Alternating Break Format

[victorl]

The next big tournament here has changed to an alternating break format (WPA 10-ball) and I'd like some input as I've only ever really played winner-breaks.

It seems obvious that alternating breaks would be more beneficial to the weaker player, i.e. more chances at the table, but does anyone have any personal experience or statistics to support this?

Also, do you find this break format change your strategy or the way you approach the game?

Cheers,
Vic

 

[Black Cat 5791]

I run both my 8 Ball and 9 Ball Events with alternating break. It does help the weaker opponent at least get to the table. It keeps the stronger player from just breaking and running racks.

Black Cat

 

[CreeDo]

It depends on the level of the players. I wouldn't say it favors the weaker player.
Given the same number of chances, the stronger player will convert a break into a win
more consistently than the weaker player.

In fact at maybe B speed or lower the break isn't even an advantage.
Obviously top pros like Shane make it a big advantage. But 'average' pros?
It might only give them like a 2% edge. And for guys like me breaking is a handicap

As for changing strategy... not for me.
What strategy would you ever employ besides "play the best percentage shot every time
and hit it as perfectly as you can"?