Pqb August / September issue 2014

Professor-Q-Ball’s

Publisher/Editor Graphic Design Photographers

Rack for August/September 2014 Issue 4 • Vol XV

☜2014 World 9-Ball Championship

6/7

Feijen takes Title

BCA Summit

8/9

Louisville has a successful Show

Kelley Fisher has Sucessful Heart Surgery

14

Memphis Open at HighPockets

16

Where are They Now? Keith McCready

20/21

WPA World Artistic Championships

23

☜Blatt Receives BCA Presidents Award

24

Summer Classic The Rack, Memphis

32

☜CSI Invitational 10-Ball Championship

36

Brothers reach finals

Freddy “The Beard” Remembered

Pool Instructional…

A Magic Trick…Mark Finkelstein Chico Billiard Academy…Jacqueline Karol 196 Variations…Robert Byrne Finding the Missing Links to Your Game…Tom Rossman A Hide and Seek Safety…Mike Roque Foot Rail Ring Bounce…Steve Markle Own the Line…Tom Simpson Bar Box 8-Ball…Marty Kaczmarowski DPM Universal Pocket and Carom Billiard Systems 74…Darrel Martineau Departments …

Places to Play National Tournament Directory

USBA Newsletter • 3-Cushion Dubuque Open Amazin Billiards Clinic President’s Desk Verhoeven Open Upcoming USBA Tournaments USBA Tournament Results 4 Million Dollar From New York Luca Tomassetti

4 PQB August/September

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Paul Frankel Gary Tate Ricky Bryant Joseph Ratke Josh Gilmore

Contributing Writers Samm Diep • Tom Simpson • The Monk • Darrel Martineau • Robert Byrne • Tom Rossman • Marty Kaczmarowski • • Jacqueline Karol • Ricky Bryant• Steve Markle • Mike Roque • Mark Finkelstein • Geoff Conway 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.

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The Terminator Snaps It Off

The Netherlands’ Niels Feijen wins the 2014 World 9-ball Championship with a hard fought 13-10 win over Austria’s Albin Ouschan.

by Ted Lerner WPA Press Officer Photos Courtesy of Richard Walker

(Doha, Qatar)-Finally, Niels Feijen (pictured) snapped off the big one. And fittingly he did it in typical Niels Feijen style.

Putting in a career defining workman-like performance, the Dutch veteran, for years known as one of pool’s hardest workers, used every single tool in his vast arsenal, and grinded his way to a hard earned 13-10 victory over Austria’s Albin Ouschan to win the 2014 World 9-ball Championship at the Al Saad Sports Club in Doha.

The victory was Feijen’s first ever World 9-ball Championship and came 15 years after he first turned pro. Along the way the Dutchman has consistently played at the highest levels of the sport, winning tournaments and accolades around the globe. But he’s also had his share of near misses and bitter disappointments, most notably two straight finals losses at the World 8-ball Championship in 2010 and 2011, the former a hill-hill barn burner.

Feijen’s also had to deal with talk from some pool circles over the last few years that perhaps that he might never win the big one, and that he would be forever known as a great player who failed to reach the super elite. But as has been typical of his style for years, the 37 year old Feijen kept his nose to the grindstone, working hard on his game, adding missing details like a tactical game, psychology, and perhaps most importantly a family life with his wife and young daughter.

The work, discipline, dedication and maturity paid off big time at the Al Saad today, in a match that will long be remembered for the high quality delivered by both players. Ouschan, just 23 years old, made a terrific account of himself, battling Feijen toe to toe until the very end. The match came down to just a few mistakes by the Austrian, and also the fact that Feijen seemed to have the will to reach the finish line first.

The pair reached the final after winning their respective semi-final matches earlier in the day by identical 11-7 scores.

On the TV table, Feijen met Filipino journeyman Elmer D Haya, who had come all the way from the qualifiers and was a clear long shot. But Haya, who lives and works as a pool teacher at a pool hall in Abu Dhabi, had the backing of the hundreds of overseas Filipino workers who came to cheer on one of their own looking for an unlikely world title.

The race to 11 match stayed fairly even in the first half, as both players suffered from errors. But midway through the contest, Feijen pulled himself together while Haya clearly was

6 PQB August/September

suffering under the gravity of the situation. The moment the Filipino missed a simple 9 in the side to tie it at 7, the match was basically over and Feijen cruised to victory.

Ouschan surely came into his match with Taiwan’s Chang Yu Lung a slight underdog, as Chang had not only been shooting lights out the last few days, but he’d also won his second China Open only two weeks earlier. But the Austrian capitalized on some early mistakes by Chang and took an early lead. Chang tied the match at three, but Ouschan won the next three and never looked back. Chang didn’t find his wonderful stroke until the 14th rack, but by then, down 9-5, it was too late.

After an hour’s rest, Feijen and Ouschan came back for the race to 13 final, and considering how both had played in the semis, as well as the previous days, it was difficult to predict who would come out on top. Feijen seemed to get the majority of nods, if only because he was so much more experienced than Ouschan. But all week Ouschan had shown the ability to persevere, and to take a lead when it counted most.

Right from the start in the final, Ouschan continued his quiet and focused approach as he went up 2-0, first with a brake and run, then by forcing Feijen to foul. Niels got one back but gifted Ouschan in the next frame with a miss on the 5-ball to make the score 3-1.

Feijen finally started to find his rhythm as he notched the next four frames, including two via break & runs, to go up 5-3.

Ouschan then grabbed the next two to tie at 5-5, as the two battled in the trenches for each and every ball. Feijen won a terrific safety battle in the next rack to go up by one. But then Ouschan countered with two of his own to retake the lead at 76. Feijen returned the favor with a two-pack to go up 8-7. He would never trail again.

Feijen got a lucky break in the next frame when the 1 ball peaked out after a failed jump by Ouschan, and a solid clear put him up by two, 9-7. Feijen looked to be going up by three in the next rack but he missed a makeable 9-ball and now only led by one again.

At this point the match was downright testy, as both players didn’t want to give an inch. Feijen’s maneuvering in the next two frames showed his class and pretty much sealed the deal.

After a safety battle, the Dutchman deftly potted a ball and broke up a cluster to open the table for the clear. Then Feijen got Ouschan to foul off another terrific safety to get his first

three rack lead, 11-8. A subsequent break and run put Feijen on the hill and one away from glory.

But as was typical of Ouschan all week, he simply wouldn’t quit.

After a break and run, he cleared off a mistake by Feijen to make the score 12-10 to apply some serious heat.

With the pressure building the pair duked it out yet again in the next rack. Feijen, now clearly under duress, was forced to give up the table after leaving the 5ball near the side pocket.

Ouschan could have jumped and potted the 5, but he chose to kick down and up table to try and slide the 5-ball in. Instead the cue missed the orange ball by a hair resulting in a foul. With ball in hand, Feijen simply had to connect the dots. As the last 9-ball fell, Feijen partially collapsed onto the table in sheer relief and disbelief that he had finally won the big one.

Afterwards, an emotional and overjoyed Feijen talked about the flood of emotions he had experienced throughout the match, and how he had to constantly fight the demons that were taunting him. He also rightfully wasn’t shy about taking personal credit for all the hard work that he had put in to reach this momentous point in his career.

“The hardest thing in that match was not thinking about winning,” Feijen said. “I was so nervous in the beginning because all those demons came back from those two losses in the 8-ball. And then I got down 3-1, then I tied it at three and then I got into it.

“My tactical game was huge. My break wasn’t working at all. I got hooked so many times. I was kicking safe, I was playing safe, so that got me in the match. So it was a big old battle. The tactics was huge.

“From midway I started playing real good I think. A couple of mistakes, then I got up 12-8. And then you’re mind’s going crazy. You start thinking about winning, you thinking ‘please give me one chance and I can win,’ you’re daydreaming about the speech, the title. That’s the hardest thing, to stay composed.

“I think I really deserve it. You just gotta go grab it.

Nobody’s going to give it to you. It was the fight of staying composed, patience, executing well and blocking out all those bad things and the good things. The hardest thing was staying in the moment. And I think I did really well and in the end I finally snapped it off.

“You don’t get many finals in your life. Some people never get

one chance to get a final. It took me a couple of years to get a final again and this is the first 9-ball final I had. I was thrilled to get a chance and I said go ahead and take this chance.”

Ouschan while clearly disappointed, remained as stoic after the match as he had been all week on the table.

“In the middle of the match I was a little bit too nervous,” Ouschan said. “ In the beginning everything was perfect. I made one bad mistake and then everything turned. I couldn’t find my rythym again. He got lucky two times, but that’s pool.

He deserves to win.”

Indeed, everyone who watched the match would agree with that notion. With his solid work ethic and good attitude, Feijen is one of the game’s good guys. When asked if the win would change his life, the new World 9-ball Champion said no.

But he is certainly going to savor his hard earned success for many years to come. “Nothing’s going to change. I got back to my girls. I’ll just be happy being home. Prepare for the next event. I don’t let things go to my head. When I get home I’m just a regular dad. I get my daughter again so I got work. My life’s not going to change. This is just the cherry on top of the ice cream to win it finally.”

Feijen pocketed $30,000 for the victory, while Ouschan took home $15,000.

The 2014 World 9-ball Championship was held in Doha, Qatar from June 16-27,2014 and was sanctioned by the World Pool & Billiard Association(WPA), the world governing body of the sport of pocket billiards. 128 players from across the globe competed for the most prestigious prize in Men’s Pool.

The 2014 World 9-ball Championship is a WPA ranking event.

August/September PQB 7

Summit 2014 Draws To Close In Louisville On High Note

The 2014 edition of the Billiard Congress of America’s BCA Summit was held at the Louisville International Convention Center in Louisville, Ky., June 25 – 27, 2014.

Total buyer attendance for the three-day event was 740. Attendance for the 2013 show was 749. “This year’s event brought more opportunities for our industry to network and spend significant time with customers, prospects and peers,” said Summit 2014 Chairman Chance Pack. “Not only was there a real energy on the show floor, but with all the social events the BCA planned outside of the trade show there was business taking place around the clock.” With 264 booths and 71 exhibiting companies, the show floor was comprised of 78,000 square feet of exhibit space along with the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) Junior 9-Ball National Championships space.

In addition to Summit 2014’s show floor activity, the Business of Billiards Seminar Series offered six seminars designed to provide tangible, immediately implementable business improvement solutions. “I believe that the Business of Billiard Seminars are as important as the show itself,” said Kim Morrison-Heacock of International Billiards in Houston, Texas.

“They are extremely informative and always give me tools to better my business.”

The industry social, sponsored by the Billiard Congress of America, on Wednesday, June 25, attracted hundreds of show participants who enjoyed free cocktails and soda, while mixing and mingling with old friends, networking with industry leaders.

Another successful social event planned by the BCA was the industry pub crawl, on Thursday, June 26. “As host of the first pub stop of the industry sponsored pub crawl, Presidential Billiards, was delighted with the turn out,” said Elaine Gerber of Presidential Billiards. “It was a huge success, a great venue with an historic and unique ambience. The BCA pub crawl participants added to the lively convivial atmosphere.”

New to the BCA Summit this year was the Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) Junior National Championships. “One of the best moves the BCA has done in years was to have the BEF Junior Nationals take place with the BCA Summit,” said Skip Nemecek of Tweeten Fibre. “It was great to see the kids play and the whole event was excellent. Sponsors of Summit 2014 included: Ace Product Management Group, Inc., Championship LLC, Cue & Case Inc., CueStix International, Diamond Billiard Products, GLD Products, Iwan Simonis, Legacy Billiards, MetroLine Products, OB Cues, Presidential Billiards, RAM Gameroom Products, Tweeten Fibre Co., Siriani & Associates, Valley Dynamo L.P., and Z-Lite Jenamees Inc. 8 PQB August/September

Jr. National 1st place winners -Ricky Evans, Taylor Reynolds, Nick Evans, April Larson.

l to r,-BEF Artistic 14 & Under Division, Vincent Evans, Devan Stagner, Emily Herpel, April Larson

Jaden Oglesby wins “Roll To Victory” Game Board

ESPN, Tim Chin, Steve Markle, Andy Segal, Rob JohnsonDave Nangle, Jamey Gray, Nick Nikolaidis

2014 Jr National Champions Crowned Evans Brothers, Reynolds, and Larson Photo courtesy of Ricky Bryant

The winners from each of the four age divisions received academic scholarships; engraved trophies, Poison player equipment packages, Falcon cue and case packages, Dr. Dave Billiard University packages, and more. Along with their victories, they also earned entries into the 2014 WPA World Junior 9-Ball Championships in Shanghai, China November 15-19.

History was made this year!

For the first time of the BEF Junior Nationals, two brothers both won their respective age divisions with matching final scores of 9-6! St. Peters, Missouri’s 17-year-old Nick Evans and his 13-year-old brother Ricky Evans both went undefeated through their brackets to take home the gold. Older brother Nick finished in the top 12 of last year’s World Junior Championships in Johannesburg, South Africa and both will represent the U.S. this year.

On the girls’ side, 17-year-old Taylor Reynolds of Winslow, Maine also went undefeated beating Rachel Lang from New York in the finals. Reynolds is no stranger to the finals arena with several runner-up trophies and a couple trips to the Junior Worlds.

She was also the 2011 14 & Under Girls division champion.

14-year-old April Larson from Bloomington, Minnesota took home her third consecutive title as 14 & Under Girls division champion. Though she struggled in the end, she was still able to pull out a 9-6 victory against Michelle Jiang of Harvard, Mass who had her best showing yet at nationals. Larson will enter her first year in the 18 & Under Girls division next year.

25 billiard student-athletes with GPAs of 3.5 or higher were recognized at the event’s banquet as this year’s BEF Academic AllAmericans. Banquet guests were also treated with special guest speaker Jeanette Lee, “The Black Widow.”

BEF Junior National Artistic Pool Championship

Congratulations to all of the 21st Annual Junior Artistic Pool Champion players! I had the privilege to direct the BCA/BEF Junior National Artistic Pool Championship competition on June 24th-27th in Louisville, Ky. I enjoyed meeting all of the young players and their families. This week was a lot of fun.

This year we had three champions defend their titles and take back to back victories! Garrett Kinney, Randleman, NC

Rolling to Victory

The “Roll To Victory” Game Board “Classic” Challenge took place in the Fury booth at the 2014 BCA Summit on June 25 - 27, 2014. Fun-filled participation in this novel game attracted great show interest with an opportunity to win a Q & Cue Characters “Roll To Victory” Game Board. The custom designed and colorful playfield of the game became a magnet of attention to all walking the aisles.

When the final ball had stopped rolling 11-year-old Jaden Gage Oglesby from Galatia, IL was announced as champion

Three-on-Three Trick Shot Exhibition between ESPN Players.

We started out on Wednesday with three singles matches: Tim Chin defeats, Dave Nangle Nick Nikolaidis defeats. Steve Markle Jamey Gray defeats. Andy Segal On Thursday we held doubles matches: Nick Nikolaidis & Dave Nangle defeats, Andy Segal &

won 1st Place again this year in the 18 & Under Boys division with Manuel Perez, Kansas City, KS taking 2nd Place.

The 14 & Under Boys champion was Devan Stagner, Nixa, MO with Vincent Evans, St. Peters, MO, who won 2nd Place.

Repeat champion, Rachel Lang, Catskill, NY took 1st Place in the 18 & Under Girls division. Taylor Reynolds, Winslow, ME came in 2nd Place.

In the 14 & Under Girls division, we had another repeat champion, Emily Herpel, Freehold, NY taking 1st Place with April Larson, Bloomington, MN in 2nd Place. and presented with his victory prize. This exciting and novel fun – time invention by “Professor–Q–Ball” and “Dr. Cue” won the hearts of everyone playing or watching its unique challenge unfold in a simple format competition.

The original “Classic Challenge” was designated as the official “game insert” for the competition. Other Q & Cue Character game options especially designed for family fun nights, special business promotions, and fund raising / charity purposes include the Character Game, the Poker Challenge, the 8-Ball Challenge, and a simple Concentration Card Game.

Steve Markle Jamey Gray & Dave Nangle defeats, Tim Chin & Steve Markle Andy Segal & Tim Chin tied Nick Nikolaidis & Jamey Gray The overall winner: Team Sharpshooters defeats, Team Dragons Team Sharpshooters consisted of Jamey, Nick, and Dave.

Team Dragons consisted of Andy Segal, Tim, and Steve.

August/September PQB 9

A Magic Trick

by Mark Finkelstein Pro at Slate and Eastside Billiards, New York City; Instructional Columnist

I

was playing some 8 ball with a really and make it perpendicular to the line of strong old time player and he left me centers through the object ball and cue in this mess. I was playing stripes, and ball that we just drew. the cue ball was frozen to the back of the Diagram 3 11. Take a look at this lay out and see Now all we have to do is what you would do. find out where to aim. The Diagram 1 aim point is the mid-point of I was in a real death trap. My oppothe line we just drew from the cue ball ghost ball position perpendicular to the line of centers. Here is what that looks like.

Diagram 4 So to summarizes, we mentally draw a nent figured to run out if I gave him ball line connecting the centers in hand. Here is the answer to this of the cue ball and the ball it problem and how to figure it out. Because is frozen to. We then draw a the cue ball is frozen to the object ball, line perpendicular to this you can hit straight at it. I aimed a little line that ends at the ghost to the right of the 5 ball, hitting the cue ball position where we want ball on the vertical axis with a medium the cue ball to go. We speed. The cue ball hit the 5, pocketed finally aim at the mid-point the 12, and I was home free. of this line to the ghost ball.

Here is how to figure out where the cue ball is going when it is frozen to another Make sure you hit the cue ball. ball on the vertical axis, as any off center First you draw a line connecting the hit will add some throw to the shot and centers of the cue ball and the ball the you might miss. cue ball is frozen to. Here is this line.

Diagram 2 Play around with this shot a little and Next we draw a line from the ghost ball before you know it you will have mastered position where we want the cue ball to be it.

You should have seen the look on my opponents face after I made the shot! See you on the road.

10 PQB August/September

For the latest Event News www.pr ofessor qball.com

12 PQB August/September

Chico Billiards Academy

by Jacqueline Karol • House Pro at Oais Bar & Grill Chico Ca., League Operator & Tournament Director .

F

the “problem” ball for last? or this month’s column, I am pleased to introduce From a novice’s perspecWendy Kaplan (right), another one of my top students, tive, that person is as a guest commentator. She is now an assistant teacher “winning” because they are at the Chico Billiards Academy. She also does exhibitions with Kelly and I, “The Angels of Billiards”. Wendy would like pocketing all of their balls.

But then they have to try to share some insight on something that has helped improve some crazy shot on that her game which she believes may help you improve, as well. last ball and miss. They “Who’s winning?” just left their opponent How many times have you been playing a game and some with a wide open table. random spectator asks you this question? Of course, we all Their opponent has a know that the conventional answer would be, whoever has greater opportunity to more balls pocketed is “winning”. Right? Not necessarily. either run out or play safes Often, it’s the person with more balls on the table that has the until they are in a good position to run out. You’d be surprised advantage. When you have more balls on the table, you have more options. You can hide the cue ball behind them, you can at how many times the person who is “winning” ends up losing.

Try to keep in mind, there’s no prize for losing with fewer of use them to block your opponent’s balls, and you can use them your balls on the table. to get into a great position to run out.

You still lost. –Wendy Kaplan How many times have you seen someone who has one “problem” ball and runs out all of their other balls and leaves

Heart Surgery Successful for Fisher

The WPA World #2 is out of intensive care and recovering after undergoing heart surgery.

by Ted Lerner, WPA Press Officer The World Pool-Billiard Association is pleased to announce that multiple world champion and current WPA World #2ranked player Kelly Fisher of Great Britain has successfully undergone surgery for her heart condition, and is now recovering in hospital.

WPA President Ian Anderson reported that he personally spoke with Fisher soon after her surgery on July 22nd.

“I just spoke with Kelly Fisher and her operation has been successful,” Anderson said. “She is now out of Intensive Care and in a normal hospital room.”

The 35-year-old Fisher was diagnosed with a large atrial septal defect earlier this year. This is more commonly known as a “hole 14 PQB August/September

in the heart”.

The West Yorkshire is expected to have a three-month recovery period. She said she is hoping to be fit and ready to compete in the 2014 Women’s World 9-ball Championship, which will take place in Guilin, China in October.

Because of the surgery, Fisher will be forced to miss the WPA World Team Pool Championship, which will be held in Beijing beginning on July 28th. Fisher’s replacement on the United Kingdom team will be her good friend and Hall of Famer Allison Fisher.

Fans wanting to send their best wishes to Fisher can do so through her Facebook page, “Kelly Fisher”.

196 Variations

by Robert Byrne From “Byrne’s Complete Book of Pool Shots” with permission

H

ere are three variations on the main theme.

At the left, an object ball is sent on the ticky path. At the top, the cueball caroms off a ball to the rail, which is on the ticky path. At the top, the cueball caroms off a ball to the rail, which is probably easier than the combination. At the right is the rare double ticky; most players would play safe here without noticing the resource hidden in the position.

Finding the Missing Links to Your Game

by Tom Rossman • drcue@artisticpool.org Contributing Writer I can still vividly remember my first job as a “rack boy” at Elsie’s Pool Room in Minonk,IL. Seeing the beautiful rainbow colors of the pool balls as they rolled over the green felt and hearing the gentile clicking sound of one ball against another still remain a foundational “sight and sound” image of my introduction to pool at the youthful age of ten. Elsie had a special connection to the billiard venue with her magnetic smile and joyful spirit, but displayed a disciplined control over those in the room that wanted to cause trouble or present anything other than a positive and productive side to the games being played. My early training experience helped me develop a “first love” for the game of pool and would provide for me solid “roots of reference” for future “game and life” experiences, as I learned how pool should be played and how customers / players should be treated in the right way.

When I went to college I started to realize a “new side” to pool that was counter to the principles Elsie had taught me.

My exposure to back room wagers being offered by some players needing a few extra dollars for gas, food, or whatever seemed to pull me away from my “first love” for the game and drain my joy for it in the process. After graduation I started playing in pro events and my game skills grew, particularly in bank pool, my favorite game at the time. One night in 1972 an individual asked me to play some “banks”. A few hours later my wallet, but more importantly, my heart were broken – BIG TIME!! Something was definitely “missing” in my game and the “joy of the roll” seemed lost.

At a recent tour stop, a player asked me a two-part question – “what was the most money I ever won” and “what was the

most money I ever lost”. I assumed he was not asking about tournament prize money, but rather “winning and losing” in the back room. I quickly noted that I would answer the “losing” question first, since it struck my spirit and thought process the deepest from my 1972 unfortunate calamity with the “breaking of the heart” factor as noted earlier.

I had a good job and could recover from the financial loss; however, my heart had felt a “hurt” for the game I loved that would remain forever a valued lesson for my billiard journey.

At that moment I realized IF I could hurt that much “inside”, then I wandered how many others might have felt this “hurt” from my past challenges if I beat them. I did not want to be the reason for that happening in the future, so I stopped this style of playing pool without any tint of withdrawal pains. In order to satisfy my competitive urges, I followed the tournament trail and combined that with a love for show and / or teaching engagements in a tent-making career endeavor that remains to present day.

I believe Elsie’s Pool Room provided a valuable “missing link” to the game for me! The “first love” I felt in that disciplined environment centered around the “sight and sound” of the pool balls and the camaraderie shared by all that were blessed to be there to experience the heartfelt beauty, promise, and vision of our sport. No one got “hurt” and each game played became a special “game and life” victory. A few years later I discovered the REAL “missing link” – a spiritual perspective of stewardship over the game I loved. May each of you realize / discover your “missing links” for truly “enjoying the roll”!!

August/September PQB 15

Justin Hall and Jason Klatt Win at Memphis Open.

down as he would mak3e a run through the one loss side to eventually challenge Klatt at the top of the side. But Klatt would be too much and we would get to see what we really wanted, Klatt vs Bergman again. In the end it was all that we he Memphis Open took place at Highpockets in hoped for as the one to beat Klatt would be Bergman but the Memphis, TN started Wednesday July 23, 2014 and only person to beat Bergman would be Klatt. Jason Klatt would ended early in the morning of July 28, 2014 in spectacput on a masterful performance as played nearly perfect pool for ular fashion. The event included a $4000 added $500 entry two sets. Bergman would not give up as he battled to keep the One Pocket, $2000 added $500 entry 10 Ball and a $500 added sets close but in the end the big break of Klatt would be too Amateur 9 Ball tournament. The One Pocket and 10 Ball much too handle as Klatt double dipped Bergman in true were Open Pro Events played on 9’ Gold Crowns while the fashion. Congratulations to Klatt and Bergman for giving HighAmateur 9 Ball tournament was played on 7’ Valleys. pockets and Memphis an amazing display of skill and sportsmanThe pro events were stacked with some of the best players ship. this continent has to offer. Names like Johnny Archer, Dennis Also a big congratulations to Sergio Rivas who would come Hatch, Shawn Putnam, Stevie Moore, house pro Robb Saez and Jeremy Jones were on hand. But the young guns were here as well with Justin Bergman, Justin Hall, Brandon Shuff, Joey Gray, Chip Compton and Jason Klatt. In fact probably most of this year’s Mosconi Cup team was in attendance and playing unbelievable pool.

The One Pocket event was a double elimination race to 4.

This was a very deep field with standout banks players like Mike D. and Richie Rich as well as Danny Smith and Shane McMinn. But it was Justin Hall (top right) who came out swinging as he stormed through the 16 player One Pocket field undefeated. He had challenges from the likes of Saez, Mike D., Chris Bartram and Joey Gray but no one could stop the firepower from Hall. Chris Bartram was another playing excepphotos by Josh Gilmore tionally well on his way to the hot seat match but was then through to win the 9 Ball Amateur in a tough field as well. stopped by Hall. Joey Grey would suffer a first round loss to Players like Bobby McGrath, Sam Gilmer, Daniel McKinney Justin Bergman who would turn around and lose two in a row (Lil D), Dustin Wilkins, Paul Dodge, Josh Woods and Kenny to Mike D. and Richie Rich. But Bergman would make it up Loftis were all on hand for the 64 player alternate breaks bash. in the 10 ball. Joey Grey however was not done as he assaulted But young Rivas would dispatch all comers on this weekend. the one loss side with a 6 match win streak all the way through Also a special thanks to Jake Waymire for running the Amateur Bartram to the finals against Hall. The finals were close but event. Of course thanks to PoolActionTV for the stream and to Hall would finish the job in one set.

Tracy Whitney for making Highpockets one of the best rooms in The 10 Ball Open was something special with a no slop, the south. winner breaks, race to 17 double elimination format. The magic rack was used. Justin Bergman would show why he will be on the Mosconi Cup team as he dominated the likes of Skylar Woodward and Johnny Archer with a 17-4 that had the former world #1 glued to his chair. The war of the Justin’s would be a squeaker as Bergman would pass Hall double hill.

But another dominating performance over Jason Klatt (right) would give Bergman the hot seat. No one in attendance figured the “Iceberg” could be stopped. Well no one except Jason Klatt. Klatt took the alternate root after handling Brandon shuff and Dennis Hatch. Next Klatt would demoralize Ruben Bautista with a 17-5 win that looked like an SVB exhibition.

Johnny Archer would not take his loss to Bergman lying

T

16 PQB August/September

Foot Rail Ring Bounce

by Steve Markle, Ranked 6th Contributing Writer • SteveMarklePool.com During tournaments this is one of my go to shots because its both challenging and entertaining. It’s also a variation from a trick shot that has been around for many years now called jail break.

The object is to jump the cue ball off the foot rail, have it land on the playing surface, than bounce over the blocker balls, and pocket the 9 ball.

Start off by placing a ring of 7 balls in the 1x1 diamond zone and then 6 object balls on the 2nd diamond line. Next place a combination near pocket “D”. Finally place a cue ball within the ring of balls. I suggest you leave at least a 2 ½ ball gap from rail to cue ball.

This shot can be made by using both english as well as correct cue elevation. I am going to share the way I have been

cue elevation should only be around 5 degrees. When stroking the cue ball use a tip and a half of follow. Be sure to use a medium hard stroke. The english will allow it to get high into the air and the stroke will give it the power to get across the table. This shot may differ depending on the condition of the tables foot cushion. If you are coming up short hit the cue ball harder.

If you are coming up long hit the cue ball softer. Enjoy this great shot!

performing this shot for years now. I find it easier to apply english rather than to rely on elevation of For more information on Steve visit: SteveMarklePool.com, Facethe cue to get the height and length on book.com: Steve Markle Trick Shots , or contact him at: Stevethe cue ball needed MarklePool@aol.com Contact: 267-918-1284 for this shot. Your

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

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 espite your best efforts, there will the six! It’s simple and easy once you get be times when you fall short of the feel. Best of all, it turns a bad situathe mark and end up with diffition into a game winner. cult position. When this happens, your safety game can bail you out.

The touch safety is an awesome weapon. A devastating move that turns The illustration to the right presents an the table fast! interesting problem. The game is eight ball. Your cue ball came to rest very close to the six, and you have no offensive shot.

D

To make matters worse, your opponent has cleared all of his stripes and the eight ball is only six inches from the opposite

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August/September PQB 17

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18 PQB August/September

Where Are They Now? Keith McCready

by Geoff Conway – Pool Junkie Contributing writer

Questions…

1: How old were you when you first picked up a cue?

The first time I picked up a cue was with my father. He used to take me to a neighborhood poolroom in Anaheim, California, named Linbrook Family Billiards. I was about 7 years old.

I learned how to play caroms at first before I started playing pool, and the knack from caroms parlayed into the poolroom, learning the angles and how to control the cueball. That’s how it all started.

2: How old were you when you realized you had an ‘A’ game, and at what age did you turn pro!!!!

I knew I was going to be good when I was probably about 13. I played in all the local poolrooms and soon began to challenge people. I had people coming out of the woodwork that would drive me around to the different spots and sometimes stake me if I didn’t have any money. If I did have any money, I would bet my own.

At 15 years old, I was playing with the best Ronnie Allen, Wade Crane, Richie Florence, Cole Dickson, Larry Lisciotti, Jimmy Reid, and the list goes on. At that time, I’d mosey on down to the Elks Lodge and would like to watch the straight pool players.

When I started competing with the big boys, I knew I was going to be champion. I got barred from the ring games a couple times because I’d bust them. Jimmy Mataya barred me one time, told me to come back when I turned 18. I had no trouble getting staked in those games. That poolroom was called the Billiard Palace. What a place! Action Jackson.

There were more champions tied up on that poolroom than I’ve ever seen in the history of pool. I guess I was a full time pro around 1979 (22 years old).

3: What was the first big event you won, and what was the biggest event that you won in terms of prestige?

The first decent event I won was in Sacramento Open in 1979. I was about 21 or 22. I beat Larry Hubbart in the finals.

I was down 8 to 1 playing Hubbart in the finals. Everybody was betting on Larry. Boy, did it get loud when the score started getting close. I won eight games in a row. I think he got to the table twice, had no shot at his hole either time, I win the set 9 to 8. What a thriller! It was unbelievable.

That’s when pool was fun.

Actually, I had two tournaments that I really liked that I won. The first was the B.C. Open in Binghamton, New York, in 1985. First place was $25,000. Prior to this the Richie Florence event in Reno was 35 large. Back then when I was trav20 PQB August/September

2004 Joss Tour Drexeline Billiards Keith won, Allen came in second eling, I never got tickets in advance on the airplanes, and I would be broke one day and have money the next. It was just the way it worked back then. So when I heard about the B.C. Open, I asked my friend Jay Helfert to put me in. Lo and behold, I won it.

The other tournament I liked was the bar table event in Lexington, Kentucky, when I met Morro Paez in the finals. He had me 13 to 7, going to 15, and he didn’t shoot another shot.

The tournament was worth $7,000 to the winner, plus two Calcutta’s. We won close to $20,000. I also ended up playing Tony Ellin a big set, race to 21. I think we bet about 7 or 8,000 in the middle and 13,000 on the side, and we got the money. I was stuck in that set 17 to 13, and I won that set 21 to 17. For some reason, it seemed if I was behind, I would put it in overdrive, and my opponents could not stay with me!!!

4: What were your immediate feelings on being offered a part in the movie COLOR OF MONEY, and how if any did this role change your life!!!

I auditioned for one of three characters in the movie. I wanted the Forest Whitaker’s role of Amos or John Tuturro’s role of Julian, but I got chose for Grady Seasons instead.

The U.S. Open used to be held at Barry Behrman’s poolroom. The night before the event everybody was making games. Efren Reyes beat me the week before, and I wanted revenge. As soon as I saw him, I started barking at him. I knew the movie people were there, so I wanted to put on a show anyway, and it worked out. Efren was giving me 9 to 7. I beat Efren seven in a row, chirping like a bird the whole time.

All the movie people were there Martin Scorsese, Tom Cruise, Gretchen Rennell (casting). She called me off to the side and told me they were very interested in me after I got done playing I met with them. I stayed in the office with them for almost 3 hours reading lines. I guess you could say they

I have had a few offers recently go make a cameo appearance liked me. at a few upcoming events, and I’m still weighing all my Everywhere I go today, or any cameo appearance I made, options. I still have a little lightning in the jug. I am going to they always ask me to say my line, “It’s like a nightmare, isn’t it? It just keeps getting worse and worse.” And you know what, give it another shot - not a big shot, but a little shot, and it will be when I’m ready.

I still enjoy that very much. They can’t take that away from 8: On retirement how did you satisfy your competitive drive; me. All the naysayers on the Internet today, they can try to which I am sure was the main motivation behind your many pick a hole somewhere about the movie, but they can’t take it career successes!!!! away from me.

I still play poker. It’s a little bit lonely, though, because I lost 5: On a lighter side, do you wake up every day hoping that a a couple of my dearest friends recently. We would stay up all sequel has just been announced with an older and wiser Mr. night long playing poker, taking turns. I lost both my friends McCready in the starring role!!!! in a 3 month span. It really hurt. It was Tony Rile first and I wish they would let me play the part of Paul Newman as then Ronnie Allen second. Then Cole Dickson, my closest the backer. That would be a perfect character for me, and I childhood friend, passed. It was a horrible year for me. would be more than happy to roll with that. Somebody needs 9: Do you still play pool to to start writing from there!! keep your eye in, and do you 6: How did you come to get have any thoughts on making a your unusual (maybe not to you) comeback any time soon!!!!!! arm action and when did you The fans would love to see you decide to stick with what has back in the arena, but I am sure become your signature stroke??? you would not be happy to Well, I was small in height, play second fiddle so to speak, and I stood on a box when I hit and would only come back if my first ball, playing caroms, I you were back at the same speed was always a side winder. So I as when you left the arena!!!! guess that’s where it started. But I want to get one thing for me, it was easier to get down straight. I’m not retired. Temon the ball with that side armed Effren and McCready porarily out of action is the way I like to stroke. think of it. [Laughs.] Just like Paul Newman said in “The 7: What year did you retire from the sport, and what prompted you to come up with that decision and was it an easy Color of Money,” you will hear me one day at a pool room, when you least expect it, say “I’m back.” decision or did it take a while to make!!!

10: My last question: Do you still have your white suit and With the way my lifestyle is right now, to get to pool tournawhite hat that you bought for the IPT Tour??? ments, the logistics just don’t work anymore. My other half Yeah. Matter of fact, I have all my IPT clothes. I would has a career, which she put on hold to follow the tournament love to be able to wear all those clothes again on the pool trail. That didn’t work out too well for her. I have a dog, and we couldn’t take him with us. Leaving him at home by himself scene. Maybe if pool got big enough, where it would be cost effective to compete more frequently, I would come out of rejust can’t do it. Plus the entry fees and expenses, especially if tirement a lot faster!!! you don’t make any money gambling, you’re looking at a few POOL JUNKIE VIEWPOINT thousand dollars that you’re stuck before you even hit the first It is good o hear that Keith is alive and well and in a much ball. I’d have to rely on gambling, which my other half has a rough time with, knowing that that’s the way it’s going to be if more contented place than his playing/ hustling years. But, it is we go to a tournament. Shame on her, but that’s the way it is. interesting that his description of the present position of the money (or lack of it) in pool has diminished over the years!!!!

To be honest with you, I haven’t really retired – YET!!! I Lets hope that Keith gets the bug to return to pool in the not keep up with the pool. Every once in a while, I go down in the too distant future, and maybe I will try to hook up a Challenge basement and knock some balls around. Needless to say, I bet match in the Accu-stats Simonis Arena at Sandcastle Billiards more on sports and more on poker online. I don’t really feel in Jersey against Francisco Bustamante on the Diamond table!! that I have to go out there and bust my butt in the pool world For sure this would be a great PPV match, as every fan would anymore, especially when every Tom, Dick, and Harry don’t love to see Keith back in action! miss a ball. As far as I’m concerned, if I don’t feel that I can complete in a manner to where I can win.

August/September PQB 21

Own the Line

by Tom Simpson, Master Instructor • PoolClinics.com Contributing Writer

“Beat People With a Stick!”

National Billiard Academy 3-Day Intensives • 10 cities

W

hen I’ve said the same thing “chin lock.” Once you see the line, lock it into your body with a small chin tuck. about a thousand times in pool class, I figure I probably It’s like “radar lock” on the enemy plane – once it’s locked on, there’s no escape. ought to write about it. A thousand is a Does this move help you know you’re low estimate for this one: “Own the ready? Worth a try. line!”

Which line are we talking about? The line of the shot, i.e., the line you intend for the cueball to travel as it moves toward the target. It’s the line the center of the cueball 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.

Eyes sharp down the target line: Once you’ve acquired the line, keep your eyes focused sharply on the distant target (not the cueball). 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 As we prepare to execute a shot, we plan to hit an exact point on the cueball, accurately get on the line when you’re standing close to the shot. Consider stepwith our stick aimed where we think it ping forward into your stance, and even should point, at the speed we have in sliding your bridge forward toward its mind. One way or another, we must deliver that cueball down the line. Hope- final position. You can own and stay on the line easily while moving forward. fully, with the correct speed and spin. If we can’t deliver pretty accurately and reOwn the line while dropping into your liably down the line, we’re not going to stance: As you step forward into your be happy with our play. stance, continue to stay sharp on the target. Sharp eyes, sharp mind. During Accordingly, much of what we do at the drop, the cueball is a fuzzy object in pool school is about acquiring the line, your peripheral vision. Once you’re down, seeing it correctly, and then owning the you can check your bridge and confirm line through the entire shot process. your tip placement and readiness. And of Here are a few tips that can help: course, you’re going to see the cueball Own it from afar: Once you’ve decided sharply during that confirmation. If you looked away from the target during the on your plan, step back from the table drop, there’s a good chance you’ve lost and acquire the line from a little farther the line. Many players are watching the back. Get your eyes looking right down cueball during the drop. Then, after that line. You really can see it better they’re down, they have to try to acquire when you step back. the line. Too late.

Lock it in: I no longer remember who I Longer bridge: While a longer bridge learned this one from, but it’s known as 22 PQB August/September

requires a straighter stroke, it also puts your eyes farther away from the cueball. 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 cueball is not going where your eyes & 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 cueball 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!

“Beat People With a Stick!”

National Billiard Academy 3-Day Intensives • 10 cities

2014 WPA World Artistic Pool Championship Crowns 9 World Champions!

by Mark Dimick, President, WPA Artistic Pool Division The 13th WPA World Artistic Pool Championship finished after 4 days of exciting competition from July 17 – 20, 2014 at the luxurious Rio All-Suites Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. There were 26 Artistic Pool Playing Artists from around the world competing for 9 separate world titles (1 overall + 8 discipline champions).

Gabi Visoiu, Nick Nikolaidis, and Abram Diaz were neck and neck on the final few challenges. Valiant efforts by Gabi and Abram to make the 40th shot fell just short of the mark, while Nick was able to execute the final challenge on his 3rd attempt to win the overall Artistic Pool championship title.

Title winners for each discipline category follow: 1) Trick / Fancy Shots – Nick Nikolaidis, 2) Special Arts – Tim Chin, 3) Draw Shots – Gabi Visoiu (perfect score), 4) Follow Shots – William DeYonker (perfect score), 5) Bank / Kick Shots – Chris Woodrum, 6) Stroke Shots – Andy Segal, 7) Jump Shots – Jason Lynch, and 8) Masse Shots – Andy Segal.

The valued Sportsmanship Recipient voted on by the players was awarded to Adam “Carnage” Nickels from England.

The Rising Star Recipient Award was presented to William “The Gentleman” DeYonker from Michigan.

We extend a special “thank you” to all of our valued Artistic Pool monetary / product / service sponsors – WPA, CSI, Dr. Cue Promotions, Robertson Custom Cues, Dr. Popper Jump Cues, Marty Carey Jump Cues, Aramith (TV Pro Cup Cue Balls), Lloyd Hobbs (personal product donation), Jason Lynch for his electronic scoring services; and Brenda Lee’s Mobile Entertainment (special photography / CD / video services).

On behalf of the WPA APD committee board, the 2014 WPA World Artistic Pool Championship was a highly successful event sanctioned under the WPA umbrella for the growing and internationally recognized sport of Artistic Pool. Look for past, present, and future Artistic Pool information updates at: www.facebook.com/artisticpoolworldwide

Bar Box 8-Ball

By: Marty Kaczmarowski, APA 7 Contibuting Writer

Arsenal

The more weapons in your arsenal, the stronger you are at this game. Let’s add one more to your package of threats. Trust me here… grip pressure can change a shot drastically. Some shots require a firm grip, while others are much more effective with a light and almost “whippy” stroke. The plan: practice specific shots with at least two different grip pressures. Watch the outcome, both accuracy of making the shot and the outcome of the cue ball position. By changing your grip pressure with a specific choice in your mind, you will have twice the weapons to use against your opponent. My stance and stroke motions are repetitive, but I make a very deliberate choice, firm or light grip before each shot. Please do the same, and crush your opponents with your new weapons.

August/September PQB 23

Ron Blatt Honored with Billiard Congress of America 2013 President’s Award

E

ach year the Billiard Congress of America (BCA) recognizes an outstanding individual who has made significant contributions to the billiard industry with the presentation of the BCA President’s Award. This year, BCA Chairman Ivan Lee has chosen to honor Ron Blatt of Blatt Billiards with the prestigious President’s Award. Ron, who recently retired, served as president and CEO for Blatt Billiards for more than 45 years. Blatt’s business model includes a diverse range of services, including manufacturing, restoring and retailing some of the finest and most demanding handmade billiard and game tables available on the market.

Ron was honored with this distinguished award at the opening of the BCA Summit in Louisville, Ky. on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 on the exhibitor floor at 9:45 a.m. All attendees and exhibitors of the BCA Summit were on hand to honor Ron for his dedication to the billiard industry.

“Ron has dedicated his career to elevating the sport to its highest levels. The Blatt name has become synonymous with outstanding craftsmanship, design and it now stands out as a premium brand in the billiard industry and beyond,” said BCA Chairman Ivan Lee. “It is a privilege for me to honor Ron for his accomplishments and his career and the work he and his team have accomplished over the years. His commitment to the quality and the work he produced is reflected by the discerning clientele that insist on the Blatt name.”

Blatt Billiards begun in the 1920’s when Ron’s grandfather, Sam Blatt, began the company by crafting buck horns for pool cues, pool cues, and billiard balls - all by hand. Ron’s father, Maurice Blatt, then added to the company’s services by repairing pool tables in NYC when there were more than 4,000 pool rooms between the five New York City boroughs. Ron then made a name for himself and his company when he started restoring antique tables under the Blatt banner. “It was fun doing the restoration on old tables, because of what we would learn from the craftsmanship, construction, and finishing techniques these old tables provided,” recounted Ron Blatt.

“Ron Blatt and Blatt Billiards have always been the premier name in billiards,” said Kurt Schmidt, owner and president of A. E. Schmidt Billiard Company. “When the truly elite wanted a pool table, they didn’t call the names most people are familiar with—they’d call Blatt.” As an industry leader, Ron was unique! As any New Yorker would say, he did it his way: he went after decorators long before anyone else had the idea, he ran lavish tournaments, while everyone else was giving up on them, and while everyone else invested in the suburbs, Ron stayed in his “funky old building” in Greenwich Village. Why?

24 PQB August/September

Because that was Ron and he liked it.”

When Ron and his partner Eric Roeder took over the company in 1969, they focused on the restoration and the creation of the finest pool tables in the world.

Each piece of every table that Blatt produced was hand sanded and polished in a rigorRon Blatt & Ivan Lee ous nine-step process, which yielded a product that was legendary in both the billiard and interior design industries. Maintaining in-house quality was always a top priority for Ron and Blatt Billiards. When asked what legacy he thought he would leave behind for the rest of the industry, Ron immediately responded, “Quality! It was our absolute desire to give and provide the best product every time. At times it was to my determent, but I would never sacrifice quality for anything else.”

Blatt Billiards’ clientele is just as impressive as the tables themselves. Hundreds of famous and wealthy customers own a Blatt Billiards table. People who can afford to buy from anyone choose Blatt Billiards due to their reputation of making and selling the highest-quality game tables produced. “Ron is an innovator in the high end table market,” said Michael DiMotta, president of Imperial International. “He built his business by offering one-of-a-kind custom tables to very elite customers.

The ability for Blatt Billiards to find a balance between being both businessman and craftsman, seeking modern convenience while also maintaining the highest level of quality, not only separated Blatt Billiards from the rest of the industry, but also set the standard of excellence in the industry. “Ron and his family have been the leader in the industry for decades, not only as a billiards dealership, but also as one of the more important keepers of the history of the game,” explained Billiard Congress of America Hall of Famer Ewa Laurance. “Ron has also served on the Billiard Congress of America Board of Directors and is never shy to weigh in on the direction of the game.”

Now that Ron has retired, the Roeder family have taken over Blatt Billiards and will continue the same standard of excellence that has been established by Ron and his team.

USBA Officers President Jim Shovak East Islip, NY 516-238-6193 Secretary Tom Paley Fenton, MO 636-861-3437 Treasurer Merrill Hughes Huntington Station, NY 631-338-9698 Steve Andersen Wyoming, MI 616-530-8665 Ricardo Carranco Los Angeles, CA 323-490-8075 Victor Cuzzi Miami, FL 786-366-7293 Pedro Piedrabuena San Diego, CA 213-458-3950 Mazin Shooni Nashua, NH 248-910-4466 James Watson Bronx, NY 347 255-4330

26 PQB August/September

Dubuque Open l-r, Bob Jewett, Tom Rossman, Bob Byrne, Gary Eake, Brian Haff, Eric Spencer and Gorge Ashby, Photo by John Langhoff

by Robert Byrne The fifth annual three-cushion billiard tournament held at the Masonic Temple in Dubuque ended Sunday afternoon with two Chicago-area players taking the top two spots. The winner was Brian Haff, making his first appearance in the Dubuque event. Second was Eric Spencer, who finished fourth last year.

Haff also won prizes for high run in the finals with an 8 and best game in the finals, 25 points in 25 innings, both scored in his game with Gary Eake.

Defending champion George Ashby, who has won eight national championships, was slightly below par and lost two games. He was edged out by one point in total points scored for third place by Ohio’s Tom Rossman, former world pool trick-shot champion.

California scientist Bob Jewett was fifth and realtor Gary Eake of Oshkosh, Wisc., was sixth.

Dubuque’s Robert Byrne, the tournament director, missed by one point making the six-man finals, but did win the prize for best game in the preliminary rounds by scoring 20 points in 21 innings. High run in the preliminaries was 8 by Michael Leimers of Minnesota.

Games were played to 20 points in the preliminaries on the Temple’s three 1935-era Brunswick tables, fitted with European rubber and covered with new Simonis cloth. In the finals, games were to 25 points.

The format was two seven-man flights, Clubs and Hearts, with the top three advancing to the final six-man round-robin. In the absence of Lupe Cruz, who failed to show, the two highestranked remaining players, Ashby and Haff, were seeded into separate flights.

Only two rounds were needed on Sunday to complete the schedule. Spencer beat Jewett to finish in second place with four wins and one loss. Rossman beat Eake to end at 3-2. In the game to decide the championship, Ashby scored only 13 points to Haff’s 25, to finish fourth.

Had Ashby scored one more point he would have finished third with Rossman fourth.

The prize for high run and best game in the finals went to Haff for his run of 8 and his best game of 25 points in 25 innings, both scored in his game against Eake.

It Felt Like Christmas Day in July!

President’s Desk: With the Or so it seemed to the two dozen or so 3 cushion billiard Sang Lee Open behind enthusiasts who participated in an Extravaganza. us, it is time to look ’Mazin Billiards of Malden hosted a clinic, and not just an everyday clinic, but one towards the that featured the glamorous and intoxicating demeanor and talent of a many-time rest of this World Champion in the person of Dick Jaspers. year and to 2015. There is a Co-owners Mazin Shooni and Kevin Van Stry planned, organized USBA TOUR Open in and invited Dick Jaspers, who hails from the Netherlands, to visit Houston at US Bida in August. We are also trying to A’Mazin Billiards for three days to conduct small clinics for schedule other Open events players of all levels who signed up months in advance. in San Diego, Chicago, An enthusiastic Jaspers provided the most elegant and Boston and perhaps Los informative clinics for players with 3 cushion experience for over 12 hours in 3 hour segments.

Angeles or Miami. We are Jaspers did so much more than just display a shot and exhibit the best way to play it, he also trying to work out incenallowed all the players to really see and get a sense of what is “inside” his mind when HE is faced tives for rooms to hold more with such a challenge on the table. He USBA local tournaments in their rooms throughout the not only showed them “how” to make year including handicapped, the shot, he took it a step further and C, C+, B, B+, A and Open taught participants how to be mindful of events. I would like to see the next shot and the next. It was not many of these different types an actual lesson in playing position, but of events being held all year a keen sense of how to “extend runs” by long throughout the country paying just a little more attention to the as an incentive for more players to participate and first object ball and beyond. Particibecome part of the family. pants got a chance to understand what More tournaments also means makes a World Champion like Jaspers that more funds are brought in tick. It was wonderful. to the USBA and the USBA, In addition to the clinics, Dick Jaspers therefore, can start to use and Mazin Shooni performed in a crowd-pleasing exhibition invoking a European style best of 5 those funds for the proper promotion of the game. series to 15 points. The ever gracious host and 2006 USA Champion Shooni did succumb to The first thing we will start to Jaspers in 3 games, but it seemed both players were intending to not “destroy” the other. It was do this year is to hold clinics. a friendly exhibition to say the least.

We will arrange for a top US The last day was as big of a treat as the clinics and exhibition. Twelve players participated in player to give a clinic and we will invite all USBA Members a double-elimination tournament to participate for a ridicuwith all the locals hoping to get a lously low fee such as $20 for a shot at playing the World Champ.

2 hour clinic. This will be a Several players did obviously, but all special rate for USBA felt the fire power of a world-caliber Members only. player. Although time ran out for the The Board is debating whether or not to hold a “C” last 4 standing, Dick was awarded the and a “B” Championship imvictory as he was undefeated and mediately before the 2015 NaMazin Shooni, Bob Ferrara and Joe tionals. We also need to DeAmato graciously split the spoils decide the location of the Nafor 2nd, 3rd and 4th place. tionals in 2015. My preference Everyone involved had a wonderful is Las Vegas, if we can do it. If Dick Jaspers conducts clinic not, we will hold it in Miami time and will be forever grateful to not only Dick or another location. We will Jaspers for coming to A’Mazin Billiards but to Mazin and Kevin for graciously hosting such a inform everyone when we world class event. There’s already talk of another such clinic for 2015 amongst the enthusiasts, have reached a decision. and something tells me they’ll be more than 24 players in attendance!

A

August/September PQB 27

Torbjörn Blomdahl Dominates Verhoeven Open

S

eventy-four players gathered in New York for the 2014 Verhoeven Open Tournament held at Carom Café Billiards July 15 to 20 and Torbjörn Blomdahl was the best of a very strong field, losing only one match in the semifinal rounds.

There were seventy players competing in the qualifications. Twentyfour of them would advance to the next round where they were joined by four seeded players: Frédéric Caudron, Torbjörn Blomdahl, Dick Jaspers, and Raymond Ceulemans.

The semifinal groups were packed with talent and only two players from each group were to advance to an eight player round robin. Goup A was led by Caudron who didn’t look in his best form but managed to take the top spot after losing one match to Ly The Vinh from Viet Nam who finished second in the group. Sweden’s Nalle Olsson and Robinson Morales from Colombia were 3rd and 4th.

Group B was the “group of death” with Blomdahl, Eddy Merckx, and Turkish stars Tayfun Tasdemir and Murat Naci Coklu. Tasdemir lost 3 matches but there was great tension in the final round as Blomdahl, Merckx, and Coklu battled for the two spots all finishing with a 5/1 record but Blomdahl and

28 PQB August/September

Merckx edging out Coklu on average.

In Group C it looked like Jaspers would cruise to victory but he suffered an early loss to Hugo Patiño and then later lost to Lars Dunch who was having a terrific tournament. Semih Sidhom grabbed the top spot in the group with one loss to Jaspers in his final match and Japers needed Gerhard Kostistanky to defeat Dunch in the final round, which he did to keep Jaspers from being eliminated. Patiño finished 3rd and Dunch 4th.

Raymond Ceulemans group (Group D) had three very strong

players from Colombia; Huberney Cataño, Alexander Salazar, and Harry Peña, along with Kyoung Roul Kim from Korea. Kim disappointed with 2 wins and 4 losses. Ceulemans fought hard beating two of the Colombians but ended with a 3/3 record finishing 4th. Cataño and Salazar grabbed the top two spots.

The final eight were: Merckx, Caudron, Sidhom, Cataño, Blomdahl, Jaspers, Ly, and Salazar. In the first round Caudron lost again to Ly and Jaspers lost to Sidhom. Both players won their next two but then Jaspers lost two more.

Meanwhile Blomdahl and Merckx were both playing brilliantly and heading for a showdown in the final round.

Blomdahl dominated the field of eight, not dropping a match and finished 7/0 with a 2.188 average. In the final day he won first against Jaspers 40-35 in 16-15 innings, then against Caudron 40-31 in 19-18 innings, and then the final match with Merckx 40-29 in 17-17 innings. Blomdahl, Caudron, and Jaspers all averaged over 2.000 (2.188, 2.081, and 2.031 respectively) and Merckx was 1.934. Caudron had the best game (40 in 11, 3.636) and the tournament high run of 17. Salazar had a run of 16 and Cataño had a run of 15 in the opening inning of his match with Jaspers while Caudron was simultaneously running 17 against Salazar in the opening inning!

photos by Joseph Ratke

“ USBA Membership”

To become a USBA member and receive the PQB publication for free, fill out and return this form.

USBA Membership • Dues $50

New Member ____________Renewal __________ PRINT PLEASE Name: ___________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________ City,

Upcoming USBA Tournaments Aug 8-10: Mike Fahey Memorial, Tacoma Elks, WA Contact Ed Brasfield: 253468-9839: bfasteddie41@aol.com Aug 22-24: USBA TOUR Open: US Bida, Houston, TX Contact: Contact Tim Nguyen at 713-545-9451

__________________State ____ Zip: __________

Home Phone: _____________________________________ Cell Phone: ______________________________________ E-Mail Address: __________________________________ Referred by ______________________________________

Sep 19-21: Fall Classic: Minneapolis Billiard Club, MN Contact Fred Lamers - 763300-6370

Send completed form and check or money order payable to USBA to Merrill HughesUSBA Secretary 16 Peartree Lane • Huntington Station, NY 11746

August/September PQB 29

Million Dollar Billiards Open Tournament

T

he tournament was played on 7 Verhoeven tables. 4 flights of 7 with the top 2 moving on to an 8 man round robin final. The four flights included seeded players, Frederic Caudron, Pedro Piedrabuena, Kyung Roul Kim, and Francisco Palafox.

The event was live stream on www.povpool.com, by Daniel Busch and was free for all to enjoy.

It was held at Million Dollar Billiards at 12135 Victory Blvd. in North Hollywood, CA. Tournament Director was Ricky Carranco, who did a great job. In all, there were 28 players in attendance, with the competing professionals accepting a slight handicap.

All four made it to the finals as expected. Joining them were Mike Kim, Vicky Pineda, Bilal Khalifa, all three of them from the Los Angeles area, and Allen Castillo from Milpitas, California.

Final day was round robin, fight to the finish, racing to 30 points!

Only surprise in the finals was the defeat of Pedro Piedrabuena by Mike Kim. With Pedro lost to Mike Kim, and then to Kyung Roul Kim, we were left with a last round winner-takes –the -championship match between favorites Frederic Caudron and Kyung Roul Kim. Caudron would come out on top and be crowned champion of the first Million Dollar Billiards Open Tournament.

Payout 1st $2,500 2nd $1,550 30 PQB August/September

3rd $900 4th $500 5-8th $250

“From New York”

by Merrill Hughes Treasurer USBA

I want to introduce you to an up and coming 3 cushion player from Pittsburgh PA. Luca Tomassetti is an 11 year old 6th grader who loves to have a Cue in his hand. He started playing three cushion billiards not too long ago and was sponsored by Yura (Nothing but Billiards) to play in the Verhoeven Open. The Verhoeven Open consisting of some of the top 3 cushion players in the world. When arriving at Carom Café in New York, Luca was an immediate topic of conversation. As many of the players noticed him, they all welcomed him into the mix. Luca was usually the first one in the room and always practicing and even receiving some tips from top players. He is definitely a welcome addition to our game. The USBA is very happy to have Luca as a member and he is a great role model for others. The game needs to see more youth getting involved and we hope Luca is the start of a campaign that recruits more young players of both sexes to Billiards. He is an outstanding young player who displayed poise, respect and a good understanding of the game for the entire week at Carom Café. He was on the receiving end of a very generous act of Ira Lee, who presented him with a brand new Molinari Cue. Luca put his cue away and started using his new gift and

stayed with it until the end. As a retired school teacher, I must say Luca Tomassetti displays many attributes of a fine young man with a very bright future. I’m thankful he got interested in three cushion billiards and I look forward to seeing more of him as the years come. Luca, I’d like to thank you for carrying yourself like a seasoned veteran at the Verhoeven Open and I so look forward to observing the impact you might have on other youth of America.

August/September PQB 31

All Saez on the 4th of July!

by Matt Martin The annual Summer Classic 9-Ball tournament on 4th of July at The Rack in Memphis, TN appeared to be light in numbers but definitely not competition. The Friday Night Madness consisted of 8 players at $150 a head.

It was a race to 9 winner breaks on the 7’ Diamonds. The first round saw two skunks as Justin Bergman downed Daniel McKinney 9-0 with flawless pool and Sky Woodward imitated the feat against Sam Gilmer at 9-0. John Hennessee defeated Chuck Raulston in a nail biter as Robb Saez came from a five game deficit to defeat Kenny Loftis. Next Hennessee defeated Woodward to secure his place in the finals. Then we got our first taste of the weekend long battle that proceeded. Robb Saez, (pictured) and Justin Bergman fought tooth and nail to a double hill match with Saez potting the final 9 ball. With the late hour and early start time Hennessee and Saez decided to chop the mini and rest up for the main event.

Saturday Noon: The main event only drew 35 entrants but there was no lack in talent between the 8 from the mini tournament as well as some usual suspects from the area like Dustin Wilkins, Jason Evans, youngsters Devon Poteet and Sergio Rivas, Winston Peacock and Jason Foutch. With some great play through the main event the ending looked very familiar. Played on 9-ft Diamonds a race to 7, winner breaks, rack your own, with ladies getting 2 on the wire. Justin Bergman continued nearly perfect play to ship Rob Saez to the loser’s side in the first round and sail all the way to the hot seat match. John Hennessee came through the other side of the winner’s bracket to meet Bergman. But Bergman never slowed as he put down Hennessee 7-0 to the surprise and the delight of the crowd and waited on an eventual challenger.

Saez however, had the red seat after his first round loss to Bergman and went on a terrorizing blitz through the one loss side dispatching all comers, the likes of Chuck Raulston, Sergio Rivas, Kenny Loftis before making it to the semifinals against Hennessee. While it is amazing to see John back at the tables he is still obviously showing wear and tear, as he did not display the power and confidence from 1 year ago. After a few unforced errors by Hennessee and 4 pack from Saez, a visually exhausted Hennessee conceded the match at 6-2 taking 3rd place.

32 PQB August/September

photo by Josh Gilmore

The finals continued the impressive pace of the weekend as the Bergman versus Saez battle continued. Bergman did confuse me by only taking a few practice shots after sitting for several hours. It didn’t really matter as the maestro Saez put on a display and quickly dispatched Bergman 7-1 to take the first set. But Bergman is no slouch. The second set of the finals was epic with two game swings to either player as they battled back and forth. Just as it looked like Bergman would get to the hill first, he hung up the 7 ball with a 5-4 lead. Saez would get out of that rack and break & run the next to get on the hill at 6-5. But a dry break threatened to let Bergman back in as he started to pot the balls. But then again Bergman would hang the 7 and disgustedly rake the balls across the table conceding the match to Robb Saez.

I feel sorry for everyone who missed out on this event. It was a real treat and I would like the first to congratulate and thank the two for letting us watch some incredible pool. Special thanks to, Jerry Ramey owner of the The Rack. Also Matt Martin and Josh Gilmore and all that helped in making this event a success.

Calcutta Payouts 1st $910 Robb Saez 2nd $645 Justin Bergman 3rd $390 John Hennessee 4th $260 Kenny Loftis 5th $195 Dustin Wilkins 6th $195 Sergio Rivas Tournament Payouts 1st $550 Robb Saez 2nd $350 Justin Bergman 3rd $250 John Hennessee 4th $175 Kenny Loftis 5/6th $140 Sergio Rivas & Dustin Wilkins 7/8th $75 Skylar Woodward & Tony Fargo

Places to Play Across the U.S.A. ALABAMA DECTAUR 6 Pockets Bar & Billiards

Receive 15 issues of PQB’s National Pool & 3-Cushion News, and your listing in Places to Play for $95/year. Call us at (901)756-2594.

1819 Basset Ave SE. 256 686-3171 22 –Diamond Tables !0 Big Screens,Darts Full Bar & Pub Menu

CALIFORNIA BURBANK • Burbank's Elks Lodge #1497

818 848-5508 2232 N. Hollywood Way 5 Verhovens, 1 Snooker 1 Pool table

CHICO DownLo Billiards Sports Bar & Grill

319 Main St (530) 892-2473 10-9 ft Diamonds,1-7 ft Diamond, Full Bar & Rest.

Oasis Bar & Grill

6 Pool tables 1- Snooker 6X12 Food & Full Bar House Pro- Jackie Karol

MAYOOD • Eight Ball Billiards

PETALUMA • Buffalo Billiards

246 Petaluma Blvd. No. 707-585-8992 23-Tables 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

TEMECULA High Society Billiards

951 699-3478 28950 Old Town Front St 13-9’ Pool tables & 10 -7ft 1-12’ x 6’ Snooker Every Wednesday-Tourn.

8-ball on 8’table & 9-ball on 9’table 1 Big Screen, Snacks, Internet Juke box

323-562-9092 5250 S. Atlantic Blvd FLORIDA 14 Billiard tables (VerLAKE CITY hovens) 21 Gold Crown pool tables Full Restaurant, Pocket Billiards Dominos, 5 TV’s 301 NW Cole Terrace 386.438.5763 9- 9ft pool tables MILPITAS 3-8ft pool tables • Edgie's Billiards.

Beer and food 408 942-9500 2-Dart boards 235. S.Milpitas Bvld.

6 Chevilliottes, 23PALM HARBOR Brunswicks, 1 Snooker

N. HOLLYWOOD • Million Dollar Billiards

818-763-9491 12135 Victory Blvd.

7- Verhoevens,2- Snooker 5x10,11- Gold Crowns Pool

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, 1- New 3Cushion Gabriels, 1Snooker 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 8-9ft Olhausens,6- 8ft Bar boxes, 1-9’ Brunswick-1-9’ National,3-8’ft House Tables,Darts/Beer/Wine/Fo od, Smoking & NonSmoking rooms

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 ATLANTA • Mr. Cues II

3541 Chamblee Tucker Rd 770 454-7665 38-Pool tables, 1-3-cushion 1-Snooker 6x12,Full bar and kitchen,Pro-Shop

BAXLEY Danny’s Billiards

417 E. Parker St 912 278 7099 4-9’ Diamonds, 4-7’ Diamonds, Video games, TV’s

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

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

RUSHVILLE •Rushville Billiards 119 Lafayette,62681 217 242-6200 5-3-Cushion Tables 2-Snooker 6x12 4-9ft Pool tables Beer

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

MUSCATINE Sticks N’ Stones Bar & Billiards

563 263-7665 218 Walnut St. 6-Bar Tables.Darts, Jukebox, Snacks,,Full Bar

KANSAS SALINA • Sunsett Billiards

1215 W Crawford St 785 826-9992 1-3-Cushion Brunswick 13 Bar tables 2 -9ft Pool tables, Full Bar Food.Sunsetbilliards.com

KENTUCKY LOUISVILLE Rack 66-SHOWROOM

502 969-2222 5004 Preston Hwy Tables, Custom Cues, Accessories & Cue repair

Room Owners Sign Up Now Increase your customer base 3 Cushion available at rooms with a “•” www.professorqball.com

LOUISANA NEW IBERIA Emeralds Billiards

PARKVILLE • Top Hat Cue Club

HARVEY • Platinum Billiard

MASS MALDEN • Amazin Billiard Club

337-319-0530 2514 W. Old Spanish Trail 24 Bar boxes,8 – 9ft Gold Crowns 5, Full Bar & Rest.

1650 Grenta Blvd.

1-New 3-Cushion Gabriels Element,4- Carom tables Beer, 985 870 2909

LAFAYETTE White Diamond

6722 Johnson St 337-989-9889 10-Bar tables 7- 8ft & 2-9ft Full Bar & Restaurant

MARYLAND CATONSVILLE • Vip Billiards

6541 Baltimore National Pike 410 747-2551 5 – 8’ Hollywood 3-Cushion 12 – 9’ Gold Crowns 8 – 9’ Granite Bed Cosmos Free WiFi,3 Big Screen Satellite TV’s,All Ages, All The Time

ELKRIDGE • Triple Nine’s Bar & Billiards

7540 Washington Blvd.#C1 410 799-1818 2-3-Cushion Gabriels 14-9’ Brunswicks, 4- 7’ Pool Tables, Full Bar & Food

GLEN BURNIE Big Daddy’s Billiards

410 760-1332 7954 B & A Blvd. Ste. 2-G 8-9’ Diamonds, 3-7’ Diamonds,7- 8’ Gold Crowns 1-6x12ft Snooker

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

410 665-1906 8809 Satyr Hill Rd 22-9’ Gold Crowns 3-Bar Tables,5-Table Tennis, 1- 3-Cushion Federic Caurdon

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 LIVONIA • The Rack 28410 Joy Rd 734-422-7665 13-9ft tables 1 -3-Cushion 1-Snooker 6x12 Snacks, Hot dogs

MINNESOTA 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 & 1-6x12 Snooker, 2-7’ Bar tables, Darts & Foosball

MISSISSIPPI BYHALIA Meucci Billiards

662 895-3220 3709 Hwy 302 Byhalia MS 8-9ft Gold Crowns 3-Bar TablesHome of Meucci Custom Pool Cues Cue work on Premises

August/September PQB 33

FULTON

Downtown BILLIARDS 107 N. Cummings St 662 862-3766 4-9’Brunswick, 2-Snooker tables, 4-Bar Tables 1-9’Diamond

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 80 601-398 1173 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 $150 Beer

Southaven Recreational

662 342-0230 987 Town & Country 16- Big Tables. 5-Bar Tables,5-TV’s, Darts, Bumper Pool, Food/beer

MISSOURI CAPE GIRADEAU The Billiard Center

26 North Main 573-335-9955 20- Bar Tables, 2-9 ft pool tables,Full Bar & Kitchen

CARUTHERSVILLE The Money Ball

573 717-9191 111 Ward Ave 6-Bar tables 10 ft Snooker 1-9ft Snooker 2-9ft pool tables

Westwood Billiards 2207 S. Westwood Blvd.

573 686-4880 10-7ft bar tables, 9ft Brunswick, 2 dart boards, 7 TV’s & Full Bar & Kitchen

O’FALLON Action Billiard Club 636 978-7728 977 West Terra, Ln 17-Pool Tables, 1-5X10 Snooker, Darts, Full Liquor and Restaurant

NEW HAMPSHIRE

PORTSMOUTH Legends Billiards

603-433-1154 80 Hanover St 15- Pool tables, 7- Dart boards,Full liquor & Pub menu,Video games 5-Big screens

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

34 PQB August/September

lounge, PingPong.,Proshop

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 15 Brunswick, 1 Vitalie, 6 Large screen TV’s Burgers, Pizza &,Large Pro Shop

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

SYRACUSE • Premium Billiards

315 488-4888 10 – 9’Brunswick 2-3-Cushion Gabriel’s 8 Diamond Pro Am 7’ers Bumper Table, Ping Pong.

Dart Boards Beer Wine, Full Kitchen

WILLIAMVILLE • Bison Billiards

716 632-0281 Main Transit Plaza 8216 Main St 8-9’ Diamonds, 3-9’ Brunswicks, 6-Bar Tables

2-Dart Boards, 3-Cushion Gabriel

YORKVILLE • Hippo's

315 768-0218 5160 Commercial Dr. E 12-4 1/2x9 Gabriels, 15x10 3-cushion table, 8-3 1/2 7 Valleys, Beer, Wine, Full menu, 8-TV’s

N. CAROLINA 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

WINSTON SALEM Breaktime Billiards & Sports Bar 336 765-7391 420N Jonestown Rd 15-9 foot Pool tables Darts, 1-big screen, fooseball,Full Bar&menu

OHIO FAIRFIELD • Michaels Billiards 6625 Dixie Billiards 513-860-0044 1- 3-Cushion Table 34- Pool Tables Full Bar and Restaurant

OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA CITY • AAA Billiards Supply

405 917-9300 4619 N. West 10th 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

OREGON ASHLAND • Ashland Elks Lodge

255 E. Main St. 541-482-3911 6-3-Cushion Gabriels Tables

PENN 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., Sr.citizen rates

PITTSBURG • 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 40-HD T.V’s Full service restaurant with 2 bars., Home of the New Eng. Pool Hall of Fame

TENNESSEE CLARKSON Night Deposit Sports Bar

404 North 2nd Street 931 553-6822 17 Tables, Darts Video Games 12 T.V.’s & Beer

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

Sharpshooters Billiards

901 386-1188 6959 Stage 18 Bar Tables 4-Gold Crowns, 6 Dart Boards, T.V’s,Jukebox,Video games, food & Beer

• The Rack

901 360 9090 3622 Lamar Ave 8-9 ‘ Pro Diamond 1-3-Cushion Gabriel, 6 bar tables 3-Dart boards, 10-tv’s Food & Beer

JACKSON The Corner Pocket

701 S. Royal St 731 427-7444 4-Bar Tables,6- Pro 8ft, 19ft Gold Crown

MADISON J.O.B Billiard Club

615 868-4270 900 Gallatin Rd. Madison Sq. Mall 30 Pool tables diamonds -In house proshop

MANCHESTER Lucky Break Billiard Club

1766 Hillsboro Hwy 931 954 5400 4-7’Valleys,4-7’Diamonds 3 9’Diamonds,Darts, Bumper Pool Beer & Grill

TEXAS SAN LEON Casper’s Billiards

281 559-1400 137 21st St 18- 9ft Brunswicks Full Service Rest & Bar

HOUSTON • Café 99

832 868-4032 10730 Kingspoint 2-New 3-Cushion heated Gabriel’s,5 TV’S, Beer & Food

Bogies Billiards

3040 FM 1960 RD Ste 101 281-821-4544 8- 9’ Gold Crowns 14 8’ Pool Tables 1-Snooker,Full Bar/Food

• HUY HOANG BIDA

281 568-7746 13090 Bellaire Blvd

Suite # B. 2-New 3-Cushion heated Gabriel’sBeer & Food

• Paris Bida

118010 Bellaire Blvd.

Suite –A 281 840 7446 2- New Kronos 3-Cushion 6-Gabriels 3-Cushion 6-Carom tables 4-Pool tables- Bar & Food

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

• U.S. BIDA (Billiards)

10905 Bellaire Blvd #E 281 857-7383 8-Verhoevens 3-Cushion 5-Pool Tables,1-Soccer Table

VIRGINIA MIDLOTHIAN Diamond Billiards

WASHINGTON

TACOMA Elk’s Club Lodge

Cedar St 253-272 1117 4-3-cushion Verhoeven 4-9ft- Brunswick pool table

13184 Midlothian Turnpike 804 794-8787 14-9 ft tables 1-Bar Box – 4 Darts Boards Full Bar & Restaurant

VIRGINIA BEACH Mike’s Break Room 757-855-2114 3717 Tiffany Lane 5- Pool tables, 19- Flat screens,Rest. Sports Pub

For the latest Event News www.pr ofessor qball.com

August/September PQB 35

Pin-Yi Ko Wins CSI Invitational 10-Ball Championship Pin-Yi Ko defeated his younger brother Ping-Ching Ko (right) 11-9 in an all Taiwanese final to win the CSI Invitational 10-Ball Championship on Sunday night at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The first order of business for Sunday was to determine the final two players who would join Pin-Yi Ko and Dennis Orcollo in the single elimination bracket. Both groups C & D held three players who could figure into the decision as to who would win the group.

Group C could have gone to a three way tie if Efren Reyes defeated Ralf Souquet. Souquet did away with that thought quickly when he took a quick 5-0 lead over the Magician.

Reyes at least made the match competitive, but Souquet won the match 9-4 to leave the Ping-Chung Ko/John Morra match to determine the group winner. That match was a tight one.

Morra held an early 4-1 lead, but the younger of the Ko brothers fought back and took the lead at 7-6. Morra was running out to tie the score at 7-7 when he missed a 10-ball and that was the beginning of the end for the young Canadian star. Ko won the match 9-7 and joined his brother in the single elimination bracket.

Group D was similar to group C in that a win by Corey Deuel over Yu-Hsuan Cheng could lead to a three way tie. In addition to the Deuel win, Francisco Bustamante would have to hand Jayson Shaw his only loss in the end for that tie to materialize.

When Bustamante held an early 4-1 lead, organizers were preparing for the tie-breakers needed to determine a winner. It seemed early on that Shaw was worried more about the Deuel/Cheng match than his own match. He finally remembered that he could do away with any tie-breaker talk by beating Bustamante and got back into the match. Shaw tied things up at 7-7 and then won the final two racks for the 9-7 win to give him the group win. Deuel did end up beating Cheng 9-4 in the final match, but by then they were only playing for the third round bonus prize.

The first semi final match - pitting Dennis Orcollo vs Pin-Yi Ko - was all about momentum. Although the match was alternating break, the pool gods seemed to favor the player who had won the previous game for the majority of the match. Ko looked like he would run away with things early as he cruised to a 6-1 lead, but Orcollo had been in this position before and he bided his time waiting for his chance. Orcollo pounced on an opportunity in rack seven and won four quick games to get back to within two at 4-6 down. Just when it looked like Orcollo was in control, he scratched on the break in rack eleven and Ko won the next two games to reach the hill at 8-4.

That proved to be too high a hill to climb for Orcollo as Ko 36 PQB August/September

won the match 9-5.

By contrast, the second semi final match - between PingChung Ko and Jayson Shaw - started out trading momentum more often than a tennis tie breaker. The first eight racks saw one break and run, and neither player able to do much on their break. That all changed in rack 9 when the players started trading break and runs. With the player breaking having the momentum now, the match came down to rack fifteen when Shaw broke dry. Ko ran that rack out for the hill at 8-7. Ko had no shot on the one after his break in rack fifteen, but a lock up safety led to ball in hand and a 9-7 win for the younger Ko brother.

The race to 11 finals came down to two players whose games are nearly identical. The two brother’s pattern play is the same, their style at the table is the same, and they bring the same abilities to the table that their opponent does. While PingChung has a better record than his older brother in head to head play, it was Pin-Yi that was able to forge the matches first multi rack leads at 3-1 and 8-6. Late in the match, both player’s concentration appeared to fade and neither player was showing the same level of play that they had displayed earlier in the week. Pin-Yi reached the hill first, at 10-8 and then broke and ran the 20th rack for the 11-9 win.

Pin-Yi earned $8000 for first place, while Ping-Chung settled for $5000 in prize money. Next up in Vegas is the OB Challenge, pitting Mike Dechaine and Corey Deuel against Efren Reyes and Francisco Bustamante in a race to 21 scotch doubles 8-Ball match on Monday night.

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.

August/September PQB 39

DPM Universal Pocket and Carom Billiard Systems Article 74

by Darrell Paul Martineau • www.3cushion.us/ WBIA Head Master Instructor The next few articles will be on Zero Spin English.

W

hen using Zero Side Spin the cue ball is effected by the hit it makes on the first object ball. Graph 74 shows how this occurs.

The amount of spin is changed by the amount of object that is hit.

About 1/2 tip for a 3 hit [one quarter ball] up to one tip for a 6 hit [one half ball] The graph shows that right spin is applied to the cue ball when it goes to the side rail and acts like HOLDUP. When it goes to the end rail it receives left spin and acts like RUNNING. If the same shot was reversed then left spin would be applied to the left side rail and running right to the end rail.

In the next article in Professor Q Balls News [ Oct/Nov 2014 ] I will show you a simple system to use this concept in difficult shot areas.

You may purchase caroms Articles and Graphs 25 through 64 on line to be e-mailed to you for $25.00. $45.00 by regular mail in a binder.

Hits to Miss Kisses Book.

Articles and Graphs 65 - 71 $20.00 e-mailed $30.00 mailed in binder.

Outside the U.S. add $20.00 for binder mailing.

More on this System segment in the next issue of Professor Cue Ball News You may purchase caroms Articles and Graphs 25 through 66 on line to be e-mailed to you for $25.00, $40.00 by regular mail in a binder.

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 August/September

42 PQB August/September

44 PQB August/September

Professor’s National Tournament Directory

AUGUST 1-3 J.O.B Billiards Volunteer State 8-Ball & 9-Ball Men & Ladies Divisions $50 Entry, Race to 7 See ad on page 3 AUGUST 2-3 Stop #15 3rd Annual Steinway Classic Pro Event-$6000 Added Steinway Billiards Astoria, NY 718.472.2124 AUGUST 9-10 JPNEWT 2014 TOUR Stop #5 $500 added !

Triple Nines Bar and Billiards US-1 Center 7540 Washington Blvd.

Elkridge MD 21075 410.799.1818 AUGUST 9-10, 2014 GSBT $1,000 Added Guaranteed Amateur 9-ball w/ 32 players Shore Thing Billiards 843-7122-1905 942 Lake Arrowhead Drive Myrtle Beach, SC Diamond bar tables AUGUST 10 Tri-State A-B / C-D 9-Ball $750 Added Clifton Billiards 1158 Main St. Clifton, NJ (973) 928-6622 AUG. 13-14 & 31 $1000 1st Place

Mezz ABCD NJ State 9-Ball Championship Fat Albert Billiards 600 North White Horse Pike Somerdale, NJ 08063 856-344-7298 AUGUST 16 Tri-State A-B / C-D 9-Ball $2000 Added Gotham City Billiards 93 Avenue U Brooklyn, NY (718) 714-1002 AUGUST 23-24 GSBT Mickey Milligan’s Sport Bar New Bern NC $1,000 Added Amatuer 9-Ball 252-637-3711

August 30-31st J.O.B Billiards Senoirs Tournament Open to all Amatuer players 55 or Older 8-Ball & 9-Ball $50 Entry, Double Elim AUG. 30 & 31 TRI-STATE TOUR B-C-D 9-Ball $1000 Added Amsterdam Billiards 110 East 11th St. NY, NY (212) 995-0333 AUGUST 30-SEP 1 Stop #16 Snookers Billiards Bar & Grill 401.351.7665 Providence, RI 1st Annual Eastern State

Pro Championship 1st Annual Eastern State Amatuer Championship $3500 Added Pro Event $1500 Added Amateur Event SEPTEMBER 13-14, 2014 GSBT $1,000 Added Guaranteed Shore Thing Billiards 843-7122-1905 Amateur 9-ball w/ 32 players SEPTEMBER 13-14 Stop #18 $1000 Added ABCD Saturday at Noon Open/Pro Sunday at Noon Steinway Billiards 3525 Steinway Street Astoria, NY 11101-1415 718.472.2124 SEPTEMBER 27-28 Stop #19 $1000 Added ABCD Saturday at Noon Open/Pro Sunday at Noon Mr. Cue Billiards 76 East Sunrise Hwy Lindenhurst, NY 11757 631.226.9486 SEPTEMBER 6 A-B / C-D 9-Ball $750 Added Tri-State House of Billiards 308 Front St. Staten Island, NY (718) 981-2222 SEPTEMBER 13 Tri-State A-B / C-D 9-Ball $1000 Added Rockaway Billiards 353 US 46

Rockaway, NJ (973) 625-5777 SEPTEMBER 20 Tri-State A-B/C-D 9-Ball Special Double Point Event $2200 Added Gotham City Billiards 93 Avenue U Brooklyn, NY (718) 714OCTOBER 11-12 JPNEWT 2014 TOUR Stop #7 $1,000 added ! ($500 Top Hat, $500 Coins of the Realm) Top Hat Cue Club 410 665-1906 8809 Satyr Hill Road Parkville MD 21234 OCTOBER 25-26, 2014 Joss Northeast 9-Ball Tour $1500/$500 Added Entry Fee - Pro $120, Non Pro $70 Host: Mark Ruzekowicz Premium Billiards 228 Chapel Dr. Syracuse, NY 13219 315.488.4888 NOVEMBER 8-9 Al Conte Memorial 500 \ Added Entry Fee - Pro $120, Non Pro $70 Host: Victor Conte Hippo’s House of Billiards 5160 Commercial Dr. East Yorkville, NY 13495 315-768-0218

ATTENTION ROOM OWNERS When you subscribe to “Places to Play”

Directory (See pages 33 - 35) your event is entitled to get listed in our Tournament Calendar Guide.

August/September PQB 45

Bank on, Brother Freddy ‘The Beard’ Dead at the Age of 73

by Steve Booth

F

rederick Bentivegna was born November 16, 1940. He died June 18, 2014. He is survived by his daughter Catherine Bentivegna Adami and son Dino.

‘The Beard’ grew up in Chicago, where he first discovered pool as a teenager in a neighborhood bowling alley that had several well-worn pool tables. Later, he started to make trips to the downtown poolrooms that featured better players, including Bensinger’s, the most storied name in Chicago poolrooms.

Chicago was a banker’s heaven – or hell – at that time, and that discipline in particular developed into his signature skill.

After serving his country in the US Army, Freddy built a successful career as a pool hustler, with Banks as his top game. He also took his game on the road from Florida to California; sometimes in stealth, but often in an open challenge to the best the country had to offer.

After the demise of Bensinger’s, Freddy opened and ran the North Shore Billiard Club, which may have been small in terms of the number of tables, yet it was huge in the talent and action it hosted.

‘The Beard’ was inducted into the One Pocket Hall of Fame for Bank Pool in January, 2006.

Freddy was a frequent and popular commentator for AccuStats videos for many years, especially for Banks and One Pocket. He also has authored several highly acclaimed books and DVD’s on advanced banking, Banking with the Beard, and The Gospool According to Freddy ‘The Beard’ and Banks That Don’t Go, But Do. This year he published his third book, The Encyclopedia of

46 PQB August/September

Pool Hustlers, a very entertaining collection of stories about many of the interesting players and characters that Freddy ran into in his years as a road player. Freddy had recently returned home from a well received book tour to NYC and was getting some great press in mainstream publications like Chicago’s Daily Reader when he entered the hospital.

Freddy came to the first One Pocket Hall of Fame dinner in January, 2005, and as a guest speaker that first year it became obvious he was a great choice to share the podium with One Pocket legend Grady Mathews. From that year on, Freddy served along with Grady as Co-Master of Ceremonies for the One Pocket HOF. Over the last 10 years in that role, Freddy honored many legendary players – some living and many deceased.

It became an annual tradition at the One Pocket Hall of Fame dinner to begin the evening with a wonderful poem written by Dennis Bondarenok, titled “You’ll Be Up Here Yet.” You can hear Freddy read it here on Youtube: Over the last few years Freddy became a significant guardian angel for several aging pool players as their health declined, by visiting them in the hospital and helping to raise money for their expenses, and finally delivering eulogies at their funerals.

“Bank on, Brother!” On to the other side, my friend.