“A man is not old until regrets take the place of dreams.”

[sunnyone]

Dear Gentle Readers,

That John Barrymore quote reminds me of a few of the classy pool players of legend … some departed, some aging gracefully, so many still dreaming the dream.

By dreaming, I mean still looking for that edge, still competing, still fierce.

Who comes to mind for you?

For me - - and I knew him only briefly and only barely - - it is Mr. Beard. His Encyclopedia, his commentary, his lessons (I saw two that were streamed), his savvy, tart, generous postings … well, Mr. Beard just kept amplifying the game he loved. He kept building his body of work. He never stopped dreaming.

Perhaps you have personal knowledge of some of the more resolute warriors in our sport. Care to share?

Hero worship is my life,

Sunny

P. S. Heroine veneration too.

(P. P. S. There is a another senior statesman, a roué, I should imagine, with whom I have been in intermittent communication.

I shall not mention this esteemed gent’s name for the sake of any innocent maidens who might, inadvertently, swoon into harm’s arms. His warm, soulful voice alone might induce the vapors. And where is a fainting couch when one needs one?

You’re welcome, girls!)

 

[BasementDweller]

I'll just say what everybody is thinkin....

....youz and me purty much have the same writin style. It's like lookin in the mirrors.

I do like me that quote though.

 

[bdorman]

It's got to be Earl Strickland. If you ask the same question 20 years from now, it will be the same answer. He'll never quit and he'll always look for ways to be competitive.