The InsidePOOL article claims that Mika is the 76th World 14.1 champion. A champion, he is for sure. The title of "world," however, comes in dispute in some circles, but that's not the reason for this thread.
This is to celebrate the almighty win. Though Mika Immonen is from Finland, he has resided in the Big Apple for 15 years. Most European champions who come to the States decide they want to take up house here, even though today most of the lucrative pool events are not here in America. They are around the world.
Earl posted on Facebook his disappointment in playing pool for five consecutive days and wining a mere $4,000 for second place. I empathize with his stance. Staying in New York City is damn expensive. Been there and done that. As it is with most pool events, you must come in first, second, or third place to break even, unless you're sleeping in a car and eating fast food at McDonald's.
I'm not going to take anything away from Mika, though. He's a very deserving winner, and my hat is off to Earl for rising to the top too. As is the case when Earl competes, this event was not without fireworks
But that's not the topic of this thread. We have enough threads about that subject matter elsewhere on this forum, don't you think? :wink:
Interesting shoe choice by the third-place winner, Taiwan’s Lo Liwen, on his bronze medal performance in his first World 14.1 event.
A picture speaks a thousand words. Notice the gap between Mika and Earl in this photo. The thrill of the victory and the agony of defeat.
:thumbup:
Photo courtesy of Joseph Ratka.
