Great Bar Pool

[Fred Agnir]

I know there are several people who post in these NGs that don't
particularly like bar table pool. I think that those who don't like it are
mostly thinking about weekend drunk bar banging, rather than organized bar
table tournaments and leagues. This past weekend, I played in a great
8-ball bar table tournament. It was a 3-man all-star team tourney, using
APA handicaps and rules. The team handicap was unlimited, so you could load
up your team with the best shooters. Most of the teams had 3 power players
that could beat anyone, anytime, especially considering the handicaps. The
tournament was filled with great shotmaking, super safety play, individual
and team strategy.

Because of the "all-star" theme, there was hardly any sloppy play. Just
good to great pool on bar tables everywhere. It was heaven to watch and
play. Some of us like to think that our way of running out is the correct
way. But after reviewing some styles of several of the areas best shotmakers
and safety specialists, I've been forced to reevaluate.

I know that some of you guys think that 8-ball is solely for beginners, but
advanced players also like to play 8-ball. I know that some of you guys
think that safety play in 8-ball doesn't have the same effect or meaning as
compared to 9-ball, but after watching some of these guys this weekend I
guarantee a modification to that thought. And to repeat, I know that some
of you guys don't like bar pool. It is a shame I couldn't video tape some
of these high quality matches just to show what good bar table is all about.

BTW, we placed a respectable 5th. The two teams that beat us were in the
final three.

Regards,

Fred Agnir <--- Still loves all pool games, any size tables
Templeton, MA