Site News
Topic: *Industry News* Aug-Dec 2010

Lee Wins EPTC4 Title

Stephen Lee won a tournament carrying ranking points for the first time in over four years by beating Stephen Maguire 4-2 in the final of Euro Players Tour Championship event four.

The 36-year-old, ranked 20th in the world, won the 10,000 Euro first prize at the South West Snooker Academy in Gloucester, not far from his home in Trowbridge. Lee, a winner of four full ranking titles, most recently the 2006 Welsh Open, is the tenth winner in ten events on the PTC series this season.

Standing 31st in the Order of Merit before this event, he is now set to finish in the top 24 and qualify for the grand finals in March.

Lee took the opening frame with a break of 62 then Glasgow's Maguire levelled with a 56. A run of 68 saw Lee take the third and he added the next for 3-1. Maguire won the fifth before Lee settled the result in frame six.

The former Crucible semi-finalist was 3-0 down to Andrew Norman in the last 16 this morning but hit back to win 4-3 then went on to beat Mark Davis 4-2 and Joe Jogia 4-1 to reach the final.

"I should have been going home at the last 16 stage so to end up lifting the trophy is a great feeling," said Lee. "I played some good stuff after that. My goal was just to get into the top 24 because I want to be in the final event.

"Last week (at EPTC3) I drove to Germany, lost 4-0 to Issara Kachaiwong and drove home again. So it just shows you that form can come at funny times and things can turn around very quickly."

Lee declined to set regaining a place among the top 16 of the world rankings as a new goal, adding: "You've got to take tournaments one at a time and not look too far in front or put pressure on yourself. I'm just happy to be enjoying the game again."

EPTC5 is in Hamm, Germany, in two weeks time, with the last of the 12 short events to follow in Prague.

12BET.com To Sponsor Snooker's UK Championship

World Snooker is delighted to announce that 12BET.com has signed up as the new title sponsor of snooker's UK Championship, following the outstanding success of their sponsorship of the recent World Open.

Snooker's second biggest ranking tournament and one of the most keenly anticipated events on the sporting calendar, the 12BET.com UK Championship runs from December 4 to 12 at the International Centre in Telford.

Leading online betting firm 12BET.com enjoyed a first taste of snooker at September's 12BET.com World Open in Glasgow, a thrilling event which saw Neil Robertson beat Ronnie O'Sullivan in the final. They have now added this year's UK Championship to their sponsorship portfolio.

World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: "The fact that 12BET.com has invested in the next major event shows that they were delighted with the exposure they gained for their brand at the World Open. It is a testament to what snooker can deliver in terms of exceptional reach of the television and media coverage.

"The UK Championship will be broadcast to hundreds of millions of fans on BBC, Eurosport, CCTV in China and across the globe, so it's obvious why our product is attractive to sponsors. We're thrilled to welcome 12BET.com on board for the UK and we look forward to continuing to build a close relationship with their team."

Rory Anderson, Chief Executive for Europe at 12BET.com, added: "We are looking forward to the event and the global exposure it will generate for the 12BET.com brand."

The UK Championship is one of snooker's most historic and celebrated events, a regular fixture on the calendar since 1977 with most of the sport's greatest names inscribed on the trophy.

Competing for the £625,000 prize fund this year will be the likes of Rocket Ronnie O'Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, John Higgins, 12BET.com World Open champion Neil Robertson and defending champion Ding Junhui.

Tickets for the event are on sale now - for details call 01952 561700 or visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

White Excited By World Seniors

Jimmy White hopes he can go all the way to the title at snooker's Wyldecrest Park Homes World Seniors Championship this weekend - but believes it will be a highly competitive tournament.

The three-day event at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, which starts on Friday and finishes on Sunday, promises to be a fantastic celebration of snooker, with legends of the 1980s in action as well as stars aged over 40 still competing on the professional circuit.

Seven former World Champions are in the line-up - Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, Joe Johnson, Cliff Thorburn, John Parrott, Ken Doherty and Peter Ebdon - plus crowd favourite White and qualifier Nigel Bond.

White lost six times in the world final at the Crucible but hopes he can lift the trophy this time. He'll find out who he plays in Saturday's quarter-finals when the random draw takes place on Friday.

"It's going to be a great tournament and I'm really looking forward to it," said the 48-year-old. "It doesn't matter who I draw in the first match because there are no easy games. Joe Johnson has been practising non stop for this - every time I ring him he's on the table. I'm sure all of the others who aren't on the pro tour any more have also been putting the hours in.

"The opening games are only best of three so anyone can get through. I've been practising a lot myself, I feel ready for it and I would love to win it."

White, a former Masters and UK Champion, hopes that this new event will become a permanent fixture on the snooker calendar. "I know the players and fans will be really well looked after at the venue. It would be brilliant to see it grow and become a regular tournament," he added.

Sky Sports will show highlights of the event over the Christmas period.

There are a few tickets remaining for Friday's Sportsman's Dinner, which includes:

The chance to dine with the snooker heroes and take photos!

Tickets for the opening match of the tournament, Peter Ebdon v Nigel Bond!

A fantastic dinner!

A charity auction hosted by Willie Thorne!

Superb entertainment from singer and comedian Steve Womack!

IT’S AN EVENING NOT TO BE MISSED! Tickets cost £65 each or £585 for a table of ten. For details visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

THE 13TH ANNUAL DERBY CITY CLASSIC presented by Horseshoe Casino and Hotel

2011 Event Schedule at Horseshoe Casino and Hotel Southern Indiana
Ring Games & Mini-Tournaments (subject to change)
PLAYER ENTRIES, VIP AND VIP-TV TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12th at WWW.DERBYCITYCLASSIC.COM
ALL-AROUND CHAMPION
"MASTER OF THE TABLE"
PRIZE FUND
$25,000!
1ST PLACE WINNER RECEIVES $20,000
2ND PLACE WINNER RECEIVES $3,000
3RD PLACE WINNER RECEIVES $2,000

Thursday, January 20th
• Late sign-ups (if fields are not full) 4 pm-10 pm
• Practice time for 9-Ball Bank players 5 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am

Friday, January 21st
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball Bank players 9 am-10 am
• 9-BALL BANK DRAW 10:00 am
• Players meeting 12:00 pm
• Play begins (9-Ball Bank) 1:00 pm
• 9-Ball Bank match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• Bank Ring Game 12 am

Saturday, January 22nd
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball Bank players 9 am-10 am
• 9-Ball Bank match play resumes 10 am-5 pm
• 9-Ball Bank match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• One-Pocket Challenge 12 pm-12 am
• 9-Ball Bank Mini 12 am

Sunday, January 23rd
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball Bank & One Pocket players 9 am-10 am

• ONE-POCKET DRAW 10:00 am
• Players Meeting (One Pocket) 12:00 pm
• 9-Ball Bank match play resumes 10 am-5 pm
• Play begins (One Pocket) 1:00 pm
• One-Pocket match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• One-Pocket Challenge 12 pm-12 am
• Boney’s Senior One-Pocket Mini 12 am

Monday, January 24th

• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for One Pocket players 9 am-10 am
• One-Pocket match play resumes 10 am-5 pm
• Semi-Finals (9-Ball Bank) 7:00 pm
• One-Pocket match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Finals (9-Ball Bank) 9:00 pm
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• One-Pocket Challenge 12 pm-12 am

Tuesday, January 25th
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for One Pocket players 9 am-10 am
• One-Pocket match play resumes 11 am-5 pm
• Hall of Fame Dinner 6 pm
Steve Booth 603-496-8321
• One-Pocket match play continues 7 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• FATBOY 10-Ball Challenge ($10,000 Added) 12 am
• One-Handed One-Pocket Mini 12 Midnight

Wednesday, January 26th
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for One Pocket & 9-Ball players 9 am-10 am
• 9-BALL DRAW 10:00 am
• Players meeting 12:00 pm
• One-Pocket match play resumes 11 am-5 pm
• Play begins (9-Ball) 1:00 pm
• 9-Ball match play continues 7 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• FATBOY 10-Ball Challenge ($10,000 Added) 12 Midnight

Thursday, January 27th
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball players 9 am-10 am
• 9-Ball match play resumes 10 am-5 pm
• Semi-Finals (One-Pocket) 7:00 pm
• 9-Ball match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Finals (One-Pocket) 9:00 pm
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• FATBOY 10-Ball Challenge ($10,000 Added) 12 Midnight

Friday, January 28th
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball players 9 am-10 am
• 9-Ball match play resumes 10 am-5 pm
• 9-Ball match play continues 5 pm-12 am
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am
• 9-Ball Mini 12 am

Saturday, January 29th
• Tournament Room clean-up (no admittance) 7 am-9 am
• Practice time for 9-Ball players 9 am-10 am
• 9-Ball match play resumes 10 am-3 pm
• Semi-Finals (9-Ball) 7:00 pm
• Finals (9-Ball) 9:00 pm
• Thank You’s 10:00 pm
• Awards Ceremony

(9-Ball Bank, One-Pocket, 9-Ball
& All Around Champions) 10:30 pm
• Tables available for rental 12 am-7 am

FEMALE ALL-AROUND (Must play in all 3 events)
• 1st Place - $1500
• 2nd Place - $500
* Minimum of 8 women
* Must notify the office if you plan to compete for one of these titles

9-BALL BANK – January 21, 2011
• Draw 10:00 am; Player Meeting, Noon;
Match Play begins 1:00 pm
• Total Purse, $50,000* approximate
• Guaranteed Added $10,000
• Entry Fee $110** • Buy-In Option - $50
• Single Elimination • Race to 3
• Foul results in loss of ball
*Total Purse based on field of 400 players (max 400)
** Entry fee includes a $10 registration fee.

ONE-POCKET – January 23, 2011
• Draw 10:00 am; Player Meeting, Noon;
Match Play begins 1:00 pm
• Total Purse, $52,500* approximate
• Guaranteed Added $15,000
• Entry Fee $135** • Buy-In Option - $75
• Single Elimination • Race to 3
• Standard Rules
*Total Purse based on field of 300 players (max 400)
** Entry fee includes a $10 registration fee.

9-BALL – January 26, 2011
• Draw 10:00 am; Player Meeting, Noon;
Match Play begins 1:00 pm
• Total Purse, $77,500* approximate
• Guaranteed Added $25,000
• Entry Fee $160** • Buy-In Option - $100
• Single Elimination • Race to 7
• Pro-Express Rules
*Total Purse based on field of 350 players (max 400)
** Entry fee includes a $10 registration fee.

ONE-POCKET CHALLENGE JAN. 22-24
HELD IN THE AZ ROOM
PLEASE CONTACT JAY HELFERT (310) 370-3994
OR
Entry Fees
Regardless of the sport, all competitors have valid reasons for participating in tournaments and contests - recognition, the level of play, the internalized struggle, and the personal satisfaction. Rarely do they mention monetary reward, but as the old adage suggests, if they say it's the principle, it's the money. After all, "Show me the money" may be the new catch phrase, but the concept is an old one. It is not unusual for professional players with financial acumen and business write-offs to complain about the size of entry fees in the relation to prize money potential or size of purse. Ben Franklin wanted two birds with one stone, and these days, everyone with time management skills and economic savvy wants the best bang for their buck. The Derby City Classic presented by Horseshoe Casino and Hotel, with a high level of guaranteed prize money in relation to its low entry fee, provides an explosive opportunity that few players, professional or amateur, will ignore. Only in The Derby City Classic presented by Horseshoe Casino and Hotel can a total and modest $405 (Entry Fees include a $10.00 registration fee for each event) entry fee investment give you the chance to win money in all three different games. It's an irresistible billiards trifecta.

2011 Event Dates

9-Ball Banks
$110.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $10.00 registration fee)
Total: $110.00
Friday January 21st            $50.00 Buyback
Guaranteed Added $10,000
Draw 10:00am
Players Meeting 12 Noon
Match Play begins at 1:00pm                                                                        

One-Pocket
$135.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $10.00 registration fee)
Total: $135.00
Sunday January 23rd         $75.00 Buyback
Guaranteed Added $15,000
Draw 10:00am
Players Meeting 12 Noon
Match Play begins at 1:00pm

9-Ball
$160.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $10.00 registration fee)
Total: $160.00
Wednesday January 26th         $100.00 Buyback
Guaranteed Added $25,000
Draw 10:00am
Players Meeting, 12 Noon
Match Play begins at 1:00pm

9-Ball Mini-Tournament Player Entry
$30.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $5.00 registration fee)
Total: $30.00
Limited to first 64 players Race to 5
Saturday January 22nd
$1,000 Added
Match Play begins at 12:00am

9-Ball Bank Mini-Tournament Player Entry
$30.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $5.00 registration fee)
Total: $30.00
Limited to first 64 players Race to 5
Tuesday January 25th
$1,000 Added
Match Play Begins at 12:00am

One-Pocket Mini-Tournament Player Entry
$30.00 Entry Fee (Entry fee includes a $5.00 registration fee)
Total: $30.00
Limited to first 32 players Race to 2
Friday, January 28th
$1,000 Added
Match Play begins at 12:00am

The Derby City Classic presented by Horseshoe Casino and Hotel is an OPEN Tournament for all players, Male or

Female, Amateur or Professional. If under 18 years of age, you must be accompanied by an adult.

Call Horseshoe Casino and Hotel for Reservations:

1-866-766-2671 (Use code # SO1DCCC & SO1HDCP when making reservation)

FOR MORE INFORMATION: CALL DIAMOND BILLIARD PRODUCTS, INC. @ 812-288-7665 OR

www.DerbyCityClassic.com

Entries received the day of draw will incur an additional $25 charge.
Due to the Buy-In Option Format Prize Money pay out will be a minimum of 64 players or a maximum of 1/3 of the field.

The deadline for online registration will be Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 6:00pm EST

Refund requests must be in writing and received at Diamond Billiard Products, 4700 New Middle Rd., Jeffersonville, IN 47130 by January 17, 2011. All refunds will be charged a $25 cancellation fee plus the registration fee.

All refunds will be processed after February 26th, 2011. NO EXCEPTIONS!

For specific information or answers to questions, feel free to contact Diamond Billiard Products, Inc. @ (812) 288-7665.

Tickets will be held at the DCC Tournament Office located in the Horseshoe Casino and Hotel and can only be retrieved with a valid photo ID, such as a State ID, driver's license, or passport. Tickets will be available starting January 20, 2011.

If you have any questions please contact us at: info (at) dcctickets.com

Spectator Info
9 DAY EVENT PASS
VIP $185.00

VIP TV $240.00

3 Day VIP Finals Pass
Jan. 27th, 28th, and 29th
VIP $105.00

General Admission $100.00

DAILY ADMISSION AM
General Admission $6.00
VIP $10.00

DAILY ADMISSION PM
General Admission $9.00
VIP $15.00

FINALS
General Admission $15.00
VIP $25.00

VIP & VIP TV SEATS ARE NON REFUNDABLE AND NON TRANSFERABLE

Spouse passes to VIP will be charged full price due to limited seating.

Tickets will be held at DCC Office located in the Horseshoe Casino and Hotel and can only be retrieved with a valid photo ID, such as a State ID, driver's license, or passport. Tickets will be available starting January 20, 2011.

If you have any questions please contact us at: info@dcctickets.com

Thank you for your order and see you at The 13th Annual Derby City Classic presented by Horseshoe Casino and Hotel.

Book your hotel stay at Horseshoe Southern Indiana.

There are two types of room reservations offered:

Code S01HDCP: Discounted 9-day package (you must book package for arrival on January 21, 2011 and departure on January 30, 2011).

Please request a separate reservation for additional nights booked before or after these package dates.

OR

Code S01DCCC: Individual Booking Dates (book any nights you choose between 1/20 through 1/29/11).

Here are some very important notes on room reservation policies:

Every room reservation requires a charge of the first night's deposit at time of reservation.

This deposit is taken at the time of booking and is nonrefundable. No exceptions will be made.

A maximum of four people are allowed to stay in each room. Rollaway beds are not available.

If the discounted 9-day package is booked and any one of the nine nights is canceled, all room discounts will be revoked. Prices for all nights booked will revert to the full individual date prices.

Must be 21 to rent room.

Here is the information on each reservation type:

9-day package (limited availability)

GROUP/OFFER CODE S01HDCP

Book online: www.harrahs.com/CheckGroupAvailability.do?propCode=UEL&groupCode=S01HDCP
Minimum stay: 9 nights

Book by phone: 866-766-2671, code S01HDCP

Dates available: arrive Fri 1/21/11 and depart Sun 1/30/11 only. Please request a separate reservation for additional nights before and after these package dates.

Price: $99.99/night. Additional $10 per room night per extra room occupant when more than 2 occupants.

Deposit Refundable? No

Policies/Terms: A credit card is required at time of booking. The nonrefundable first night's deposit is charged for each reservation at the time of booking. Reservations for the 9-Day Package rate cannot be booked for fewer than the 9-day consecutive stay for the dates mentioned above. Cancellation of any day(s) within the 9-day package will result in all days reverting to the individual rates of $120 Sunday-Thursday, $140 Friday-Saturday. The Hotel will accept 9-day package reservations until the block is full.

Individual Dates (limited availability)

GROUP/OFFER CODE S01DCCC

Book online: www.harrahs.com/CheckGroupAvailability.do?propCode=UEL&groupCode=S01DCCC

Minimum Stay: 1 night

Book by phone: 866-766-2671, code S01DCCC

Dates available: Fri 1/21/11 through Sat 1/29/11. Please request a separate reservation for additional nights before and after these group dates.

Price: Sun-Thu @ $120.00/night, Fri-Sat @ $140.00/night. Additional $10 per room night per extra room occupant when more than 2 occupants.

Deposit Refundable? No

Policies/Terms: A credit card is required at time of booking. The nonrefundable first night's deposit is charged for each reservation at the time of booking. Reservations will be accepted until the block is full.

For information on Horseshoe Southern Indiana property amenities, events, features, dining options, etc. please visit www.horseshoeindiana.com

White Crowned Senior Champion

Jimmy White beat fellow snooker legend Steve Davis 4-1 in the final to win the Wyldecrest Park Homes World Seniors Championship.

Whirlwind White produced a vintage performance in an emphatic victory over old adversary Davis in the new event at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, before collecting the top prize of £20,000.

White, age 48, lost to Davis in the 1984 World Championship final and was denied the trophy six times at the Crucible - but can now count the World Seniors title among his list of honours.

A break of 45 helped White to the first frame. Davis made a 52 in the second before missing a red to a centre pocket, and his opponent stepped in with a superb 53 clearance. Londoner White extended his lead with a flawless 89.

He had a clear chance to settle it in frame four but accidentally feathered the white as he cued up for the final yellow at 34-46. Davis cleared to keep his hopes alive, but White dominated frame five with a top run of 44 for victory.

"I'm delighted, I had to be on my game because Steve was also playing well," said White. "When I feathered the white in the fourth I thought 'here we go again', but I managed to keep it together. My safety was very good and that's what won it for me.

"I've been putting a lot of hard work in recently, I've still got a lot of enthusiasm and I love playing. I'll be back on the table tomorrow and heading to Germany later this week for the EPTC event, and hopefully keeping this form going.

"This has been a brilliant event, all the players have had a lot of fun and it's been great entertainment for the fans. Hopefully it will become a regular event and I'll get the chance to defend the title."

Six-times World Champion Davis added: "Jimmy was superb, he put me under it from ball one. Missing the red in the second frame was expensive for me, but he seemed to play as well as ever."

Results

Qualifying round:

Nigel Bond 2-0 Peter Ebdon

Quarter-finals
Nigel Bond 2-0 Ken Doherty
Steve Davis 2-0 Joe Johnson
John Parrott 2-0 Dennis Taylor
Jimmy White 2-0 Cliff Thorburn

Semi-finals
Steve Davis 3-1 Nigel Bond
Jimmy White 3-2 John Parrott

Final
Jimmy White 4-1 Steve Davis
________________________________
UK Championship:
4-12 December, The International Centre, Telford
Tel: 01952 561700
www.worldsnooker.com/uk

World Seniors Championship Final:
November 5 to 7, Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford.
Tel: 0871 2200260

The Masters:
9-16 January, Wembley Arena
Tel : 0844 815 0815
www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

Power Snooker
October 30, London Indigo2
www.seetickets.com or Ticketmaster.co.uk
VIP packages eventtravel.com

German Masters: .
2-6 February, Tempodrom, Berlin
Online bookings: visit www.snookerstars.de

Amsterdam (D)open and Open - Coming Again!

Only one pool billiard tournament in the World has a doping policy that every participant is required to be under the influence of marihuana: The Amsterdam (D)open.

Since the 80’s, pool billiards in Amsterdam has developed in its famous “coffee shops” where a typical Amsterdam-style of pool has emerged. Since a couple of years the official circuit of organized pool is under the scrutiny of the official Olympic list of forbidden substances. Although Marihuana is in no way helpful for human concentration or endurance it still is listed as a officially forbidden substance. As a tribute to the roots of the sport Club 8 organizes the annual Amsterdam (D)open 8-ball tournament which this year will take place the 26th of November.

Every contender is free to put their chosen nickname on the participants list but is required to smoke, vaporize or eat their dose of marihuana so that every match is a fair game. Since the Amsterdam (D)open does not take itself seriously we hope that players also don’t and play for the enjoyable experience and the fun of the game as much as for the winning.

As every year all the participants receive a goody bag with the necessary paraphernalia and all the entrance fees will return as prize money to the best 8 players of the event.    

In the spirit of the event no results and photo’s will be released of the participants afterwards, so one just has to be there to experience legendary players perform with small eyes with an amazing amount of skill considering their intake.

Fact sheet:

The Amsterdam (D)open has a maximum of 64 players so to be sure of a seat one can sent an email to eet(AT)club-8.nl for their entry. The entry fee is only € 25,- to be paid at arrival. The tournament starts at 8 PM, participants need to be in Club 8 at 19.30 to pay their fees and get high. The finals are expected around 1 AM.

Club 8 is situated at the Admiraal de Ruijterweg 56B, 1056GL AMSTERDAM. Phone +31 20 68 51 703. www.club-8.nl

Amsterdam 8 Ball Open

The following Saturday and Sunday the official Amsterdam Open 8-ball tournament is played in Club 8 with a price fund of over € 7500,- and entrance fees from € 15,- to € 100,-, for more information check www.club-8.nl/inschrijven_evenementen.shtml

Predator Launches Billiard Cue-Design Contest



Predator Cues opens design of newest pool cue to brand fans and aspiring designers

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA. (Nov. 9, 2010) – Billiards aficionados, creative design enthusiasts, and those with an artistic streak can take their shot at creating a new Predator billiard cue. Predator Cues, a leading billiard cue manufacturer, has invited the public to design the next generation of its Ikon cues through the MyKon Cue-Design Contest, running through Dec. 31, 2010. One winner will inspire the next Ikon cue and receive the first one produced in the new series.

“Our fans are passionate about the Predator brand, and over the years many have shared their ideas for our cues,” said Karim Belhaj, president and CEO of Predator Group. “The MyKon contest hands over the designer role to those who know our brand best. We also hope to introduce Predator Cues to creative individuals who may not be familiar with our beautiful pool cues.”

The Ikon Series of cues first launched in Summer 2008 with nine distinct models, described as classic cues with bold details. The cues feature inlaid sleeves of exotic woods and the Uni-Loc® Leather Luxe™ wrap, attributes that will be continued with the next generation of Ikon. Contest entrants are encouraged to design a cue that is even bolder and more vibrant than the current Ikon cues. Predator will select elements of one winning MyKon entry to create the new Ikon cues, available for purchase in 2011.

The top three finalists will receive a current Ikon cue. Finalists will be announced Jan. 10, 2011 on the Predator website and the company’s Facebook profile, where visitors can comment on which design is their favorite. The MyKon contest winner will be announced Jan. 24, 2011.

Aspiring cue designers can download an entry form via the Predator website. Entries may be hand drawn or digital, and can be submitted via e-mail, fax or postal service. Entrants also are asked to name their cue design and briefly explain the inspiration behind it. The contest is open to U.S. residents only who are 18 years of age or older. Contest rules and regulations are available at www.PredatorCues.com.

In addition to the opportunity to create the next Predator cue, all entrants will receive a coupon for a free extra Predator shaft with purchase of a current Ikon cue, valid through Feb. 28, 2011.

Alex/Johan 'Drills 'n Skills'

Johan Ruijsink & Alex Lely will be coaching/drilling/training players in their famous 'Drills 'n Skills' pool training camp. At House Of Billiards, Weert. November 26-29th. They can contact Alex Lely on Facebook to enquire and/or enter.

There are plans to bring this training camp to the UK in the near future. But players shouldn't miss this chance to go get their thirst for improvement and consistency in their game quenched.

From 26.-29th November, Johan Ruijsink and Alex Lelyi will be serving a main dish of multiple repetitive shots, accompanied with a garnish of breakshots and sauteed kicks and safeties...do you have an appetite or know any big eaters?'

Both being winning Mosconi Cup coaches, we will combine theory and practice and schedule to do about 10 hrs/day of the most enjoyable hard work you can imagine: fundamentals,strokeshots,kicks, banks, safeties, dynamic exercises, the mental game, pattern-play in 8-,9- and 10-ball, the break etc.

This is a true feast of anything pool, gathering loads of knowledge, training hard and having fun that is sure to enhance anyone's pool life by one of pool's most knowledgeable players around and arguably the most successful coach in the world.

Triumphant Higgins Returns In Style

John Higgins marked his return to snooker's competitive arena in the best possible fashion by winning Euro Players Tour Championship event five in Germany.

He beat Shaun Murphy 4-2 in the final in Hamm, winning seven matches in all during the tournament. Higgins had not played in a professional event since April, but left no doubt that his game and winning instinct are very much intact.

The Wizard of Wishaw collected a 10,000 Euro top prize after becoming the 11th different winner in 11 PTC events so far this season. In missing the first part of the season he slipped from No 1 in the world to No 4, but is now back up to third having earned 2,000 ranking points.

Higgins opened a high quality final with a superb break of 132, and went 2-0 ahead with a run of 66. Murphy, who was aiming to become the first player to win two events in the PTC series, hit back to 2-2 with 64 and 50.

Three-times World Champion Higgins regained the lead with a 95, and knocked in a 53 in the next to lead by 66 with five reds left. Murphy enjoyed an outrageous fluke out of a snooker and had a chance to clear up, but missed a tricky black off the last red and offered the handshake.

"It was a good final, I only really missed one ball, when I should have gone 3-1 up," said 35-year-old Higgins, who was supported throughout the event by wife Denise. "I just came here hoping to get a few matches under my belt, so I'm delighted to win it.

"I had to be realistic coming here as the other players had all been competing regularly for four or five months. I knew I was good enough to win it but I didn't expect that much.

"The first match was the hardest and that was the worst I played, Joe Jogia had chances to beat me. After that I settled down and felt a lot better.

"The draw was bound to be hard as the standard is so high now. Martin Gould was a very tough match as he's the most improved player on the circuit, and then to beat two of the best in the world in Graeme Dott and Shaun in my last two matches was amazing really.

"Winning here gives me some confidence but there's a long way to go, I would have felt that whatever happened here. It has no real bearing on the rest of the season."

Higgins was banned from tournaments for six months following a Sport Resolutions UK hearing but was welcomed back by his peers. He added: “I'm delighted, not just for me but for my family and friends. The reception from the snooker community was exceptionally warm and encouraging. I didn't expect anything else - these are players I have known for years. They know John Higgins and I know them.

“I promised in September that I intended to pick up many more trophies, tonight is just the start.”

The 12th and final short event in the PTC series is next week in Prague, with the top 24 in the final Order of Merit to qualify for the Grand Finals in March. However, players must have contested at least three PTC and three EPTC events, so Higgins will not be eligible for the final event.

New Format For Snooker's Welsh Open

World class snooker returns to Newport in February with the Welsh Open - and the world ranking event boasts a brand new format.

The tournament runs from February 14 to 20 at the Newport Centre and will feature the top 16 players in the world as of the seeding cut-off point which falls after next month's 12BET.com UK Championship.

John Higgins will be defending the title he won last year by beating Ali Carter in the final, and also set to feature are Betfred.com World Champion Neil Robertson, Rocket Ronnie O'Sullivan, Welsh ace Mark Williams and many more of the sport's top stars.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! Fans are advised to book their seats early, especially for the later rounds, to make sure they see the best cuemen on the planet in action. For details call 01633 656757 or visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

For the first time, the early rounds will feature best-of-seven frame matches with no interval, rather than best-of-nine. This will be the case for the qualifying rounds and up until the last 16 at the venue. The quarter-finals will be best-of-nine, the semis best-of-11 and the final best-of-17.

A spokesman for World Snooker said: "We are using a range of exciting new formats this season to add variety to our tournaments and give them distinctive features. We have reduced the number of tables in the Newport Centre arena from three to two, which means that every match can potentially be televised by BBC Wales. We will be keen to receive feedback from fans and players on the new format.

"We also have the scope to hold over two matches from the qualifiers to the venue, so if two Welsh players such as Matthew Stevens, Ryan Day or Dominic Dale are seeded between 17 and 32, we will give the fans in Newport the chance to see their local favourites in action.

"The Welsh Open will be the final tournament before the seeding list is updated for the Betfred.com World Championship, which will bring an extra element to the event as players will be battling to guarantee their place at the Crucible.

"It promises to be a fantastic week with snooker of the highest quality and a cracking atmosphere, so we strongly urge supporters to get their tickets booked and enjoy the show!"

The qualifiers run from February 8 to 11 at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield.

Boot Camp

As you get older and wiser you will acknowledge the necessity of practicing more economically. That will develop significant output. Learn to work more on specific technical elements of your game and learn to shift in your periodical training-structure. The awareness will grow that a period where you seek to perform in competition should not entail the ‘heavy’ technical labour. On the other hand is it not unduly to grind endless repetitive shots in a period of preparation and build-up towards the competitive season.

The ability to shift between labour and rest (in build-up period) and relaxation and focus (competitive period) is essential for any aspiring poolplayer.

This ability to shift should be omnipresent in all elements of a players’ game and is most of the times subconscious: from thinking to acting, from small shots to big strokes, from rhythmical play to grinding (and back). Every player that wants to reach the top will have to fine-tune this ability, to maximize the efficiency of his or her game.

Alex: “ When Johan became head coach, he introduced ‘Bootcamp’: five days of very intensive work, going gradually from draining technical work to more dynamic forms of practice and play. My eyes were opened. Not only did it prove to be relatively easy giving 200% in those five days, fully convinced and free of any mental distractions.

Bootcamp also resulted in only having to do minor maintenance work for the 6 following months (3 x 2 hrs/week with an occasional longer sparring session).
The only way to produce quality, whilst being very tired, is to uphold the level of your fundamentals. You will fail. You are continuously confronted with your technical flaws: playing rigid or to nonchalant. Fatigue will expose these flaws. Bootcamp is big maintenance work on your technique but also very effective to strengthen your mental game. ‘miscue again, scratching in the side-pocket again on that last shot where you need to cross the table when you are already practicing 7 hours. It doesn’t mean a thing. You are committed to finishing the day and stepping out is no option. Furthermore is the collective a strong impulse. You are all in it together and continuously giving each other the good example.

The organization of Bootcamps for less gifted players (timewise) has taught us that the physical challenge is very big for those unaccustomed. Nowadays we bear that in mind and don’t offer 6 hour-MightyX sessions anymore. Just as with torture, it is no use if the client loses consciousness. When a collective dip occurs, we offer 15 minutes of theory on kicks, banks, safeties etc. to then practice it in a light playful session of approx. 45 minutes.

People come to understand swifter through practice than through theoretical exposés. The brain works autonomous with the information that is handed, the process does not require any rationalizing or too much explanation.

Below is an example of a daily schedule. This one is quite light: a lot of variety and much shifting between explanations, practice and playful exercises. What is present continuously are Johan and my corrections on technical flaws: technical as well as shifting between thinking and acting. Head, heart and arm collectively produce quality: analysis, decision, visualization, execution (pre-shotroutine and staying down after the shot).

9:30
Warm-up
9:45
Speech: explanation program; shifting between analysis, decision, execution
10:00
Safeties & kicks (sheets)
10:45
Circuit:
kick-it
cross center long rail first
safeties 9 balls b.i.h. when hitting kick or seeing the ball. Follow-through or tangent-line
8-ball on spot, opposite pocket 3-rail
....10 minute break
12:00
Theory pattern-play rotation games 15 minutes: funnel, key-shot,percentage
- progressive ghost
13:00
Lunch
13:45
Theory Kiss-shots 15 minutes: tangent-line
- 15-ball b.i.h. 5 balls wins
14:30
Banks theory 15 minutes: speed, spin, back-cut banks, cross banks
line-up setup b.i.h. 3 innings until 6 total, 2 innings until 10 total
12-ball cross banks 4 balls wins
….10 minute break
15:45
Progressive ghost
16:45
Ecke-ecke
17:30
Theory cue-action: compact, extended backswing, deflection…what shot-selection to make?
17:45
Bowlliards 15-balls stoelendans
19:00
Dinner
19:45
StunX b.i.h. (OB on center spot, when run over 7, put on far position)
20:15
Honolulu first shot b.i.h….10 minute break
21:15
Brainstorm/scotch line-up until endspeech

Below is an example of an exercise. Earlier(in the morning or the day before) a number spot-shos will have been shot as single-shots. The spot-shot is a shot that varies significantly in feel and confidence. Through the following ‘small’ shots along the short rail, the position will vary and furthermore the focus of attention per spot-shot (you are not allowed to cross the center of the table for position on the next spot-shot).



From 26-29 january Johan Ruijsink and Alex Lely organize Bootcamp II in HOB Weert. Costs for the training, meals and accomodation (25-30 january) are € 390,-. For information: alexlely(AT)hotmail.com

Drills & Skills is a trip: full of information, hard work and inspiring!

*** IMPORTANT NOTICE ***

The Glass City Open 8-Ball Team Tournament

DATE CHANGED to February 25-27, 2011



Tournament Date Changed to February 25-27, 2011

Dear Pool Players,

We want to sincerely thank ALL of our Registered Teams for their commitment to the new Glass City Open. However, due to issues beyond our control, we are forced to move the tournament to next February 25-27, 2011. If you had planned to attend we apologize for the inconvenience, but hope to see you in February for the the event.

Early in 2010 we set the wheels in motion to resurrect the Glass City Open. This great event was previously a traditional Pro 9-Ball tournament event with an amateur team event along side. We believed that a Team event with larger prize money OPEN to all players was the necessary remedy for the ailing pool world.

Since our initial announcement, we have been inundated with well wishes and support from the true fans of the game. We have also experienced some resistance from the established organizational structures who feel threatened by this new and exciting tournament opportunity. This has emboldened us to drive forward knowing that our tournament format and promotional system will be very successful.

Recently, the host Ramada Hotel and Conference Center approached us and requested a change of dates for the tournament, due in large part to the their need for additional space for an established annual client and the tournament's limited team registrations. At that time, our team count was about half and although we are convinced that the last minute registrations, which are typical in the pool world, would more than fulfill our commitment to the Ramada, they required more concrete evidence immediately.

As a result, the Ramada Hotel demanded a date change for the event to the February weekend. All things considered, we agreed.

Current registered Teams for the event will receive full refunds if they desire. However, they along with those that register prior to January 1, 2011, will receive the following Special offer and opportunity.

If you choose to hold your registration and commit to playing in the event in February, we will offer you and your team the following benefits for staying with us:

    *     A discount of $100 off your total Team Registration
    *     An upgrade of your two rooms to Junior Suites (However, they have King beds).
    *     We will provide you and your team members with a private VIP party hosted by Hall of Fame pool players performing an exhibition and instructional clinic, all complete with food and drinks.
    *     Plus, a special gift package for you and all your Team members.

We look forward to providing you and your team with a fun and exciting tournament experience with $12,000 guaranteed for the main event and $3,000 guaranteed for the ladies event. Also, a guaranteed $10,000 1st place prize for the main event and $2,500 for the ladies event.

Please know, this is not a cancellation of the event, just a postponement until February 25, 2011. We are committed to making this the best pool tournament of the year.

Thanks again for your understanding and commitment.

Respectfully,

Tom Gearhart
Tournament Director

Glass City Open 8-Ball Team Championship

NEW DATES: February 25-27,2011

at The Ramada Hotel & Conference Center
3536 Secor Road - Toledo, OH, 43606

"Screw It Together and Let's Get It On!"

Holt Ends Higgins Run

Michael Holt won the biggest title of his career so far by beating John Higgins 4-3 in the final of Euro Players Tour Championship event six in Prague.

The World No 42 from Nottingham, a pro for 14 years, ended a run of 13 consecutive victories for Higgins, who returned to competitive snooker in style last week by winning EPTC5 in Germany.

Holt, age 32, became the 12th different winner in 12 events on the PTC series and leapt from 96th place on the Order of Merit into the top 24, thereby qualifying for the Grand Finals in March. He goes home with 10,000 Euros and is 2,000 ranking points better off.

Holt won the first two frames and made a break of 66 in the third before running out of position and missing a tricky red. Higgins hit back to win it on the last black, then compiled a run of 100 for 2-2.

Three-times World Champion Higgins added a scrappy third frame to take the lead, but Holt showed his mettle by dominating the last two frames.

"I've always said that I can play the game and I'm good enough to win things. In fact I stopped saying it because people thought I was lying," said Holt, who has never been beyond the quarter-finals of a full ranking event. "I just needed some confidence and to be able to handle the situation when it mattered.

"I did that today - I didn't get nervous or twitch a ball in the final, I felt great. I couldn't have had a tougher draw as I had to beat Stephen Maguire, Mark Selby and Shaun Murphy to get to the final. It's definitely the best moment of my career and hopefully I can kick on now and get up the rankings."

Holt dedicated victory to his dad Mick, who is recovering from a stroke he suffered two months ago. "He's very poorly and it's going to take him a long time to get better," said Holt. "He'll dig in like I did today. I can't wait to take the trophy home and show it to him."

Murphy finished top of the Order of Merit despite losing 4-3 in the semi-finals to Holt, from 3-1 up.

The full list of the 24 qualifiers for the PTC Grand Finals will be announced shortly.

Passionate Fans Inspire Rocket

Snooker ace Ronnie O'Sullivan praised the 'passion' of snooker fans in Telford as he looked ahead to next month's 12BET.com UK Championship.

The tournament runs from December 4 to 12 at the International Centre in Telford and O'Sullivan will be battling the likes of Stephen Hendry, John Higgins, Neil Robertson and defending champion Ding Junhui for a share of the £625,000 prize fund.

The Rocket has won the UK title four times - more than he has won any other ranking event. The most recent was in 2007 in Telford when he made a 147 in the deciding frame of the semi-finals to beat Mark Selby 9-8, then hammered Stephen Maguire 10-2 in the final.

"It's one of the biggest tournaments of the season and one I always want to do well in," said O'Sullivan, who became the youngest ever winner of a ranking event when he took the UK crown at the age of 17 in 1993. "I've got a decent record in it having won it four times and I'd love to make it five this year.

"The crowds are always good in Telford, the fans there have a lot of passion for snooker and I'm sure it will be the same this time."

O'Sullivan was in fine form at the 12BET.com World Open in September, making a record tenth maximum break and reaching the final before he lost to Robertson.

Tickets are still on sale for O'Sullivan's first match in Telford, with the first session on Sunday, December 5 at 7pm, and the match concluding in the afternoon session on Monday, December 6.

Book your seats now by calling 01952 561700 or visiting www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

BOY WITH THE GOLDEN CUE!



Rileys give snooker hotshot Joel,16, cue worth £1,000

Snooker hotshot Joel Walker, sponsored by pool and snooker club chain Rileys, has been given a handmade custom cue worth £1,000.

Joel, 16, of Charnock, Sheffield, was picked by ‘Rocket’ Ronnie O’Sullivan as the winner of the inaugural Rileys Future Stars of Snooker nationwide competition in April 2010.

The cue is a made-to-measure model from top manufacturer John Parris – who makes cues for world champions including Steve Davis.

The shaft is maple inlaid with snakewood, from a rare tree in South America.

The new cue took 40 weeks from order to delivery and is insured for £1,000 by sponsors Rileys.

Joel said: “I’m really pleased with my new cue. It was definitely worth the wait.

“I’m getting in a lot of practice so I can get used to the weight of it.

“I hope I have a good season, and take some steps towards my dream of becoming a professional.”

Joel’s mentor O’Sullivan, Rileys’ snooker Ambassador, has described him as “world champion material.”

The Rileys Future Stars scheme provides backing for talented youngsters. The search for another Future Star to join the team will begin early in 2011.

WORLD LADIES BILLIARDS & SNOOKER ASSOCIATION - PRESS RELEASE

THE women’s snooker circuit descends on Bury St Edmunds on Saturday

Pot Black Sports Bar is sponsoring and hosting the British Open, the third leg on the World Ladies Billiards & Snooker Association tour.

The queens of the green baize will be in action from 10am. The format is a best-of-five straight knockout.

Defending champion and six-time women’s world champion Reanne Evans, who now plays on the professional circuit, has confirmed she will definitely play.

The 25-year-old from Dudley, West Midlands, smashed Kelly Fisher’s record of 69 consecutive winning matches at the East Anglian Championship in Cambridge last month. Her 3-0 victory over world number two Maria Catalano was her 72nd straight win on the WLBSA circuit.

Natascha Niermann, the eight-time German national champion who is now based in Cambridge, reached her first WLBSA semi-final at the East Anglian Championship and will be hoping to go one better in Bury St Edmunds.

Five-time world billiards champion Emma Bonney travels up from Portsmouth and joins Ronnie O’Sullivan’s cousin Catalano as those with the best chance of dethroning Evans.

Also in the line-up are world number five Eva Palmius, from Isleham, Cambs, and young stars Hannah Jones, 14, from Derby, the world junior champion, and ten-year-old Jasmine Bolsover from Woking.

The WLBSA is hosting six ranking events this season culminating in the World Championships in April.

British Open (sponsored by Pot Black Sports Bar)
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Pot Black Sports Bar
Eastgate Street
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP33 1YQ
Tel: 01284 704231

BRITISH OPEN ENTRIES

Reanne Evans
Maria Catalano
Emma Bonney
Chris Sharpe
Hannah Jones
Eva Palmius
Jan Hughes
Natascha Niermann
Gaye Jones
Marianne Williams
Jenny Poulter
June Banks
Martina Lumsden
Vicky Carter
Jasmine Bolsover

POSSIBLE ENTRIES

Tina Owen-Sevilton
Naomi Clare

Tina O’Brien (pool player from Bury St Edmunds)

An Injured Hitman puts on Pool School with Heart
and then a Master Class to win the Martinried Munich Open

Raj “The Hitman” Hundal was recently injured whilst at the Portugal Open. He lost his footing on some wet steps, resulting in a twisted and severely sprained ankle. He was immediately rushed back to London and was seen by a doctor, who confirmed Raj had ligament damage and would spend a day in a wheel chair and at least two weeks on crutches before putting any weight on his foot. Due to this injury, Raj missed The Seminole Hard Rock event in Miami. He was due to fly to Munich on Friday 12th November, exactly two weeks after the incident to put on a pool school/ clinic for some of the pros and amateurs attending on the Saturday. Even though the doctor had advised against this trip, the Hitman couldn’t let his fans down. The pool school was a success and Raj has already been asked to conduct more of these clinics in Europe.



Sunday 14th November, 9.30am, there were over 70 players in attendance including some European champions, all looking to take the first prize. However, it would be the Hitman who would prevail as he played near perfect throughout the entire event despite not being able to walk around the table with his normal swagger and step. Nobody throughout the event was able to get passed four racks on Raj and he beat many great German players along the way and the “Italian Stallion”, Antonio Beunvito 8-1 in the semi finals whilst “Death Valley” Valery Kuloyants beat Czech Republics pride Roman Hybler 8-7 in the other semi final to set up the final that everyone wanted to see. In the final Raj trailed 3-1 and then hit the Hitman’s gear that he is world renowned for and the next time Valery came to the table he was 7-3 behind. The Hitman closed out the set, match and tournament with a tough run out and an 8-4 final score line.



“ I’m glad I didn’t take the doctor’s advice and made the trip to Munich. I throughly enjoyed putting on the pool school as my students were extremely receptive and were fast learners and I could see the improvement in their games over night. The tournament was great fun as i always had a big crowd around my table which was named Centre Court humourously after my success. Winning the tournament just made the experience and atmosphere that much more special for the fans and myself. As always I would firstly like to thank my sponsors, Poison Billiards and also a huge thank you to Franz Roman, owner of www.Primetime24.de for his hospitality and my personal cue doctor, Thomas Gollowich of www.atom-billiard.de for once again getting my equipment perfectly right to win this event. Also a big thank you to my good friend and world renowned cue collector Simon D’Vali for helping me get through the airports, the pool school and the tournament as I literally leaned on him the whole time. Last but not least, I would like to thank all the fans who came to support me and the event. Can’t wait for my next trip to Munich already”

CSI Preps for 2011 U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship and Adds 12th U.S. Open One Pocket to May Riviera Roster

Las Vegas becomes Mecca to top amateur and professional players worldwide every spring when CueSports International (CSI) moves into the Riviera Hotel & Casino Convention Center. Each May CSI produces a unique mix of the high octane amateur competition, with the BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships, alongside equally exciting pro level events.

In 2011, the U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship enters its 2nd year at the Riviera May 16-21. The $25,000 added 10-Ball event will be limited to 96 players and preceded by the 12th U.S. Open One Pocket Championship.

The U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship is a Billiard Congress of America (BCA) points event and recognized by the WPBA. In accordance, CSI will hold an invite spot for the top 20 U.S. men and top 10 WPBA players. The invitee’s spots will be guaranteed till March 18, 2011. The 30 invite letters will be sent out December 22-24, 2010. Any invite spots that are either declined or entry has not been paid by the March 18th deadline will revert to an open spot.

The remaining 66 U.S. Open 10-Ball spots will include approximately 6-10 qualifiers. The qualifier’s locations and dates will start to be posted on the CSI and BCAPL sites by Mid-January.

Prior to the U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship, CSI will hold the 12th U.S. Open One Pocket Championship May 13-15 at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. With $10,000 minimum added and a field size limited to 32 players, it is anticipated to attract some of the best one pocket players in the world. CSI will also be working with other producers and host rooms around the U.S. to schedule a limited number of qualifier spots.

Further information about the 2011 U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship and the 12th U.S. Open One Pocket Championship can be viewed on the CSI (www.playcsipool.com) and BCAPL (www.playbca.com) websites by mid-December. The qualifiers will be listed on the sites by mid-January.

CSI will be taking online registration for all CSI / BCAPL / USAPL events starting in January 2011. Players will be able to pay their entry for CSI / BCAPL and USAPL events using their Visa or MasterCard.

For the best rates at the Riviera in May read the following information:

Stay, play, and win all under one roof at the 35th BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships. The Riviera has lowered their room rates for the BCAPL 2011 nationals. To receive these great new rates, you must book through the BCAPL online Riviera booking link or call the Riviera toll-free number (800) 634-6753 Group Code BCAPCPP. Go to: BOOK MY ROOM AT THE RIV

$60 Per Night / 8 Night Minimum: This special tournament rate is available until the normal reservation cutoff date (04/12/11), or until group room nights begin to sell out. To qualify: must book and pay the entire 8+ nights (non-refundable) and CALL the Riviera Reservation line: 800-634-6753. Group Code: BCAPCPP.

$70 Per Night / Any number of nights less than 8 / Must Be Booked By January 31, 2011: A great early bird special for everybody who may not be there 8 nights but plan early and like to save money.

$80 Per Night / Any number of nights less than 8 / Booked after January 31, 2011: For all who make their reservation after January 31st and who are not planning to stay 8 nights or more.

CueSports International is dedicated to creating more choices for all players. CSI is the parent company of the BCA Pool League and the USA Pool League. CSI also produces independent events such as the U.S. Bar Table Championships, the Jay Swanson Memorial, the U.S. Open One Pocket Championship and the U.S. Open 10-Ball Championship. Visit www.playcsipool.com, www.playbca.com and www.playusapool.com for more information about CSI and its divisions.    

Excited Murphy Targets Telford Success

Shaun Murphy hopes to repeat his 2008 victory at the 12BET.com UK Championship and believes his game is strong enough to go all the way to the title.

Murphy beat Marco Fu 10-9 in a dramatic final at the International Centre two years ago to become one of just ten players to have won both the World and UK titles.

This year’s event runs from December 4 to 12 and Sale-based Murphy has his sights set on the £100,000 top prize. He has had an excellent season so far, having won the Rundili Wuxi Classic in China in June and finished top of the new Players Tour Championship Order of Merit.

“Any season where you get into the winner’s circle is a good one and I’ve already done that a couple of times. I really enjoyed the new PTC events and managed to win one of them and do well in a few others,” said 2005 World Champion Murphy.

“Hopefully I can build on that and win more trophies. I feel as if I’m in form and I’m excited about the next few events.

“I’ve got a good record in the UK, and any time you go back to a venue where you have won a tournament, it gives you a massive confidence boost. The longer matches suit me because my game tends to get better as a match goes on.”

Also in the line up at the International Centre in Telford are the likes of Rocket Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, John Higgins and Neil Robertson.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW and start at just £10 (concessions £5), representing INCREDIBLE VALUE to see the WORLD’S BEST PLAYERS in action. For details call 01952 561700 or visit www.worldsnooker.com/tickets

PLUS, students can buy tickets for Monday December 6 for just £1! Stars in action that day include Ronnie O'Sullivan and Stephen Hendry. Just quote 'student tix' when buying tickets. You may be asked to show student ID on the day or when booking in person. Tickets are limited and subject to availability.

Reanne Evans - photo courtesy of Mark Jones

REANNE Evans said she’s targetting 100 straight wins on the women’s snooker circuit after extending her record-breaking run with victory in the British Open.

The undisputed world number one, who had compiled a massive 140 break in the last-four, defeated Portsmouth ’s Emma Bonney 3-1 in the final (on Saturday, November 27).

Pot Black Sports Bar in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk , hosted and sponsored the third leg of the World Ladies Billiards & Snooker Association’s 2010/11 tour.

Evans, the six-time women’s world champion, has now won her last 76 WLBSA matches.

After successfully defending her British Open title, the 25-year-old from Dudley, West Midlands , said: “It was a bit scrappy and all the balls went a bit awkward. I needed a snooker in the second frame, got it, and then she potted a brilliant pink.”

But the frame turned out to be a purely a consolation for five-time world billiards champion Bonney, who was unable to halt Evans’ march towards a 26th WLBSA ranking title.

Evans matched her highest break with a 140 total clearance in a 3-0 semi-final victory over Kent ’s June Banks.

WLBSA chairman Mandy Fisher said: “It was a fantastic 140. You don’t get many like that.”

Despite being virtually unbeatable on the women’s circuit, Evans is still searching for that elusive first victory on the professional circuit.

She narrowly lost 4-3 to world champion Neil Robertson in the European Players Tour Championship in Prague last week and four days later crashed out of the UK Championship 9-1 to China ’s Xiao Guodong.

She said: “No matter what, all it can do is increase my confidence for the Ladies. I can only take the positives from it, because that’s all it is this season. I can’t expect much, really, just experience and enjoying it.

And she added with a laugh: “I just need that win and I’ll be alright.”

Second seed Maria Catalano was a shock last-16 casualty in the British Open, losing 3-2 to world number 14 Tina Owen-Sevilton.

Taunton’s Owen-Sevilton climbed two places after a 3-0 semi-final defeat by Bonney.

Jenny Poulter (Maidstone) accounted for Vicky Carter ( Hemel Hempstead ) in the Plate final. Martina Lumsden ( Eastbourne ) defeated Gaye Jones (Melksham, Wilts) to claim the Seniors’ title. And Derby schoolgirl Hannah Jones, 14, eased past 16-year-old Naomi Clare (Ripley, Derbys ) in the Junior final.

Evans smashed Kelly Fisher’s record of 69 consecutive winning matches at the East Anglian Championship in Cambridge last month.

It was announced this week that, from January 1, WLBSA membership will be free. Tournament entry fees will be increased slightly to cover administration costs.

The WLBSA is hosting six ranking events this season culminating in the World Championships in April.

RESULTS (BREAKS)
LAST-32: Vicky Carter beat Kim O’Brien 3-2.

LAST-16: Reanne Evans (52) beat Carter 3-0, Natascha Niermann beat Jenny Poulter 3-1, June Banks beat Gaye Jones 3-0, Martina Lumsden beat Eva Palmius 3-1, Emma         Bonney beat Chris Sharpe 3-0, Jan Hughes beat Naomi Clare 3-2, Hannah Jones beat Marianne Williams 3-2, Tina Owen-Sevilton beat Maria Catalano 3-2.

QUARTER-FINALS (£30): Evans beat Niermann 3-0, Banks beat Lumsden 3-0, Bonney (31) beat Hughes 3-1, Owen-Sevilton beat H Jones (31, 30) 3-1.        

SEMI-FINALS (£50): Evans (140) beat Banks 3-0, Bonney beat Owen-Sevilton 3-0.

FINAL (£200/£100): Evans beat Bonney 3-1.

PLATE
QUARTER-FINALS: Jenny Poulter beat Kim O’Brien 2-1, Gaye Jones beat Naomi Clare 2-0.

SEMI-FINALS: Vicky Carter beat Marianne Williams 2-0, Poulter beat Jones 2-0.

FINAL (£30/£20): Poulter beat Carter 2-0.

SENIORS
QUARTER-FINALS: Eva Palmius (31) beat Jenny Poulter (35) 1-0, Marianne Williams beat Jan Hughes 1-0.

SEMI-FINALS: Martina Lumsden beat Williams 1-0, Gaye Jones beat Palmius 1-0.

FINAL: Lumsden beat Jones 1-0.

JUNIORS
FINAL: Hannah Jones beat Naomi Clare 2-0.


Tina Owen-Sevilton - photo courtesy of Monique Limbos


Jenny Poulter - photo courtesy of Monique Limbos