-Q-Ball and Dennis Dieckman in conjunction with the Allen Hopkins Super Billiard Expo. I will be teaching 3Cushion Billiards to youngsters during special lessons available free of charge at the event. So parents, bring your young bil-
liard enthusiasts and we will show them the fine art of the game and hopefully excite a whole new generation of players. Who knows, maybe our future champion will catch 3-Cushion fever at the show. I hope to see you there April 14 to 17th at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. On behalf of the USBA, I would like to extend a special thank you to Jim Shovak, who has been honored with a lifetime membership. As former President and Secretary/Treasurer to the USBA, his contribution has been immense. Now that we are through with the Nationals, we are scheduling tournaments for the year, so keep your eye on USBA.net for future events.
April/May PQB 27
Ken Higgins Memorial at Tacoma Elks
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he Tacoma Billiard Federation, hosting the USBA Ken Higgins Memorial on March 4-6, attracted eighteen entrants. The tournament was run as a mixed handicapped event, where any player can win. That made for some exciting action. Tournament director Tim Poole set two flights of nine while using the established USBA handicaps and mixed the flights accordingly with players from each level: A’s , B+, B’s, C+, and C’s. The target scores for the players would in turn be set as: 30-25-21-17-15. At the end of two days of play, the top two players from each flight from the A/B group would advance into the finals to play in a four man round robin. Likewise the top two from the C/C+ group in each flight advanced into the four man round robin finals for that division. This format yields interesting results, some expected and some unexpected. It also gives every player whose handicap is accurate an opportunity to share in the winnings. In the end, the final standing for each division were: C/C+ Division: 1st Dave Law, 2nd Salvy Hernandez, 3rd Richard Kenney, 4th Matt Lind A/B Division: 1st Mark St Angelo, 2nd Jesus Quinonez, 3rd Kip Hocking, 4th Ertan Tarhan There was one especially well-played game that deserves mention. Kip Hocking defeated Ertan Terhan in the finals with a score of 21 in 14 innings for a 1.50 average. Well done Kip! And an honorable mention goes out to the players with
Upcoming USBA Tournaments
April 14-17 Professor-Q-Ball Promotions at the Super Billiard Expo 3-Separate events See ad on page 24 April 22-24 11th Annual Mike Kelley 3-Cushion Tournament - Marshalltown, IA $110 Entry for USBA members For more info call or text John @ 641-751-4696 April 29 - May 1 3rd Annual Parker Hess Memorial USBA “Endorsed” B/C 3-Cushion Tournament Friday, Saturday, Sunday Ashland Elks Lodge # 944
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the longest drive, Mark St Angelo from New Mexico, and Matt Lind from Minneapolis, MN. Thanks to Ed Brasfield, the Tacoma Elks Lodge, the volunteers who served in the Sports Bar, Tom DuCharme, Ralph Miller and Kip Hocking for their support of the event, and to all those who support Three Cushion Billiards in the Pacific Northwest. Mac MacInroy receives gets special thanks for his attention to clean tables and balls every morning.
255 E. Main- Ashland, Oregon 97520 Tournament Directors: Mark Williams, 541-941-1291 and Tom Thomsen 509-240-2027 June 3-5 Amazin Billiards 248 910 4466 USBA Open Tour Details will be posted on usba.net August 1-6 Carom Café, Flushing Queens, NY Verhoeven Open Attention Room Owners interested in USBA events call Mazin Shooni 248 910 4466
Rushville 3-Cushion Tournament
That means the statistics for the event are complete for both Prelims and Finals. The Rushville event was also unique because it honored more than just the top players from the finals. Several players hen George Ashby and Gary Eake were looking to received cash and recognition in different categories: make there Spring Rushville Three Cushion Tour$100 to Joshua Alldridge for High Run in Prelims nament something special they enlisted the help of $100 to Fred Lamers for High Run in Finals there friend Paul Frankel (aka Professor-Q-Ball.) The result $100 to Chris Czaja receiving the Ernie Presto Sportswas the spring tournament held at Rushville Billiards March 4manship Award Trophy as voted by the players. 6 was more than just about producing a tournament winner. A raffle was held for a rare piece of 3-cushion billiard memoThe event itself continues its tradition of being a winner to rabilia. The Original Front Cover of the 1981 National Billiard players and fans alike. News magazine featuring George Ashby winning the USBA The March tournament in Rushville Illinois attracted 28 National 3-Cushion Championship. The raffle was won by players to the warm and friendly atmosphere of Rushville BilDavid Tucker. liards. With former US Champion George Ashby both directRushville is truly a coming together of lovers of the game. ing and playing everyone geared up for a challenging and Gary Eake and George Ashby performed the tournament direccompetitive three days of billiards. The 28 players were split tor duties and ran an exemplary event, the tournament and into four flights of seven for round robin preliminaries. The top large prize fund wouldn’t have been possible without the gentwo from each flight along with the two best third place finisherosity of the many sponsors, including: ers moved on to the final rounds. Green Gables Motel, Los Charros Mexican Bar & Grill,ProfesThe ten finalists, Pictured above left to right: Jonathan Ansor-Q-Ball’s Pool & 3-Cushion News, and Dennis Dieckman derson, Nam Cho, Adrian Viguera, David Tucker, Jim Bishop, With Ashby winning the prelims and having the highest Brian Haff, Fred Lamers, Lupe Cruz, Gary Eake and George average he looked favored to win the event. But Fred Lamers Ashby) went on to another round robin flight! All we can say stepped up with his best game and went undefeated in the 10is wow... 6 games in the prelims and 9 games in the finals! man final round robin flight to win the event and the $1200 That’s a lot of billiard joy! first prize. Here are all the payouts: What Made The Rushville Tournament So Special? 1st Fred Lamers (pictured) $1,200 2nd George Ashby - $950 Unlike other tournaments in the US, the Rushville event is 3rd Brian Haff - $800 4th Adrian Viguera - $660 supported by all the players in many ways. Probably the most 5th Lupe Cruz - $530 6th Jim Bishop - $420 significant is the players willingness to volunteer by keeping 7th Nam Cho - $325 8th David Tucker - $265 score and recording innings while they were idle in any round. 9th Gary Eake - $210 10th Jonathan Anderson - $175 Total $5,535.00 The players and organizers are already talking about the next Rushville event maybe as soon as October. See you there! For more pictures and results from the event visit www.professorqball.com and www.3cushionbilliards.com/
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April/May PQB 29
Hugo Patino WIns the USBA 2016 3-Cushion National Championship
both also with 2-2 scores. But neither moved on as only the two best thirds Story courtesy of www.3CushionBilliards.com had that priviugo Patino (right) wins the USBA 2016 3-Cushion lege. Group C, National Championship. This is Patino’s third was led by championship title, having won thirteen years ago former chamin 2003 and again in 2009. Pedro Piedrabuena, the 8-time pion Hugo former champion was 2nd. Jae Hyung Cho, also a former USBA champion was third. For Patino it was especially gratify- Patino who seemed like a ing after overcoming unexpected losses in the semi-finals in sure thing to order to advance. And his victory was even sweeter as he finally defeated his long-standing rival Piedrabuena in an excit- move on based on his experience and performance in the prelims. But Patino had to fight for his life losing two games ing final match to secure the crown. one to Vicky Pineda and one to Young Gull Lee who was the On March 15th, 40 players met for the draw in the 2016 2015 second-place finisher. In fact, Lee went undefeated to USBA National 3-Cushion Championship. On hand at win the flight at 4-0, Patino took second with a record of 2-2 Million Dollar Billiards in North Hollywood California were and average of 1.039, and Vicky Pineda once again moved on defending champion Pedro Piedrabuena, five former champialso at 2-2 (1.028) as the last best third place finisher. Patino ons including 2-time winner Hugo Patino. In the preliminary rounds the entrants were divided into five did have best game, but only a 1.304. Vicky Pineda had the flights of 8 to play round robin format in a race to 25. The top high run of 13, which earned him half of the high run honors for the event. In fact it was Vicky Pineda’s relentless march 3 from each flight would move on to the semi-final rounds. and great play that would yield even more fireworks in the Tiebreakers were based on total points scored. With such a final round. short match, any one of the talented players could run out at any time. That made for tense and exciting play. The Finals Were Filled With Surprises After exciting play in the preliminary rounds15 players The eight finalists for 2016 were Jae Hyung Cho, Pedro moved on to the semi-finals. The semis split the players into Piedrabuena, Young Gull Lee, Carolos Palafox, Miguel Torres, three groups of five for round robin play in a race to 30 points. Hugo Patino, Ricardo Carranco and Vicky Pineda. The finals In the semi-finals the tiebreaker rule changed to highest were run as an 8-man round robin in a race to 40 points. The average, so every inning and every billiard would count... and top four former champions in the group - Cho, Piedrabuena, it did! Torres and Patino - all had the skills and experience to win. Young Gull Lee had made it to the finals for the second year in The Semi-Final Action Proved a row and was hoping to better his last year’s second place Even Tougher effort. The three newcomers, Palafox, Carranco and Pineda Group A, had two former champions Pedro Piedrabuena had proven their skills in the prelims and the semi-finals, and and Mazin Shooni. It was no surprise that Pedro went 4-0 to were ready to do so once again. take the flight. He had the high run of 12 as well. But Carlos With the early pairings keeping the previous champions Palafox surprised Shooni, as did Ricardo Carranco. Shooni away from meeting with each other, the match proceeded ended 1-3 and was out of the tournament. Palafox at 3-1 moved on along with enjoying best game of the group at 1.579. pretty much as expected. Except once again it was Vicky Pineda with a 40-22 win who sprung the early surprise, this Carranco would also advance with a 2-2 record and a 1.176 time against Miguel Torres. At the midway point the leaders average as the best third place finisher. Group B, also had two former champions Miguel Torres and were Jae Hyung Cho 4-0, Pedro Piedrabuena 4-0, Hugo Patino 4-0 and Miguel Torres 3-1. Vicky Pineda, having performed so Jae Hyung Cho. It was Cho who outplayed the field this time well in the semi-finals and with an early win against Miguel going 4-0 and had best game of 1.875. Torres got stung by Torres in the finals had one more big game to unleash. In a surJustin Lee but at 2-2 was awarded 2nd spot with a 1.186 average. Torres did post the high run of 9 for the group. Carlos prise upset Pedro Piedrabuena fell victim to Pineda 40-38 in 37 innings in they’re second meeting in the event. Pineda was Alvarez (0.929) was third and Justin Lee (0.783) was fourth
H
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playing a great tournament and really demonstrated his offensive and defensive skills in defeating the 8-time champion. Pineda’s win put Pedro in a tough spot. He could not afford another loss. In the next round Jae Hyung Cho met Pedro Piedrabuena in a match that saw Pedro fall behind early after Cho ran 7 followed by 13 to be the first to reach 20 and the break. But in typical fashion, and with nerves of steel, Pedro whittled away at the lead and came back to win the match 40-36 in 20 innings giving Cho his first loss. Cho’s run of 13 did net him a share of the high run prize with Pineda. The final round match-ups that would determine the championship were Miguel Torres vs Jae Hyung Cho and Hugo Patino vs Pedro Piedrabuena. Cho was in a must-win situation, having posted one loss against Pedro, he needed a win to hang in for at least a playoff match. But Miguel Torres with a run of 11 proved too strong and finished 40-31 in 26 innings (1.538) to end Cho’s chance for a 2016 title. And so it was fitting that the Patino-Piedrabuena match - the final game of the event - would be the decider... and both players knew it. This was not unfamiliar territory for either player. Piedrabuena and Patino had met many times in the past. And in fact Piedrabuena had bested Patino in previous years all their final round matches for a championship. But with courage, skill and steady nerves Patino piled on point-after-point. And with a high run of 10 took a lead he never gave back. The last three points to reach the final score of 40-33 in 21 innings (1.905) will be points Hugo will savor for many years to come. Congratulations to Hugo Patino, the 2016 USBA National 3-Cushion Champion. The total prize fund for the event was $20,300. Here are the final results and prize payouts: 1st Place $4,000 Hugo Patino 2nd Place $3,000 Pedro Piedrabuena 3rd Place $2,000 Jae Hyung Cho 4th Place $1,800 Miguel Torres 5th Place $1,600 Vicky Pineda 6th Place $1,400 Carlos Palafox 7th Place $1,200 Young Gull Lee 8th Place $1,000 Ricardo Carranco 9th Place $800 Carlos Alvarez 10th Place $600 Justin Lee 11th Place $600 Jose Lizarraga 12th Place $600 Mazin Shooni 13th Place $500 Kyung Yim 14th Place $500 Hillario Agustin 15th Place $500 Raye Raskin
Hugo and Pedro lagging
Jae Hyung Cho ran
Best Game $100 Pedro Piedrabuena 2.667 High Run $100 split- Vicky Pineda & Jae Hyung Cho ran 13 USBA and Maazin Shooni, President, wishes to acknowledge the contributions and support of everyone who helped make the National Championship Tournament a success. Thanks goes out to: Million Dollar Billiards and our gracious host Hector Ocampo, All the Staff at Million Dollar Billiards: Freddy, Lourdes, Chavita, Fernando, Rudy, George Sr. & George Jr (Food guys), Tournament Director Charles Brown and Merrill Hughes for running a great event, POVPool - Daniel Busch and Geraldine for a fantastic job on the Livestream, Professor-Q-Ball’s National Pool & 3-Cushion News (pictures courtesy of Professor-Q-Ball), Billizone.com - Electronic Scoring System, and the official USBA Sponsors Tiger Products, Aramith Balls, Simonis Cloth and Verhoeven Tables.
Vicky Pineda Story continues page 32 April/May PQB 31
USBA 2016 3-Cushion National Championship
A
ll of the USBA championships matches from the qualifying rounds to the finals are viewable for free on POV Pool’s YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/povpool - Over the course of the next 60 days, the existing video on this channel will gradually be replaced by the HD version with the match title for players to share with fans. If there are any media inquiries, feel free to contact Point Of View Pool Media, directly at daniel@povpool.com or geraldine@povpool.com
32 PQB April/May
below l-r,Young Gull Lee, Miguel Torres, Pedro Piedrabuena, Vicky Pineda, Carlos Palafox Jae Hyung Cho, Hugo Patino (Winner) and Ricardo Carranco
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1331 Airport Rd 501 881-4856 18- 7ft Global Pool Tables 1-9ft Global Pool 1-Steel Tip Dartboard Full bar and Food with Pizza
CALIFORNIA Oasis Bar & Grill
1007 West 1st Street 530-343-4305 6 Pool tables 1- Snooker 6X12, Food & Full Bar,House Pro- Jackie Karol
LA MESA • On Cue Billiards 8308 Parkway Drive 619-463-8759 21- 9ft Gold Crowns 4-7ft Diamonds 1-3-Cushion 5x10 1-6x12 Snooker Beer-Wine-Food
FLORIDA HOLIDAY Hammerhead Billiards
PETALUMA • Buffalo Billiards
246 Petaluma Blvd. No. 707-585-8992 23-Tables,3-Cushion Table, Darts, Ping Pong Beer & Food,Cue Repair on Premises
SACRAMENTO Hard Times Billiards
916 332-8793 5536 Garfield Ave 33-Pool Tables 6 Dart boards, 2 Fooseball 8 TV,s, Videos, Ltd food
SAN DIEGO • College Billiards
5303 El Cajon Blvd 619 582-4550 6–Verhoeven Billiard tables,13 Pool Tables, 1Snooker 6x12, Beer & Wine full Restaurant
CONNECTICUT WINDSOR LOCKS Pool Table Magic
75 Ella Grasso Turnpike 860 627-8494 11-9ft Gold Crowns 2- 9ft Anniversary Full Bar and Restaurant Pool table Sales and Service
PALM HARBOR Strokers
30901 U.S Hwy 19 N. 727-786-6683 14-Pool Tables 6-Dart Boards Full Bar & KitchenCue-Repair available
ORANGE PARK • Park Avenue Billiards
714 Park Ave 904 215 1557 16 Gold Crowns, 14 9ft Diamonds 2- Bar tables, 1New 3-Cushion Gabriel, 1-Snooker 5x10, Darts
ORLANDO Trick Shots
407 298-5112 Old Winter Garden Rd 16- 8' Black Crowns, Huge Screen, Darts, Full Bar/Food-Pro Shop
Trick Shots
407 737-6606 11351 Lake Underhill Two 9’ Brunswicks in VIP area Room 7 Dart Boards, Full Bar, Deli Food Big Screen & 17- TV’s, 8,000 Sq ft & Patio
STUART • Amy’s Billiards
772 232-9966 1600 NW Federal Hwy 1-Gabriel 3-Cushion 11-9ft pool tables 1-7ft Diamond, 8-8ft tables,Beer –Wine – Food,Smoking & Non Smoking room
WINTER PARK Trick Shots
407 671-7797 7644 University Blvd. 4-9' pool tables, 12-8' tables, Darts, Full Bar & Pro Shop on premises
GEORGIA AUGUSTA Rack & Grill ll
3801 Mike Padett Hwy 706 814-5673 10-9ft Gold Crowns 6-7ft Bar Tables Beer & Food, Tourn. Every Saturday
JONESBORO Metro Sports Bar
1950 Ga Hwy 85 404-219-2157 12- Diamond, 1-Snooker 5x10,Full Bar & Good Food
SAVANNAH • Southside Billiards 912-925-5398 13051 Abercom St 3-Cushion Table, 1-10ft Snooker,7- 9ft Pool, 8 8ft,1-Ping Pong, Darts,Full bar & Food
ILLINOIS ALSIP Red Shoes Billiards 12009 S. Pulaski Rd 708 388-3700 15-Gold Crown,2-Bar Tables, 1-Dart board Full Bar & Restaurant
CHICAGO • Chris Billiards
4669 N. Milwaukee Ave 773 286-4714 7-3-Cushion Tables 30-Pool Tables, 10-Bar, 1Snooker 6-12,Darts, Food
DECATUR Starship Billiards 3015 Grand Prix 217 872-8882 10-7ft Diamonds 2-9ft Brunswicks Video Poker Full bar & Restaurant
• Terry’s Billiards
3777 N. Woodford (Ste G) 217 791-7306 3-3-Cushion Tables 1-5x10 Snooker, dart board, jukebox, mega machine
Room Owners Sign Up Now Increase your customer base 3 Cushion available at rooms with a “•” www.professorqball.com EAST MOLINE Leisure Time Billiards & Sports Bar
309 752-9559 845 Ave of the City 5-9 foot pool tables,16- Bar tables, 2 sports bars, 11 Dart boards Full Kitchen
INDIANA COLUMBUS Lags Billiards 1731 State St 812 390-1189 8-Bar tables 4-9ft Gold Crowns Beer & Food
INDIANAPOLIS • Brickyard Billiards 6445 W. Washington St 317 248-0555 1-3-Cushion Gabriels 7-9ft Tables 12-7ft Tables Darts
IOWA CLINTON Legend’s Sports Bar
563 243-4266 2118 Harrison Dr 9-7’ Valley’s 1-9’ Gold Crown,Full Kitchen ,Sports Bar,13-42” TVs, Darts, Video’s
DAVENPORT Sharky’s Billiards
2902 E Kimberly Rd 563 359-7225 18-7’ Valley ,3-7’ Diamonds,1-9’ Diamonds,2-9’ Gold Crowns,10- Dart boards,Full Kitchen & Bar
DES MOINES • Big Dog Billiards
4510 E, 14th St 515 266-6100 1-3-Cushion Brunswick 9-9ft Diamonds, 1-10ft Big Foot Diamond, 13-7ft Diamonds,17-7ft Valleys 3-Dart Boards Full Bar & Food
MUSCATINE Sticks N’ Stones Bar & Billiards
563 263-7665 218 Walnut St. 6-Bar Tables.Darts, Jukebox, Snacks,,Full Bar
KENTUCKY LOUISVILLE Rack 66-SHOWROOM
502 969-2222 5004 Preston Hwy Tables, Custom Cues, Accessories & Cue repair
MT. STERLING Billy Macks Billiards 213 Windsor Dr. 606 495-6374 6- 7ft Diamonds, 1-9ft Diamond, Full Kitchen & Big T.V.
PADUCAH Side Pocket
270-443-1159 301 Murray St 9-Pool Tables, Beer and Food, Just Pool
LOUISANA LAFAYETTE White Diamond
6722 Johnson St 337-989-9889 10-Bar tables 7- 8ft & 2-9ft Full Bar & Restaurant
METAIRLE Buffalo Billiards
3624 Airline Dr 504 836-0590 15-9ft Diamonds 7-Bar Tables Full bar & food Video Poker-Open 24/7
MARYLAND ELKRIDGE • Triple Nine’s Bar & Billiards
7540 Washington Blvd.#C1 410 799-1818 1-3-Cushion Gabriels 14-9’ Brunswicks, 4- 7’ Pool Tables, Full Bar & Food
April/May PQB 33
FREDERRICK Championship Billiards Sports Cafe
5205 Buckeystown Pike 6-9ft Gabriels Tables, 3-7ft Gabriels Tables,8-9ft Gold Crowns ,6-Dart boards,Full Bar & Food,Private Patio
LAUREL Bankshot Bar & Grill
3249 Fort Mead RD 301 483 - 8644 16 – Diamonds Bar Tables 3 – 9’ Diamonds, 4 – Dart boards, Full Bar and Restaurant, 16 TV’s
PARKVILLE • Top Hat Cue Club 410 665-1906 8809 Satyr Hill Rd 22-9’ Gold Crowns 3-Bar Tables,5-Table Tennis, 1- 3-Cushion Federic Caurdon
MASS MALDEN • Amazin Billiard Club
781 605-2389 40 Faulkner St 5-3-Cushion Bertons 2-Pool Table Bertons 10 -Pool Tables, Snooker 6x12 Private room with Gold Crown 5 Showroom on premises
MICHIGAN BENTON HABOR Campus Q Billiards 888 Valley Drive 269.934-7665 8-9FT Gold Crowns 2 9-7ft Bar tables Full Bar and Food Cue Repair on Premises
MINNESOTA COLUMBIA HEIGHTS • Jimmy Pro Billiards
4040 Central Ave NE 763 706-1904 20 – Pool Tables 1 - Snooker ,1 - 3Cushion Billiard, 22Beers-Full Kitchen, 22-Cheese Burgers,Beer & Wine
34 PQB April/May
FARMINGTON Farmington Billiards
933 8th St Hwy #3 651-463-2636 8-9’ Gold Crowns, 8-7’ Diamonds,Free Wi-Fi,Beer Food
MINNEAPOLIS ROSEVILLE Al’s Billiards
1319 Larpenteur Ave 651 646-9508 16 – Gold Crowns 1 – 5x10 Brunswick Anniversary, 1-5x10 & 16x12 Snooker, 2-7’ Bar tables, Darts & Foosball
Minneaopolis Billiards
1101Stinson Blvd. N.E 763-300-6370 2-3-Cushion Verhoevens 1- 6x12 Snooker,1- 9ft Diamond,1- 7ft Diamond
MISSISSIPPI GRENADA The Sports Center
662-226-1322 893 Springhill Rd 7- Pool tables, 3 Bar tables, Video’s, Beer/food
JACKSON Green Room
444 Bounds St 601-718-7665 12-Bar Table , 6-9ft Diamonds, Full bar & food
Cross Corner Billiards
5049 HWY 80 601-321-9262 11-Bar Tables, 5-9’ Diamonds, Beer & Food
SOUTHAVEN Silver Cue
2136 Stateline Rd,Suite D 662 342-5452 9-Bar Tables 1-9ft, 2-Dart Boards,Beer & Food, Happy Hour, Mon – Thurs, Free Pool 4-7 PM $1.50 Beer
TUINICA Levee Comminssary
1124 Fox Island Rd 662 363-2408 4-Bar Tables Beer & Food
Southaven Recreational
662 342-0230 987 Town & Country 16- Big Tables. 5-Bar Tables,5-TV’s, Darts, Bumper Pool, Food/beer
MISSOURI POPLAR BLUFF Smokin’ Aces
573 712-2900 515 Hwy 53 2-9 ft tables, 8-Bar Tables2-Dart boards,Full Bar and Kitchen
NEW HAMPSHIRE SOMERSWORTH Buster’s Billiards 369 Route 108 603 692-7926 15 – 9 ft tables, Beer & Wine, Food, 2 Dart Boards, ProSho
NEW JERSEY BELLEVILLE • Guys & Dolls
524 Washington Ave. 973-759-6217 2- New Gabriels 3cushion billiard tables. 34 – 9 foot pool tables, 6 – Big Screens
EDISON Sandcastle Billiards
101 Towsley Rd 732 632-9277 18 - 9’ Tables, Card table lounge, PingPong.,Proshop
HOWELL Side Pockets
536 New Friendship Rd 732 987-4343 7- 9ft Tables 5- 7ft Diamonds Pro-Shop on Premises
SOMERDALE Level 2 Billiards
310 S. White Horse Pike (2nd) Floor 609 405-8415 10-9ft Brunswicks 3-Bar Tables-Snack Bar
NEW YORK ASTORIA QUEENS Steinway Café Billiards 3525 Steinway St 718 472-2124 26- Tables Full Bar & Menu 1-Ping Pong table
BAYSHORE • Bayshore Billiards
253 West Main St 631 647-7772 4-3-Cushion Sogards 9-Gold Crowns 2-9’ Diamonds,1-5x10 Snooker, 5-Bar Tables Beer & Wine
BROOKLYN Gotham City Billiards Club
93 Ave U 718 714-1002 14-9t Diamonds, 1- 8ft Diamond, 6 Large screen TV’s Burgers, Pizza &,Large Pro Shop
Prince Snooker Club
6322 20th Ave 2nd Floor 917 682-9988 5 -6x12 Snooker Tables 10 -T.V.’s -Karaoke nights Full Liquor Bar
FLUSHING • Carom Cafe
718 358-8585 34-02 Linden Pl 10-5x10 New Verhoven 3Cushion Billiard tables, 10 4 x 8 carom, 22 Brunswick pool tables,Full Bar & Restaurant
WILLIAMVILLE • Bison Billiards
716 632-0281 Main Transit Plaza 8216 Main St 8-9’ Diamonds, 3-9’ Brunswicks,8-Bar Tables 2-Dart Boards, 3-Cushion Gabriel
YORKVILLE Hippo’s Billiards
5160 Commercial Dr. East 315 768-0218 12-9ft Pool Tables Gabriels ,5-7ft Pool Tables Gabriels,3-7ft Valley Bar Tables,Darts 7 video games,Good Food & Billiard Supplies
N. CAROLINA CAREY Breaktime Billiards 6442 Tryon Rd 919 615-0107 10-9ft Diamonds,4-Dart boards,17-T.V ’s-Full Bar & Kitchen
HICKORY RANDOLPH’S BILLIARDS
828 326-7005 16 2nd ST NW Hickory 10-9’ Pool Tables 3-7’ Bar Tables Full Bar and Kitchen Night Club Entertainment 2-Dart Boards
GREENSBORO Gateway City Billiards
6004 Landmark Center Blvd. 336 856-8800 11-9 Gold Crowns 3-7ft Diamonds,4-Dart boards,Ping Pong Beer & Snacks
NEW BERN Mickey Milligans Billiards
252 637-3711 3411 Trent Rd 6- 9ft Pro Diamonds 3-Steel Tip dart boards Full Bar, Pizza & Snack foodLive entertainment weekly, Tournaments every Sunday
RALEIGH Sharky’s Place
5800 Duraleigh Rd 919 210-1094 6- 9 ft Gold Crowns 2- 7 ft Valley Full bar and Kitchen
STATESVILLE Chandleys Chalk & Cue
980 635-1109 1415 Wilkesboro HWY 17-9’Diamond Tables 35-7’Diamond, 1-5x10 Snooker, Full Bar and Kitchen
OHIO AKRON King Of Billiards 3333 Manchester Rd 330 644-3985 7-9ft and 4-7ft Beer & Food
FAIRFIELD • Michaels Billiards 6625 Dixie Billiards 513-860-0044 1- 3-Cushion Table 34- Pool Tables Full Bar and Restaurant
MARTINS FERRY Corner Pocket Billiards Club
56731 Colerain Pike 740 738-0357 - Cell 740391-4870 6- 7ft Diamonds Bar Tables 2- 9ft Diamonds BYOB & Vending Machines
OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA CITY • AAA Billiards Supply
405 917-9300 1152 N. MacArther Blvd. 6- Gold Crowns, 4-Bar tables, 2-5 x 10 Snooker table, 1-3-Cushion Billiard table, 1-6 X 12 SnookerPro Shop & Cue & table repair
Billiard Cafe
Taylor Cues 4606 NW 10th 405-317-3298 2-9ft Gold Crowns 5-Bar Tables 1-5x10 & 1-6x12 Snooker Food & Beer Cue repair & Pro-Shop on Premises
• Cue Pro Billiards
3416 N MAY 405-942-2290 2-3-Cushion 5x10, Gabriels 2-5x10 carom tables 2- 9ft Pool tables 2-Bar boxes 6 flat screens sports T.V Food & Drinks
OREGON ASHLAND • Ashland Elks Lodge
255 E. Main St. 541-482-3911 6-3-Cushion, Gabriels Tables
PENN DICKSON ProShot Billiards
873 Scranton Carondale Hwy, 570 209-7904 14-9ft Diamond Tables 5-T.v’s & Food
FRAZER Main Line Billiards 490 Lancaster Ave 610 647-8805 10-9ft Gold Crowns 3-Dart Boards BYOB-Video Games Cue Repair on Premises
NORRISTOWN Markly Billiards
610-278-1595 1713 Markly St 9-Gold Crown 9’,4-Diamonds 7’- Light menu
PHILADELPHIA • Drexeline Billiard Club.
610 259-9144 5100 State Rd L-300 2- Cheviotte 3-cushion tables, 16- 4 1/2x 9 Gold Crowns.4 - 4x8 G.Crowns Full line of custom cues & accessories, Tournaments, Inst., Senior rates
PITTSBURGH • Breakers Billiards 412-531-2250 1413 Potomac Ave 2-3-Cushion heated Chevilotte,6 – 9’ Gold Crowns, 8 – 9’ Diamond pros,1- 7’ Bar table Diamond, Full Bar
RHODE ISLAND
PROVIDENCE Snookers
401 351-7665 53 Ashburton ST 15- 9’ Gold Crowns 60-HD T.V’s Full service restaurant with 3 bars., Home of the New Eng. Pool Hall of Fame
TENNESSEE CLARKSVILLE Night Deposit Sports Bar
404 North 2nd Street 931 553-6822 17 Tables, Darts Video Games 12 T.V.’s & Beer
CENTERVILLE Legends Game Room
931 729-6887 109 Huddleston 3-Bar Tables 1-8ft Table, Darts, Food, Pinball,Videos
MEMPHIS Bubba’s Ale House & Grille
7041 HWY 64 901-937-1911 2-Bar tables 2-Dart boardsFull bar & Food Several Flat Screens (HD) Smoking allowed
Getaway Bar
4632 Winchester Rd 363-3073 6-Bar tables 4-Dart boards Beer & Byob Open 24hrs
HighPocket's
1599 Ols Summer Ave. 901 761-1583 12-4 1/2 x9 Tables, 1 Snooker table, 12- Bar Tables, Full menu & beer, 8- TV’s, 1 big screen, Videos
Lefty’s Sports Pub 901 763-2679 4497 Summer Ave 2-Bar tables, 2-Dart boards, Beer & Byob
COOKEVILLE Players Billiards
Sharpshooters Billiards
CROSSVILLE Crossville Family Billiards
Peoples Billiards
115 N. Cedar 931 854-1121 5-8FT Brunswick 2-9ft-Brunswick, 2-Dart boards,Beer & Liquor
166 Lantana Rd Ste. 101 931 484-4494 2-9ft Diamonds - 4-Bar Tables Full Kitchen Pro Shop on Premises Professional movers of tables
901 386-1188 6959 Stage 18 Bar Tables 4-Gold Crowns, 6 Dart Boards, T.V’s,Jukebox,Video games, food & Beer 323 Beal Street 901 523 7627 8-9ft Pool Tables 2-8ft Pool Tables 1-Snooker 5x10 1-Dart Board Full Bar & Food
• The Rack
901 425-4378 3622 Lamar Ave 8-9 ‘ Pro Diamond 1-3Cushion Gabriel, 8Diamond 7 ft tables, 10-tv’s Food & Beer
MADISON J.O.B Billiard Club
615 868-4270 900 Gallatin Rd. Sq. Mall 30 Pool tables diamonds In house pro-shop
TEXAS SAN LEON Casper’s Billiards
281 559-1400 137 21st St 11- 9ft Brunswicks 1-6x12 Snooker Table, Full Service Rest & Bar
HOUSTON Bogies Billiards
3040 FM 1960 RD ,Ste 101, 281-821-4544 8- 9’ Gold Crowns, 14 8’ Pool Tables, 1Snooker,Full Bar/Food
Paris Bida
11810 Belaire Blvd. Suite A - 832 858-8809 6 -3-Cushion Tables Full Bar & Food Dinning area
Bogies West Billiards
832-912-4432 9638 Jones Rd 22- 8ft Brunswicks, 4- 9ft Gold Crowns, 2-7ft Valleys, Beer & Food
• Huy Hoang Bida
281 568-7746 13090 Bellaire Blvd Ste# B 6- 3-Cushion Gabriels 1- 9ft Carom & 1-9ft Pool
LEAGUE CITY Legend’s Billiards
201 S. Gulf Frwy 281-332-7716 20 -4X8 Tables, 3 -9’ tables,1-Bar table,Full Bar & food.1-Steel Dart board
ROUND ROCK Skinny Bobs Billiards
300 Hesters Crossing A-1 512 733-1111 14-9ft Brunswick 1-10ft 3-Cushion SMOKE FREE SECTION 8-7ft Diamonds Full Bar & Food
• U.S. BIDA (Billiards)
10905 Bellaire Blvd #E 281 857-7383 1 Gabriel, 8-Verhoevens 3-Cushion, 5-Pool Tables,1-Soccer Table
• U.S. Billiards Sports Bar & Grill
11230 Veterans Memorial Dr., 281 701-3241 3 – Gabriels 3-Cushion 3- Pool Tables ,1-Soccer Table,Beer & Food
VIRGINIA LYNCHBURG The Club House Bar & Billiards
21174 Timberlake Rd 434 239-7665 8-9ft Diamonds 1-9ft Diamonds 11- TV’s Full Bar & Restaurant
MIDLOTHIAN Diamond Billiards
13184 Midlothian Turnpike 804 794-8787 14-9 ft tables, 1-Bar Box – 4 Darts Boards Full Bar & Restaurant
STERLING First Break Sports Bar
46970 Community Plaza 703 444-2551 9-Diamond Pro Am 11-Steel Tip Dartboards 6-Soft Tip Dartboards 26 -TV Flat Screens-Beer & Food
WASHINGTON
TACOMA • Elk’s Club Lodge
Cedar St 253-272 1117 4-3-cushion Verhoeven 4-9ft- Brunswick pool table
WEST VIRGINA PARKERSBURG The League Room
1739 St. Mary's Ave 304 893-9640 8-7ft Diamonds, 2-9ft Diamonds, 4-9ft Gold Crowns 1-5x10 Snooker
WISCONSIN BELOIT • Carom Room
608 365-1811 614 East Grand Ave 7-9ft Gold Crowns 14 Bar tables-1-3-Cushion 1-Snooker 5x10 Full Bar & Food
April/May PQB 35
2016 Wisconsin Junior State 9-Ball Champs Crowned by Ben Zeman, WI APA League Operator Photos by Rob Brumm, Shoot to Thrill
I
t was a great day for youth billiards as Jacoby Custom Cues played host to the 2016 Junior 9 Ball State Championship, January 31st in Nekoosa Wisconsin. 36 young players ranging from age of 5 to 18 participated in the festivities. The format was BCA 9 ball for the 10-14 and 15-18 age divisions. The 9 and under division played a game called Spider Ball 7. This is a game where the balls numbered 1 through 6 are placed about 6 inches out of each pocket and the 7 ball is placed on the spot. The players run the table in order just like in 9 ball, and ball in hand rules apply. After the tournament started to wind down a free Adult/Child Scotch Doubles tournament was offered to anyone who wanted to participate. A special thank you goes out to Dave and Brandon Jacoby of Jacoby Custom Cues, Janet of Janet’s Pool Tour, TV Mike, Rob Brumm of Shoot to Thrill Photography, Garret Troop and Jason Mckee of Sneaky Pete Mafia Magazine, Chad Howell of the Quad Cities APA, James Goodnight of Sharky’s Young Guns, and Ben Zeman of the Central Wisconsin APA and World Artistic Pool Player Association. Without ALL of your support the 2016 Junior 9 Ball State Championship would not have been as successful as it was.
14 and under winners
15-18 Division 1st Mason Koch (Oshkosh, WI) 2nd Austin Hill (Oshkosh, WI) 3rd Tyler Howell (Davenport, IA) 10-14 Division 1st Kamron Fuller (Davenport, IA) 2nd Tyler Beyer (Wisconsin Rapids, WI) 3rd Josh Goodknight (Davenport, IA) 9 & Under Division 1st Travis Pettis (Ettrick, WI) 2nd Austin Czappa (Wisconsin Rapids, WI) 3rd Trinity Zeman (Wisconsin Rapidsk WI) 4th Aaron Jacoby (Nekoosa, WI) The top three winners of each division received a trophy. The 1st place winners of the 10-14 and the 15-18 age divisions will also receive $250 in travel Assistance to the BEF National Championships. The 1st place winner received a $150 college scholarship upon admittance to a credible university. The BEF is grateful for the continued support of its premier
36 PQB April/May
18 and under winners sponsors for helping to make the 2016 Junior State Championships (JSC) program possible: Simonis Cloth, Aramith Balls, Pechauer Cues, BRAD Scuffer and Tweeten Fibre. Special Thanks also goes to all the national tournament directors and hosts. For more information on sponsoring, hosting, or participating in a Junior State Championship, visit billiardeducation.org or call (303) 926-1039. Complete list of nationwide junior events listed here: http://billiardeducation.org/events/ About the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) The BEF was formed in 1993 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity committed to promoting a lifelong love of pool and building the next generation of players through youth programs and academic scholarships. Visit billiardeducation.org or call (303) 926-1039 to learn more about junior billiard programs in your area.
2016 Mosconi Cup
Two captains named for MC XXIII
M
arcus Chamat and Mark Wilson (right) have been retained as respective captains of Team Europe and Team USA for the 23rd annual Mosconi Cup match which takes place at the Alexandra Palace, London from Tuesday 6th to Friday 9th December. Chamat, 40, was victorious on his captaincy debut at the Tropicana in Las Vegas last year as he guided his side to an 117 victory. He will be hoping to make it two from two in London. The diminutive Swede’s Mosconi Cup journey began at the York Hall in 2000 when he made his debut and two years later was a key member of the European side which won for the first time in seven years. “Last year was like a dream come true for me, to be part of such a great event as the Mosconi Cup once again,” said Chamat “I really missed it so much every year, and what was great to see was that it has really grown and got even bigger and better if that’s possible, and the best is yet to come! “I really felt like I was a part of the team and you have to prepare so differently from the players; less practice and your mindset is to get the team together and work well. “I really learnt a lot from my first year as captain, and the bad news for the American team is that I will only improve and come out even stronger. “But London is where it all started for me in 2000 and since then it’s never left my heart. With over 2,000 screaming fans, most of them from England one can only imagine what it will feel like!” For Mark Wilson it will be his third time at the helm and he feels that he is on a sharp learning curve that could well come to fruition in London. “Last year was terrific, knowing what to anticipate and then improving upon the preparation for the team based on the lessons learned from year one. Playing in Las Vegas was a big asset as well that was unfulfilled and frustrating to not defend home court. “The biggest difference for me as Captain was my confidence level of leading Team USA. Preparation is ever so important for getting players into circumstances where they can excel. We applied the harsh first year lessons and added to the things that worked very well and that really allowed the team to focus and execute. “Team USA is improving but has much more to accomplish, which is not confined to simply winning the Mosconi Cup one
38 PQB April/May
time but rather regaining superiority over Team Europe. This is an ambitious undertaking and we sincerely work on it every day. “I am keenly excited to return to London, the home of Shakespeare and James Bond, plus the biggest venue ever for a Mosconi Cup, Alexandra Palace. The crowd will be a very partisan crowd which will present a challenge but if we can get off to a good start perhaps the pressure will shift a bit. “We have a great sense of what to expect from Team Europe and coach Marcus Chamat. They have never missed a beat and continue to dominate the US with superlative play. We must train harder and be much more effective with our tactical game and specifically the safety and kicking game and continue with the progress made on offense. Team USA will definitely respect Europe but we will not fear them.” Tickets for the Mosconi Cup are selling fast and are available from www.matchroompool.com Luke Riches, Matchroom Sport: luke.riches@matchroom.com Notes: Matchroom Sport are one of the world’s leading producers of televised sport and are responsible for over 1,000 hours of original programming across a range of sports. Based in the UK and chaired by charismatic founder Barry Hearn, the Mosconi Cup is one of a stable of pool events that include the World Cup of Pool and the World Pool Masters.
Wes Burden
Billiard Table Service & Cue Work Commerical & Residential Tables
Gabriel & Diamond Factory Authorized Mechanic Tampa Florida
Wes Burden Cell • (813) 416-2255
Service Directory Place Your Business Card Ad in the Billiard Industry Service Directory call (901)756-2594 for details and rates.
April/May PQB 39
DPM Universal Pocket and Carom Billiard Systems Article 84
by Darrell Paul Martineau • www.3cushion.us/ WBIA Head Master Instructor We now start a new segment on Kick shots and Banking for Pocket Billiards I will show you how to make Kick shots from almost any location on the table. There will be a collection of about 8 different Kicking system segments. This will take us through all of 2016. I will identify the shots by the rails used to make those shots. In this Kicking segment the cue ball will be shot from the Side or End rail to the End Rail. Then to the Side or End Rail. S or E to E to S or E The end rail numbers are as shown on Graph 84. You will note that as the angle from the first rail to the second rail increases the cuing must be lowered. Cuing is very important. When the diamond angle is 3 or more use lower cuing. This will stop the swing and take the cue ball on a straight line to the Object ball. The graph also show that a object ball can be on the line from the second rail to the third rail.
If you have any questions you can always e-mail me and I will answer you. Darrell Paul Martineau, 5916 Bar Harbour Ct., Elk Grove CA 95758 For more information on this system and my books, tapes, DVDs or lessons on Pool or Carom Billiards please call me at 916-684-4535 or e-mail dpmuniverse @ Comcast . net Web page http://www.3cushion.us/
40 PQB April/May
April/May PQB 41
42 PQB April/May
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44 PQB April/May
Professor’s National Tournament Directory APRIL 2-3 Starship Billiards BEF 10 Ball State Jr. Championships Dave Carr 217 454-0613
APRIL 6-10 Brass Tap Billiards Raleigh, NC Don Coates Memorial 1 Pocket $2,000 Added 9 Ball $8,000 Added Tony Coates 919 876 2382
APRIL 14-17 Super Billiard Expo Valley Forge, PA Pro Events-One Pocket 10-Ball-9-Ball-Women’s Open 3-Cushion Events-See ad on page 24 superbilliardsexpo.com
APRIL 16 Mickey Milligan’s Sports Bar New Bern, NC 252 637-3711 Added $250 The Q-City Tour
APRIL 16 Corner Pocket Billiards Club Martins Ferry, Ohio Contact Terri 740-391-4870 Monthly Open 9-Ball Tournament Doors open @10am Calcutta @1pm APRIL 18-21 Pool Table Magic Windsor Locks, CT 860 627-8494 US Open One Pocket 48 players max Entry Fee: $350 Added Money: $5,000 (based on 48) Double elimination Both events will be held April 18-24 at Pool Table Magic
APRIL 20-24 US Open Straight Pool 48 players max Entry: $600 Race to 100/150, Final to 200 Added Money: $10,000 (based on 48) Round Robin (8 groups of 6 – 100pt. matches) Top 3 from each group advance to a singles elimination bracket – 150pt. matches
MAY 14 Corner Pocket Billiards Club Martins Ferry, Ohio Terri -740-391-4870 Big Dog Qualifier 8-Ball Tournament Doors open @10am Calcutta @1pm
APRIL 23 Carom Café Billiards Flushing, NY 358-8585 Stop # 15: USSA National Snooker Tour
MAY 21 Corner Pocket Billiards Club Martins Ferry, Ohio Terri -740-391-4870 Monthly Open Tournament 8-Ball Tournament Doors open @10am Calcutta @1pm
APRIL 23 Brown’s Billiards Raleigh, NC 919 878-9092 Q-City 9-Ball Tour
APRIL 30-MAY 1 Markley Billiards Norristown, PA 610 278-1595 J.Peachauer N.E Womens Tour 9-Ball-Entry $55
MAY 6-8 Carom Room Beloit,WI 608 365-1811 Spring Classic Big Money 8 Ball $2,000 Entry 8 Ball $4,000 Added Plus 10 ball-$200 entry All played on 7ft Diamonds $1,000 Added MAY 7 Billy Macks Billiards & Grill 606 495-6374 $2,000 added/split rack $.50 cents per game The Q-City Tour
MAY 21 Gate City Billiards Greensboro, NC 336 856-8800 8 ball tournament Handicapped/NC State Open Qualifier
MAY 25-29 Buffalo Billiards Metairle, LA 504 836-0590 Buffalo’s Professional One Pocket Event $6,000 Added Plus 9 Ball $1,500 Added JUNE 18 Corner Pocket Billiards Club Martins Ferry, Ohio Terri -740-391-4870 Monthly Open 9-Ball Doors open @10am Calcutta @1pm
JUNE 21-26 Big Dog Billiards Des Moines, IA James 701 205-5182 Midwest Billiards & Cue Expo Professional Challenge Matches One Pocket Championship $2,000 Entry, $5,000 Guaranteed added 10-Ball Bigfoot Challenge $500 Entry, $500 Guaranteed added Banks Ring Game $500 Entry, $500 guaranteed added Open Pro-Am 9-Ball Friday- $20 entry $2,000 Guaranteed added
JULY 9 Big Dog Billiards Des Moines, IA James (701) 205-5182 North Central Pool Tour Women’s Open 9-Ball Play on 9ft Diamond tables. Sanctioned event. $50 Entry $500 Guaranteed added
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Directory (See pages 33 - 35) your event is entitled to be listed in our Tournament Calendar Guide.
www.professorqball.com April/May PQB 45
2nd Annual New York Junior State 9-Ball Champions Crowned by Mike Shriver, Bison Billiards
T
he 2nd Annual New York Junior State 9-Ball championships were held March 5 at Bison Billiards in Williamsville. Huge kudos to owner Mike Shriver for his passion to making this event possible! 1st overall and 18 under Champion 2nd overall 3rd overall and 14 under Champion 4th overall & 18 under girls Champion
Chris Stawarski Nicolas Ridley Jay Jung Emily Herpel
1st 18 under boys Champion Chris Stawarski 1st 18 under girls Emily Herpel 1st 14 under girls Briana Barnes 1st 14 under Boys Jay Jung For more information on sponsoring, hosting, or participating in a Junior State Championship, visit billiardeducation.org or call (303) 926-1039. Complete list of nationwide junior events listed here: http://billiardeducation.org/events/ About the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF)
Jay Jung & Father Daniel Jung
46 PQB April/May
Chris Stawarski 18 under. Mike Shriver, Bison Billiards
1st place 14 under girls Emily Herpel. Mike Shriver, Bison Billiards