9-Ball Racking Question

[Jude Rosenstock]

Actually, the new WPA rules have more specific wording in regards to pattern racking. The word "random" is no longer used. The only problem is, no penalty is specified and no instructions are given on what the proper course of action is when a player is pattern racking.

2.2 Nine Ball Rack
The object balls are racked as tightly as possible in a diamond shape, with the one ball at the apex of the diamond and on the foot spot and the nine ball in the middle of the diamond. The other balls will be placed in the diamond without purposeful or intentional pattern. (See Regulation 4, Racking / Tapping of Balls.)

Unfortunately, I recognize a patterned rack immediately and every time. In my opinion (and I could be wrong for thinking this), it's MY break, MY balls, MY rack. My opponent is racking FOR ME, not for him. If he's pattern racking, he's cheating. It's the same as deliberately slugging the rack or any other side-table tactic. You're not trying to win by shooting and that's wrong.

 

[enzo]

the tough question is when it becomes rack your own. you see, you're not allowed to put together packages in this game because that way your opponent could not win. instead, between racks you are required to listen to your opponent snivel and curse that you are cheating........ in all honesty never have i been exposed to such a horrid sport. i was in one of the "best pool halls in the country" and won a decent sized "rack your own" tournament and got nothing but grief from my opponents because i was "cheating." these are supposedly people that will admire good play. totally pitiful.

to answer your question, just play 10 ball.

 

[Jude Rosenstock]

to answer your question, just play 10 ball.

Probably the only way to go at this point. Not to say 9-ball is "easy" but it CAN get really easy sometimes. 10-ball seems to always have a slightly more challenging spread.