Attended the press conference today at the Sofitel Plaza Hotel, a five star spot! First class all the way, very reminiscent of last year's WPC. They even served a buffet lunch to the assembled media. And there is a welcome dinner tonight for the players at the same location.
Pretty strong field of players, minus the filipino champions. Spoke with Busti last night and he wished the best for the tourney. He is still close friends with the filipino players entered and would like to see one of them win. It would be good for the pool economy in Manila. Translated - more money in action!
The situation here mirrors the same thing that has occured before in the USA during the Mackey era and is happening to a degree right now in Europe. Business as usual for the pool scene. Promoter Makabenta made an eloqent presentation to the the media, highlighting his efforts to keep the Philippines in the forefront of professional pool worldwide. If this event works as well as the last two WPC, it will continue the trend for premier tournaments in the PI. Makabenta should get a medal if he pulls this one off. Give the man one thing, he is no quitter.
Four women in the field including Jasmin and the reigning women's 9-Ball champ. That should attract some interest as well. The format is the same as for last year's WPC. Sixteen groups of eight play double elimination. Four from each group move on to the single elimination phase. It all kicks off tomorrow. Will keep you posted.
Your man in Manila!
Pretty strong field of players, minus the filipino champions. Spoke with Busti last night and he wished the best for the tourney. He is still close friends with the filipino players entered and would like to see one of them win. It would be good for the pool economy in Manila. Translated - more money in action!
The situation here mirrors the same thing that has occured before in the USA during the Mackey era and is happening to a degree right now in Europe. Business as usual for the pool scene. Promoter Makabenta made an eloqent presentation to the the media, highlighting his efforts to keep the Philippines in the forefront of professional pool worldwide. If this event works as well as the last two WPC, it will continue the trend for premier tournaments in the PI. Makabenta should get a medal if he pulls this one off. Give the man one thing, he is no quitter.
Four women in the field including Jasmin and the reigning women's 9-Ball champ. That should attract some interest as well. The format is the same as for last year's WPC. Sixteen groups of eight play double elimination. Four from each group move on to the single elimination phase. It all kicks off tomorrow. Will keep you posted.
Your man in Manila!
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