Since the inception of pool on YouTube I've been wondering one thing while watching matches in pool rooms in the Philippines. In between shots a bystander walks over to the table and with what looks like a stick of chalk or a cigarette almost touches it to the cloth in multiple spots. The only think I can think is that mosquitos or gnats or some critter flying around land on the table and that action gets rid of them. I've seen two, three or more bystanders reaching across the table in mid-game doing it. What in the HELL are they doing?? Anyone?
Watching pool from the Philippines on YouTube......
- Thread starter Vince_Former_BB
- Start date
I believe they're using chalk to mark the position of balls that could be physically disturbed
I don't think they usually play object ball fouls, but will revert to the balls' original placement, if necessary
Hmmmm....not sure about your guess. They go to various spots on the table that are in no way involved in the ball travel or positions or anything. Sometimes they'll dab three or four times within a six inch area. Very baffling.
Sometimes they are marking more than one ball incase they are moved.
Ball marking. They mark balls that are likely to be disturbed by the player on the shot at hand. You need to consider the area the shooter will occupy. Always wondered how the markings specify replacement - I think they probably don't. Also in the scores of hours I've watched those matches, I never saw anyone foul. 
Ball position markings, if the ball is disturbed, I don't think it will be replaced to its original position but will prove that a foul occurred.
Verrrrry interesting. Looks like my insect theory is busted. Thanks.
No really. Insects are real.
I've seen them!
MajorMiscue
Democat
Looks like a low paying position with no chance for advancement.
They don't usually play all ball fouls there, just for the mark where it will moved back to if the players wants.
For the very first time since I've been watching the Filipino's play I actually saw a match where it was clear to me that the rail birds were marking the cloth for possible replacement. It was just soooooooooo obvious. Thanks all.