Third International Pool Tour Qualifier Begins

Third International Pool Tour Qualifier BeginsFriday, February 17, 200610:03 a.m.With 74 players from all over the world showing up bright and early this morning, the third IPT qualifying tournament kicked off at 10 a.m. There is a strong internatinal flavor present, as reigning world champion Chia-Ching Wu of Taiwan is present, as well as former world champion Oliver Ortmann, Imran Majid, Goh Takami, Daryl Peach, and Yuji Takagi. Filipinos Santos Sambajon Jr., Ramil Gallego, and Warren Kiamco are here, and strong local representatives comprise Ismael “Morro” Paez, Oscar Dominguez, house pro Dave “Big Wave” Hemmah, Arturo Rivera, Frank “The Barber” Almanza, and Victor Ignacio. Runner-up in both events, Vilmos Foldes of Hungary is also here, hoping that three times is a charm for him.The event is being held at Hard Times in Bellflower, CA, long established as the players’ room in Southern California. Fourteen Gold Crown tables are in action, and with only three days to get through so many players, as soon as one match is ended, another begins.
Tour founder Kevin Trudeau did a presentation at the players’ meeting, reminding them that they’re playing for 2006 season cards as most likely 2007 as well. “Playing pool on the IPT in 2007 means that you’re going to make a minimum of one hundred thousand dollar doing what you love to do,” he emphasized. “Unfortunately, only two of you are going to earn your tour cards,” Trudeau continued, referring to the honor system that is used in all IPT events. “With that in mind, be professional. Raise the bar.” As in the first two events, Trudeau is offering a $5,000 bonus to any player who runs six consecutive racks in tournament play. Additionally, at this event he is offering $500 to any player who makes the 8 ball on the break, and a $1,000 bonus for any player who banks an 8 ball. This announcement was met with great applause … and some chuckles of anticipation.Mike “The Mouth” Sigel is again on hand, and as in Atlanta’s qualifier, he will be playing sets of two eliminated players simultaneously tomorrow. The eliminated players have the chance to earn free entry fees into the remaining two qualifiers if they win a race to 8 against Sigel. Trudeau summed everything up by stating, “I’m just trying to make pool a sport where the players make more money than the head of the association,” eliciting another round of applause from the players and spectators.Visit the IPT for the latest news on their ongoing qualifying event.

Pool Balls and Billiard Balls at LOW PRICES!!!

About the Author:
Inside Pool Magazine publishes billiard news. Definitive Synergy creates pool and billiard management software.