At Grady's All-Around in Tampa in 1983, Ray came out of the left side to play David Howard in the finals. It was a true double-elimination so Ray had to win 2 races to 11 to David's 1. Ray would've been in his late 40s by 83 and David was probably 30 or so. Before the match, David said to Harley Bryant ( a very tough under-the-radar player and great gambler from Jacksonville ), "I'm playing some old man." in the finals. From what I've heard, Harley knew exactly who Ray was. David did not. I can only imagine what Harley was thinking when David said that to him.
At the time, David Howard was one of the absolutely most-feared, strongest 9ball players on earth. Many felt he had the best break of anyone at the time. Ray was pretty much unknown in the south. Those who did know of him viewed him as a former straight pool world champion. Of course, those who knew Ray ( or at least a lot about him ), knew he played ALL GAMES and played them pretty much lights out. Now, yeah, Ray was in his late 40s. David was in his prime and was capable was steamrolling ANYONE at any given time. So the smart money was on David, big time.
Bottom line? Ray Martin 11-2 first set, Ray Martin 11-2 second set. Game. Set. Match. Championship. As they say in tennis. David Howard never knew what hit him. And somewhere out in the crowd, and even though I'm sure he lost some money betting on David, Harely had to have at least a small smile on his face.
"I'm playing some old man..."
Yeah... how'd that work out for ya, David? :grin: