JAM said:
The entry fee is a definite cost item, but it's the norm relating to the U.S. Open. The Pro Event at the recent Super Billiards Expo also had a $500 entry fee.
The BULK of the expenses associated with attending tournaments is the lodging and travel expenses, many times hitting $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the event.
Having said that, though, I believe the U.S. Open to be one of -- if not THE -- most prestigious pool events in the States for professional and aspiring pool players.
JMHO, FWIW!
JAM
For everyone worring about expenses of playing, do what Jeanette does:
MARKET YOURSELF and get a sponsor. How? do what Jeanette does: GET ON THE PHONE FOR 5 HOURS A DAY to line up a sponsor(s).
Here's the value ladder, from the bottom up:
1.)
Idea = 1 cent (dime a dozen)....Example: I think I'll play in the Open
2.)
Prototype = 10 cents....Example: Practice for 15 years to become good.
3.)
Mass production = $1...Example: Hit the road for another X years to perfect game and build a name.
4.)
Marketing = $10 ...Example: Never stop selling your product, your game, your image...YOU.
I suspect most players work on 2 mostly, which is fine, but won't get you any money. The dedicated players work on 3, but this, too, won't get you more than gambling money and an occasional win or close to it, and we know how that usually works out in the long run: burnout, frustration, broke.
Start working on Number 4,
the highest value, and watch the money come. I don't care what business you're in, number 4 is where the money is. Take marketing classes, attend seminars, pay to have lunch with Jeanette or any other successful person and ask them to help you. Hire a promoter if you won't do this. Start a small business and get experience marketing. Market, market, market yourself! Replace some of your Number 2 and 3 time and put it into Number 4.
Any other way (lottery win, eg) is a mystical shortcut cop-out and will leave you wanting. Marketing is more important for generating value than learning backhand english or masses or whatever. Without marketing, your game is stuck in Numbers 2 or 3 forever. You got the best game in the world? So freakin' what?...THE question is: Who is gonna pay you for it?
Jeff Livingston