2 Rackem Magazine - June 2011
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7 Krugz 13 Seminole Tour 14 Derby City 18 Quadrangle 19 C R Billiards 21 WPBA Masters
6 DEPARTMENTS
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Contents
ABOUT US
Rackem is a monthly publication, dedicated to the advancement of the sport of pool and to promoting enthusiasm and encouragement among the Publisher players at all levels, regardless of their league affiliation, in addition to recognizing those businesses who support them all. Covering the midwest. Look for Rackem by the 10th of each month. The opinions expressed are those of the author or advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the views of Rackem or its staff. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of the Publisher. © 2012 Rackem
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 3
4 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
FULLER UNTOUCHABLE AT INAUGURAL POISON TOUR EVENT $4,920 PURSE FOR ONE DAY EVENT, 50 PLAYERS On January 7, 2012, the first Poison by Predator (PxP) Tour 9-ball event was held at Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar in Houston, Texas. The $1,000 added, one day event was true to format with 50 invited, pre-paid players, with first round matches starting at 1:30pm. The tournament purse yielded $2,500 while the player auction added another $2,420 to the coiffeurs. Bill Fuller, longtime Texas player and director of the prestigious “Texas Open”, and local Tiger Tour champ Jason Pearce both made their way unscathed to the Poison hot seat. Pearce defeated Dalton Riley 6-0 and Fuller ousted Bobby Perez 6-3 on the winner’s side final four which set the hot seat stage. In the match, Pearce came on strong leading Fuller 5-2, but Fuller came back to win the set 6-5. After losing his first round Jason Pearce, Brent Thomas, Bill Fuller match to Fuller, Brent Thomas won 8 consecutive matches with www.pxptour.com. wins over Kenneth Price, Bob Guzik, Bobby Perez and Dalton Riley, but was stopped short by Pearce 6-4. It was another All Poison events are live streamed by “Run Out Review” heart stopping match between Pearce and Fuller. This time and played on (14) 8’ Gandy tables with new Simonis cloth, the scenario was reversed when Fuller pulled ahead 5-2 only Pro-Cup Aramith cue balls, and Delta-13 racks. Players to see Pearce grind it out and knot the score at 5. In the final qualified for this PxP Tour event through their performance game, the two weary competitors traded safeties until Fuller and participation on the 2011 Lone Star Billiards Tour. The capitalized on a failed 5-ball safety and ran the remaining balls next qualifier will be through the LSBT Amateur Division at for an undefeated Poison Tour victory. Notable finishes in Future Cues in Temple, Texas, on February 4th-5th. Visit www. this event included comeback player Bobby Perez 5th, Chuck lonestarbilliardstour.com for more information. Adams 7th, and Run Out Review’s Mark Fusina 9th. View recorded matches by clicking the Live Stream tab at Invites for the March 31st PxP event will go out Monday, February 6th. Check your email! 1st $800/$847 Bill Fuller 2nd
$475/$605
Jason Pearce
3rd
$325/$484
Brent Thomas
4th
$200/$242
Dalton Riley
5th-6th
$125/$121
Brian Rosenbaum, Bobby Perez
7th-8th
$100
Victor Rojas, Chuck Adams
RESULTS
9th-12th $62.50
Mark Fusina, Steve Lindgren, Drew McCoy, Joey Torres
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 5
COLUMNIST
Mike Massey
Coin in the Glass Shot Place a dime a quarter to a half inch away from the edge of the rail. The distance depends on the liveliness of the cushion. Place a glass directly behind the dime on the rail. I recommend a double shot glass. A paper coffee cup would also work, but the sound of the coin settling in the glass sounds so much neater than a paper cup. The cue ball is placed on the head spot. Speed is everything on this shot. Shoot straight into the rail with a soft to medium soft stroke.
Mike Massey
You can add another element of suspense to this shot by having an audience member call whether the coin will come up heads or tails in the glass. MR. KIMURA’S 57TH TAKE If you get real good at this shot you might try putting the glass on another table about 10 feet away. A quarter works best. Lest you think this version is easy, keep in mind that Mr. Yoshikazu Kimura, made this shot on his video Mind-Boggling Trick Shots. However, it
required 57 takes! Considering it took him this long it might take the average shooter 570 attempts. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
EXPLANATION OF ABBREVIATIONS: SUR: Set up Ratings EXR: Execution Ratings MSR: Mike’s Success Ratio
EXHIBITIONS & CLINICS 2/3/12 The Palms Hotel and Casino - Las Vegas, NV.
2/17/12 Tin Cup Sports Bar - Huffman, TX
2/4/12 Stage Bar and Billiards - Arlington,TX
2/7/12 Stubby’s - Needville, TX
2/21-23/12 Clinic - Park City, UT
Slick Willies - Katy, TX
2/11/12 Cottons Cay - Orange, TX 2/16/12 Big Tyme Billiards - Spring, TX
Clicks Billiards - Houston, TX
3/3/12 Big Mikes - Baton Rouge, LA 3/11/12 High Rollers Sports Bar & Pool Hall - Greensburg, LA
MIKE MASSEY
Nine Time World Champion
EXHIBITIONS & CLINICS Contact Mike or Francine Massey 435.640.5787 francine.massey@gmail.com 6 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
To order Mike’s book call 888.295.7665 or 714.894.1157 Visit us on the web at www.billiardspress.com
Nine time World Champion, Mike Massey is considered pool’s best trick shot artist. He was voted the “Best in History” and is a member of the BCA Hall of Fame. Mike’s most amazing accomplishments were in two 24 hour poolathons. In one he pocketed 8,090 balls playing with one arm. In the other poolathon he ran 330 racks of 9-ball in Austria on live TV. Mike has consulted or appeared in the movies, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia”, “The Baron and the Kid”, “Justice”, “Chalk”, and “Pool Hall Junkies” Mike is available for exhibitions and clinics. Please contact Mike or Francine Massey at 435.640.5787 or francine.massey@gmail.com
“SPIKE” AIARDO & BLAKE MATTSON
KRUGZ GRIZZLY BAIR 9 BALL
On January 7th, Krug”z Pool hall in Muscatine,Iowa, held its 1st annual Jon “Grizzly” Bair 9-ball calcutta tournament. What was initially going to be a birthday celebration tourney, quickly turned out to be a seriously competitive tournament involving several strong players, traveling from the surrounding area. The tourney was dominated by 2 former Junior
National Champions, Chris”Spike” Aiardo (Fort Hood,TX) and Blake “The beast” Mattson (Muscatine,Ia). Blake and Spike teamed up with Nate Atkinson in back in 2009 to win the 3 person team, Valley International Tournament in Lincoln Nebraska.The two didn’t disappoint as they displayed their many talents. Blake’s first match seen him up against Eric “Biggie Garner (Davenport,Ia). Blake started the day fast as he scored the victory with a 6-4 score. On the bottom half of the bracket, Spike matched up first with Blake”s father, Brian Mattson (Muscatine, Ia). Spike, on visit from the service, started the day off right beating Brian convincingly 6-3. Spikes next victim happen to be Rich Fern.(Illinois) At the same time Spike was handling Rich, Blake was 2 tables down in a heated battle with Trent Lamar (Davenport, Ia) The race went double-hill as Blake managed to slip past Lamar,by the score 6-5. Mattson seemed to have caught a gear after that match, quickly sending Jeff Nguyen to the losers bracket 6-4, and securing himself a shot at the hot-seat.While Blake
was running out on Jeff, Spike and Ronnie Martin (East Moline, Il) faced off in their match to see who would play for the hot-seat.It was a battle of champions, but it was Spikes day to shine, as he sent Ronnie to the losers side 6-5 The former teammates matched up to see who would secure themselves at least a 2nd place. It was a shootout between the youngsters, but Pvz Aiardo showcased his skills and determination beating the very hot Mattson, 7-2. The youngster wasn’t fazed by the loss, he instead came firing right back at the competition taking down the veteran Ronnie Martin, to see who would get there chance for a rematch with Spike. The stage was set. Steve Krueger, Krug’z owner, shut down all surrounding tables,cued the cameras and asked everyone politely to show their respect during the championship match. The title match lived up to the hype as the next generation of pool impressed the crowd with their strategy and shot-making abilities. Spike was just too much on that day though, as he ran-out his way to the money and a 1st place victory. “I’m very proud of Spike,” praises Krug’z manager Jeff Nguyen, “He’s exactly what you want to have representing the game of pool! He’s a fine gentleman, with the commitment to serve and protect his country, it doesn’t get any better than that!” The Manager/Tourney Director is also very familiar with the 2nd place finisher “He’s a champion! His determination and competitiveness are first class. Ive been watching him beat grown men for years...hes 17 now! Sky’s the limit for this kid!” It was a great day on January 7th thanks to everyone involved.... Congrats Spike and Blake, Happy Birthday Grizzle, and way to go Krug’z for making it happen! *Tournaments *Cue stick tip and shaft repair *Cue sticks & supplies *Lessons *In house & traveling leagues ISPA, ACS, VNEA
218 Walnut St - Muscatine, IA
563-263-7665
Jeff N. Krug’z tournament and league directo, Spike and Steve K. ,owner of Krugz.
www.krugzpoolhall.com
February 2012- Rackem Magazine 7
Bob Jewett
COLUMNIST
San Francisco Billiard Academy www.sfbilliards.com
Thin-hit Control
Here is a position situation that challenges intermediate players. You have a fairly thin cut and need to control the cue ball travel either to minimize it or to get it just right. These two drills will help you perfect your technique for such shots. In Shot 1 the goal is to precisely control the distance from a fairly thin hit. The object ball is right between the side pockets and a diamond out from the intended pocket. The goal is to pocket the ball and take the cue ball successively to distances 1 through 6 going straight up and down the table. I have shown the shot with the angle at about a 60-degree cut but you can make the shot thinner or thicker to change the difficulty. Bob Jewett
San Francisco Billiard Academy is a BCA Certified Master Academy. The academy offers: Private Instruction Basics Clinic Eight Ball Clinic Nine Ball Clinic Introduction to Billiard Instruction BCA Recognized Instructor Course BCA Certified Instructor Course
For distance 1 you want to leave the cue ball right on the end cushion. You may need to use a little draw to slow the cue ball down on this shot. The idea is to play the shot with enough draw so there is still some after the cue ball hits the object ball so the cue ball slows after the collision. If you slow down too much before the collision, the object ball might not make it to the pocket. Consider the shot OK if you leave the cue ball within a diamond distance of the goal. For distance 2 you need to bring the cue ball back to even with the side pockets and for 3 you want to leave it on the bottom end cushion. Similarly, shots 4, 5 and 6 are to successively greater distances. Distance 6 is very tough to also keep the cue ball going straight up and down the table -- consider the shot OK if the cue ball stays between the center of the table and the side cushion, which is to say within a diamond of perfect. To score this drill, take three tries at each distance and give yourself 3, 2 or 1 points for a good shot depending on how many tries it takes you. This drill is one of 170 drills shown on the DVD series I recently made with Dr. Dave Alciatore, the Video Encyclopedia of Pool Practice. For some video previews of drills from that series, go to http://billiards.colostate.edu/normal_videos and scroll down towards the bottom of the page. Shot 2 is another common situation. You have a thin cut along the cushion and you need to minimize the travel of the cue ball. You want the object ball to barely reach the pocket. Do you have a good feel for “barely pocket� speed? Can you also predict how far the cue ball will go for a slowest- possible shot? The starting position shown is about a 45-degree cut shot. After you get the speed and distance for this try increasing the angle of the cut. Note that if the object ball is closer to or farther from the pocket, less or more speed and consequently cue ball travel will be needed. Knowledge of the angle-speed-distance relationships on shots like this are essential if you are going to master the minimization of cue ball motion.
8 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
Product Review
Video Encyclopedia of Pool Practice
BY: DON “CHEESE” AKERLOW The five DVD’s offer you online resources to further your instructions. Speed control, stop, follow and draw are just a few of the practice shots that you will find. These DVD’s are good for the beginner, amateur, tournament player and would serve any pro that is having trouble with his game. Remember when your game is off you should return to the basic fundamentals of the game. These DVD’s allow you to remember the fundamentals whenever you need to. They use training aides for shot selections. You are given illustrated practice shots, cue ball and position control, and basic english. These DVD’s will not only take you back to your basics but will also teach you more than what you knew! I recommend the Video Encyclopedia of Pool Practice (VEPP) highly. With patience, determination and practice, your game will improve. These are the best DVD’s on making your game better than it is or bringing you back to where you were! They are easy to understand. Coupled with the additional resources online which gives you more videos, diagrams and instruction, the entire set whether purchased individually or as a complete set is well worth the price. You can purchase the Video Encyclopedia of Pool Practice online at: http://www.dr-dave-billiards.com Taught by Dr. Dave Alciatore and Bob Jewett
Disc I - Fundamentals and Basic Position Control Disc II - Position Control and English Disc III - Patterns and Safety Play Disc IV - Banks, Kicks, and Advanced Shots Disc V - Challenges, Games, and Advice
CREDENTIALS
DR. DAVE author of the innovative book, CD-ROM, DVD, and website: “The Illustrated Principles of Pool and Billiards.” Co-author of the popular instructional DVD series: “The Video Encyclopedia of Pool Shots (VEPS).” Instructional author and monthly columnist for Billiards Digest. Head instructor for Dr. Dave’s Pool School. Inventor of the 30-degree-rule and trisect-system peace-sign techniques. BOB JEWETT instructional author, coach, and referee for 30 years. Long-time columnist for Billiards Digest and On The Break News. Solid player and past ACUI collegiate champion. Leading authority on all aspects of the game. Very active supporter of the pool community.
6149 E 31st St Tulsa, OK
918-779-6204
Pool Tournaments Every Fri & Sat Mar 17: Mixed Scotch Dbls 8-Ball - $50 entry - $500 added
933 8th St (Hwy 3 & 50) Farmington, MN 651-463-2636 www.farmingtonbilliardsmn.com
Hours: Sun 2-10 pm Mon-Thurs 12-2am Fri-Sat 12-1am
FAMILY BILLIARDS ROOM PRO SHOP - CUE REPAIR CUES - CASES - SUPPLIES February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 9
10 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
JUNIOR PLAYER PROFILE: BILLY
THORPE
NAME: Billy Thorpe HOME TOWN: Dayton, Ohio BIRTH DATE: 8-31-1996 NICKNAME: Billy SCHOOL YOU CURRENTLY ATTEND: Northmont High GRADE: 9TH FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL: Math AT WHAT AGE DID YOU START PLAYING POOL? 3 TITLES: • BEF Junior National 9-Ball Champion 2011 & 2010, 14 & Under Boys’ Division • VNEA 8-Ball National Champion, 3 times OTHER NOTABLE AWARDS: • United States representative to the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) World Junior 9-Ball Championships in 2010
JUNIOR BILLIARDS... PLAY. SPONSOR. GET INVOLVED WWW.BILLIARDEDUCATION.ORG
WHAT KIND OF CUE(S) DO YOU USE? Robert Weir LEFT OR RIGHT HANDED: Right SPONSORS: None Currently FAVORITE BAND/MUSIC: SHINEDOWN, COUNTRY AND ROCK HOBBIES: LOVE POOL and BILLIARDS, SPORTS, VIDEO GAMES MEMORABLE POOL MOMENT: DERBY CITY PLAYING PIGGY BANKS ON THE T.V. TABLE AND WINNING FAVORITE FOOD: SPAGHETTI FICTIONAL HERO: FAMILY GUY REAL-WORLD HERO: TRAVIS PASTRANA FONDEST CHILDHOOD MEMORY: WINNING THE PEE-WEE SUPERBOWL; I HAD AN INTERCEPTION GOALS- PERSONAL AND/OR CAREER: TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL POOL PLAYER AND TO WIN SOME WORLD TITLES
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 11
The Monk
COLUMNIST
“WHAT DOES THE MONK TEACH?” Tim Miller
This is not a feel good program. This is the real deal. You will be working with the monk for over four months. You will be working step by step to build the skills at nine ball that your opponent does not have. You will master the important moves this game calls for. You will become a master nine ball player and play better nine ball than you have every played this game before. May all the rolls go your way, The Monk
CALL THE MONK TODAY 1-603-566-6229
On March 24th I am visiting California for a special ONE DAY WORKSHOP in LA at VIP Billiards. Because I get to the heart of this training, I offer a money back guarantee. How many instructors will return your money if you are not happy with the lesson? I always tell my students that there are three things they need to learn about pocket billiards to become a good player. One, There are four strokes in this game we must master Two. The stroke determines the track line of the cue ball after making contact with the object ball. Three, The stroke determines the speed of the cue ball. When I help you master the four strokes and show you how to move the cue ball around with the stroke, you have just moved to the next level. You won’t ask for your money back. No one has ever asked for their money back. Then I teach which stroke gives you a better chance to pocket the object ball. There are times when we aim perfectly but miss the shot because we used the wrong stroke. A good nine ball break calls for a specific stroke. Since you cannot deliver a pure stroke without proper mechanics, I help you get into position to make quality contact with the cue ball. In this game it is all about quality of hit. Many instructors try to teach you about the game before you learn how to hit the cue ball. This ruins you for life. You must learn how to hit the cue ball before you move on to game strategy.
ROAD PLAYERS 9-BALL WORK WITH THE MONK, STEP BY STEP WITH NO RISK FOR $300.00!!!! WOULD YOU PAY $300.00 TO BECOME A TOP PLAYER IN YOUR TOWN? More detailed information available online http://www.monkbilliardacademy.net/9-balltrainongprogram.html 12 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
If you attend my special California workshop you will master the strokes and then be enrolled in my ROAD PLAYERS TRAINING PROGRAM. This is a sixteen level training program that is designed to help you win more games. Have you ever wondered why there are so few world class players and so many pool players? The reason is skill development. There are some closely guarded secrets in the game of nine ball. It would take seven years of training to uncover these secrets. Grady says two million balls. The professional player has paid a high price to learn this material and he/she is not going to give it away. In my workshop I supply you with a manual that includes these secrets. That is why I can guarantee my work. You will move to the next level or your money back. I am going to be in California only one time. The class is limited to ten students. I have an assistant Monk Master here to help. Call me if you are interested in joining us. 1-603-566-6229 I apologize if I used this article to promote my stop. I offer you some valuable tips on this great game. I am visiting your area one time so I want you to know about it. Following my California visit I am going to Manila Philippines to film my special training program. Until we meet in the finals, may all the rolls go your way. The Monk will be at VIP Billiards 20627 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91789 with one full day of training featuring THE ROAD PLAYERS NINE BALL TRAINING PROGRAM, MARCH 24th, starting at noon.
Future of Seminole Pro Tour
The Seminole Pro Tour would like to thank all of the fans, players, room owners and especially sponsors who have supported the tour through the past five years that the tour has been in existence. It is with great sorrow and lament that the Seminole Tour will not have a season in 2012 and will continue to suspend operations indefinitely. From its small beginnings as a regional tour in South Florida, to its growth as the premier national 10-ball tour in the country, the Seminole Pro Tour has always strived to put the player’s and fan’s interest first. The operations were not munsoned, but rather an executive decision to suspend operations was made. The amount of support that the Tour has had has been overwhelming. The countless correspondence that has been received expressing their support for the Tour has not gone unnoticed. The Seminole Pro Tour and the Seminole Tribe would like to say, “Sho-naa-bish (thank you).” The Tour would especially like to thank a few people specifically. John DiToro, the creator of the original Seminole Pro Tour, is not only one of the best tour directors, but also a wonderful person. It was his vision and dedication that got the Seminole Pro Tour to the heights of the industry. John is a true professional and his work ethic is second to none. Thank you, John. The Seminole Tribe had the pleasure to sponsor a couple of players. Corey Deuel, the Prince of Pool, was a true cornerstone to the betterment of the Tour’s operations. Corey’s professionalism and true love of the game helped the Tour grow leaps and bounds. If not for Corey, the Tour would have never been able to reach the levels that it did. Thank you, Corey. The many sponsors and room owners that helped make the Tour possible are another group of people that were essential to the Tour’s operations. Without dedicated room owners and sponsors, the Tour would have never been able to reach the number of fans all over the country and the world. One room owner who stood by the Tour through thick and thin has been Rocky McElroy. No matter what the situation, The Tour could always count on Rocky to be there with his support and the support of his pool room, Capone’s. Thank you to all the sponsors, room owners and Rocky. The Tour could not have grown without all of the great players that have honored the Tour by playing in the tournaments. The Seminole Pro Tour was unique in that it allowed average players to play alongside of World Champions. The Tour has seen several great matches and players in each tournament. If the great players would have never supported the Tour, there would have never been a national Tour. Thank you to all players who played in the tournaments. The Tour would like to thank all of the staff and workers who dedicated themselves and sacrificed their time to make sure the Tour ran as smoothly as possible. Gerry Mayen, Tiffany Marquez, Kevin Pickard, Brenda Mello, Bobby Frank, OB Osceola and Elrod Bowers all had their mark on the operations of the Tour. Without their hard work in the office and on the road, the Tour would not have been so successful. Thank you, Seminole Pro Tour staff. Lastly, the tour would like to thank all of the fans who supported the Tour. So many great fans came to see the events all over the country and thousands more watched online through our web streams. The fans are who the Tour was created for and their unconditional support is appreciated. Thank you, fans.The Seminole Tribe of Florida has decided to pursue other operations within the Tribe and therefore will not be considering any further pool-related ventures at this time. TheSeminoleprotour.com website will remain running so the final inventory of merchandise can be sold with extremely reduced prices.
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 13
J
Morra Wins Banks
ohn Morra may not be known for his bank pool game, but that will be be a thing of the past as he has won the Derby City Classic Bank Pool event. There were 404 players in the Banks competition at DCC. Morra started the event with a fairly manageable draw but that is only half the battle in any tournament. Morra displayed a bank game that many fans were not expecting from him with notable wins over Jerry Matchin, Josh Smith and Josh Oneal in the early rounds. The level of competition picked up after that as Morra rattled off wins against Louie Ulrich,Charlie Bryant and John Brumback to make his way undefeated into round twelve with only three players remaining. The other two players left at that time were Shane Van Boening and Brandon Shuff. Van Boening had dropped a match to Francisco Bustamante in the 8th round, but had come back with wins over Efren Reyes, Jonathan Pinegarand Alvis Fitch. Shuff had dropped his 7th round match against
Truman Hogue, but had wins over Pinegar, Robb Saez Danny Smith to compliment a bye in the 10th round. With three players left in the 12th round, one player a bye and fate would smile on Morra as he got to watch Van Boening and Shuff try to knock each tournament. Van Boening eliminated Shuff and unenviable task of trying to hand Morra Shane was up to the task in the second match saw Morra take take advantage of a number to notch a 5-3 win in the banks title.
and would get sit out and other out of the
got ready for the back to back losses.
first match 3-2, but the a 2-0 lead and then at 2-1, of hung balls by Van Boening final game for the 3-1 win and the
Senior One Pocket Tournament and the results from the 83 player event were as follows... 1st $800 Bob Herchik 2nd $400 Walt Anderson 3rd $200 Charlie Lane 3rd Dennis Schell 5th $50 Jerry Matchin Jose Parica John Henderson Sy Brown
JOHN MORRA ARTICLES COURTESY OF: AZBILLIARDS.COM PHOTOS COURTESY OF: RICKY BRYANT
14 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
VAN BOENING WINS
DERBY 9-BALL/ALL AROUND TITLE
In the most dominant performance in Derby City Classic history, Shane Van Boening played in the finals of all three divisions and won two of those divisions. In order to get to the finals, Van Boening had to get by Mike Dechaine in round twelve of the 9-ball division. Dechaine has one of the best tournament records of anyone against Van Boening, but this was not to be another entry in Dechaine’s resume as Van Boening took advantage of careless mistakes by Dechaine and added four table runs to win the match 7-0. With only three players going into that round of play, it was Stevie Moore who caught the bye and had the easy route to the finals. Moore came out early in the final match against Van Boening and proved that he belonged in the finals when he rode a 1-9 combo and a break & run to a 2-1 lead. The lead would be short lived for Moore as Van Boening kicked a two ball in and ran out to tie the match at 2-2. A poore safety by Moore in the fifth rack led to a 3-2 lead for Van Boening and then a very careless safety attempt by Moore in rack six gave ball in hand to Van Boening and he jumped on the opportunity. Van Boening ran that rack and the next two for a 6-2 lead. Moore would add one more bead to his side of the scoreline after winning a safety battle in rack nine, but a dry break in rack ten was Moore’s last time at the table as Van Boening ran out for the 9-ball division win and $16,000 in prize money. As far as the Master of the Table competition, that race was decided very early in the 9-ball division as Shane only had to get out of the third round to lock up the title for the second straight year. John Morra took second in the all around competition and Brandon Shuff finished in third. The Fatboy 10-Ball event finals, as well as the 14.1 finals, are yet to be played. Both of those matches will still take place on Saturday night after the awards ceremony for the main events.
VAN BOENING WINS
DERBY ONE POCKET
The One Pocket Division of the 14th Annual Derby City Classic ended the same way it ended last year; with Shane Van Boening pocketing the final ball for the win. Van Boening made his way through a field of 311 other players to defend his title from last year. The seats were jam packed for Van Boening’s semi final match with another Derby City Classic Favorite, Efren Reyes. That match ended with a lopsided 3-0 scoreline after Shane looked to have Efren right where he wanted him (down 2-0 and 7 - (-1) in the third game). Reyes displayed some of that vintage Reyes magic to get the score back to 7-6 but he ran out of magic dust when an intended two rail bank found Van Boening’s pocket instead of Efren’s. While that match was going on, 25 year old Joey Gray was getting the maximum enjoyment out of his first Derby City Classic as he defeated Darren Appleton to set up a showdown with Van Boening in the finals. The first rack of the finals was a quick 5-minute tussle as Van Boening made a ball off of Gray’s break, but could only manage three balls before leaving a ball in the jaws and watching Gray run eight for the game. The second game included some classic one pocket safety play, but Van Boening came with tough shots to take control for small runs. At 5-0, Van Boening back cut a ball into the heart of his pocket and left two gimmes to end the rack 8-0. Shane made a ball after Joey’s break again in rack three - but then missed a ball in the rack - leaving what looked like a completely open table for Gray. The youngster from Oklahoma City could only manage a run of four balls before missing a small window of shape. From there, the game looked a lot like the previous game with Gray playing some great one pocket shots and Van Boening patiently waiting for a shot before fearlessly making the shot and running balls. Van Boening put three different short runs together for an 8-4 win.
Master
The fourth rack started out with a safety battle that left Shane “ahead” (-1) - (-2). Once again, Gray appeared to out-move Van Boening but ended up eventually leaving a shot and Van Boening took full advantage. A double kissed attempt to clear Shane’s pocket by Gray left an opening for Shane and he quickly ended the game and match with a 9 ball run for his second straight one pocket crown and what appears to be a hammerlock on the all around title.
SHANE VAN BOENING
OF THE TABLE February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 15
ONE POCKET HALL OF FAME CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF POOL IN ACTION
At the 8th annual One Pocket Hall of Fame banquet, Tuesday, January 24th, 2012, we honored this year’s inductees for One Pocket, Buddy Hall and ‘San Jose Dick’ Mc Morran, and one of our very few repeat inductees, as Nick Varner is honored for Bank Pool this year, after having been inducted for One Pocket back in 2005. We looked forward to welcoming Grady Mathews on the other side of the podium, as health issues
are forcing him to take a break from his usual role of hosting our Hall of Fame evening as one of our Masters of Ceremonies. This year we turned the tables on Grady and treated him to some well deserved living legend recognition and roasting for all that he has done for us, and for this great game of ours over the years. As these great players were honored by their peers, their friends, their family and their fans we all had an evening that guaranteed a rollicking good time!
ARTICLE COURTESY OF: AZBILLIARDS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF: RICKY BRYANT
BUSTAMANTE WINS FATBOY CHALLENGE
Francisco Bustamante ended his 2012 Derby City Classic with a lopsided 15-5 victory over Stevie Moore in the finals of the Fatboy 10-Ball Challenge.
Held immediately following Moore’s loss in the finals of the Derby City 9-ball division, the match saw Moore appearing to be off of his game while Bustamante had no such problems. Bustamante held an early 2-0 lead and only a scratch on the 10-ball in rack three kept him from a 3-0 lead. Moore came back to tie the score at 2-2 and was close at 3-4 down before Bustamante found the zone and rolled off nine straight games for an insurmountable 13-3 lead. Moore took a break at 13-3 down when Bustamante broke dry, which seemed to take Bustamante out of the zone more than it helped Moore get into the zone. The players swapped racks until the score was 14-5 Bustamante, and Moore threw in the towel after a scratch on the break in the 20th rack. Bustamante earned $12,000 for the win, while Moore settled for $7000 in prize money. John Morra and Alex Pagulayan both pocketed $3,500 each for third place.
ARTICLE COURTESY OF: AZBILLIARDS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF: RIXX IMAGES
16 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
FRANCISCO BUSTAMANTE
January 2012 - Rackem Magazine 17
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 17
Quadrangle Tournament There’s nothing new about the idea of divisional tournaments: multiple tournaments labeled Master, A, B, and C, etc. And the
won by a few under-rated players who have been hiding in the weeds. And the post-tournament banter is all about favoritism
story’s often the same. The top division is small and gets a lot of the added money. The lower divisions are large and are often
or ignorance —perceived or real—in the rating assignment process.
Fargo
Midwinter Shootout March 2-4, 2012
Fargo Billiards & Gastropub 9-BALL – Starts 6:0 pm Friday 43rd
3234 Street South Fargo, North Dakota 58104 701-282-4168
8-BALL – Starts Saturday 9:30am breakfast 10:30am full-field Calcutta
Tournaments limited to first 96 and 128 paid entrants, respectively. Entry includes $10 green fee
$2,500 added 8-BALL $60 entry fee race to 5
Alternate break
$500 added 9-BALL $40 entry fee
race to 7
Winner breaks
Mail cashier’s check or money order to MIDWINTER SHOOTOUT, FARGO BILLIARDS, 3234 43RD ST. S., FARGO ND 58104. Include name, address, phone, email
Over $14,000 paid out last year Played on 35 Diamond Pro Am 7’ tables with Simonis Cloth/red circle cueballs
18 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
Contrast that with the Quadrangle 8-ball tournament held Saturday, Jan 21, at Fargo Billiards & Gastropub in Fargo ND, a tournament that had four divisions, Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. None of the 134 players who paid $30 to enter knew which division they would play in until the 10 am registration cutoff. At that time, the players were ordered top to bottom by Fargo Rating. The top quarter of the field, ratings 680 to 532, became the Platinum Division. The second quarter, 531475, became the Gold Division. The third and fourth quarters, 465-381 and 377-122, became the Silver and Bronze Divisions, respectively. The $4080 prize fund ($1,400 added money plus $20 from each entry fee) was split evenly amongst the Divisions. Other giveaways included $30 gift cards to the bubble positions (lowest rated player in each of the top there divisions), and an OB playing cue ($411 retail) that went to one of the early registrants chosen at random. The four tournaments were played on 40 7’ tables. The Quadrangle is only possible because of the system of Fargo Ratings, which now includes over 1000 players whose ratings are based upon 67,000 8-ball games played amongst members of the group. After every 8-ball game played in a tournament or in league play, the winner’s rating goes up and the loser’s rating goes down, by just the right amount depending on the rating difference between the players and the number of games each has in the system.
Next up at Fargo Billiards is the $3,000 added Midwinter Shoot, March 2-4.
Upper Midwest Bar Table Shootout Open - 8 Ball - Singles
MASTER DIVISION - 13 ENTRIES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th
Jimmy Wetch Dwight Boucher Kris Brenke Shane Jackson
$800.00 $500.00 $300.00 $200.00
B DIVISION - 50 ENTRIES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5-6 7-8 9-12
Shawn Dupont Cheryl Hanson Nick Jones Stevie Johnson Ron Broderson Moon Mollins Roger Johnson Benny VanCleve Mark Brandt Josh Coyle Ed Schenck Gus Steenson
$450.00 $350.00 $250.00 $170.00 $110.00 $110.00 $90.00 $90.00 $70.00 $70.00 $70.00 $70.00
AA DIVISION - 28 ENTRIES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5-6 7-8
Weston Broad Robert Schiffino Sean Mitchell Mark Steinhaus Craig Jesinoski Ryan Wenger Jon Depriest Gordy Smith
$600.00 $450.00 $300.00 $170.00 $110.00 $110.00 $80.00 $80.00
C DIVISION - 29 ENTRIES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5-6 7-8
Josh Szczech $370.00 Richard Schultz $270.00 Robert Diller $195.00 Jamie Werner $100.00 Suzanne Christenson $80.00 Terry Guess $80.00 George Bissonnette $60.00 Steve C. Tillmans $60.00
OPEN - 8 BALL - TEAM 1st
$3,500
2nd
$2,000
3rd
$1,500
4th $1,250 5-6 $935 7-8 $650 9-12 $400 13-16 $250
Scratch & Sniff
Terry “Ratbastd” Fullerton, Leroy Fullerton, Jeremy Fullerton, Trenton “Vinnie” Anderson, Glenn Youngerman, Bill Boyer
FUBAR
Hari Gaddipati, Jeff Meixner, Carl Moore Benny VanCleve, Doug More, Chris Smith
Jimmy’s Pro Billiards
Jimmy Wetch, David Vang, Curtis Smith Tyler “TJ” Steinhaus, Dan Voeller
Easy Moola Mean Streak Scotty Doesn’t Know get RICH quick Super Troopers Muscles & Fat Olde Shots Sleeve”s Bar Stix N Stonez Break Room One Eye Sexy and We Know It Yolm Dizzle
C R’s
Sports Bar 8-Ball Singles Feb 4, 2012 $1,000 Added
Entry based on skill level-Sign-up 10am MPA Event - info at mpapool.com 8525 Cottonwood St NW Coon Rapids, MN 763-780-1585
A DIVISION - 41 ENTRIES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5-6 7-8 9-12
Ryan Liebl Austen Warner Bernie Elvendahl Todd Olmschenk Cale Coffey Steve Zalewski Bruce Carrier Jim Whittle Kyle Anderson Cory Bailey Jonas “JR” Layer Brad Vollmers
CR’s Sports Bar 1/21/2012 OPEN - 8 BALL - SINGLES 1st Michael Perron JR 2nd Dustin Morris 3rd Max A. Krause 4th Brian Brekke 5-6 Dave Coon 5-6 Wayne Miller 7-8 Pao Her 7-8 Ryan Wenger
$550.00 $400.00 $300.00 $200.00 $120.00 $120.00 $90.00 $90.00 $70.00 $70.00 $70.00 $70.00
$550.00 / $600.00 $350.00 / $400.00 $230.00 / $260.00 $130.00 / $140.00 $80.00 $80.00 $60.00 $60.00
A/B DIVISION - 28 ENTRIES 1st Jolene Herum $300.00 2nd Kurtis Sneide $200.00 3rd Gordy McNamara $130.00 4th Carl Larsen $80.00 5-6 Daniel Kitzman $50.00 5-6 Jim Whittle $50.00 7-8 Steven Brand $30.00 7-8 Diesel Freelove $30.00 C DIVISION - 18 ENTRIES 1st Bryant C. Gay 2nd Dale Tyson 3rd Shawn Ness 4th Sharon McNamara 5-6 George Bissonnette 5-6 Dave Dehn
$200.00 $140.00 $90.00 $60.00 $40.00 $40.00
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine
19
PRESS RELEASE
MONSTERBREAKBILLIARDS.COM PARTNERS WITH ACS MonsterBreakBilliards.com is pleased to announce its new partnership with American CueSports Alliance (ACS) and looks forward to serving the ACS membership. “We are always looking for additional benefits for our members, and our new relationship with MonsterBreakBilliards.com serves that purpose,” surmised ACS President, Mike Wilson. MonsterBreakBilliards.com is a leading online retailer of billiard supplies and accessories and offers a wide-range of products and superior customer service. They has a large selection of pool cues from all of the leading manufacturers including Lucasi, Viking, McDermott, FURY, Joss and Predator. And also carries a full line of cases in various sizes and materials. At MonsterBreakBilliards.com – We have everything you need! · Pool Cues from all of the leading manufacturers · Pool Cue Cases in varies sizes and materials · Chalk, Tips and Chalk Holders · Cue Accessories · Billiard Balls and Individual Replacement Balls · Training Aids - Books and DVDs · Game Room Furniture & Lighting …and much more!!
20 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
ACS Special Discount ACS members save an extra 5% discount off our already low prices PLUS FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $75! To place an order, go to www.MonsterBreakBilliards.com or call our order line 1-877-595-8539. When checking out, enter coupon code “ACS” to receive your 5% discount and free shipping on all orders over $75. WE’RE HERE TO HELP. At MonsterBreakBilliards.com your satisfaction is our main priority. Everything is 100% Guaranteed by our 45-Day return policy – so you can buy with confidence!
WPBA Masters Epic Battle of the Hall of Famers! MT. PLEASANT, MI - The WPBA Masters at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort has now concluded, and the winner is none other than Ewa Mataya Laurance defeating #2 ranked Allison Fisher (left) in an epic battle of two veteran champions! BCA and WPBA Hall of Famer and former Grand Ledge, Michigan resident, Ewa Mataya Laurance took an early 2-1 lead in the short televised race to 7 against fellow BCA Hall of Famer, #2 ranked Allison Fisher. Ewa then extended the lead to 3-1, 4-1 and 5-1... And then Allison mounted a comeback! 5-2, 5-3, 5-4 and suddenly the score was tied 5-5; a race to two, with Allison breaking. Ewa dug deep and pulled out the next two games for a 7-5 victory and $10,000 payday in the first WPBA event of 2012!
EWA MATAYA LAURANCE
Photo by: Line Kjorsvik on Facebook
In the first sem-final, Ewa proved she’d be a formidable contender when she defeated #1 ranked Ga Young Kim 7-6 for her place in the title bout. The other semifinal was a battle of the Fishers: Kelly Fisher vs. Allison Fisher (pictured left). Though they’re not related, they both hail from the U.K. and both yield a deadly cue. Allison pulled out all the stops and defeated Kelly 7-4 to head to the finals against Laurance. Final Results Top 24 (24 Placed Paid): 1 $10,000 Ewa Mataya Laurance 2 $5,500 Allison Fisher 3/4 $2,750 Ga Young Kim, Kelly Fisher 5/6 $2,000 Helena Thornfeldt, Jasmin Ouschan 7/8 $1,750 Jeanette Lee, Eleanor Callado 9/12 $1,500 Liz Ford, Dawn Hopkins, Monica Webb, Brittany Bryant 13/16 $1,250 Karen Corr, Line Kjorsvik, Jennifer Barretta, Gerda Hofstatter 17/24 $1,000 Emilyn Callado, Susan Williams, Joanne Ashton, Teruko Cucculelli, Tamara Peeters, Jennifer Chen, Jessica Barnes, Nicole Keeney To view the final tournament chart, visit www.wpba.com and click on “2012 Soaring Eagle Tournament Board.” The three final-round one-hour matches will be broadcast by ESPN for on Sunday, March 18, from 1:30 - 4:30 pm EST.
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 21
PRESS RELEASE
TAP DREAM TEAM Rally in the Valley and Much Much More March 2012 starts off with another exciting venue for TAP Pool League members. Hundreds of TAP players from different parts of the United States and Canada are preparing their activities for this historical event. Whether it be a Dream Team 8-Ball spot, our newly added Dream Team 9-ball, or you’re testing your skills in the 8-Ball Singles Championship event, your experience will truly be rewarding, memorable and entertaining. To take some of the pressure off from the main events, TAP also offers minis to keep your game warmed up. TAP is proud to announce this years Rally in the Valley represents our 16th year. Rally in the Valley is held in conjunction with the Super Billiards Expo at it’s new and exciting location “The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center At Oaks”. To see the formats of Rally and past photos click hear . If you have any questions regarding this event feel free to call us at 800-984-7665 or visit our online help desk on the right of our national website for quick FAQ’s. Be sure to join our Facebook for these updates and more.
If you are one of the lucky ones to attend the Super Billiards Expo and Rally in the Valley, please stop by our expo booth and see what great opportunities we have for you. Come take a look at our newly released phone APP and much more ( Booths #335 and #415). TAP closes 2011 with another year of record growth, servicing not only our existing members but also thousands of new members. With this growth TAP Pool Leagues have expanded into new counties, states, zip codes and Provinces across the United States and Canada. The message from TAP is clear, you as a player and host location do have a choice to replace or add to your league activities, at TAP we work for you. TAP is also proud to close 2011 not only with a record growth, but with the comfort that we offer added employment for TAP Licensees and extra revenue to the league locations. If you are a league location, player or entertainer, be a part of the TAP family today. What’s going on with TAP in 2012? Keep your eyes on us and you will see!
BEF Scholarship Opportunities The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) is accepting applications for the 2012 scholarship awards. The objective of the BEF Academic Scholarship Program is to grant scholarships to high school seniors who have benefited from the sport of billiards and are pursuing a college education. The BEF Academic Scholarship Program is divided into two categories: Excellence in Education scholarship (a single $2,000 award) and Aiming for Higher Education scholarships (three individual scholarships at $1,000 each). Each applicant will be considered in both categories; only one completed application is required and must be postmarked no later than Monday, April 2nd, 2012. Applications can be downloaded at the BEF website: www.BilliardEducation.org. Students must adhere to the following scholarship criteria: 1) hold a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale); 2) must have an ACT score of at least 23 or SAT combined score (critical reading + math) of 1050 or higher; 3) submit a 500-1000 word essay on how billiards has been an integral part of their life; 4) must be accepted to an accredited undergraduate academic program by June 1; 5) must attend an accredited undergraduate institution and carry at least 12 hours per semester.
22 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
The final application must also include a letter from the applicant outlining academic achievements, leadership and/or community service work, a description of the applicant’s background and career objectives plus personal and professional (academic) goals. Applicants must also submit an official High School Transcript and SAT/ACT scores. The Billiard Education Foundation has awarded over $200,000 in scholarships since 1993. Said BEF executive director Laura Smith, “The BEF is proud to help young adults who have benefitted from billiards to offset their education expenses and become our future leaders.” About Billiard Education Foundation The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which is committed to promoting education and encourages the development of life skills through youth billiard programs. The BEF funds academic scholarships, produces the Junior National 9-Ball Championships, supports billiard athletes to attend the WPA World Junior 9-Ball Championships and promotes “Pool In School” programs. For more information, visit www.BilliardEducation.org. To become a sponsor, make a donation or inquiry, please contact Laura Smith at info@ BilliardEducation.org or phone 303.926.1039.
PRESS RELEASE
CSI Supports BCA
As a long time member of the Billiard Congress of America (BCA), CSI supports the BCA in their recently announced pro pool initiative to provide funds to send North American players to international events. CSI is one of the first industry leaders to support the BCA initiative as a “2012 Official Contributor to International Competition.” A solid framework for both North American and world professional pool has long existed, with the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) as the world body, and the BCA as the WPA member for North America. CSI commends the BCA on their commitment renewal as the “Governing Body for Cue Sports in North America.” CSI supports the BCA as the governing body, its pro points program, and the player selection process for international events. With a decline in US player participation in world events, the time has come to change the structure of how pro pool in North America is supported. This is a great step in building that structure which will allow the top US and Canadian players to continue to compete and represent their countries internationally. CSI, which produces the “US Open 10-Ball Championship,” one of the BCA pro point events, believes the future and strength of the sport lies in creating a synergy between the industry, the amateurs, the professionals, and the general public. Two years ago CSI launched the USA Pool League
with that goal in mind, and a portion of CSI’s proceeds from the USAPL is pledged to promote and fund pro awareness. We at CSI encourage industry support of the BCA in their new endeavor. In the past, CSI partnered with five other industry leaders to help support and fund the BCA Hall of Fame. It is time for all organizations that have the sport and industry foremost in mind to band together in support of the BCA. CueSports International (CSI) is dedicated to creating more choices for all players. In the past seven years CSI has directly paid out approximately seven million dollars to players. CSI is the parent company of the BCA Pool League and the USA Pool League. CSI also produces independent events such as the US Bar Table Championships, the Jay Swanson Memorial, the US Open One Pocket Championship and the US Open 10-Ball Championship. Visit www.playcsipool.com, www.playbca.com and www.playusapool. com for more information about CSI and its divisions. CSI leads the billiard industry in the development of technology. For more information on the state-of-the-art software systems for league and tournament management visit www.leaguesys.net andwww. ctsondemand.com.
DESTINATION RENO WorldPPA Joins the 19th US Bar Table Championships in 2012 February may be the shortest month of the year, but also ushers in the largest open bar table event in the United States: the 19th US Bar Table Championships. February 12-19, 2012 players will arrive to the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, Reno, Nevada with expanded opportunities for play. In addition to the six divisions of the US Bar Table Championships on 7’ Diamond Tables, the WorldPPA Reno Shootout will take place February 17-19 on Diamond 9’ Tables. Entries are being taken online via www.ctsondemand.com for both events. You can also enter via mail or fax. To download and print the entry forms for the 19th US Bar Table Championships visit http://playbca.com/Events/2 012USBarTableChampionships.aspx. To download and print the WorldPPA Reno Shootout entry form visit http://playbca.com/Events/2012WorldPPARenoShootout. aspx. Be sure to get your entry fee in early (before February 8th) to avoid late fees. Room rates for the 4 star Grand Sierra Resort & Casino are low at $39 / $49 for up to 4 guests per room and without a resort fee. Call 800-501-2651 and use group code: POOL12 to reserve your room. The entry fee for the WorldPPA Reno Shootout is $110 (includes $25 registration and $10 green fees); $75 per entry goes toward prize fund. As of today, we have
$1,000 (very likely could be higher depending on deposits made by tournament directors) from the extra dollar Reno fund. With 128 players, the total prize fund would be $10,600; everyone will win something; there will be no losers at the Reno WorldPPA Shootout. The group of events, the 19th US Bar Table Championships and the WorldPPA Reno Shootout are being scheduled so players interested in competing in both will be able to. CueSports International (CSI) is dedicated to creating more choices for all players. In the past seven years CSI has directly paid out approximately seven million dollars to players. CSI is the parent company of the BCA Pool League and the USA Pool League. CSI also produces independent events such as the US Bar Table Championships, the Jay Swanson Memorial, the US Open One Pocket Championship and the US Open 10-Ball Championship. Visit www.playcsipool.com, www.playbca.com and www.playusapool.com for more information about CSI and its divisions. CSI leads the billiard industry in the development of technology. For more information on the state-of-the-art software systems for league and tournament management visit www.leaguesys.net and www.ctsondemand.com.
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 23
STORY
Lucky
#13
BY: ANDREW MONSTIS
Lucky Plays the Pescado Grande 2nd part of this adventure continued from last month …… It was 11 am Lucky had been playing all night and most of the morning. Determined to preserver Lucky was 5 ahead going to ten ahead for $10,000…. Lucky got what looked to be a second wind. Playing now for over 10 hours, you know he is tired. With 5 games to go… a little rustling of the crowd started up when a new guy came in. We did not know who this mystery guy was but the people in Hardtimes knew him…he came over to where we were and watched the match. The games went back and forth again but Lucky creped out another few games and got to seven. His stride was pretty good. Lucky ended the next few games playing safeties in every game getting ball in hand then finishing the racks. After two sessions I had over $30,000 on me, what we won and brought with us for the action. I sensed they were not done. The mystery guy who came in said something about betting some. Obviously he had some money and he wanted some of this tired old man’s action or money. Wow with all this money it was already going to be a nice I thought. Mystery man and Lucky got into a private conversation off to the side. It seemed Lucky was mostly listening to whatever proposition was happening. Eyes and ears wide open. Lucky nodded his head in what looked to be a favorable agreement. Come back and says I am giving him a spot What!! “I am giving Pescado Grande a spot”. Lucky has always told me he never gives a spot unless he really needs to embarrass an idiot-jerk . This match was very civil. So I was puzzled. Lucky said “Christmas is coming up”…. Not sure how he meant that. Either figuratively he will be receiving gifts from this Santa Claus or
he will become Santa Claus, weird. “What’s the spot” I asked “The Black Mamba” The Mexican was getting the wild 8ball. $2000 a game pay at ten ahead. This was the first time I had seen “McKinley’s. It was too much money to handle. We talked to the folks that own the place and they were going to let us use the safe to keep some money in. We each put up $20,000. We counted out our money. The mystery man counted out 40 McKinley’s. The economy good for some. We put the
seemed too alarmed or they didn’t read that section of the paper yet. Lucky had the first break. “Here we go” he said the sweaters must of thought it was said to them but mainly Lucky was saying it to himself over the nebulous magic rack. Lucky starred at the rack for a minute said “no spaces between the balls”. He was really looking at the places the numbered balls were sitting in the rack. Scouting out how to hit the rack and where the balls will go on the table after the break. Lucky positioned himself for breaking, wiggled into a comfortable stance. Making sure his feet and body were aliened. A few practice strokes …. Crackkkk !!…. a sound everyone knows as a good break. Cue ball stopped dead in the middle of the table. 4 balls went in. Interesting it was all the even numbered balls, leaving the one ball for an easy start up shot. That is Lucky’s textbook break. It was a simple map to the nineball and the game. Pescado Grande racks. Crackkkk there was that sound again. That was deafening my ears were ringing. Lucky makes the same balls and got the same position. He is dialed in. Pescado Grande racks game 3 and Lucky makes not a ball. Pescado Grande makes a few balls and runs out the rack. Pescado Grande runs out a few more and gets the lead. Lucky would like the break back but noting he can do this magic rack is truly magic for all who get the break. Pescado Grande now has run 6 racks and has a lead, something Lucky wanted. What was early in the morning is now the late afternoon. Lucky had no sleep over 34 hours now. The games went back and forth. No ground was being made. I was confident knowing that any time Lucky could do what Lucky does, turn it on. Pescado Grande starts to creep up and played good to go 9 ahead.
A few practice strokes …. Crackkkk !! …. a sound everyone knows as a good break. Cue ball stopped dead in the middle of the table. 4 balls went in.
24 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
money into a bank bag and I was to continue to hold it. With agreement with the house we put our money in another bank bag and put back in the safe. My side bet guy wanted to keep betting $50 a game but go back to paying after each game. I suspected he was running out of money and might quite at any time. We were playing on money already won and none of our own. It would be the time for a robbery for sure. I was truly nervous. Lucky said he thinks he figured out the magic rack. He thinks it make the balls get off to a good start setting off the felt/cloth when cue ball hits the rack. It is easier to make the balls and more of them. Someone was reading an On The Break Magazine. a bundle must have just been delivered by mail to Hard Times. I was concerned that the stories that were published were going to kill Lucky’s action, but no one
STORY
Lucky
#13
Lucky was getting behind, what was lucky thinking we were likely not getting another set. We were on his hill. Pescado Grande breaks and again looks like a run out the money gone. He jawed the 5 ball, what a relief. Lucky got out. We were either on the hill or one off for what was hours. Again what was Lucky thinking. People were actually sleeping in the bleachers. The side bet guy was now sitting next to me so that the money transferred easily. After a while someone who was reading the OTB magazine came over to one of Pescado Grande’s entourage holding up the magazine pointing to a story in it. They suspiciously looked at us. One of them came over to sit by me and started a conversation, where were we from type stuff? I tried to avoid him by concentration on the match. I was thinking we were made. I said I saw him reading On The Break and what he thought of it. He gave
me some trite response then moved back over to his group. Lucky knew what was going on said to me don’t worry there is some guy who goes by Lucky Lawrence they probably think I am him. I must have been so nervous that I didn’t notice that Lucky was back to zero with this guy. I said why don’t we quit come back later after you get some rest a win it all. Lucky said the deal was we had to play to a winner or forfeit the bet. He was locked in. They were counting on Lucky’s old age to be a factor no doubt. I was concerned about Lucky s health the reason we were on this quest to begin with. It was now 10 pm I could barely stay awake and I am holding the money zee wiz. Pescado Grande started to argue with his girlfriend and she stormed off. What was that about?? Lucky won the game and broke and made the even balls again. He went on a run of 4 to be 5 ahead.. My side bet guy quit
which was a relief. At this point the games went back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, this for an incredible 10 more hours. Eating snacks and drinking pop was getting tiresome. I wanted a good meal and some rest I was constantly fighting not thinking about Lucky health and how nice it would be to be home for Christmas, with my wife and my cat. It was now 8am hour to go until Bank of America which was gratefully next door would open at 9 so we could put the money in the most, safest place we could. Of course that much money would raise a red flag to the bank and IRS, but it would be safe considering where we were. We hadn’t won the money yet Merry Christmas or what…. To be continued….. Copyright 2011 by Andrew Monstis
February 2012 - Rackem Magazine 25
Presents
Call First - All Tournaments are subject to change without notice DATE Feb 4 Feb 4-5 Feb 9-12 Feb 11-12 Feb 13-19 Feb 13-19 Feb 13-19 Feb 17 Feb 18 Feb 18-19 Feb 17-18 Feb 22-26 Feb 25 Feb 25 Mar 3 Mar 10 Mar 10-11 Mar 10-11 Mar 11 Mar 17 Mar 17 Mar 19-25 Apr 19-22 Apr 19-22 May 9-20 May 10-13 May 14-19
CITY Coon Rapids, MN Bellflower, CA French Lick, IN Beloit, WI Reno, NV Reno, NV Reno, NV Oshkosh, WI Oshkosh, WI Oshkosh, WI Merrill, WI Oconomowoc, WI Muscatine, IA Elcho, WI Luck, WI Waukesha, WI Lafayette, LA Lafayette, LA Luck, WI Farmington, MN Waukesha, WI Miami, OK New Town, ND New Town, ND Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV
LOCATION CR’s Sports Bar CSI French Lick Resort Carom Room CSI CSI CSI Varsity Club Varsity Club Varsity Club Northway Club Olympia Resort Krug’z Pool Hall Tattle Tales Bar Wilkins Bar & Grill Master Z’s Cue Club White Diamond Billiards White Diamond Billiards Wilkins Bar & Grill Farmington Billiards Master Z’s Cue Club Buffalo Run Casino Four Bears Casino Four Bears Casino BCAPL CSI BCAPL
PHONE (763) 780-1585 (702) 719-7665 (260) 413-1604 (608) 365-1811 (702) 719-7665 (702) 719-7665 (702) 719-7665 (920) 651-0806 (920) 651-0806 (920) 651-0806 (715) 536-5988 wisconsinbca.com (563) 263-7665 (715) 552-1733 (715) 857-5555 (262) 521-8004 (337) 989-9889 (337) 989-9889 (715) 857-5555 (651) 463-2636 (262) 521-8004 (918) 906-0839 (701) 421-0604 (701) 421-0604 (702) 719-7665 (702) 719-7665 (702) 719-7665
EVENT / RULES 8-Ball Singles 9-Ball Jay Swanson Mem. Tri-State Championships 8-Ball No Masters 10-Ball Bar Table Open/Wmn 9-Ball Bar Table Open/Women 8-Ball Bar Table Open/Women 9-Ball Warm-up 10-Ball SE Max 8 players 9-Ball Handicap Races 5 Person Team WIBCA State Championships 9-Ball Handicap-Lucasi Tour Traveling 3 person teams Singles Series 10-Ball Handicap Races 9-Ball Mini Tournament 9-Ball Bar Table - Race to 7 Singles Series 8-Ball Mixed Scotch Doubles 9-Ball No Masters OK Black Gold BCAPL State 8-Ball Classic Men division 8-Ball Classic Women division BCAPL Nationals U S Open One Pocket U S Open 10-Ball
ENTRY $30-$50 $80 Call $35 (incl. g.f.) Call Call Call $25 $100 $40 (incl. g.f.) $100 Call $30 $45 $20 $30 $20 $40 $20 $50 $25 Call $60 $40 Varies Call Call
ADDED TIME $1,000 10AM $3,000 Guar Call $2,000 Call $1,500 10AM $6,000/$1,000 Call $6,000/$1,000 Call $6,000/$1,000 Call $250 7:30PM $600 1st Midnight $2,000 11AM Call 6:30PM $16,000 Call $500 1PM Call 9:30AM $500 Noon $1,200+ Noon Call Call $1,000 w/128 9AM $500 Noon $500 10AM $700 Noon $20,000 Call $10,000 w/128 5PM $3,000 w/64 5PM $800,000 payout Call $10,000 Guar Call $25,000 Guar Call
WEEKLY TOURNAMENTS Call First - All Tournaments are subject to change without notice
DATE Wednesdays Thursdays Fridays Saturdays
CITY Oshkosh, WI Muscatine, IA Oshkosh, WI Coon Rapids, MN Farmington, MN Muscatine, IA Tulsa, OK Oshkosh, WI Farmington, MN Tulsa, OK
LOCATION Varsity Club Krug’z Pool Hall Varsity Club CR’s Sports Bar Farmington Billiards Krug’z Pool Hall Q-Spot Billiards Varsity Club Farmington Billiards Q-Spot Billiards
PHONE EVENT / RULES (920) 651-0806 9-Ball Beginners (563) 263-7665 Pool/Darts (2nd Shift) SE (920) 651-0806 9-Ball Intermediate (763) 780-1585 8-Ball on 7’ Diamonds (651) 463-2636 8 or 9-ball rotation (563) 263-7665 9-Ball Race to 4 or 5 (918) 779-6204 8-Ball 7 & under (920) 651-0806 9-Ball Open - Break Pot (651) 463-2636 8-Ball Bar Box Hdcp (918) 779-6204 9-Ball 7 & under
ENTRY ADDED $8 $5 $10 $16 $75 $10 $50 w/16 $5 $5 $15 $5/player Guar. $20 entry $25 every 8 $10 (incl. g.f.)
TIME Call 1AM Call 7PM 6:30PM 8PM 9 PM Call 2PM 9 PM
April 19-22, 2012 MCMOA State 8-Ball Championships LIVE from Billings, Montana The Leader In Live Streaming 26 Rackem Magazine - February 2012
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