I am having an absolute blast here at the U.S. Open. I have met so many GREAT pool folk from all over the world, and more people are arriving every day on the hour by the hour.
Keith McCready played his first match on the TV table against a player named Wayne Catledge (sp), a gentleman from Florida. Keith won the lag and broke, but missed a shot. Wayne ran out and made the 9-ball, only to scratch in the side pocket. The final score was 11 to 7, with my horse coming out on top. We play the winner of Shane from South Dakota's match at 11:00 p.m. tomorrow night.
Marcus Chamat won his match 11 to 4, but never made a ball on the break, oddly enough. Marcus said he's living now back in Sweden. I was surprised to learn that he is only 30 years old. Quite a mature young man.
Richmond's Larry Kressel faced Danny Basavich for his first match. It was a hard-fought battle for both, going hill-hill. Larry pulled off a win on his first match that he will never forget playing the famous Kid Delicious. What an exciting match.
Earl Strickland played a guy named Ed Reyes, no relation to Efren. He had him stuck 7 to 1, and then Reyes seemed to catch a gear. Before you knew it, the score was 7 to 6, Earl. The Pearl prevailed 11 to 9. His match drew a very large crowd, and Earl seems very relaxed in his demeanor at the Open this year. Out front, he was signing autographs and getting his picture taken with fans. A real crowd favorite here at Chesapeake Beach.
There are MANY AzBilliards' members here. This is, without a doubt, the best U.S. Open I have ever witnessed. Although it is a very prestigous tournament, the atmosphere is very comfortable. The matches are electrifying. The equipment is tough, tightened pockets and brand-new Simonis Blue Tour cloth, but a beautiful playing field.
JAM
