I understand the reason behind the hand racking that Predator is using but I don't think it's the long term answer. Taking what is the most exciting shot to many spectators (especially the novices) and turning it into something significantly less than a skilled shot is something I'm not a fan of. Also, when Predator has such a top-notch production, it really stands out when there is a slug rack.
The alternative is a template rack and I recognize this CAN make the racks too predictable. So what's the answer?
What could further separate Predator from Matchroom?
I would be interested in seeing how the racks would play out if they used a template AND there was a "blocking" ball placed on the center spot before the break. The blocking ball would just be a specially designed, Predator logo'd ball that would remain on the table throughout the rack and would add strategic opportunities to play safe behind during the rack, including at the end of the rack when all that's left is the cue ball, the ten, and the blocker.
Maybe that sounds crazy, or maybe it's just 20 or 30 years ahead of its time. I imagine the game will continue to evolve as the players continue to improve.
What can the promoters do in light of the fact that the players are going to continue to get better? They can continually tighten the pockets, but at some point it makes the game too distinct from the game the local amateurs play. Or they can go backwards -- to the hand rack which is the current solution, but that makes the break something that's not worth practicing for many players. So my thinking is, there must be a way to move towards perfection in regards to the break, while increasing the difficulty for the players. Maybe not quite yet, but I think the future answer may be found in adding balls to the table, but not adding them to the rack.
The alternative is a template rack and I recognize this CAN make the racks too predictable. So what's the answer?
What could further separate Predator from Matchroom?
I would be interested in seeing how the racks would play out if they used a template AND there was a "blocking" ball placed on the center spot before the break. The blocking ball would just be a specially designed, Predator logo'd ball that would remain on the table throughout the rack and would add strategic opportunities to play safe behind during the rack, including at the end of the rack when all that's left is the cue ball, the ten, and the blocker.
Maybe that sounds crazy, or maybe it's just 20 or 30 years ahead of its time. I imagine the game will continue to evolve as the players continue to improve.
What can the promoters do in light of the fact that the players are going to continue to get better? They can continually tighten the pockets, but at some point it makes the game too distinct from the game the local amateurs play. Or they can go backwards -- to the hand rack which is the current solution, but that makes the break something that's not worth practicing for many players. So my thinking is, there must be a way to move towards perfection in regards to the break, while increasing the difficulty for the players. Maybe not quite yet, but I think the future answer may be found in adding balls to the table, but not adding them to the rack.
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