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Topic: *Industry News* 2013

Orcollo wins US Open One Pocket title
by Marlon Bernardino

Philippines Dennis "Robocop" Orcollo is once again at the top of his game after winning the US Open One Pocket Championship 2013 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Monday Manila Time (Sunday in US Time).

The top player of Bugsy International Promotions Orcollo defeated Derby City One Pocket Champion Corey Deuel of the United States, 5-3, in the finals to run away with the title.

Orcollo jumped to a 2-0 lead in the race-to-five final before Deuel fought back to level at 2-2. Orcollo got his nose in front again 3-2 but the American and former U.S. Open 9 Ball champ battled back to level again at 3-3 count. Deuel made a mistake on his break return in rack seven and allowed Orcollo a quick run to get to the hill at 4-3.

Rack eight saw Deuel put togeher multiple small runs to take a 7-2 lead in ball count and most fans on the rail were certain we were in store for a hill-hill match. Deuel passed on multiple semi-risky shots that Orcollo baited him with, but it was finally a fairly straight forward safety that spelled the end for Deuel. He left Orcollo a shot with a very tough table and Orcollo ran the final six balls on the table for the 5-3 win and first place.

Sportsman/businessman Ceferino "Perry" Mariano hailed the victory of Orcollo saying it is proof that Filipino players are at par if not the best in the world. “Once again our flag has been raised in the foreign land after our kababayan (Dennis) Orcollo won the US Open One Pocket Championship 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA," Mariano said.

The Filipinos’ campaign in the US pool circuit is supported by the Billiards Managers and Players Association of the Philippines, Bugsy International Promotions, Puyat Sports, Hermes Sports Bar, Boss Tapa Food and Restaurant, King of Sports Resto Bar and Malungai Life Oil.

Orcollo marched to the finals after blanking Deuel, 4-0, in the Hot Seat Final.

Deuel's trip to the One-Loss side was short as he dealt Carlo " The Black Tiger" Biado his second loss of the tournament, knocking him out via a 3-2 scoreline. That result propelled the Ohioan to the final to force a finals rematch showdown with Orcollo.

Earlier, Orcollo beat Michael Reddick, 4-1, Danny Smith, 4-2, L. C. Carter 4-0, Larry Nevel, 4-2, and Chris Bartram, 4-2, of the USA before facing Deuel in the Hot Seat Final between the only two unbeatens in the field.

The former fisherman from Bislig, Surigao del Sur Orcollo earned the top prize of US$7,500, Deuel settled for US$4,800 in second place prize money, Biado takes home US$3,300 while another Pinoy, Francisco "Django" Bustamante, banked US$1,500. Two other Pinoys, Warren "Warrior" Kiamco and Jose "Amang" Parica, also finished in the money, as did Filipino-born and US based Santos "The Saint" Sambajon.

According to billiards/pool commentator Bob Guerrero, one Pocket is a game using all fifteen balls that, as the name suggests, only allows players one pocket, (either of the corner pockets near the foot spot) to pot balls. The first player to pot eight balls wins the rack. It can be a highly tactical game with lots of safety exchanges but oftentimes the best players in the world, once given an opening, can make the eight balls vanish in mere minutes. The discipline is considered to be a fine test of strategic thinking, safety, and pocketing as well. Efren "Bata" Reyes is generally considered to be one of the top One Pocket players in the world; although he was not in Vegas for this event. One-pocket is one of the most stringent tests of excellence in all of pool, as it requires great shot-making skills, bank shot excellence, planning, and patience.

Oliver Ortmann Inducted into the Straight Pool Hall of Fame
Gene Nagy Honorary Induction

New York City, New York- One of the most decorated European players in the history of pocket billiards will finally be inducted into a Hall of Fame this year. Germany's Oliver Ortmann will be inducted to the Straight Pool Hall of Fame along with New York City's legendary Gene Nagy. The banquet will be held at Steinway Billiards on August 21, 2013 in the middle portion of the 73rd Olhausen World Tournament. The world's oldest pool tournament, the Olhausen 73rd World Tournament of 14.1 is produced by Dragon Promotions and Dr. Michael Fedak which will bring another globally star studded field at this year's show in New York on August 19th-24th,2013. Through additional support from such sponsors such as Olhausen Tables, Championship Cloth, Aramith Balls, Amsterdam Billiards, Pool & Billiard Magazine, Master Chalk, and FURY Cues, the absolute best pool players from around the world will arrive on the birth country of 14.1 once more to attend this prestigious event. All to vie for the coveted title of greatest straight pool player in the world.

Ortmann received over 50% of the votes in the Greatest Player Category while Nagy edged out Frank Stellman and George SanSouci for the Unsung Hero Category.

Oliver Ortmann burst onto the international pool scene at the tender age of 22 when he defeated heavily favored Steve Mizerak in the finals of the US Open 14.1 in 1989. He became the first European to ever win a major title on US soil. He would repeat this feat again in the 1993 US Open 14.1. In 1995, showing his versatility, Ortmann won the World 9-Ball Championship. He would go on to win numerous major 8-Ball and 9-Ball titles. Then in 2002, he was named the Captain of the European Team for Mosconi Cup and he led them to victory, stopping a major losing drought for Europe against the USA. In 2007, Ortmann gained prominence again as he was crowned the greatest straight pool player in the world when he won the World Tournament. In 2010 he again won the World Tournament, establishing himself as the only European to win 3 World Championship titles.

"Mosconi played great, but he would not have been able to withstand Oliver Ortmann", said Danny Diliberto, celebrated 14.1 commentator and Hall of Famer himself.

"It would be a great honor for me to be one day inducted into the Straight Pool Hall of Fame with the greatest players in straight pool", said Ortmann in 2011. Now his wish has come true.

Fans can attend the 14.1 Hall of Fame Banquet and buy tickets at Steinway Billiards for $55 per person. This includes a Mediterranean style dinner, dessert, and all you can drink alcohol and refreshments. Video presentations will be by Jerry Tarantola and NYCGrind.com. Guest speakers will include John Schmidt, Thorsten Hohmann, Tony Robles, and MC by Charlie Williams.

Eugene "Gene" Nagy was born in 1946, and became a avid student of 14.1. Though never rising to huge prominence in the pool world, he was revered as a legend of 14.1 in New York City. He was a straight pool phenom who holds a personal record of running 430 consecutive balls, and has run 200 balls over 20 times in his life. He has run 150 and out on Irving Crane at the World Tournament, and has battled with many of the greats in the game. Nagy never strayed far from his home in Queens, NY, but as a renowned instructor players flocked to him for his knowledge. Notable students included Jeanette Lee, Tony Robles, and NYCGrind's Jerry Tarantola. Nagy passed away in 2006.

"Gene was also a very good archer, kite flyer, and played trumpet at Julliard School of Music. In straight pool he was a phenomenal shotmaker and played pristine position. He was constantly experimenting, and some of his ideas were pretty unorthodox. But I saw him on occasion pick up a house cue and run 200 balls. A player could learn a whole lot from him. I certainly learned alot just by watching him." said Danny Barouty, renown 14.1 player and a quarter-finalist at the World Tournament.

Get the latest news by following www.facebook.com/Worldstraightpool and www.twitter.com/Dragonpromoter

Vendor spaces are also available, for more information on player registration, sponsorship, or if you would like to submit a comment, please email worldstraightpoolchampionships@gmail.com or contact Dragon Promotions at 1-407-782-4978. Full event info is at www.dragonpromotions.com

Join the 141 Club ! Limited to the first 141 members. Visit www.worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html Tickets will be sold at the door during the event. Sponsors and private contributors can still join this year's event. Final added money and fundraising for the 3rd Annual Straight Pool Hall of Fame are still being generated. To help be a part of this treasured event, please contact Dragon Promotions and join the 141 Club.


Germany's Oliver Ortmann in action at the Predator World 14.1 Championship
Photo courtesy ©mediumpool.com

WPBL STATEMENT

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 29, 2013)

The World Professional Billiard League’s 2013 season will continue to remain on hiatus during the next few weeks. At present, an exact restart date of the Las Vegas based league has yet to be announced.

During the last few weeks, the WPBL has worked tirelessly to rectify the unforeseen circumstances which have interrupted the league’s 2013 season. The management will continue to make the WPBL players a priority in every business decision made. With that said, it was discussed that a possible restart date of August 1, 2013 may have been plausible. However, in order to align the additional finances as well as strengthen the business model, the WPBL will need to remain on hiatus for the time being.

The WPBL players have continued their solidaric show of support during the stoppage of the season, and understand the importance of the league as it relates to the future of their careers as well as the billiards industry as a whole. Chicago Rocket’s Captain Rodney Morris had this to say: “I really love playing the game of Bonus Ball. I am looking forward to starting up again. After my recent US Open win, I’m anxious to continue the momentum.”

As the management works to resume the season, the staff have also continued to work industriously compiling a collection of the league’s “Top 10 Moments from Weeks 1-6” for the fans enjoyment. This 13 minute video can be viewed on the WPBL’s YouTube channel at:    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3kXHF2UyFE&feature=c4overview&list=UUTPxeIH9z3GqcuyjFgjhfGq

On behalf of the WPBL players, staff and management, we would like to thank the fans and cue sport industry for their overwhelming words of encouragement for our continued success. Finally, it is our intention to keep everyone abreast of any new developments regarding the restart of the WPBL’s 2013 season as soon as that information becomes available.

Please continue to follow the WPBL for additional updates:

Web: http://wpbltv.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wpbltvcom
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WPBLtv

BCA POINTS LIST
Rank - Adjusted Points - Name

1    682    Shane Van Boening
2    464    Mike Dechaine
3    447    Dennis Orcollo
4    441    Alex Pagulayan
5    431    Carlo Biado
6    357    Jayson Shaw
7    333    Lee Van Corteza
8    316.5    Warren Kiamco
9    293    Darren Appleton
10    290    Niels Feijen
11    290    Rodney Morris
12    289    Jeremy Sossei
13    288    Johnny Archer
14    287.5    Thorsten Hohmann
15    287.5    Mika Immonen
16    287    Wan Can
17    285.5    Shawn Putnam
18    271    John Morra
19    250    Francisco Bustamante
20    243    Corey Deuel
21    233.5    Hunter Lombardo
22    229    Oscar Dominguez
23    224.5    Shaun Wilkie
24    209.5    Jason Klatt
25    209.5    Phil Burford
26    197    Brandon Shuff
27    197    Ronnie Alcano
28    179.5    Robb Saez
29    179    Pin Yi Ko
30    175    Justin Hall
31    172    Efren Reyes
32    169.5    Ralf Souquet
33    167    Chris Bartram
34    164.5    Chris Melling
35    160    Mike Davis
36    158    Nikos Elonomopoulos
37    156    Karl Boyes
38    154    Tom D'Alfonso
39    140.5    Jin Hu Dang
40    138.5    Raj Hundal
41    131    Santos Sambajon
42    130    Walter Cheng
43    126    Jonathan Demet
44    126    Jonathan Pinegar
45    117    Mario Morra
46    115    Jia-Qing Wu
47    113.5    Ernesto Dominguez
48    111    Stevie Moore
49    109.5    Huidji See
50    105.5    Albin Ouschan
51    102    Donnie Mills
52    98    Jesse Engel
53    98    Matt Tetreault
54    95    Zion Zvi
55    95    Dennis Hatch
56    94    Daryl Peach
57    92    Ralph Eckert
58    91    Jose Parica
59    89    Manny Chau
60    88    John Brumback
61    87    Marc Vidal
62    83    Karen Corr
63    82    Yukio Akakariyama
64    81    Skyler Woodward
65    80    Sean Cheng
66    78    Jung Lin Chang
67    77    Ike Runnels
68    75.5    Earl Strickland
69    74    Justin Bergman
70    71    Brent Boemmels
71    70    Jeff Abernathy
72    70    Mark Haddad
73    69    David Alcaide
74    69    Hai Tao Liu
75    68    Omar Al Shaheen
76    68    Ron Casanzio
77    66    Bader Al Awadhi
78    65    He Wen Li
79    64    James Roberts
80    63    Rafael Martinez
81    62    Mike Delawder
82    62    Ronnie Wiseman
83    61.5    Louis Ulrich
84    61    Kenichi Uchigaki
85    60    Samuel Cole
86    60    Charlie Williams
87    60    Ping Chung Ko
88    60    Scott Frost
89    60    Juan Carlos Exposito
90    57.5    Hao Xiang Han
91    57    Joey Gray
92    56    Gene Albrecht
93    56    Matt Krah
94    55.5    Cleiton Rocha
95    55    Billy Thorpe
96    55    Konstantin Stepanov
97    55    Erki Erm
98    54    Ivica Putnik
99    51.5    Danny Normandin
100    50    Denis Grabe
101    48    Chip Compton
102    48    Greg Hogue
103    47.5    Jennifer Baretta
104    47    Nelson Oliviera
105    47    Steve Mack
106    47    Larry Nevel
107    47    Max Eberle
108    45.5    Nick Van den Berg
109    45    Simon Pickering
110    44    Benny Conway
111    44    Chris Lawson
112    44    David Grossman
113    44    Joshua O'Neal
114    44    Paul Potier
115    44    Tang Hoa
116    42.5    Mike Yednak
117    42    Josh Ulrich
118    40    Danny Harriman
119    40    Sal Butera
120    38.5    Nick Brucato
121    38    George Saunders
122    38    Jerry Crowe
123    38    Phil Davis
124    35    Travis McKinney
125    34    Eddie Saur
126    34    Holden Chin
127    33    Alex Olinger
128    33    Bobby Hunter
129    33    Daniel Dagodot
130    33    Donivan Pedroncelli
131    33    Tareq Al Mulla
132    32.5    Chris Futrell
133    32.5    Demetrius Jelatis
134    32.5    Hanni Al Howri
135    32.5    Jani Siekkinen
136    32.5    John Foster
137    32.5    Mario He
138    32.5    Tommy Kennedy
139    32    Dustin Wilkins
140    32    Jared McGee
141    32    Kenneth Stewart
142    32    Tommy Stephenson
143    32    Vivian Villarreal
144    31.5    Joe Landi
145    30    Benji Buckley
146    30    Daniel Chavez
147    30    Dennis Haar
148    30    Eric Durbin
149    30    John Schmidt
150    30    So Shaw
151    30    Adam Behnke
152    30    Shane McMinn
153    28    Corey Harper
154    28    Ivaylo Petrov
155    28    Spencer Auigbelle
156    28    Tom McGonagle
157    27    Jonathan Smith
158    26    Anthony Meglino
159    26    Chris Bruner
160    26    Eric Moore
161    26    Israel Rota
162    26    Jason Richko
163    26    Mark Gray
164    26    Michael Wong
165    26    Salah Al Rimawi
166    25    Brian Butler
167    25    Amar Kang
168    25    Dave Martin
169    25    Christian Tuvi
170    25    Lee Brett
171    24    Adam Kielar
172    24    Bill Cote
173    24    Carlos Carter
174    24    CJ Wiley
175    24    Cyriel Ledoux
176    24    Dave Grau
177    24    Fahad Alkhaldi
178    24    Jeremy Jones
179    24    Jesse Piercey
180    24    John Lacy
181    24    Josh Hillard
182    24    Melissa Little
183    24    Richie Richeson
184    24    Robert Frost
185    22.5    Alan Duty
186    22.5    Dave Fernandez
187    22.5    Gareth Steele
188    22.5    Jaime Forcier
189    22.5    Jason Hubert
190    22.5    Joey Dupuis
191    22.5    Martin LaLonde
192    22.5    Mike Wallace
193    22.5    Norm Pomainville
194    22.5    Russ Phillip
195    22    Abdullah Al Yousef
196    22    Alain Boutin
197    22    Andrew Carlisle
198    22    Chris Szuter
199    22    Conner Sherman
200    22    Dan Louie
201    22    Majed Al Azemi
202    22    Philip Davis
203    22    Steve Hancock
204    22    Steve Hickman
205    22    Sylver Ochoa
206    22    Tommy Tokoph
207    22    Troy Jones
208    20    Dale Kimmett
209    20    Danny Olson
210    20    Jon James Jr.
211    20    Kosuke Tojo
212    20    Kyle Richard
213    20    Leonard Relling
214    20    Paul Dryden
215    20    Randall Truscott
216    20    Randy Labonte
217    20    Rob Sakell
218    20    Roger Miller
219    20    Rory Hendickson
220    20    Tommy Najar
221    20    Greg Jenkins
222    20    Ryan Solleveld
223    20    Shayne Morrow
224    18    Blaine Barcus
225    18    Brian Lipes
226    18    Bruce Nagle
227    18    Chris Lynch
228    18    Chris Simon
229    18    Ed Culhane
230    18    Mick Morris
231    18    Nelson Weimer
232    18    Rick Grannis
233    16    Bob Nunley
234    16    Borana Andoni
235    16    Brad Ragon
236    16    Brady Behrman
237    16    Chris Bateman
238    16    Clyde Matta
239    16    Darrick Deperto
240    16    Daryl Biggart
241    16    Donald Weathersby
242    16    Dustin Byrd
243    16    Earl Herring
244    16    Ed Sharpe
245    16    Gabe Apollos
246    16    Greg McAndrews
247    16    James Gottier
248    16    Jed Jecen
249    16    Jerome Tinsley
250    16    John James
251    16    John Schulte
252    16    Justin Wray
253    16    Nathan Rose
254    16    Nicole Keeney
255    16    Paul Rozonewski
256    16    Rob Hart
257    16    Rob Staskowski
258    16    Steve Legace
259    16    Steve Sheppard
260    16    Yesid Garibello

Billiards Battles Lung Cancer

Newport News, Virginia- Dragon Promotions is joining the fight against lung cancer. On August 3rd, Pockets Billiards in Newport News, VA will host the first Billiards Battles Lung Cancer tournaments and events. The proceeds will go towards lung cancer awareness and to benefit Allen Cox, owner of Pockets who is currently battling lung cancer.

The pool community of players and sponsors have been amazingly supportive. The main sponsor Parrish Amusements made a generous donation as did Andy Cloth which provided brand new cloth for all the tables. Top billiard industry sponsors OB Cues, Scorpion Cues, Pure X Cues, Aramith, Master Chalk, and Pool & Billiard Magazine have all lent their support. Community sponsors in the Hampton Roads area include East Coast Landscaping, Old Bay Seafood Suffolk, Tillage Automotive, Sabins Recoding Services, Pet World, The Sunglass Guy, Qmasters Billiards, Amazing Entertainment, Newport News Amusements, Long's Billiards, the APA Peninsula, and the Action Pool Tour. The landlord put in 2 brand new AC units, and regular patrons helped repaint the poolroom. Allison Fisher donated some autograph gifts and World Champion John Schmidt will be flying in to guest and play in the events.

"It's great to be part of this event and promote the battle against lung cancer. I'm a non-smoker, so I think this is terrific for the image of our sport", said Schmidt.

All total, $5000 has been raised already for the $1000 added prize purses as well as a huge raffle where over 50 prizes will be given away. By far this will be the biggest event Pockets has ever hosted.

Dragon Promotions has donated it's time and services to organize and produce the events. Its founder Charlie Williams grew up in the local mom and pop poolroom. "Allen was very good to me as a kid. He gave me a safe environment for me to learn how to play pool and did alot of little things to make sure I had support. He's a humble and unselfish man, and I will always hold a special place in my heart for him and Pockets", said Williams. Known as the Korean Dragon, Charlie went on to become the most successful pool player to come out of Hampton Roads winning major championships worldwide, numerous television appearances, and eventually holding the #1 ranking on the pro tour at one time before becoming a renown producer. The Dragon's humble beginnings had his start in Newport News at Pockets

The event itself will consist of a open men's event, a amateur women's tourney, and a doubles midnight event. A cookout and huge raffle drawing will also take place. On the following day August 4th will be the Andy Cloth Pro Pool School with champs John "Mr.400" Schmidt and Charlie Williams.

There was already a feature story on the event in local news as the buzz grows.

Allen Cox has been a pool lover for most of his life. He started playing pool when he was 12. Started cleaning a poolhall called Twines in Suffolk Va when he was 16. He worked in the shipyard for 13 years and was ready to get out of it when the idea of a poolroom entered his mind. He had a group of players that would play in his basement daily, and he already knew a lot about pool so he opened Pockets in 1989.

" I remember when we first opened I was 5, I had my own little stick and had to stand on a milk crate to reach and see over the table to play. Pockets has always been a part of me and Ive gained a second family from all of the dedicated customers that have been coming since we opened. With everything going on now, I've put my own dreams aside of opening my own art gallery and studio to carry on my dads and my love of Pockets. We've been open 24yrs and we plan to stay open for many more years to come!

Pockets recently switched voluntarily to becoming a Non-Smoking poolroom after 2 decades.

To attend the events is free and to join call Pockets at 757-591-2162. Like and follow Pockets at www.facebook.com/pocketsbilliards.newportnews.va

McDermott Announces Free Cue Giveaway for August 2013

MENOMONEE FALLS, WI (August 1, 2013) – McDermott Cue Mfg. LLC is a leading manufacturer and worldwide distributor of pool cues, performance shafts and billiard accessories. McDermott is proud to announce the August 2013 Cue Giveaway Sweepstakes.

Each month, McDermott gives away a free pool cue to a lucky contestant. For August 2013, the free cue giveaway features the new G322 model with a Birdseye maple forearm, Bocote sleeve, Wildfire “Clover” 3-D image carving in a Maple medallion, 3 Bocote points, and a lizard-embossed Italian leather wrap. The G322 comes standard with McDermott’s high-performance G-Core shaft.

To enter the contest, visit www.mcdermottcue.com/giveaway and fill out the simple survey. There is no limit to the number of times one can enter the contest. At the end of the month, McDermott will randomly select a winner to receive a free G322 pool cue. Congratulations to last month’s winner, Randy Nimon of Pueblo, CO. He won a GS01C1 pool cue with a high-performance G-Core shaft!

McDermott Cue is headquartered in Menomonee Falls, WI and markets under the brands of McDermott Cue, Star Cue, Lucky Cue, Element Cue, Wildfire, Pool Prodigy, Intimidator i-Shafts, G-Core Shafts, Big Boy Shafts, Sledgehammer Break Cue, Stinger Break/Jump Cues and Elephant Balls.

For more information about this press release, contact McDermott’s Creative Director, Derek Blaguski, at derekb@mcdermottcue.com or call 1-800-666-2283. More information can be found at www.mcdermottcue.com.

Owen O’Brien Crowned U-13 9-Ball Champion
www.rballsports.com

Q-Sports Academy Sports Club Fintona recently held a Under-13 9-Ball Pool League over a number of weeks taking place on a Thursday evening at the Cue-Sport Achievers Club with the Grand-Finals (semi-finals & final) taking place in the club on the same night as the Earl Strickland 9-Ball Pool Exhibition in front of over 80 spectators who attended.

This Cue-Sport Legend Earl “THE PEARL” Strickland, Multiple World Champion and Hall Of Famer from the USA presented the prizes and praised these young stars in his closing speech as well as giving them some encouraging advice on the game of 9-Ball.

Cain Groogan defeated Nathan Gormley in the first semi-final playing superb pool on the night and Owen O’Brien also progressed to the final overcoming the challenge of Piaras Donnelly in the second semi-final.

The final got underway in front of over 80 spectators who attend the night with both young players playing great pool but on this occasion it was young Owen O’Brien who was crowned a worthy champion defeating Cain on a 3-1 score-line with Owen getting the taste of victory after being defeated in five finals in different Cue-Sport Competitions throughout the year at the Cue-Sport Achievers Club.


Earl “THE PEARL” Strickland, Multiple World Champion and Hall Of Famer from the USA and the 2013 World Junior 8-Ball Pool Champion Carl Martin are pictured with both young players Cain Groogan (runner-up) and Owen O’Brien (winner) after the final of the Q-Sports Academy Under-13 9-Ball League Competition.

THE ULTIMATE DERBY ON THE BIG SCREEN

It's back! The oldest international fixture in the world is on again, as England take on Scotland at Wembley.

So what better way to enjoy the old adversaries than a cool refresher on the night for just £1.99!*

Ring the mates, get the squad together and enjoy watching the old foes fight it out!

Regards,
The Rileys Team


* Terms and conditions: £1.99 pint offered between 7pm to 11pm, Wednesday 14th only. Valid for Bass, Boddingtons, Budweiser, Becks Vier, Gamers, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, R Whites. Not valid in Scotland.

Van Boening Enters His First World Tournament of 14.1! Bustamante is Back!

•     Players Meeting has been changed to 8PM Sunday August 18th at Steinway Billiards.
•     Group Photo will be taken on Aug 21 final day of round robin at the start of the 14.1 Hall of Fame Banquet. All players have a free ticket to dinner. Any guests or fans can buy ticket at Steinway or online here http://worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html
•     Reminder All Players will have to register with the ABP Association of Billiard Professionals on Aug 18th and 19th as this is a sanctioned pro ranking event. $25 (semi-pro or amateur) or $100 (Touring pro) to join plus form.
•     Sean Leinen, Bruce Butler and Ralph Rubin welcome to the 141 Club ! Join now and get the benefits on our site: Be a part of the event that put 14.1 back on the map!
•     Join the 141 CLUB and support the World's Greatest Straight Pool Tournament . Limited to Only 141 Members.
•     The following members thus far are responsible for making the 73rd World Tournament happen. Please join them (Join here:http://worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html )

New York, New York - It's heating up! America's #1 ranked player Shane Van Boening will chase his first straight pool title next week at the Olhausen 73rd World Tournament of 14.1. Filipino World Champion and legend Francisco Bustamante returns for his second visit to the world's oldest tournament. Dragon Promotions and Dr. Michael Fedak will bring another globally star studded field at this year's 73rd Olhausen World Tournament hosted by Steinway Billiards in New York on August 19th-24th,2013.

Though the World Tournament has been revived since 2006, Van Boening has not accepted his invite previously until now.

Van Boening has won a myriad of titles including the US Open 9-Ball, the International 10-Ball Championship, as well as many 8-Ball and Derby City One Pocket titles. But he is missing Straight Pool, the father of all other games. I asked him about his favorite games in order. "If I had to choose my favorite game, it would be barbox 8-Ball. There's no luck. 10-Ball, 9-Ball...you have to be lucky after the break to get a good shot on the 1-Ball. One Pocket is a good game." How about straight pool ? Shane shrugs his shoulders , "I'll try it."

One time he met Willie Mosconi with his grandfather. "Mosconi tells Shane, you can be the best in the world. And even implied better than him if he practiced", said Gary. "But I don't think Shane could beat Willie in his prime. Not yet. It was different games they both play, but Mosconi was pretty amazing. But I'd love to see Shane play 14.1. I think he could win that,too."
        
Through additional support from such sponsors such as Olhausen Tables, Championship Cloth, Aramith Balls, Amsterdam Billiards, Pool & Billiard Magazine, Master Chalk, and now FURY Cues, the absolute best pool players from around the world will arrive on the birth country of 14.1 once more to attend this prestigious event. All to vie for the coveted title of greatest straight pool player in the world.

"As a USA manufacturer, Championship Cloth believes in supporting events on American soil. This is the second consecutive year we have been chosen as the Official Cloth of the event and we are thrilled at the player's reception of the quality of our product. We welcome all the professionals from around the world to the World Tournament", said Mike Serra ,Chairman of the BCA and Vice-President of Championship Cloth & Brands.

Bustamante came close to the Gold in 2008 when he got to the finals undefeated only to fall to Netherlands Niels Feijen. Though not a student of the game, Francisco's pool skills make him dangerous in any game on the felt. Joining him from his homeland, world class Warren Kiamco will be joining him in his first attempt at the World Tournament of 14.1. Kiamco is a great all around player with high finishes in 8-Ball and one pocket events as well as being the reigning ABP sanctioned Johnny Archer Classic Champion, in which he toppled Van Boening in the finals.
Other Asian notables will be Can Wang of China and Eddie Kwok of Korea.

Get the latest news by following http://www.facebook.com/Worldstraightpool and www.twitter.com/Dragonpromoter

Vendor spaces are also available, for more information on player registration, sponsorship, or if you would like to submit a comment, please email worldstraightpoolchampionships@gmail.com or contact Dragon Promotions at 1-407-782-4978. Full event info is at www.dragonpromotions.com

Join the 141 Club ! Limited to the first 141 members. Visit http://www.worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html Tickets will be sold at the door during the event. Sponsors and private contributors can still join this year's event. Attend the 3rd Annual Straight Pool Hall of Fame on August 21st at 7pm. Tickets on sale now online at http://www.worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html

FILIPINO POOL SHARKS VIE FOR ALL JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIP
by Marlon Bernardino

POOL sharks coming from around the world will be vying for prestige and the coveted crown when the 46th All Japan Championship gets underway on November 12-18 at the Hotel New Archaic Hall in Amagasaki-shi, Hyogo, Japan.

As expected Filipino Billiards masters Efren "Bata" Reyes, Francisco "Django" Bustamante, Alex "The Lion" Pagulayan, Dennis "Robocop" Orcollo, Ronato "Volcano" Alcano, Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado and Lee Vann "The Slayer" Corteza will spearhead the Philippine campaign.

Other notable cue masters will seeing in action are Ramil "Bebeng" Gallego, Antonio "Nickoy" Lining, Jonas James Reyes, Warren "Warrior" Kiamco, Jundel "Jano" Mazon, Rodrigo "Edgie Marilao" Geronimo, Johann "Bubwit" Chua, Val Pajuay, Roel Esquillo and Jerome Andrino.

"Mabigat po y'ung All Japan Championship pero tinitiyak namin (Filipino cue artists) na lalaban kami ng husto," said the 28-year-old Jonas James Reyes, who is fresh from winning the monthly Tiger Cup 10-ball tournament at the famous Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City last June.

"Gagawin po namin y'ung aming makakaya para sa bayan, "added the pride of San Mateo/Montalban, Rizal Jonas James Reyes, long-distant relative of Efren "Bata" Reyes, who also got a strong fourth place finish in the 2013 POC-PSC Philippine National Games last May at the Gameball, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The tournament will feature defending champion Jung-Lin Chang of Taiwan, Kunihiko Takahashi of Japan, Mika Immonen of Finland, Ralf Souquet and Thorsten Hohman of Germany and Johnny Archer of the United States, among others.

Chang, a player from Bugsy International Promotions, cemented his status as world no. 1 after beating countryman Yang Ching-shun of Chinese-Taipei in the finals of the last year's edition. Chang went home with the top prize of $28,600, while Yang settled for $14,300.

RAMON 'MAESTRO MONCHING' MISTICA TOPS CALIFORNIA 9-BALL
by Marlon Bernardino

US-based Filipino Ramon "Maestro Monching" Mistica continues his winning ways in the California Billiards Tournament.

Banking on his experience and international exposure, Mistica added the Pallacade 9-Ball Tilt to his growing list of billiards honors by edging American Terry White, 7-6, Saturday night (Sunday, Manila time) in the finals of the Pallacade 9-Ball Championships in San Francisco, California.

The win enabled Mistica, a pool instructor and habitue of Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City to captured his fifth straight California title this year including his victories in the Hardtime Billiards in Sacramento and Familly Billiards in San Francisco.

"I was cautious all-throughout because I know Terry is a very tough opponent especially in the final matches, but of course besides experience I had a better luck in the end game after his magnificent performance at the start of the game," the Murphy, Quezon City native Mistica, referring his fifth California title.

Mistica was known to frequently play at the famous AMF Puyat Billiards Hall in Farmers Plaza in Quezon City, and played against many of the most widely-known names of his generation including Efren “Bata” Reyes, Santos Sambajon, and “The Leader of the Filipino Invasion Jose "Amang" Parica., whom he beat in tournament in the mid 90's.

“The best pool teacher in the Philippines” said Bata Reyes.

His next tournament is the longest running 9-ball tournament in the United States dubbed as US Open 9-ball on October 14 to 19 at the Norfolk Marriott Chesapeake (formerly Holiday Inn) in Chesapeake, Virginia.

AND THE RESULTS ARE IN!

This Thursday is A level results day, when lads and lasses up and down the country will either be drowning their sorrows or jumping for joy.

We thought we'd add a little something to get the party started, so whether you're a student or not, you can play pool or snooker for FREE in our clubs on the 15th.*

For the brainy student ones amongst you, there's also the reward of a FREE shot for every A level pass you've got. (Bring your results slip to qualify and good or bad results, remember to drink responsibly.)*

It's what you might call a right result!

Regards,
The Rileys Team


* Terms and conditions: 1 Free Corkys or Wild shot (25ml) per confirmed A Level result, with every drink purchased. Strictly one shot per transaction. Student membership required. Valid to persons over 18 only. Free pool valid between 08:00-20:00 on Thursday 15th August. Not valid in Scotland.

Schmidt Leads USA: Hohmann Leads Europe

New York, New York - Reigning World Tournament of 14.1 Champion John "Mr.400" Schmidt will be headlining the American pros at this year's World Tournament. Opposing his lead will be Germany's Thorsten Hohmann, who's red hot 14.1 win last week will gear him and the other Europeans. The USA contingent and Europe will clash next week in New York City. Dragon Promotions and Dr. Michael Fedak will bring another globally star studded field at this year's 73rd Olhausen World Tournament hosted by Steinway Billiards in New York on August 19th-24th,2013. Live stream broadcast will be on www.insidepool.tv

"Out of all the titles I've won, the World 14.1 has meant the most to me. I couldn't even contain the emotions when I made the final break shot last year against Efren. I'm just happy to have done it for all the American players and fans", said Schmidt. John has two runs over 400 in straight pool and dozens of 200+ ball runs. He is known on tour to be the best pure ball runner in 14.1.

"John did two things last year that changed history. First, he became the first American World Tournament of 14.1 Champion in the new millennium. Secondly, he proved to the world that the Europeans could be beaten. And the first time in this decade, he prevented a European from entering the finals. Then he defeats Efren Reyes!", explained Charlie Williams, executive producer of the event. Schmidt defeated Thorsten Hohmann in the quarter-finals last year and Germany's Ralf Eckert in the semi-finals. He then defeated Hohmann again a few weeks later in the finals of the Maryland 14.1, proving his wins were not a fluke.

The Europeans dominated the first 6 years since the revival of the World Tournament of 14.1

America will have plenty of backup with heavy hitters such as Johnny Archer (former Bronze Medalist), Mike Davis (former Silver Medalist), Charlie Williams (Bronze Medalist), Max Eberle (Bronze Medalist), Dennis Hatch, Corey Deuel, Shaun Wilkie, and Earl Strickland. Straight pool specialists such as Danny Barouty, Tony Robles, and throwback players Earl Herring and Tom Walters. Newcomers Shane Van Boening and Robb Saez will also be interesting to watch.

However, the work will be cut out for the Americans. 2x World 14.1 Champion Thorsten Hohmann is in top form with multiple 100+ ball runs coming into this year's event from his recent win. 2x World Champion Oliver Ortmann of Germany will be right behind him as well as Finland's Mika Immonen who has twice finished with a Silver in this event. France's Stephan Cohen will return (2009 World 14.1 Gold) , and Germany's Ralph Eckert (2012 Bronze). Scotland's Jonni Fulcher has finished high in the event previously and newcomer Jayson Shaw's eagle eye shotmaking will be fun to watch. Qualifier winner from Ireland's Gary O'Callaghan will return for his second year, and England's Darren Appleton (2012 Bronze) has already stated he feels he could have won the Gold last year if he wasn't stopped by Reyes.

Through additional support from such sponsors such as Olhausen Tables, Championship Cloth, Aramith Balls, Amsterdam Billiards, Pool & Billiard Magazine, Master Chalk, and now FURY Cues, the absolute best pool players from around the world will arrive on the birth country of 14.1 once more to attend this prestigious event. All to vie for the coveted title of greatest straight pool player in the world.

Get the latest news by following www.facebook.com/Worldstraightpool and www.twitter.com/Dragonpromoter

Vendor spaces are also available, for more information on player registration, sponsorship, or if you would like to submit a comment, please email worldstraightpoolchampionships@gmail.com or contact Dragon Promotions at 1-407-782-4978. Full event info is at www.dragonpromotions.com
Join the 141 Club ! Limited to the first 141 members. Visit www.worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html Tickets will be sold at the door during the event. Sponsors and private contributors can still join this year's event. Attend the 3rd Annual Straight Pool Hall of Fame on August 21st at 7pm. Tickets on sale now online at www.worldstraightpool.com/tickets.html

888casino.com Sponsors the World Seniors Snooker Championship

World Snooker is delighted to announce 888casino.com as the new title sponsor of the World Seniors Championship.

The 888casino.com World Seniors Championship brings together legends of the sport from the past three decades. It will run over the weekend of October 19-20 at the Mountbatten Centre in Portsmouth, and will receive extensive television coverage from Sky Sports.

Famous names competing for the title will include Steve Davis, Jimmy White, Dennis Taylor, Cliff Thorburn, Joe Johnson, defending champion Nigel Bond and, for the first time, seven-time World Champion Stephen Hendry.

The draw has been made and the first round line-up is as follows:

Tony Knowles v Darren Morgan
Dene O’Kane v Nigel Bond
Tony Drago v Qualifier 1
Steve Davis v Dennis Taylor
Joe Johnson v Stephen Hendry
Alain Robidoux v Tony Chappel
Cliff Thorburn v Qualifier 2
Doug Mountjoy v Jimmy White

World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: “888casino.com are showing fantastic support for snooker this season through title sponsorship of a range of events.”

Hearn added: “The World Seniors has been a tremendous success since we brought it on to the calendar in 2010. It’s wonderful to see the legends of the game getting a chance to compete for a trophy, and the tournament is great fun for the fans watching live in Portsmouth or on Sky. We look forward to working with the 888 team and delivering a weekend of sensational snooker.”

Itai Pazner, Senior Vice President of 888.com, commented: “888 is very excited to continue our connection to Snooker across several events in the upcoming months. The feedback from our customers show that Snooker is one of their favorite sports which is why our sponsorship with our casino brand, 888casino, is the perfect match. We hope our customers will enjoy the extra promotions and content we will provide by teaming up with the World Seniors Championship and other Snooker events.”

Jimmy White, who won the title in 2010, said: "It's fantastic event which brings players from all around the world to compete. The event gets stronger every year. Everyone is there to enjoy it and everyone is there to win."

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW and start at just £15. There are also some fabulous VIP tickets available with access to the players' lounge and the chance for fans to mingle with their heroes. For details call 02392 6265 or visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

To watch the draw being made visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aLQGqVbQ9Q

1st Annual TEXAS BUMPS™ Tournament at the RIO in Las Vegas at the BCAPL Championships

Mike Massey has “added another win to his Resume” , as he said when accepting the $2000 1st Place payout, for the first annual TEXAS BUMPS™ tournament at the BCAPL in Las Vegas, Nevada, on July 23rd, 2013. The TEXAS BUMPS™ Tournament featured amateur and professional players competing in a no-handicap tournament.

Massey went through the pack undefeated, but nowhere near unscathed. There were some exciting and tense moments that had everyone on the edge of their seats. Gale Gearhart, an amateur player who is a rep for John Bertone and the Kamui Co., held up really well in his play. Gearhart toppled Mike Dechaine in the semi-finals, while Mike Massey overcame Max Eberle in a nail-bite.

TEXAS BUMPS™ is a new game which is played on a regular pool table. It is a straight-shooting, banking, caroming, strategizing, bumpy ride for all contestants, but everyone has a great time and gets to experience some real trials and tribulations. This game is a medium to difficult no-handicap game, where players of all skill levels are able to compete in the march to the Winner’s Circle. Indeed, even without handicaps, a professional player lost in the first round and an amateur player advanced to the final match!

The final race to three on Tuesday evening, started out with Massey taking a 2-0 lead in an offensive battle over Gearhart. Gearhart bounced back with a game and the hunt got more intense. Neither player seemed willing to go for anything risky and Massey fought off a desire to go for the home run shot. After Gearhart missed a nail-biter, Massey made a tough shot past a blocking ball for the win.

Mike Massey won $2000 for the Tournament Win and Gale Gearhart won $1000 in Second Place prize money. The Texas Bumps Tournament paid out a total of $5000.

Walden Wins In Doncaster

A stunning clearance in the deciding frame saw Ricky Walden beat Marco Fu 4-3 in the final of the Bluebell Wood Open in Doncaster.

Walden, who reached the semi-finals of the World Championship at the end of last season, showed superb form in winning seven matches to take the £20,000 top prize at the season's third European Tour event.

The 30-year-old from Chester, ranked ninth in the world, captured the third professional title of his career and first since last season's Wuxi Classic.

He won a scrappy opening frame in the final before Hong Kong's Fu levelled with an excellent break of 113. Walden regained the lead with a run of 44 and went 3-1 up with a well-constructed 73.

A drawn-out fifth frame went the way of Fu and the Hong Kong ace added the next with a break of 54 for 3-3.

The decider lasted 39 minutes and Fu looked in control when he led 38-2. Walden missed a long red and was lucky to fluke it into a centre pocket. And he took full advantage of that slice of fortune by clearing the table with 65 for victory.

"I got lucky in the end with the fluke," admitted Walden. "I feared the worst when it went 3-3 and I was just hoping for one chance. It's my first win in a European Tour event and hopefully I can win more this season.

"I took the positives out of my run at the Crucible. It was frustrating to lose in the semis but I played well and came so close to the final. I'm using a new cue this season and it's working so far."

The European Tour comprises eight events, with the top 24 on the final Order of Merit to qualify for the Grand Finals next March, to be joined by eight more players from the Asian Tour Order of Merit. The next event is the Paul Hunter Classic in Germany from August 22 to 25.

Results (last 16 onwards)

Last 16
Mark Williams 4-0 Pankaj Advani
Steve Davis 3-4 Marco Fu
Anthony Hamilton 2-4 Ding Junhui
Jimmy Robertson 4-3 Vinnie Calabrese
Stephen Maguire 4-1 Peter Lines
Shaun Murphy 4-1 Tom Ford
David Gilbert 2-4 Ricky Walden
Mark Allen 4-2 Rod Lawler

Quarter-finals
Mark Williams 0-4 Marco Fu
Ding Junhui 4-1 Jimmy Robertson
Stephen Maguire 2-4 Shaun Murphy
Ricky Walden 4-3 Mark Allen

Semi-finals
Marco Fu 4-3 Ding Junhui
Shaun Murphy 1-4 Ricky Walden

Final
Marco Fu 3-4 Ricky Walden


Ricky Walden receives the trophy from WPBSA Chairman Jason Ferguson

President MA grants an audience to Mr. TU of CTBA
(Taipei, 07 August 2013)

To bestow praise on Mr. TU Yung-Hui for his distinguished leaderships promoting pool sports in Taiwan during the past decades, Mr. TU Yung-Hui the President of Chinese Taipei Billiards Association (CTBA) was invited for an interview at the Presidential Hall in Taipei and a photo was taken together with President MA Ying-Jeou of Taiwan, The Republic of China. President MA commends and congratulates the outstanding performances that Taiwanese pool players have been achieved from previous years and during the recent World Games 2013 Cali in Columbia and the 4th Inchon Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Korea.

CTBA enjoys long term cooperation with Amway Taiwan and Videoland Sports which the parties have jointly hosted AMWAY (eSpring) Women’s 9 Ball Open for 16 consecutive years. CTBA and Videoland Sports also provide weekly Men’s and Women’s Pro Tournaments live on television in Taiwan. CTBA is striving towards the goal that the organizer to include all billiard related tournaments as official competition items of the 2017 Taipei Summer Universiade.

TAR Podcast #42

After a long break we are back! Podcast this Thursday at 6PM Pacific. Lots to talk about including announcing the next TAR match which will be TAR 36. Join us free this Thursday at theactionreport.com

Snooker Shoot-Out Tickets On Sale

Snooker’s fast and furious Shoot-Out event returns to the Tower Circus Arena in Blackpool in January, and fans are urged to book tickets fast.

The spectacular one-frame knockout event, with ten-minute frames and a shot clock, will run from January 24 to 26 at the Tower Circus Arena, Blackpool

The world’s top 64 players will all be invited to compete in the three-day event, which will receive extensive television coverage from Sky Sports. Martin Gould will be defending the title which he won last season by beating Mark Allen in the final.

Tickets, which start at just £16, can be bought by visiting worldsnooker.com/tickets or calling 0871 620 7052 (calls cost 10p per minute, plus network extras).

There is also a SPECIAL OFFER until the end of August, with tickets discounted by £5. Just quote 'SUMMER SAVER 01' when booking.

And for fans who want an extra-special experience, there are VIP tickets available which include backstage access to the players' lounge with the chance to meet snooker heroes, as well as all-day access to the arena and a free drink, programme and goody bag.

World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: “The Shoot-Out has proved a phenomenal success over the past three years and we are delighted to return to one of the best arenas in the sporting world. The Tower Circus produces an extraordinary cauldron-like atmosphere so it’s all about which player can think quickly under pressure. It’s a dramatic three days of snooker

“Last season, tickets for certain sessions sold out quickly, so the message to fans this time is get them BOOKED NOW to made sure of your seats for a stunning weekend of entertainment, at great value for money.”

See Snooker Stars In Barnsley FREE

Fans in Barnsley will be able to watch snooker’s top players in action for FREE at the Metrodome in October.

The Barnsley Metrodome will stage World Snooker tournaments for the first time this season, starting with the International Championship qualifiers on October 1st and 2nd.

The South Yorkshire venue has been selected to host the qualifying rounds of major ranking events during the 2013/14 season. All professional players will be eligible to enter which means cue kings like Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins, Judd Trump, Neil Robertson, Mark Selby, Jimmy White and Steve Davis could be in action.

The International Championship qualifiers will see 128 players involved, with the 64 winners going through to the final stages in Chengdu, China

And World Snooker have made the decision to give spectators free access into the arena to see the green baize wizards compete.

Chairman Barry Hearn said: “This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to our existing fans for their loyal support. It’s a chance to come and see your heroes free of charge. And for anyone who hasn’t seen live snooker before, it’s the perfect opportunity to see what it’s all about.

“We have the UK Championship coming up in York in December and of course the World Championship in Sheffield in April so any new fans introduced to the sport in Yorkshire have the biggest tournaments on their doorstep.

"The lay-out of the arena means that fans can watch several tables at once. It really is a tremendous opportunity and people can just turn up on the day and gain access with no need to reserve in advance."

All matches are best of 11 frames and there are sessions at 9.30am, 2.30pm and 7.30pm on both days. The draw and format will be released after the seeding cut-off point on September 23.

Later in the season, the Metrodome will also host the qualifying rounds of the German Masters (December 11-12), Haikou World Open (December 13-14) and China Open (February 17-1.