I agree with you, Lou. If you can run a 28, you at least have some understanding of playing the game of straight pool (at least, offensively) and can pontificate about pocket size. I've had decent runs in practice, but only played in one real straight pool tournament. While stationed at DLA Aviation in Richmond, Diamond Billiards of Richmond VA was kind enough to sponsor me into the American Straight Pool Championships tournament when it was held at their room 10 years ago or so, and they needed one more player. (Did I mention my apartment was located right behind Diamond Billiards? Coincidence? LOL)
The wonderful owners knew I loved straight pool and so graciously asked if I wanted to play, while I was just hanging out watching all of the pros warm up. I really wanted to do well for them. Filled with killers, I had a match against Mike Davis (a monster). Of course all of my friends from the pool room (which was a lot) gathered in the crowd to watch me. I laid down a really nice break, we traded safeties, and I got to the first offensive shot (I am proud of that) and I ran a 27 or 28.... I was strutting around, winking at my friends (which made them laugh) like I was about to run 100. Mike told me after the match he thought I was going to run 100, LOL.
I also played the gent who took third in the tourney, some old guy from New York who wore an apron (Karen Corr took 2nd, and Darren Appleton took first), and had a high 20s run against him under the heat. So...I didn't totally dog it against some REAL players.
