Would You...........
I'd certainly buy-in. And I'd buy in the max amount of times possible.
In all sincerity this would be a fantastic idea for several reasons. First, the SBE needs something new and fresh. Changing the professional tournament to a 10-ball format was a much needed change, but adding straight pool just makes the whole Expo more appealing. It would tap into a genre of cue sports that seems to be experiencing a 21st century rebirth.
Introducing straight pool is a perfect idea for players as well as spectators. A lot of players that grew up in the 9-ball era don't know how to play straight pool and don't get the opportunity to see it played to learn the game. With it on the menu at the Expo it would offer exposure to a large, predominantly 9-ball playing and spectating audience.
It's held in the Northeast - which has a long history of being one of the bastions of straight pool. There are many 100+ ball runners within spitting distance of Valley Forge alone that would just love to get out there and play position for the break ball.
And finally, if I'm not mistaken, 2010 will mark the 100th anniversary of Jerome Keough suggesting that the 15th ball of each rack be left on the table to serve as the first ball in the subsequent rack - thereby giving birth to straight pool as we know it.
I hit the Expo every year and look forward to this possibly being available this year. If there's anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Thanks,
Ron F