Epic action in Manila. Sorry Justin for the hijack but this seems the perfect place to talk about action, which I know you love. Last night at Pan Pacific (a poker and poolroom owned by Manny Paquiao). there was a monster game worthy of TAR. Manny was partnered with Ronnie Alcano and Efren teamed up with Rubilen Amit, the Philippine women's champ. They played Scotch Doubles (alternate shot) Ten Ball, Race to 20 for some serious cheese. Can you say millions in Tagolog? It's too big a number to post on here.
Manny played good and Ronnie was so-so but Effie looked sharp and little Rubilen was all business. They cruised to victory in a lop sided win. Why I love the Philipines, it reminds me of the old action days in the USA, when great players would hang out making games and ribbing each other. I rarely see that today. They were betting HIGH but having fun too. Manny was in the middle of it all, making jokes on himself for missed shots and asking Efren for coaching. He likes to have fun before getting down to business next week to prepare for the Marquez fight in November. Not one word about boxing or fighting did I hear all night. I was there with my friends Darwin and Joyren, two great guys.
I was just sweating the action when local hustler Lulong spotted me and jumped on me for a rematch. I beat him for 3000p last week playing Banks. I think he just wanted to make some noise in front of the crowd so he jumped on me to play for 5000 or 10000p. Me being the old poolroom scuff that I am didn't shy away from him. I told him I would play him Banks, anytime and anywhere, even on the floor. Even Manny chuckled at that one. He wanted to make a date with me to play tonite at One Side, but I told him I wouldn't make an appointment, just show up and play. We'll have to see what happens.
I just got a new Tony Bautista cue from Joyren (finally I have a good cue in the PI) and I will practice with it today. It has a Moori tip which is too hard but I plan to work on it and soften it up a little. I do have my tricks you know. Lulong is a good player and he could win, but I feel comfortable playing Banks so I'm wiling to gamble with him at this game. At 9-Ball I would have zero chance.
