OK, I know playing the prediction game tends to leave me with egg on my face, but it's still fun, so let's have a go at sizing up the ladies draw.
Many questions abound as we enter this one:
Allison Fisher and Karen Corr
Allison and Karen have combined for just one TV appearance in the first three WPBA events, and they will be looking to rebound. Karen's form is likely strong, as she's fared well in winning a couple of men's events of late. Allison's form is to be determined. The use of the double elimination format may help them, and, as usual, each is a serious title contender.
Jasmin Ouschan
Last year's win over the best players in the world was no fluke, as we learned a) at the 2006 World Straight Pool Championships, in which she finished tied for fifth in a strong open field, and b) at WPBA San Diego a few weeks ago, where she finished second. Can she shine again in the spotlight? It's quite possible.
Xiaoting Pan
In her three WPBA events this season, she had a first, a second and a third. add to that her domination of the 2007 World 9-ball championships and she certainly rates as the lady playing the best pool in the world right now. My guess is that she's the one to beat this year.
Hsin Mei Liu
In 2006, for the second time, she finished fourth, missing TV by one match. Can she get over the hump? I'm betting against it, but she's certainly got enough game that the possibility is there.
Ga Young Kim
An established star of the tour, she's made TV twice already in her three WPBA events, but had a disappointing World championships. She hasn't played well in Vegas over the years, but is always dangerous. Just a year ago, she had a good look at a combo on the nine double hill to beat Jasmin Ouschan, but wasn't quite up to it. Ah, for what might have been. Maybe this is her year.
Kelly Fisher
She'll be missed, but whenever she returns to the women's pro scene, it will be a great day for the sport. Wishing her well, and hope to see her competing soon.
Ones to Watch
In my opinion, Thornfeldt, Webb and Ellerby are all strong candidates to have a strong event.
OK, let's cut to the chase. Here are my odds to win the title:
Xiaoting Pan 3/1
Karen Corr 7/2
Jasmin Oushcan 9/2
Allison Fisher 5/1
Ga Young Kim 8/1
Hsin Mei Liu 12/1
None of the above 20/1
My pick to win the event: Xiaoting Pan
Finally, I hope that they'll save their best for when I arrive on Tuesday!
Many questions abound as we enter this one:
Allison Fisher and Karen Corr
Allison and Karen have combined for just one TV appearance in the first three WPBA events, and they will be looking to rebound. Karen's form is likely strong, as she's fared well in winning a couple of men's events of late. Allison's form is to be determined. The use of the double elimination format may help them, and, as usual, each is a serious title contender.
Jasmin Ouschan
Last year's win over the best players in the world was no fluke, as we learned a) at the 2006 World Straight Pool Championships, in which she finished tied for fifth in a strong open field, and b) at WPBA San Diego a few weeks ago, where she finished second. Can she shine again in the spotlight? It's quite possible.
Xiaoting Pan
In her three WPBA events this season, she had a first, a second and a third. add to that her domination of the 2007 World 9-ball championships and she certainly rates as the lady playing the best pool in the world right now. My guess is that she's the one to beat this year.
Hsin Mei Liu
In 2006, for the second time, she finished fourth, missing TV by one match. Can she get over the hump? I'm betting against it, but she's certainly got enough game that the possibility is there.
Ga Young Kim
An established star of the tour, she's made TV twice already in her three WPBA events, but had a disappointing World championships. She hasn't played well in Vegas over the years, but is always dangerous. Just a year ago, she had a good look at a combo on the nine double hill to beat Jasmin Ouschan, but wasn't quite up to it. Ah, for what might have been. Maybe this is her year.
Kelly Fisher
She'll be missed, but whenever she returns to the women's pro scene, it will be a great day for the sport. Wishing her well, and hope to see her competing soon.
Ones to Watch
In my opinion, Thornfeldt, Webb and Ellerby are all strong candidates to have a strong event.
OK, let's cut to the chase. Here are my odds to win the title:
Xiaoting Pan 3/1
Karen Corr 7/2
Jasmin Oushcan 9/2
Allison Fisher 5/1
Ga Young Kim 8/1
Hsin Mei Liu 12/1
None of the above 20/1
My pick to win the event: Xiaoting Pan
Finally, I hope that they'll save their best for when I arrive on Tuesday!
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