Yes, the World Rules do not use the term random. But even if they did (like in the BCAPL rules), invoking some stupid argument about a "random" rack being theoretically impossible is nonsense. We all know what we are talking about - intentionally trying to get an edge with the rack.
You are correct, proving someone is pattern racking is very difficult, if not impossible. But to me that is a separate issue. I can understand some people's problem with the rule i.e. everyone does it, its unenforceable, you can't prove it, yada yada, but while these may be arguments for changing the rule they are not valid excuses to break the rule as it now exists, imo.
To me it is about an individual's sense of honor. Do you play with honor by the rules even though you could probably break some and not get caught - or don't you? Its really that simple. And I'm not inclined to give action to someone who doesn't play with honor. Life is too short to spend time in the company of such men.
Of course, two guys matching up can agree to any set of rules they want, including allowing pattern racking. But it should be discussed beforehand unless I suppose it is two very seasoned money players that somehow know without saying that it is allowed. I suppose a pro tournament is somewhat of a different animal too if, even though playing by WPA rules, they are all aware they are playing by some "code" that allows it.
But I do get a kick out of people whining about a neutral racker on the last day of the Open. Whining about not being allowed to break the rules is pretty funny if you ask me. :grin: