US Open Straight Pool Championship
To answer the OP question, I would not intentionally ever schedule an event on top of an existing event. It has nothing to do with personalities, it is just bad for the game.
There are several reasons why it has been moved to Las Vegas. We can run a better event at less expense because we own the venue. This event will now become an annual event. It is a legitimate US Open title, and we will rebuild the prestige of the event.
It has always been standard belief that the East Coast has been the hot bed for straight pool. My experience has shown otherwise. I will disagree with Bob Jewett on the schedule being a factor.
It was in an ideal place. $70 rooms (double) with breakfast located directly across the street from the venue. An international airport less than 5 miles from the room. Scheduled one day after Darren Appleton's World Pool Series (that had 80 players), which was only 1 days after the SBE,( which is only 80 miles away or so).
Players could get 3 events for one flight! We had to travel from Las Vegas to run the event and for streaming. It becomes costs prohibitive. In time perhaps well attract a sponsor, and all of their sponsorship money will go to the prize fund.
All I can say is this --- we are going to have the event and I'm really hoping we get a decent turnout. Straight pool is the 'mother of all pool games' and it is our honor to continue the tradition of the US OPEN.
Griffs will be the home of 5 annual US Open events (Banks, One Pocket, 8-ball, 10-ball and 14.1)--All players get treated the same, there is no funny business with the money, and all winners are paid on the spot.
Constructive criticism is always welcome.
Mark Griffin
