Snooker Billiards Pool

BCE Snooker cues

2009-10-31T17:20:00.002Z

Bce claim to be the biggest supplier of games tables in Europe which includes Billiards tables and cues . They also sponsor all the top names in Snooker and these players endorse the

Bce snooker cues. Names like Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins as well as the “old” timers” like Steve Davies and Jimmy White. They also supply the tournament tables for the big competitions under their Riley brand. Bce acquired the Riley Brand in 2002 and negotiated with world snooker to supply the tables for all the big televised Snooker events. The combined Riley and Bce brands now dominate the game.

So Bce snooker cues have a good pedigree and they have a huge range of cues from the Ronnie O’Sullivan and Jimmy White range of cues to their top of the range Riley Burwatt Gold range cues made from kiln dried American Ash and real ebony splices for the butt and the famous blue diamond tip which they use on all of their cues.

Riley Burwatt cue

The Bce range starts off with their Jimmy and Ronnie cues, endorsed by 2 greats of the snooker game, a quality basic cue at a budget price. Next we have the famous heritage series , great looking cues at reasonable prices. At the top of the tree, the premium range of Bce snooker cues is the Grand Master series, top quality cues for the serious player. Top notch ash shafts with hand spliced ebony butts, a top snooker cue from BCE, they look the business and any professional player would be proud to use one.

BCE Grand master cue

Riley Snooker Cues are 100 years old

2009-10-24T23:10:00.002+01:00

Riley started as a sports shop in the 1890’s would you believe, and their big product at the time was cricket bats! They only started making billiards tables and of course the famous Riley cues as a sideline, but that grew and grew, until by the 1920’s they were one of the biggest billiards tables manufacturers in the world, producing full size tables and what they called convertible tables, which we now know as snooker dining tables. And by this time their biggest product was portable tables or folding leg tables as we know them now. They also expanded into snooker clubs in the 1930’s and were now a giant in the industry with a world wide reputation for producing quality tables and cues.

So Riley have been making snooker cues for 100 years, that’s a long time and I guess they know everything there is to know about making them by now. The current range of cues start with their 2 piece series endorsed by the great snooker stars so you get Riley quality at reasonable prices. The next step up is the signature series, which have the signatures of all the top snooker players like Steve Davis and John Higgins on the cues and they come with 2 smart extenders both 6 inch and 12 inch for those awkward shots.

At the top end of the range, their Burwatt range of cues are the premium brand of riley snooker cues, with AA grade American ash shafts and hand spliced ebony butts. And they have pearlised butt cutaways that make them look really special with the platinum models. Riley cues have been around for 100 years or so and their present cues does that tradition proud.

The popular pool table games

2009-10-15T18:29:00.002+01:00

The games played on pool tables depend on which country you are in. In the UK the biggest game is 8 ball which is actually played with 15 balls, usually 7 reds and 7 yellows and of course the black number 8 ball which is where the name of the game comes from. In 8 ball, the object of the game is to pocket the 8 ball after you have pocketed either the 7 reds or the 7 yellows. Which colour range you have to pocket is decided when the first ball goes into the pocket. This often happens at break off. If you break off and a yellow goes into a pocket, then from then on your colour balls is yellow and your opponent has to pocket the 7 reds. If after the choice of balls has been decided, if you hit a ball of your opponents colour that is deemed a foul and your opponent gets one extra shot on his turn.

Also it is a foul if you pocket the white ball or miss all the balls completely. Again your opponent has an extra shot for the foul, so he can just trickle a ball to just nudge an object ball for position and take another shot after that. If your opponent makes a foul with his first shot, he loses his extra shot and you get an extra shot on your turn. Your object for the game is to pocket all 7 reds or yellows whichever your nominated colour is and then to pocket the 8 ball.

Some local rules say that you must nominate the pocket you are going to pocket the 8 ball in, but the standard rules of the World 8 Ball Pool Federation says you can pocket the 8 ball in any pocket.

One of the other pool table games is 9 ball, This is played with 9 balls numbered 1 to 9 and the object of the game is to pocket the 9 ball. Now the balls do not have to be pocketed in any order, and if you get the chance to pocket the 9 ball on your first shot then you win the game. The rack for 9 ball is a diamond and the number 1 ball must be at the apex of the diamond and the number 9 ball has to be in the centre of the diamond. When breaking off, the first ball to be hit has to be the number 1 ball, which is the front ball of the diamond otherwise the break off is a foul.

There are some interesting differences to 8 ball especially when it comes to fouls. A foul is deemed to have been committed in the following circumstances. If you miss the balls completely, if you hit a ball and the object ball or cue ball does not hit the cushion or is pocketed, if you pocket the white or cue ball. In those circumstances the ball is passed to your opponent and he is said to have it in hand and can place the cue ball anywhere he likes on the table to play his next shot.

Pool tables an update

2009-05-29T16:55:00.003+01:00

Pool tables are getting even more popular with multi coloured cloths, anything goes these days.
And there are more contemporary table designs that are more pleasing to the eye and fit in better with your decor. A well crafted pool table is still a very nice object although a tad bulky, also allow for the cue whilst planning a games room or when you select a table. Allow for 10 foot on both dimensionsto allow for playing room when playing, so if you have a 6 foot pool table your room size should be 16 ft by 13 feet to give some room round the table to manipulate the cue. 17 ft x 14 ft if you buy a seven foot pool table.

Pool Tables vary in price considerably. Pool tables are priced from $50 for 4 footers or up to $10,000 for the more exotic versions and the reason is is the playing surface, either MDF or slate. The wooden topped tables are usually the toy versions although there are some very nice wood topped tables that can come in 7 ft sizes,of sufficient size for even dad to play on and less costly than the slate table top types.

Proper pool tables are slate bed tables, no wooden topped table is the same as a proper pool table with a slate top. Slate varies in thickness depending on the cost of the table. Of course being made of slate they are very heavy. Depending on the size of the table the slate is made from one or up to 3 separate parts, to save carrying weight when installing the table. The one piece slate table is easy to put together, the multi slate tables will always need an installer to do it for you.

The support work for tables also come in a variety of materials from the traditional types made of solid timber or MDF to the brick outhouse style of steel tables made to stand up to the hurley burley of pool club life. The table to go for really depends on the use it is put to, with the wood or MDF tables for domestic use and the steel and aluminium framed tables are made for the clubs. The aluminium and steel tables being metal, lend themselves to outlandish paint jobs which you can see in the arcades especially but tables made for home tend to be straightforward stained oak or mahogany.

The games played on pool tables vary depending where you live in the world from the French which play on Carom pool tables which don’t have any pockets to 9 ball played in the America, made famous in the Hustler. The French game of Carom or carombole to give it its full name, is a form of billiards played for points scored by hitting either or both of the other balls on the table. The rest of the world play on tables that do have pockets, and the most popular games are 8 ball and 9 ball, with 8 ball you have to pocket your 7 balls and then the number 8 ball, and with 9 ball you have to pocket the number 9 ball to win.

Pool tables have a long history Pool tables are part of the larger family of billiard tables which have been around for a few hundred years and include snooker, carom and pool tables, and I’m sure they will be around for a lot longer as the game can be played by anyone and if you’re good enough, become a full time pro. So get practicing and I’ll see you at the pool hall.

New Games Table arrived

2007-08-05T19:25:00.000+01:00

We have a new games table at Snooker Billiards Pool, the 7ft Scorpio 2-in-1 Pool/Air Hockey Reversible: Whats that you ask? Well it is a pool table and an air hockey table all rolled into one. And a 7 foot monster at that! On one side of the table is a blue cloth pool table with cues and pool balls and the other side is a Air hockey table. The really neat thing is you just swivel the table over and hey presto you have changed the game from one to the other. And you get a storage rail at the bottom of the table to keep all the air hockey and pool balls etc. You also get 2 full size pool cues and 2 1/4 American pool balls to gowith the 2 pushers and pucks for the air hockey.

Need a new Snooker cue case?

2007-06-06T03:25:00.000+01:00

Hi, we have some new snooker cue cases you may be interested in , goto our page and see the new cases with room for your smart extender. They come in silver and black, see picture left. They are on special this month, check them out.

icWales - Snooker: Cue much embarrassment!

2006-11-22T00:17:00.000Z

icWales - Snooker: Cue much embarrassment!: "Snooker: Cue much embarrassment!Nov 18 2006

Darren Witcoop, South Wales Echo

'come down to Rileys at 7pm and we'll have a game of pool.'
That was the challenge thrown down to me by none other than Jimmy White.
So I did, and as I entered the recently refurbished American Pool and Snooker Club, I realised I would be playing the man known as The Whirlwind.
Just what exactly was I putting myself through?
To be invited to play against the green baize legend that is Jimmy White is one thing."
But to face him in a frame alongside 200 watching spectators is another.
Granted, it may not be the Crucible, but any sizeable crowd is enough to unnerve a young rookie in any game.
So once the six-time World Championship finalist had done with the dignitaries, I was first up on the list to face Jimmy at Cardiff's City Road complex.
I was introduced by the compere and amid a small group of hecklers was about to face one of the most nerve-wrecking experiences of my life.
A few thoughts went through my head. Don't tense up and don't show your nerves.
But it was the blunt message of a friend of mine, who I have had many battles with over pub pool tables down the years, that kept flashing in front of my eyes.
He said: 'Whatever you do, don't miss the balls.' It seemed simple - or so I'd thought.
The cool persona which I try to present had clearly deserted me as my clammy bridge hand touched the table.
And there it was, a fluid pull back of the pool cue - and the white ball bounced, bounced, and bounced off the side of the table and on to the floor.
Cue howls of laughter.
A clearly red-faced journalist told Jimmy and the crowd it was a practice trick shot, it was all show for the cameras.
I think they all knew better.
Fortunately the second break-off attempt, by which time I was reaching record levels of perspiration, went according to plan.
By that, I mean I hit the ball and with ironic cheers that greeted it, I was off and running. After potting two red balls in succession, my confidence soared. Could I really beat the godfather of the current snooker generation?
The 44-year-old is regarded as the best ever player not to lift the world crown.
So could he fail again?
Well, actually no.
After a natural miss by yours truly, White came along and finished me off before I could get back to the table.
Two minutes later and after a handshake and a wry smile, it was all over.
'I wouldn't worry about the break,' said White, referring to my embarrassing first shot error as he tried to cheer me up afterwards.
'In fact, I've seen a lot worse on the circuit over the years.'
Somehow, I think he was being a little kind.
We are offering 10 readers the chance to win a free 12-month membership with Rileys American Pool and Snooker Club on City Road.
Just answer this simple question: What is Jimmy White's nickname?
The closing date is on Friday, November 24. Usual terms and conditions apply. Send your answers via e-mail to darren.witcoop@wme.co.uk or alternatively by post to: Darren Witcoop, South Wales Echo, Sports Desk, Thomson House, Havelock Street, Cardiff CF10 1XR

Pool Table News

2006-10-24T01:51:00.000+01:00

British snooker vet wins U.S. Open 9-ball : Pro-Sports : Albuquerque Tribune: "A few hundred folks showed up to watch a billiards championship, and a chess match broke out.
And Allison Fisher proved she is still the grand master.
The world's No. 1 player came back from a 4-1 deficit Sunday night at Sandia Resort & Casino to beat Kim Shaw 7-5 and win her second straight U.S. Open 9-ball Championship.
The match between two British snooker veterans, playing on a table with tight pockets, featured plenty of defense and safety shots. Shaw seemed to have the upper hand early, winning two straight battles for the 1-ball. Her first win featured 11 shots at the 1-ball.
But Shaw, playing in her first tour final, gambled on a jump shot in the sixth game and gave Fisher an opening. Fisher regained the lead, twice running the table off her break.
'That's just her,' Shaw said of her opponent and the game's dominant force the past 10 years. 'She does that. It doesn't matter how far behind she is, she can win seven games like that.'
The billiards tournament moved this year from the bingo hall at Sandia Casino to the roomier convention center. And for the first time, the quarterfinal matches were taped for broadcast by ESPN. That meant exposure for more players.
'It gets more faces on TV; we go deeper into the field,' said Peg Ledman, the Women's Professional Billiards Association's director of operations. 'There are a lot of talented players here the viewing audience never gets to see.
'A lot of players here are on the fence, and it gets them some time on TV.'
'It's a good tournament this year,' said Albuquerque's Ramona Biddle, who went out in the early rounds. 'It's nice to get somebody new in the finals.'
While the rest of the field played quarterfinal matches on Saturday, Shaw played her quarterfinal and semifinal on Sunday. That meant she played three matches Sunday under the bright TV lights.
"I was probably fortunate to have three matches," Shaw said. "I was warmed up (for the semis)."
Fisher had her own challenges last week. On Monday in Charlotte, N.C., she had a two-hour cancer surgery on the skin around her right eye. "I had eight injections in my eye," she said.
The eye looked battered Sunday night.
"I still have a stitch in the corner of my eye," she said.
On Wednesday, Fisher still had a protective patch over the eye. On Thursday, she was in Albuquerque and won her first match of the tournament.
On Sunday, she was feeling the heat, down 4-1.
"I was sitting in my seat thinking `She's playing really well,' and I was thinking that I needed to start taking my time on my shots," Fisher said.
Fisher used a strong break to come back. And that's where Shaw fell short.
"My break let me down," Shaw said.
But she was upbeat after the match, saying she felt more relaxed in Albuquerque, even if she "never felt 100 percent comfortable" in the tournament.
Shaw was able to capitalize on her opponents' mistakes, and she knocked off top players Jeanette Lee and Karen Corr.
"I was more fearless," she said."

Snooker table news from New Straits Times - Malaysia News Online

2006-10-10T02:26:00.000+01:00

New Straits Times - Malaysia News Online: "MOH Keen Hoe was introduced to snooker at the age of eight when he was barely as tall as a snooker table.

But that did not deter him and as he grew so did his thirst for the game, and was given his first lesson by his dad Loon Hong, who himself was a national billiards and snooker player.

Loon Hoong is best remembered as a double Sea Games gold medallist in billiards in the 1991 Manila and 1995 Chiangmai Games.

Being a son of a former national player, it was difficult for Keen Hoe to come to terms with the legacy of his father as many people were comparing him with his dad.

However, Keen Hoe looked at it as a challenge and has been successful so far in creating his own identity in the sport. His most memorable win thus far was winning the Asian Junior crown in Bangkok last year and potting the doubles silver medal in the 2003 Vietnam Sea Games.

Keen Hoe teamed up with his father for the billiards doubles in the Vietnam Games but lost in the first round.

Now he wants to go one better — to win a medal in the Asian Games.

Keen Hoe, 20, is one of the three snooker players who will be making their Asian Games debut in Doha. The others are Lai Chee Wei and Thor Chuan Leong.

He will be playing in the singles, doubles with Chee Wei, and the team event.

Keen Hoe, who has bagged one title this year — Asian snooker circuit in Thailand in May — however, knows it will not be easy. 'It will all depend on the draw. The clear favourites in Doha will be China, Hong Kong and Thailand,' said Keen Hoe, who was drafted into the national squad in 2002 when he was just 16.

'I hope to get a good draw, meaning a clear path in the early rounds. If it’s favourable, I sshould be able to reach the quarter-finals and from then on the real battle, I suppose, will begin."Although, it will be Keen Hoe’s first Asian Games, he is not feeling the pressure. "I have been playing on a regular basis on the Asian circuit and also in Europe for the past several years. The Asian Games is just another competition for me," added Keen Hoe, who is the current Malaysian No 1."I am not afraid of anyone. I will give my best and, hopefully, land a medal." "

Snooker table news Snooker in the USA

2006-08-19T00:21:00.000+01:00

Day One at the 2006 IBSF World Snooker Tournament - Billiard, Billiards, Pool, Magazines: "Day One at the 2006 IBSF World Snooker Tournament
Pool, Billiards, and Snooker report
Snooker fever has hit San Jose, CA and it's wonderful because it's very cold in the Gateway Ballroom at the Doubletree Hotel.
All over the hotel, smartly dressed men , some as young as 21, some over 40 for the Seniors tournament carry long, thin, aluminum cases filled with their snooker cues, sporting vests, bow ties and dress trousers. They have little clips with metallic chalk ready to use for each shot in their pockets. They come from England, Japan, the Isle of Man, India, almost every ex-English colony. Some speak English, some don't, but it doesn't matter. They're all proper gentlemen, and they're all sweet as all get-out. They communicate through the sport, and they communicate well. And of course there are 3 US teams and 1 Canadian team, to keep our North American presence known, lest you think snooker is NOT an American sport.
For indeed it is, and it's growing every year. Thanks to the work of Executive Director Alan Morris of the US Snooker Association, who aims to bring notice to the sport in the US. More on him another day.
Indeed, as I watched matches today (there were 3 going on at one time; tomorrow and then on there will be, at certain times, 4), I saw some amazing shots, some amazing snookers, and some heartbreaking misses and failures to get out of snookers. Which, if the opponent chooses, makes the player stuck in the same situation again and again. Two subsequent misses and the player automatically loses. Talk about ruthless!
Of course not ever match is ruthless. One frame had an American player and a Scot battling it out until the final ball, when all of a sudden the game was tied, and a black ball ending had to occur. This means that the black ball is respotted on its opening spot and the cue placed in the opening circle.
The referee flips a coin, and whoever wins gets the first shot on the black ball. Of course it’s nigh impossible to get it in from there, so he almost always just has to set up a safety. Which he did. But it
was not safe enough. The Scotsman got the black ball in and won the match. Talk about exhilarating! I was holding my breath the whole time.
A few stragglers came in from the outside world, checking out the sport. They stick out, they do. Looking lost, as though in another world. As though completely bewildered. Maybe they’d heard that it was a sport like pool or 9-ball, and didn’t expect the whopping 12’x6’ table. Maybe they didn’t expect the showmanship and gentlemanly nature (believe me, a woman’s tourney is just as regal), unusual in most American sports. One guy was reading the rules of the game – so maybe he was really trying to learn. Whatever it was, it was enough to keep the sparse audience here, and I expect that as the days roll along, more and more people will come. And I’ll keep you posted.
ABOUT 2006 1BSF WORLD SNOOKER TEAM CUP CHAMPIONSHIPS:The DoubleTree Hotel in San Jose hosts to this international snooker competition, whose competition began today. Matches run at 10 am, 2 pm and 6 pm; admission is $5 for the regular matches, $8 for the semi-finals on the 25th and $10 for the finals on the 26th. For more information or to make reservations for the matches, please call Diana Slampyak, Press Officer, at 650.773.9633 or email her at dslampyak@comcast.net. "

Snooker table news, Wattana on his way back

2006-08-15T23:57:00.000+01:00

Wattana off to a good start: "[SNOOKER] Thailand's James Wattana, who lost his top 16 ranking seven years ago, made a positive start to reclaiming his place with a 5-4 victory over Jimmy Michie in the first round of the Northern Ireland Trophy at Belfast's Waterfront Hall on Monday.

Wattana, the world No 25, is up to 19th on the provisional rankings and his win over Yorkshireman Michie is certain to elevate him even higher.
"I played well to force the deciding frame after Jimmy, from 3-1 down, went on to lead 4-3. It was a tough contest and it was a relief to get over the winning line," said Wattana, whose highest breaks were a 64, 61 and 59 compared with Michie's 103 in frame two.
In a contest which lasted more than three hours, Wattana was heading for defeat as Michie, the conqueror of whirlwind Jimmy White in the final qualifying round, led 4-3 and 30-0 in the eighth frame.
But he missed a none too difficult red, leaving Wattana to compile a break of 64 and lead by 34 points on the yellow. He potted that on his next visit to the table and Michie conceded.
Michie started first in the ninth frame, but broke down on 12 and from then on Wattana held the initiative with victory assured on the blue.
The Thai, who is now based in Sheffield close to world snooker's new Academy which is being officially opened by British royalty on September 13, tonight faces former world and Thailand Masters champion Ken Doherty for a place in the last 16.
China's UK champion, Ding Junhui, and Main Tour debutante Tian Pengfei completed a sparkling treble for players from the Far East.
Ding won the last three frames to wrap up a 5-4 victory over Welshman Paul Davies, compiling a break of 92 to force a tense 49-minute deciding frame which he won on the pink after trailing by 21 points with only a red remaining.
Tian, who celebrates his 19th birthday today, defeated former world championship semi-finalist Andy Hicks 5-3, registering breaks of 50, 62 and 115.
Tonight he faces the 2005 world champion, Shaun Murphy, for a place in the third round, with Ding up against Anthony Hamilton.
"I played badly and I was nervous," said Ding, who won the match on a final frame blue and pink.
"There's pressure on me now because I'm in the top 32.
"I got very few chances in the last frame, so I just had to concentrate. I'm very relieved to have won. I must play better in my next match."
And Hicks was in no doubt that China could become a significant force in snooker. "There's quite a few good players coming out of China," said the world No 31.
John Dee
The Nation
Belfast

Snooker table news, Ronnie raring to go

2006-08-14T01:27:00.000+01:00

Sunday Life: "Snooker: Ronnie's 'Rocket' to rivals..

Frank Brownlow talks to Ronnie O'Sullivan
13 August 2006
Ronnie O'Sullivan last night fired a warning blast at his rivals ahead of the Northern Ireland Trophy - 'If I'm on form no-one can touch me!'
The tournament gets under way today at the Waterfront Hall and its elevation to a ranking event cranks up the pressure on the players.
And 'The Rocket' didn't sit on the fence when asked who would win the prestigious opening event to the new snooker season.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Life, O'Sullivan rapped: 'When I'm on form I'm very, very good and there are only three other players in the world who can possibly live with me.
'Everyone knows the quality of John Higgins, Stephen Hendry and Mark Williams. When those three and myself are on top of our game we are better than everybody else.
'I need to be more consistent and that's the key to it really. When I'm good I'm very, very good but when I'm poor I'm just an average player.'
O'Sullivan is a real enigma and has in the past threatened to quit the game and many people - including the man himself - feel he should have more than his two World titles to show for his prodigious talent.
He candidly admits: 'I should have won more World titles by now. I could probably have doubled what I have achieved in the game but I've had my ups and downs.
'I need to get my consistency back and when it comes back I can win more World Championships,' says the 30-year-old Essex boy.
And O'Sullivan knows a good run in the Northern Ireland Trophy can lay the foundations for a good season and another tilt at the World crown.
'It's now a world ranking event so all the top players will be going out all guns blazing to win it. Everybody will be keen to do really well.
"We've had a long break and I've got a new cue so it's a bit difficult at the moment but I've been working hard in practice and things are going okay," he says.
O'Sullivan will face either Alan McManus or Stuart Pettman in his opening match.
But he reveals: "I don't really look at the draws because they're all tough matches these days. I just turn up and hope to find a bit of form. You get used to playing all the players so you know what to expect."
O'Sullivan has been playing in pool tournaments over the summer to maintain his sharpness.
"I like to play a bit of pool in between snooker tournaments. If there's a gap I'll play in a few pool events. I don't treat pool as a job - it's just a bit of fun," he says.
Snooker has struggled in recent years to emulate its 1980s golden era and O'Sullivan feels the game would be boosted by greater competition for the top prizes.
"When John Higgins, Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams and myself are not on top of our game there are maybe another five or six players who are very capable of winning tournaments.
"Then there are maybe another four players behind them who have an outside chance of winning tournaments.
"Plenty of players are capable of winning tournaments but they don't all do so.
"A lot of players say they can win tournaments and some of them have never won anything.
"A lot of talking gets done but it's the results that matter.
"The fact is that there are only four people who regularly win ranking events. We are just that little bit better than everyone else.
"Some people have won four or five events but that's nothing to write home about.
"Hendry has won 36 or 37, I've managed to win about 18 or 19 and so have Higgins and Williams. That says it all really," he says.
And O'Sullivan warns that, in snooker, talk is cheap.
"A lot of players say that they are making 147s in practice. But it's one thing doing it in practice - it's when you get on the match table that it matters. You have to do it where it matters.
"The only one of the up and coming players who seems to do it where it matters is Ding Junhui. He's won the UK Championship which is a massive tournament and he's also won the China Open. So he has actually won things and is a force to be reckoned with.
"Other players have won maybe one tournament and got to semi-finals and quarter-finals. So that means Ding Junhui stands out from the others because he has proven himself.
"I've been watching the European Championship athletics this week and some of the British athletes are talking about doing better next year and the year after that - but in my view there's no time like the present. You should just get on with winning things," he stresses.
And for how long can Ronnie O'Sullivan go on winning things?
After much deliberation, he says: "I would see myself staying in the game another six or seven years because hopefully I'll still be playing top quality snooker by then.
"As long as I'm playing well and enjoying it, I'll carry on playing."
'The Rocket' is still aiming for the stars."

Get your own Snooker table

Snooker table news, Steve changes horses

2006-08-09T02:16:00.000+01:00

Interview with Steve Davis at the World Series of Poker (Part 2) Poker News: "Welcome to Part 2 of our intriguing and amusing interview with Steve Davis, formerly one of the greatest snooker players in the world with multiple world championships behind him.

Now a keen poker player in his own right, and having made it this year through the first two days of the WSOP Main Event, Steve talks about his hapless introduction to poker thanks to his long-time mentor, Barry Hearn, and considers the poker-playing skills of his fellow snooker professionals.

UKPN: Just stepping back a bit, tell us about your first experience of poker?

SD: I came out to Vegas on a trip with Barry Hearn who had just started to get interested in poker; televising poker but as a player as well. He said, you've got to come over for a couple of days; I've got a few meetings, and we'll play a bit of poker. I said I don't even know the rules. He said it doesn't matter, I've got a book. You can read it on the plane. So we came over, stayed at the MGM, and played at the Bellagio, for a couple of days. Anyway, we got to the airport in the UK and got on the plane. I said where's the book?Oh he said, it's in my luggage. He said don't worry, when we get off, we can get it out and you can read it on the way to the hotel. You can buy the books, there are loads of them on how to play poker.

We got to the airport at the other end, straight to the hotel. Let me read the book. He said Look, we haven't got time for that, let's get down to the Bellagio and play. We got to the Bellagio. I've walked into the Bellagio room in his wake; he can't wait to play, he's like a kid in a sweet shop. He walked up to the Maitre D, who was controlling the tables, and said “I want a table at the 30-60 limit game.” It’s a big game, right, but I don’t know what he is talking about, “30-60 limit”! The guy says, yes sir, we have a seat there on the 30-60 over on the corner table. And off he goes with “Oh, and a seat for my friend”. The guy says there is a seat in the 15-30 game. Barry said “that’ll do him” and went “Bye!” So now I’ve gone to my table. The first ever game of my life, and it’s with the sharks! Bellagio, 15-30 limit. I was so nervous, my hands were shaking and I was checking through nerves! I’m slowly losing my money and Barry came back from losing all of his money, tapped me on the shoulder and said “come on, let’s go and have something to eat now”. At that moment, I had A9 of spades and the flop came down three spades, queen, jack, whatever. I’m not raising, I don’t know what I’m doing but I know I’ve got the best hand, but I don’t know what to do with it, so I’m just calling and people were raising; I was just calling the raises. A Chinaman next to me had been raising me and I was just calling, not re-raising; just calling, out of nerves, right? Other people are calling as well. It’s come round to me and we turn the hands over. The Chinaman just looked at me and then spat at me! He obviously didn’t understand what I was just calling him with. I got all my money back, $500 I had and I got it all back in one go! Barry says, “come on, son, we’re going” and we cashed it all in. I could see them going “no, no, come back!” So that was my first experience. The next day I went on the 1-2 table. The Maitre D’ said do you want to play on the 15-30 table and I said no, I want to learn the game, what’s the lowest table? He said the 1-2 table but I don’t deal with that, you’ll have to go over to the desk over there. The 1-2 table was the one in the corner with all the local grinders. I proceeded to lose $200 playing 1-2 limit, which is a feat in itself! It’s a lot of money to lose at 1-2 limit, isn’t it! I had about $20 left and I heard one of the locals whispering to another one “we’ve nearly got him!” I thought “you bastard” – I’m only here to try to learn and I’m, like, their lunch. Great! UKPN: As one of many top snooker players who play poker to a reasonably high standard, do you see a correlation in the two pursuits that make snooker players natural poker players? SD: I think in a game like snooker, which is a static ball game, a dead ball game, you have a decision to make before you operate so there are therefore decisions on a snooker table that have a likeness to the decisions you may have to make in poker. Whether to choose to go for the shot; whether to turn it down and wait for a better opportunity; what type of positional shot to play – one could be more aggressive than the other in how it all unfolds. Some players would choose the negative option while some would choose the positive. The attacking, or the reckless or the conservative or the percentage; there are different ways of looking at it. However, having said that, one is a mind game while the other is an operating, mechanical, using the body, so the difference is there. But I do find that, probably, if you like to play snooker, you like to play games, so you’ve got a games mentality and may be suited to play any type of game, like tactics and rules, like the opportunity to try and win and compete, so that may be why the snooker players have taken to poker quite nicely. We were in quite early as celebrities. I started to play online at the (snooker) tournaments in the press room on my days off between matches in the build-up to my first ever Poker Million. Players would be walking past saying “what are you doing?” This was back about five years ago. We were in early before the poker boom, it was still fairly low-key. At the risk of incurring the wrath of your fellow snooker players, which of those players would you say is the stand-out player at poker? SD: I don’t really think I know enough about the game of poker to be able to judge someone. If you were to go on success, Jimmy White won the Poker Million the year I got to the final, but obviously people saw his cards and say he got lucky. Matthew Stevens however has won quite a big amount of money playing at big TV events and I think he is probably considered to be a pretty decent player, he’s got a bit of game in him. I like Mark Williams’ play because he’s got a good attitude and I always find it hard when we play our games behind the scenes at tournaments. He’s very difficult to read, and has a good way of covering his bluffs. Stephen Hendry is like some kind of wounded tiger when he plays. If he takes a bad beat, he lashes out! But we are all learning; as long as we don’t think we are any good at the game, that’s probably the best philosophy. UKPN: How would you say, in your mind, poker stands in relation to your snooker and nine-ball pool activities? SD: In my mind, I am a snooker player; I am not a pool player and I am not a poker player. I am a poker enthusiast and I dabble in pool because of a few things on the television such as the Mosconi Cup and things like that. The poker thing must remain an enthusiast’s, fan-based thing for me. You know, I walk around the trade shows, picking up magazines and being a punter. If someone says, “here’s the latest dealer button out in the market”, I say, “yeah, I’ll have one!” I’ll buy all the books. I’ve got so many books; I’ve bought 15 since I’ve been here. They’ll all go on the shelf and look lovely but whether I’ll read them all….! I’m effectively a poker slut or groupie! Like the rest of us, I’m walking around with my eyes wide open. “Wanna free T-shirt?” “Yeah, I’ll have one!”. To be quite honest, I want it stay like that, really. I’d hate really to be regarded as a poker player because a little bit of me would say that’s not right. If I had a major success at poker and all of a sudden I’m a poker player, it would be wrong because I haven’t had the experience. Perhaps I could do well in a tournament one day but I know full well I haven’t paid my dues. As a snooker player you have to pay your dues, you can’t take the short route; you’ve got to have the skill obviously but I’d like to think that anyone who won this big event would be an experienced player who no-one could say, well he got lucky. If I won it, you’d have to say I got lucky! How could a snooker player with five years’ experience win? It’s not right. So, I want to be an enthusiast. UKPN: In your experience of playing competitive poker, who has impressed you most out of the pros in the field that you have seen play? SD: Well, I haven’t really been in close proximity all that much to know who, as I’ve only played with a few pros. It’s always nice to see somebody who feels comfortable at the table and I’ve played with people round the table during this event who I thought, “yeah, you like you’ve been here before; I don’t know your name, I don’t know where you come from but you look better than me! I’ve played with the Devilfish, Roy Brindley and Bruno Fitoussi. Who else have I played with? I’ve sat next to the Irish guy who won the World Series, Noel Furlong. I don’t think I’m qualified really to know. It’s nice to see somebody at ease around the table. I’ve commentated on a lot, I’ve done plenty of commentary recently for some of the events that are produced by Matchroom Sport and watching all the players play is just fantastic. I don’t really think there is just one person. I’ve never seen Tony G play though, except for when he really ripped into Surinder Sunar! I like Tony so obviously he has this brat image, but he’s actually a nice guy. It’s interesting how your personality can change when you go on stage, which is effectively the poker table. So, for that reason, so long as somebody is not rude, and there’s a sense of humour involved as well, it’s fine.

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Snooker table news

2006-07-27T01:23:00.000+01:00

Sport - Lancaster Today: News, Sport, Jobs, Property, Cars, Entertainments & More: "James starts well but Leo triumphs
JAMES Silverwood continued his snooker education with a recent match against Cumbria's Irish professional Leo Fernandez who is world ranked 77.
The venue was again James' home base, Squires Snooker Centre, which is shortly to be refurbished.
The first frame began with Fernandez making an early 20 break with James responding with a 27. Both players made further small contributions before James potted a good blue to win 66-47.
The next frame was James's best. The Torrisholme teenager made an early 22 and, after a safety battle, scored 49 prompting Fernandez, who is recovering from illness, to concede at 71-0.
In frame three, James was in first with a 27. Fernandez responded with 19 and eight and the frame remained level until, with four reds remaining, Fernandez made 14.
James took the last two reds with colours yellow and green and, needing only brown and blue, failed to pot the brown. Fernandez cleared the remaining colours to register his first frame of the match 58-45.
Frame four was another closely-fought frame. After two similar breaks from both players, James potted brown and blue and played safe on the pink.
From Fernandez's poor safety shot, James dispatched the pink for the frame 60-42 to lead 3-1.
But this was his last success as his opponent took control having mastered the speed of the table.
In the fifth frame, a 50 was enough for Fernandez to take the frame 61-9.
He was in first in the next frame with a 44. Again, the remaining reds in the pack did not split well forcing a safety shot. Two further small breaks by Fernandez followed and James conceded with the score 78-1.
Again in the next frame, Leo was in first and on 14 opened the pack. Once more, there was no red available, limiting the big breaks.After 25 from Fernandez, James made 36 and was in chargem only needing the brown.But a tricky snooker laid by Fernandez brought him back into the frame with James missing three times as referee Paul Semple applied the miss rule.From the last of these misses, Fernandez duly cleared to the black to win.James was now trailing 4-3 in this best of nine match and things did not get any better in the next frame.The Cumbrian's first scoring visit produced the highest break of the match, a 62. James did claw his way back into the frame and, with the colours remaining, the score stood at 68-42 to Fernandez who then took his chance on the yellow to clean up.So, James, after a fine start, had lost the last four frames and the match 5-3.n After the match, James received some professional analysis from Preston pro Steve Rowlings.
20 July 2006"

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2006-07-17T23:36:00.000+01:00

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Snooker Table news

2006-07-13T01:48:00.000+01:00

Guardian Unlimited Sport Snooker John Spencer: "Clive Everton
Thursday July 13, 2006
The Guardian

The snooker player John Spencer, who won the world title at his first attempt in 1969 - then took it again 18 months later, and repeated the feat in 1977, the first year the championship was staged at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre - has died of stomach cancer aged 70.
Born in Radcliffe, Lancashire, he attended Stand grammar school. When he was 14, his father, who had lost an arm in the first world war and used a clothes brush as a makeshift bridge for his cue, introduced his son to a full-sized table. Previously he had played only on an upturned 4ft x 2ft bagatelle table, with pairs of nails defining the pockets and tightly drawn tape for cushions. Spencer made his first century break when he was 15, but remained a strictly local hero as the game was in the doldrums. Called up for national service at 18, he did not hit a ball for 11 years until an old friend recruited him for a �5-a-head challenge match for Longsight billiard hall against that in Salford."
Having anchored Longsight to victory, it struck Spencer that if these were the best amateurs in Lancashire, he had been underrating himself. He reached the final of the English amateur championship at his first attempt in 1964, losing to Ray Reardon, who later won six world titles. Having taken the English amateur champion title in 1966, Spencer returned to Lancashire as runner-up from the world amateur championship in Karachi that year on the point of retirement after a row over expenses.
In those days there was no tournament circuit, and he had no thought of a professional career. Players survived through charity exhibitions in clubs and, out of the blue, the National Spastic Society offered him £14 an engagement, plus a small commission on what he could raise through auctions and raffles. Pontin's, Blackpool, offered him £20 a week for a summer season - and his professional career was born.
When John Player decided to sponsor a revived world championship, Spencer borrowed £100 from his bank manager and won the first prize of £1,780, then a fortune in snooker terms. Beaten by Reardon in the April 1970 semi-final, he recaptured the title in Sydney that November, making three centuries in four frames in the final. Although hot favourite to retain the title, he lost the 1972 final to Alex Higgins, whose emergence was to be an important factor in the game's commercial success.
Three times Spencer won Pot Black, the BBC2 one-frame tournament that exploited the advent of colour television to bring the game to a substantial new public. At a time when snooker, after a long spell of obscurity, needed new heroes, he was at the forefront of that small cast. Although he won the inaugural Benson and Hedges Masters in 1975, his form deteriorated as the 1970s wore on. His cue was an unprepossessing 15oz Excalibur, held together by a nail in its butt and bought for eight shillings from the Radcliffe billiard hall, the Grott. It was broken into four pieces when he crashed after falling asleep at the wheel of his car in 1974, an incident in which he was lucky not to have died.
Incredibly, the cue was pinned together by a cue doctor, but it never felt quite the same. Eventually, two months before the 1977 championship, Spencer changed to a Canadian two-piece, and regained the title, not in his old, assertive style, but with a percentage game underpinned by concentration, tenacity, tactical acumen and experience. In 1979, in the Holsten International at Slough, he became the first player ever to make a 147 maximum in competition, albeit an event denied television exposure because Thames TV, anxious to avoid overtime payments, had awarded the crew a meal break.
Spencer's career and life were shattered on May 9 1985 when he woke up with double vision, quickly diagnosed as myasthenia gravis, the disease which, in his case, had caused a deterioration of his eye muscles. Steroids fought the problem with intermittent success but the long-term side effects were hellish.
He worked as a BBC Television summariser and was, from 1990 to 1996, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association. His tenure, he was to admit, included several periods in which his condition and medication produced deep depressions, ungovernable spasms of aggression, an obsession with suicide and, finally, inoperable stomach cancer. It was all a dreadful contrast to his sunny, good-natured younger self, a great lover of practical jokes, golf and gambling on horses.
A year ago, Spencer declined further treatment: "Even if I only have another 12 months left to live, at least I'll die happy. I realised that I could have another 10 years, but be miserable with the treatment, or take my chances without it. I'm determined to stay around a bit longer, but I've had a good innings. I've been round the world too many times to remember and met some fabulous people."
He remained, as he had been for 20 years, a dedicated fundraiser for the Myasthenia Gravis Association, even undertaking a sponsored parachute jump last year, and completed his autobiography, Out of the Blue, Into the Black. He is survived by his wife Margot, with whom he remained on the friendliest of terms after their separation, and Jean Shepherd, his partner of 15 years.
· John Spencer, snooker player, born September 18 1935; died July 11 2006

Snooker table news

2006-06-26T00:40:00.000+01:00

icWales - Snooker: Victorious Williams is still short of motivation: "Snooker: Victorious Williams is still short of motivationJun 24 2006

South Wales Echo

Mark Williams put in a fine display at the TCC pro am championships in Newport but admitted practising for the new season, which starts in August, does not motivate him anymore.
Double world champion Williams was guilty of losing his way in the earlier parts of last season through lack of tournament preparation table time and, at one stage, was in danger of dropping out of the elite top 16 on the world list.
And with youngsters snapping at his heels on the main professional tour, the Cardiff-based 31-year-old needed all his experience to pull himself out of the rut he was in last season and, after going down 13-11 to Ronnie O'Sullivan in the 888 world championships quarter-finals in April, he eventually finished in eighth position on the list.
Other players, like Stephen Hendry and O'Sullivan, are taking a break this summer.
But Williams stepped up to the table and progressed to an intriguing meeting with new Welsh amateur champion Jamie Jones, from Neath, in the TCC quarters next month."
He beat Newport amateur Richard Price 4-0, with breaks of 50, 51, 96 and 72 and in that final frame, he was on the way to a 147 maximum before missing the 10th red.
Williams, though, has no intention of over exerting himself for the opening event of the season, the Northern Ireland trophy in Belfast, this August.
He said: 'I'm not practising at all. I'm not going to play much before the Northern Ireland Trophy.
'I can't be bothered - I'm still on summer break.'
As for 18-year-old Jones, who joins the professional tour later in the year, he showed just how he is going to unleash himself on the public by destroying local player Michael Griffiths 3-0 in his opening match, which included a 110 break.
Then he hammered Bristol 17-year-old Judd Trump, the youngest professional in big time snooker, 4-1, a performance which included breaks of 102 and 111.

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Snooker table prodigy

2006-06-24T15:12:00.000+01:00

Pocketsized Rocket (from This Is Wiltshire): "POCKET-SIZED ROCKET
By John Ballard

Westbury snooker prodigy Thyas Evans (31978/4)

A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD snooker prodigy from Westbury is already dreaming of playing his idol Ronnie The Rocket' O'Sullivan in the World Championship.
Despite only just being tall enough to see over the table, Thyas Evans displays a talent for the game far beyond his age. This year, in his first full season of competitive snooker, the Year 2 pupil from Bitham Brook Primary School played against, and beat, other youngsters in under 12s tournaments across the south west to finish in third place overall for this age group.
He has even triumphed against people more than twice his age, with victories against under 15s and even under 21s in a final end-of-the-season event. His father Paul Evans, who is also a snooker fanatic, said: 'We bought him a two-foot table when he was two or three years old and then after about six months we had to exchange it for a four-foot one, because the smaller table was no longer challenging enough.
'He just picked up the game very quickly and has such a passion for it.' Thyas started going to Trowbridge Snooker Club, joined the Cuestars snooker scheme and immediately took to playing on full size tables.
continued...
Cuestars is based around a universal handicap system and provides snooker players with the opportunity to play in competitions, which Thyas has been doing very successfully. On the back of this success, the Westbury youngster has been selected to go to an assessment day in Swindon this summer, where Ronnie O'Sullivan's coach Frank Adamson will cast his eye over some of the region's most promising young snooker players.
Mr Evans said: 'If Thyas continues to develop the way he has been doing, I would say that 10 year down the line he should be close to being on television, and I reckon in about four years he will be banging in centuries. "We'll probably give him another season playing at this level, and then we'll have to look at him going into national competitions."
Players Bar in Westbury provides Thyas with unlimited use of the full size tables, so he can get in the many hours of practice needed to enable him to compete at a high standard.
Players are also helping the seven-year-old star with tournament travel costs, and general manager Ken Bowman is encouraging other young snooker fans and their parents to take the opportunity to play the game at the bar on the West Wilts Trading Estate.
In addition to enjoying playing on the green baize, Thyas is an avid follower of snooker, and likes to watch the best players in the world in action. While Trowbridge's Stephen Lee is the local star, Thyas has always supported Ronnie O'Sullivan. He said: "I need to practice as much as I can because the more I play the better I get.
"I hope I get to play against Ronnie O'Sullivan one day, and I'd like to beat him so then he can ask me for my autograph.""

Snooker Table news POTS OF CASH FOR TITLE TABLE

2006-06-20T00:15:00.000+01:00

The Daily Record - NEWS - POTS OF CASH FOR TITLE TABLE: "A HOUSE is up for sale at �450,000 - with the snooker table on which Stephen Hendry won his first world title thrown in.
Owners Ian and Betty Robson hope the home, in Walkerburn, Peebleshire, will go to a true snooker fan.
Ian, a former miner and personnel manager, built the 5000 square-foot house three years ago - and installed the table from Stephen's 1990 win.
He said: 'I used to play a lot of competitive snooker and there was a time when I considered going professional but knew I didn't have the magic to make it in the big time.
'I used to play against Stephen Hendry when he was working his way up the ranks so having the table he won the world championship on is fantastic.
'It's time for us to move on now and if someone would like to buy the table with the house, they are welcome to it.'
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Estate agent Harry Lukas said: 'This is an unique property and I expect the table will raise a fair amount of interest.' "

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Pool table news "The Hustler remembered"

2006-06-18T12:11:00.000+01:00

SignOnSanDiego.com > News > Don Freeman -- Not too late to rectify oversight and retroactively honor Gleason: "Not too late to rectify oversight and retroactively honor Gleason "

We had greatness in our midst. My reference is to Jackie Gleason, a superior actor and an unsurpassed comedian in the “Honeymooners” sketches he played with Audrey Meadows. I am reminded here of what Red Skelton once observed. “A comedian can be an actor,” Skelton said, “but an actor cannot necessarily be a comedian.”
Now Jackie, you must recall, never was honored with an Oscar for his work in the movies. And an Emmy was denied him for his accomplishments on television. This drastic oversight should by all means be put to rights.
How this is done I leave to those in that line of work. But what I am suggesting now is that matters be worked out so the memory of Jackie Gleason is honored with a retroactive Academy Award as well as an Emmy. (And don't forget Bob Hope, who rightly should also have been granted retroactive Oscars for his fine acting in “Seven Little Foys” and “Beau James.”)
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No honors by his peers for Jackie Gleason? Now that is truly outrageous. My thoughts turned to Jackie not long ago when I saw “The Hustler” once again on television. In my view, “The Hustler” rules as the greatest of all sports movies. You may ask if shooting pool is a sport. I think so. In “The Hustler,” shooting pool is beyond all doubt a sporting contest, and the game is played, of course, for coin of the realm.
One memorable scene in “The Hustler” has Paul Newman as Fast Eddie Felson, freshly arrived in New York from far-off Oakland, admiring the pool artistry of Minnesota Fats. The Fat Man is portrayed majestically by Jackie Gleason, and Fast Eddie is awed. You are put in mind here of a fellow artist of lesser gifts who has just encountered Michelangelo at work.
Fast Eddie, with an easy smile, issues this admiring observation: “They say old Fats just shoots the eyes right off of those balls.”
Minnesota Fats pauses. He smiles, too, for he can spot a hustler who has just walked into a pool hall with his cue in a leather case. “Do you like to gamble, Eddie? Gamble money on pool games?”
What a beautifully played scene that is. Snapping with tension, the scene tells you all about Fast Eddie and Minnesota Fats. Their lives, we know at once, are clearly fashioned under the pitiless gaze of the harsh light that hangs above the pool table.
What we inescapably feel in that scene is the rhythm of the city. No musical score accompanies the dialogue, but as you listen to your imagination, you hear a muted trumpet wailing out the blues of the big city.
And there was Jackie in “Requiem for a Heavyweight,” in an explosive scene in the dressing room of his fighter played by Anthony Quinn. Jackie, called Maishe in the film, says: “It didn't bother you that I had every last nickel I have in the world on the table saying that you wouldn't go five!”
“Maishe,” says the washed-up fighter so plaintively that you feel the tears well up, “Maishe, you bet against me?”
The expression on Jackie's face tells you everything you need to know about this character he is playing with such exquisite restraint and power. It is Jackie creating a fiercely believable character. It is the Jackie we remember. It is Jackie, in top form, revealing his art. It is the Jackie Gleason we remember.
Don Freeman can be reached by fax at (619) 260-5093; or at don.freeman@uniontrib.com; or at the Union-Tribune, P.O. Box 120191, San Diego, CA 92112-0191.

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Pool Tables in New York

2006-06-13T16:28:00.000+01:00

NY1: Search: "Manhattan Week: Pool Tables Custom Made At Blatt Billiards In Union Square

As NY1 kicks off Manhattan Week, borough reporter Rebecca Spitz takes a look at a family owned business that's been mixing the old and the new through three generations from its Union Square headquarters.

Walking into Blatt Billiards is like walking back in time.

The business, housed in a six-story building just south of Union Square, is family owned and run and everything is handmade.

'My father moved into this building in 1943 and we've been there since then,' says owner Ron Blatt.

Blatt is a third generation manufacturer of custom pool tables. Like his father and grandfather before him, Blatt loves billiards.

On each of the building's floors, you'll find a different facet of the production, from brand new models to fully restored antiques.

'We do everything in house. Everything is done here, start to finish,' says Blatt. 'We use the finest materials. We use exotic veneers, leathers, all kinds of stuff. It depends what the customer wants.'

That could be anything from elaborate inlay or detailed carvings. If you're feeling a little more fanciful, how about some unicorns instead of traditional pool table legs?

Blatt has 54 employees who make it all happen.

'We plane the lumber and smooth it to the specifications that we need,' he says. 'We cut it, we build the frame of the table then we fit the slates, the rails, the pockets, all that stuff. And after that's done, we concentrate on the cosmetics.'

It can take up to a year to finish a custom table. The cost? Blatt says depending on what the customer wants, anywhere from $1,800 to $180,000.

Working in this factory requires both skill and patience. Some of these projects take months to complete and each craftsman works almost entirely on his own." Darren Zubrycky, who came to Blatt nearly 10 years ago from a career in furniture making, says he's right at home in this workshop. "Every craftsman is an individual and we're all such great individuals. We really don't work collaboratively together in one sense, in a whole we do for the whole company, but we all appreciate having our own projects and that's what it's all about," he says. And around the corner, fellow artisan and former cabinet maker Fred Cohen, methodically works on carvings and turnings that will adorn a table. "You have to work steady but very controlled and very efficient. You can't rush this type of work," says Cohen. Attention to detail is behind the 83 orders for custom tables that are currently in the works and to the list of clients you might've heard of. "Bill Gates to Michael Douglas to Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mayor Bloomberg has 3 tables," says Blatt. His celebrity clients might add marquee value to the business, but turning out a quality product is really the bottom line. The inconveniences often associated with manufacturing in Manhattan don't bother Blatt. "I'm a born and bred New Yorker," he says. "I'm not going anywhere." - Rebecca Spitz

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Snooker Table blog

2006-06-12T23:52:00.000+01:00

Player Blogs: "DOM'S DIARY
Dominic Dale
16-Apr-2006

There are many and varied interesting characters in snooker, but none more colourful than Welshman Dominic Dale. But enough about his shirts. Sadly for the World No 34, he fell at the first hurdle in his attempt to walk out as a player at this year's 888.com World Snooker Championship, losing 6-10 to the gritty Liverpudlian Rod Lawer. But Dale is still involved in the tournament as a commentator for BBC Sport and Eurosport as well as worldsnooker.com's new diary columnist. 'I'm fine here,' said the former Grand Prix champion. 'I'm loving being part of the atmosphere. But when I sat listening to the live draw and my name wasn't in it, that hurt. 'It made me think I wasn't good enough to be in the event, but Rod played particularly well against me at Prestatyn and it was just one of those days.' The erudite Welshman was approached by the BBC a few years ago to try his hand at commentary and in his words 'took to it like a duck to water. 'I think they'd heard my interviews, knew I could talk, or maybe it's because I've got a loud personality! Anyway I really enjoy it. 'I find it easy to talk because I was trained in singing by a great operatic tenor from Neath, Allun Davies. I used to sing at school and in choirs. Yes I was a boy treble! 'I'm now a genuine baritone, a slighter deeper tone than a tenor. I can hit a Top 'A', whereas a tenor can reach 'C'. 'So I am comfortable with a microphone, I'm used to performing and being in front of cameras.' The Penarth Pavorotti shared the commentary box with Willie Thorne as he covered the John Parrott v Graeme Dott match. 'I managed to get a few words in!' he joked. Then he was paired off with Dennis Taylor, the first time they had worked together as a 'talk team'. 'We really gelled as a partnership and iit went very well. Dale enjoys keeping an ear out for 'Coleman Balls', slips of the tonuge or double-entendres named in honour of BBC's former sports commentator David Coleman. Probably the most famous snooker quote came from the doyen of commentators Ted Lowe, who once informed the audience: "Fred Davis, 64 years old, too old to get his leg over, prefers to use his left hand." The Crucible audience can follow the commentary using the exclusive 888.com earpieces. "I didn't know they had earpieces and I wondered why there was laughter", said Dale after Taylor had uttered the line "Steve Davis needs an extra nine inches." Dale has become an avid Davis fan but has a more selfish motivation than appreciating the Nugget's skills at the table. "I want him to keep winning, then he can't do so much BBC work and I get to do more commentary!" he said. As well as audiences earpieces, one helpful innovation at the Crucible this year is a play back machine for use by referees and markers which can be used to help them replace the balls after the foul and miss rule is applied. "I really like this new technology", said Dale. "The markers have dvd players at their desks and they can instantly rewind the play." He is also impressed with the Cue Zone outside the Crucible, which incorporates a wide range of snooker history, including a display of old equipment, scientific information and a cross-section showing how a table is constructed. We'll be catching up with Dominic throughout the Championship with his thoughts and observations. "

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Pool Table news for the Girls

2006-06-11T14:48:00.000+01:00

Ladies pool is right on cue - Sunday Times - Times Online: "Ladies pool is right on cue
Boozy, smoky and unfriendly, snooker halls used to be places where women feared to tread. Now they are getting the feminine touch, writes Claire Sawers

I have been an enthusiastic but inept player of pool for years. Divots in the green baize of tables the length and breadth of the country stand testimony to my abilities, or lack of them. I am the champion of the bouncing ball and the potted white. I know the pain of conceding two-shot penalties whether at the break of the game, or after cueing up that final and seemingly triumphant black only to scuff the white and miss the damn eight-ball entirely.
Maybe, I've pondered, this is a woman thing. I'm just not properly adapted for the game. But that can't be true. With women's pool leagues flourishing across Scotland, this is plainly a game that crosses the gender divide. So when I spotted a female-friendly pool hall in Glasgow offering coaching sessions, I decided it was time to join the band of cue-wielding women whose skills are beyond dispute.

For many women like me, snooker and pool halls have long seemed the preserve of beer-swilling, chain-smoking men, and were intimidating places at the best of times.
But it is now also becoming a women's world. Most of the evidence for the rise in women's pool is anecdotal, but it's obvious enough that the game's winning combination of a social life and a degree of competitiveness offers an alternative to the demure world of ladies' book groups.
Yvonne Ewing, the manager of the Scottish ladies pool team, is in favour of anything that encourages more women players. I love competition, so the more women on the circuit, the better, she says. There tends to be a lot more camaraderie and socialising among the female players. Often men focus on the competitive side and the prize money, whereas the women get into it as a chance for a get-together, a place to have a blether, a few drinks and a good time.”
Last month, Ewing and her team-mates appeared on Sky Sports in a televised tournament. “The commentator couldn’t get over how loud we were. Everyone else was taking it all quite seriously, but we were singing and laughing — and still playing some really good pool at the same time.”
Another of pool’s pull factors is the changing surroundings of the game, at least if the club I’ve come to on Pollockshaws Road in Glasgow is anything to go by. Since Reardon’s opened a year ago, it has seen a steady rise in the number of women coming to play, thanks in part to the pleasant surroundings, soft lighting and predominantly female staff.
I am greeted here by my personal coach for the day. As a former under-21s world champion and reigning Scottish No 1, David Riggins is better qualified than most to transform me from cack- handed amateur into another Fast Eddie. The champ starts me off with a knockabout game to assess my technique and quickly realises a simple truth. I don’t have one.
After pointing out my elementary mistakes — standing too close to the table and not lining my eyes up with the cue ball — he begins sharpening up my game.
Posture and stance are critical, he says, and once I remember to line up my right foot with the cue every time I take a shot, I notice more of my pots are making their way into the “bag”, as we pool aficionados call the pocket.
Riggins also gives me tips on basic shots — the forwards- and backwards-rolling “top spin” and “screw back”, both of which cut down the number of times I send the white ball racing into the pocket.
After 15 minutes of instruction, I chalk up my cue with renewed vigour and nail four out of five long shots in quick succession. I am triumphant. “Watch out — shark attack,” laughs Riggins. (Pool lingo, apparently. You’re taught that in the second lesson.) Since he started coaching women several months ago, Riggins is pleased to note an increase in the number of female players. Among them is Julie Forsyth, who first turned up with colleagues after a Christmas party and liked it so much she now plays about once a month.
“A common problem with girls is they don’t want to walk into a dark club full of drunk men standing about,” says the 23-year-old PR executive. “But this isn’t like any other pool club I’ve been in. My friends and I quite often head there for a few glasses of wine, have a few snacks and end up playing.”
And it’s not just in Glasgow where the women’s game is flourishing. Carole Foster, a 27-year-old nursery nurse from Trinity, admits she first stumbled into Diane’s Pool Hall in Edinburgh at the end of a long night out.
The players already gathered round the tables were almost exclusively male, but Foster ignored their sideways looks and racked up the balls.
“I hadn’t played for years, and would never have dreamt of making a plan with my friends to go and shoot some pool, but that night I had a go,” she says. “I had played a bit for fun when I was younger and it all started coming back to me. I’m actually not that bad as it turns out.”
Foster now plays regularly at the club and has encouraged her female friends to join her.
“I enjoy the fact it’s a bit different. It makes a change from sitting in the pub or going to the cinema and you can definitely see progress after a few visits.”
Mark Armstrong, who manages Diane’s Pool Hall, says that the number of women players is still small compared with men — he gets about 50 women a week and more than 300 men — but the balance is slowly shifting.
“There must still be a stigma about coming into a pool hall,” he says, “but if you ask any of the female regulars who come along here, they’d tell you there is nothing to feel intimidated about. Female players are always more than welcome.”
At the other end of the M8, Reardon’s is positively encouraging them. The pool hall has teamed up with the World Ladies Billiards and Snooker Association (WLBSA) to launch a programme of female-friendly coaching. It is a collaboration that delighted the association, since it has had to campaign for women’s access after the withdrawal of financial support by the governing body, the World Snooker Association, in 2003.
That might have been a killer blow for the women’s game. Instead, it’s reviving it. “It’s fantastic that Reardon’s is encouraging women,” says Mandy Fisher, the chairwoman of the WLBSA. “Snooker is enjoyable for everyone and we need more ladies to step up to the challenge.”
I’m ready if you fancy a game. Winners stay on. Losers buy the drinks.
Where to play
Where can I learn to play? Reardon’s Snooker and Ray’s American Pool Club, Pollokshaws Road, Glasgow, 0141 632 0007, offers ladies’ pool coaching every Sunday from noon. Sessions cost £3.50 and phone bookings must be made.
What if I just want to try it out for fun? Diane’s Pool Hall in Morrison Street, Edinburgh, 0131 467 7470, welcomes women, beginners and players looking to compete.

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Snooker Table news

2006-06-10T10:40:00.000+01:00

Mirror.co.uk - News - SNOOKER STARS ARE 'THICKEST': "SNOOKER STARS ARE 'THICKEST'
SNOOKER players are the 'least intelligent' sports people in the country, according to research.
Advertisement

A study found they have fewer qualifications than stars in 11 other sports.
But this is because top names such as Ronnie O'Sullivan left school before taking their GCSEs to develop their talents.
Most educated were cyclists, many of whom have degrees because their lower earning power calls for a back-up plan.
Education Maintenance Allowance, which awards grants to keep teenagers in education, hopes the study will show the value of having a fall-back.
The league table for brains: 1 Cycling, 2 Golf, 3 Rowing, 4 Athletics, 5 Cricket, 6 Tennis, 7 Rugby Union, 8 Rugby League, 9 Boxing, 10 Horseracing, 11 Football, 12 Snooker. "

Snooker Table news

2006-06-10T10:39:00.000+01:00

News - Sheffield Today: News, Sport, Jobs, Property, Cars, Entertainments & More: "Snooker star Shaun helping to tackle child poverty in Africa
SOUTH Yorkshire's former world snooker champ Shaun Murphy has travelled to Zimbabwe to raise money and provide help for poverty-stricken children.

The 2005 Crucible winner was accompanied by his wife, Clare, and spent two weeks in Harare, the capital of the Southern African state which has been racked by political and economic turmoil.
The couple, from Rotherham, stayed with friends who have lived in Zimbabwe for years, working with children in orphanages and schools, helping with feeding and teaching programmes, and raising money for the charity Child Evangelism Fellowship.
'We travelled with an extra suitcase full of spare clothes for the children, and we tried to help where we could in the time we were there,' said 23-year-old Murphy.
'At first it seemed very difficult to imagine we could make a difference to their lives. The trip was a real eye-opener and put a lot of things into perspective.
'We don't realise how lucky we are to live in Britain and have the freedom to travel where we want to. A lot of people don't have the same rights we take for granted.
'When you have a boy of four years old sitting on your knee who has HIV and not long to live, it brings it home to you.
'There are projections that the average life expectancy in Zimbabwe could drop as low as 15.
'No matter what happens on the snooker table, I'll always have a roof over my head and no worries about HIV.
'There's very little middle ground in society in Zimbabwe. The wealthy people live in big houses with swimming pools and tennis courts, electric fences and guards at the door. Then 20 metres down the road there are kids living on the street.'"

pool table news

2006-06-09T11:59:00.000+01:00

Sport - Ballymoney Today: News, Sport, Jobs, Property, Cars, Entertainments & More: "BALLYMONEY student, Ryan Craig, may be in the middle of his GCSE exams but that isn't going to hold back his sporting dreams.
The 16-year-old jetted off to Blackpool this week to take part in the World 8-Ball Pool Championships.
But the thrill of the competition will be interrupted when he completes his final two exams � in History and French - at a school in the north-west of England.
The whole trip has involved months of planning and preparation but it will all be worth it when he takes to the table for his opening game today (Tuesday).
A talented snooker and football player, Ryan is currently ranked as the number one pool player in Northern Ireland at under-18 level.
This will be his second successive outing at the biggest event in the sport and he'll be keen to improve on last year's First Round exit.
The Coleraine Inst student has been drawn to face Malta's Xylon Aquilina in the opening round.
And as well as the individual competition, cramming in two GCSE exams and adjusting to a massive competition, the teenager will be part of the Northern Ireland side, playing up to three games a day in the team competition.
But Ryan wouldn't swap it for anything. 'It's going to be hard going,' admitted his mum Nichola, 'but it will be very enjoyable.
'Ryan's been very committed, with his pool and the exams. He hasn't left it all to the last minute and there's been no need to cram the revision or practice right at the end.
'I have to admire him, he's gone about it all in the right way so hopefully he'll get the rewards in Blackpool.
'He was at the competition last year but he's a much better player now, he's developed a lot more and he will know what to expect from "

Snooker Table News

2006-06-08T00:58:00.000+01:00

North Wales Newspapers Ltd. - News and Sport: "Rhos outfox their rivals to close in on leaders

There was only one game played in the Wrexham Sunday League first division with Cross Foxes playing host to second place Rhos Snooker Clubs and losing 5-4.

In the second division, Five Crosses made a determined bid for the title with a 6-3 win over Queans Head B and Bersham S&S Club beat Milestone 8-1.

In the first division merit table knockout held at the Queens Head, Paul Williams of the Gresford RBL, the Long Pull�s John Griffiths, and Andy Brand and Rob Edwards from Travellers Lions battled through to reach the semi finals.

Those matches will be held on presentation night on July 2.

In the second division, going through to the semi finals are Tim Wood (Five Crosses, Ian Brown (Bersham S&S Club), Mark Vallance (Bersham S & S Club) and Luke Mitchell (Golden Lion B).

Sunday Fixtures: Division One: Rhos Snooker Club v Golden Lion A; Travellers Lions v Queens Head A; Long Pull B v Cross Foxes; Gresford RBL v Long Pull A.

Division Two: Red Lion Coedpoeth v Five Crosses; Milestone Inn v Miners Arms; Wrexham Miners v Bersham S&S Club.

n The Golden Lion have won the Wrexham Wednesday League Consolation Cup after defeating Travellers A 5-3 in the final.

The Coedpoeth pub forged out a 3-0 advantage and also led 4-1 to leave themselves just one frame away from victory. But back came Travellers, who clinched the league title after an unbeaten season, and they pulled back two frames to trail 4-3.

Victory for the Travellers in the final doubles frame would have seen the tie go �over the bar� but Golden Lion held their nerve to clinch the frame and win the cup.

Pool Cue Star on cue to make history

2006-06-04T14:00:00.000+01:00

icLiverpool - Pool star on cue to make history: "Pool star on cue to make historyJun 1 2006

By James Pearce, Liverpool Echo

ANDY MACDONALD is set to become the first pool player from Merseyside to turn professional.
The 29-year-old from Halewood has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the ranks since he took up the sport six years ago.
He recently landed the prestigious amateur Golden Cue title and has accumulated enough ranking points this season to make the move into the pro game.
In his latest outing he produced his best performance yet on the UK tour as he reached the quarter-finals in Hinckley.

Macdonald's next challenge is the World Championships, which start in Blackpool next Monday.
He said: 'I started off playing for a pub team and then Igot selected to play forMerseyside and finished up top of the county rankings three years in a row.
'I wanted to play against better players so Ijoined the IPA Tour whichgoes around the UK. I'm in my third season on the tour and they have a two year ranking system. I'm provisionally ranked 24th in the country and I have enough points to turn pro.
'I was hoping to get in last season, but you need to get into the top 64 on the tour and I was only 67th. I was determined to make it this year and after a good start to the season I'vemanaged to keep it going, so I'll be joining the Pro Tour next January.'
"

Pool Table Champion Steve Mizerak, National Pool Champion, Is Dead at 61 - New York Times

2006-06-03T00:41:00.000+01:00

Steve Mizerak, National Pool Champion, Is Dead at 61 - New York Times: "Steve Mizerak, National Pool Champion, Is Dead at 61
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By RICHARD GOLDSTEIN
Published: May 31, 2006
Steve Mizerak, who sank his first pocket billiards shot at age 4, became a national champion while a full-time schoolteacher, then emerged as a pop-culture celebrity doing TV beer commercials, died Monday in Boca Raton, Fla. He was 61."The cause was a heart ailment that followed recent gall-bladder surgery, his wife, Karen, said.
Mizerak won the United States Open in pocket billiards the formal name for pool four straight times, from 1970 to 1973. He captured the Professional Pool Players Association World Open three consecutive years, from 1982 to 1984.
In 1980, Mizerak became the youngest player inducted into the BilliardÖ Congress of America’s Hall of Fame. Billiards Digest ranked him No. 6 among 20th-century pros. He was among the few players, including Willie Hoppe, Willie Mosconi, Ralph Greenleaf, Irving Crane, Luther Lassiter and Jimmy Caras, who were known beyond the small circle of pro billiards.
But Mizerak was perhaps best recognized as a showman, linked with other names, among them Bubba Smith, Boom Boom Geoffrion, Marvelous Marv Throneberry and Rodney Dangerfield, all appearing in long-running TV commercials for Miller Lite beer.
He parlayed his celebrity status into a Hollywood role, his character losing a tournament match to the Paul Newman character Fast Eddie Felson in the 1986 movie “The Color of Money.”
Stephen Mizerak Jr., was born in Perth Amboy, N.J., and was soon a fixture at the pool hall that his father, Stephen Sr., opened in Metuchen, N.J., after playing minor league baseball.
“When I was 4, my father placed me in the middle of a pool table, handed me a cue stick, and I sank the eight ball in the side pocket,” Mizerak once recalled.
Many years later, the pool-world figure Cue-Ball Kelly, still officiating at matches at the age of 90, remembered that when Mizerak was 5 he would practice one shot for hours at a time and that “he was playin’ exhibitions when he was 6.”
Mizerak turned pro at 13, and by time he was attending St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa a pudgy young man with a blond crew cut, going about 6 feet 1 inch and 225 pounds he had beaten some of the country’s most prominent pros.
He transferred to Athens College in Alabama for his senior year, then became a teacher because the prize money in professional billiards was hardly spectacular.
In the mid-1970’s, he was teaching spelling and geography to seventh-graders at the William C. McGinnis middle school in Perth Amboy. But his fortunes changed a few years later when he did a Miller Lite commercial, pulling off a trick shot that startled an entire tavern, then remarking how it’s easy to work up a thirst “even when you’re just showin’ off.”
But it took a full day’s work for the stunt to come off. “The shots would go but the film wasn’t in focus,” Mizerak once told AZBilliards.com. “Someone in the background would sneeze. We actually did it 181 times in eight and a half hours.”
After 13 years as a teacher, Mizerak quit in order to promote Miller Lite in billiards demonstrations at trade shows while continuing on the tournament circuit. He did another dozen or so Miller Lite ads over the next decade.
“Those 29 seconds changed my whole life,” he once said of his first TV commercial.
Mizerak founded a senior tour for professional billiards players in 1996. He owned a Florida-based company that sold billiards equipment, ran a billiards parlor in Lake Park, Fla., and wrote instructional books, one of them titled “Just Showin’ Off.”
In addition to his wife, of Singer Island, Fla., he is survived by his sons, Stephen, of Bethlehem, Pa., and Peter, of Hamilton Township, N.J.; a stepson, Matthew Fox, of West Palm Beach, Fla.; a sister, Joyce Clark, of Milford, Pa.; and two grandchildren.
Mizerak once recalled how some old-time billiards pros, presumably remembering the days before tournaments moved from pool halls to hotel ballrooms, resented his good fortune.
“Pool players don’t get any respect,” he told The New York Times in 1985. “I feel sorry that guys I’ve been playing with can’t enjoy the fruits of a tough, tough sport. Golfers have fresh air. With pool, it’s smoke and guts.”

Snooker Ace Tumour Agony

2006-06-03T00:21:00.000+01:00

Tumour Agony For Snooker Ace (from This Is Wiltshire): "Wiltshire - Sport News<< Back to index
Tumour agony for snooker ace
By Gareth Moorhouse

Trowbridge snooker player Adam Wicheard (14822/2)

ADAM Wicheard's dream of joining practice partner Stephen Lee on the professional snooker circuit has been dealt a heart-breaking blow by a serious neck injury.
Trowbridge cueman Wicheard, who is ranked number two in England at under-21 level, is recovering in Frenchay Hospital, Bristol after a seven-hour operation to remove a tumour on his spinal cord.
Wicheard, 20, had been selected to represent England at the European Under-21 Championships this summer, but now faces a lengthy battle to regain his mobility.
The former Clarendon School pupil has no feeling in his body from his chest downwards and will soon be transferred to the spinal injury unit at Odstock Hospital in Salisbury.
continued...
Doctors say it is too early to tell whether Wicheard will ever be able to play competitive snooker again.
Distraught parents Steve and Sue Wicheard have taken leave from work to be at their son's bedside as he begins the first phase of his recovery. Steve said: 'I just can't believe it. Adam doesn't even know he was picked for England yet. We will tell him when the time is right.
'The consultant said it could be up to 18 months before he makes a good recovery, if not a full one. The doctors had to break the vertebrae in his neck just to operate.'
Wicheard was competing in the Pontins Open in Prestatyn two weeks ago when he first complained of neck pain. The next day the left side of his body felt numb and he could barely hold his cue. After he was knocked out in the last 16, Wicheard drove home to Trowbridge to see the family doctor. He was given some necneck exercises to do, but concerned father Steve wanted some answers.
"We took Adam to the RUH in Bath. After doing some blood tests, the doctor referred him to the radiography unit, but they said he was okay. "But by Monday Adam was much worse so we took him back in. He had an MRI scan and was rushed by ambulance to Frenchay Hospital.
"He was supposed to see a radiologist but there were five emergencies that night. Even after the operation, we still have no idea when he will be moved to Odstock because there's a big waiting list there," he said.
Steve revealed Adam had received a letter of support from BBC commentator Clive Everton and a phone call from world number 10 Lee, who is due to visit Wicheard soon. He said: "It was really nice of Clive to write because he has never met Adam before. We've also had phone calls from parents of other players on the junior circuit, wishing Adam a speedy recovery.
"Adam has been very positive since the operation. He says there are people in the hospital worse off than him - it's quite a humbling experience just listening to him.
"He's had a brilliant season at the table, everything was coming together nicely. He even beat Stephen Lee 10-5 before he went to the World Championships.
"Stephen said Adam was in the best form of his life and he would have been thrilled with his England call-up. Now we will just have to wait and hope that he will get better."

Snooker Cue Bargains

2006-05-31T22:56:00.000+01:00

Wow 20% off all snooker cues. Bargains galore, come fill your boots at www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk Ronnie O'Sullivan and Jimmy White cues at bargain prices. Now is the time to get that Super cue you always wanted. See the Heritage Snooker Cue Range probably the best cues you can get for the money, without going for hand made.

Snooker Table News

2006-05-31T22:55:00.000+01:00

BBC SPORT Other Sport... Snooker Get Involved Get involved in snooker: "Want to start playing snooker? Our contacts guide will have you playing in no time.
Governing bodies
World Snooker
The official world snooker website and the best place to get information about snooker and billiards, the rules and disabled snooker.
If you want to find a coach, click 'about World Snooker' followed by 'coaching'.
If you live in Wales, contact the Welsh Billiards and Snooker Association for details of your local club.
Welsh Billiards and Snooker Association
123, Cefn Hengoed Road, Winch Wen, SWANSEA, SA1 7LT
Tel: 01792 412197
Local Clubs and Associations
UK League Snooker
Information and results from different snooker leagues around the country.
Junior Snooker
The best place to find out all about junior snooker around the country.
The Alby & District Billiards, Darts and Snooker League (Norfolk)
All the latest news and results from East Anglia.
The Norfolk Billiards and Snooker Association
More information about snooker in East Anglia.
Manchester Snooker League
All the news and action form the north west.
Sheffield and District Association Snooker League
Those of you in south Yorkshire can find out what's going on with this cool website. "

Snooker Table action in Boston

2006-05-31T00:42:00.000+01:00

Sport - Boston Today: News, Sport, Jobs, Property, Cars, Entertainments & More: "Cox is Jubilee champion
Monday, May 29: 4.30pm - BRIAN Cox was the winner of the 23rd Jubilee tournament, lifting the trophy at Boston Snooker Centre on Sunday."

Thirty-two players started in eight groups of four at 2pm with the three-frame final beginning at 8.30pm that evening.Six of the afternoon groups were topped by players who won all of their games: Nigel Salmon, Kristian Willetts, Steve Mooney and Cox from the Super League and Steffan Taylor and Adam Hancock from Division Two.In Group E, Kye Overton and Mark Tabor won two apiece, Kye going through on aggregate, scoring 210 points to Mark's 197.The contest in Group B saw three players – Paul Storr, John Clarke and Adam Elston – each win two matches, John finishing top with 12 points more than Adam.The eight remaining competitors included four from the Super League, three from Dvision Two and one from Division One with the Premier Division unrepresented.Nigel Salmon again won his three games in Group One, his closest test coming against John Clarke (64-60).In Group Two, Brian Cox came from 40 behind to beat Kristian Willetts with a 63 break and win the group.He had lost his previous frame to Steve Mooney.In the final, the undefeated Salmon compiled a break of 55 to win the first frame 78-2.He looked to be in control of the second frame but broke down on 37 and Cox came back with a 54 to level the match at 1-1.The third frame was scrappy and neither player put together a strong break, but Brian gradually pulled ahead and with one red left Nigel was 35 behind.He potted the last red in the yellow pocket and managed to get his white ball up the table for the black but played it too well and went in-off in the top pocket.Nigel conceded and Brian was crowned the champion.Nigel, however, did have the satisfaction of scoring the day's highest break – a 67 in his first game against Colin Bowers.

Brought to you by Boston Today

http://www.bostontoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=757&ArticleID=1532377

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2006-05-31T00:19:00.000+01:00

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Pool Table News

2006-05-30T01:06:00.000+01:00

NEWS NEWMAN HUSTLED BY JACKIE GLEASON Music, movie & Entertainment News: "NEWMAN HUSTLED BY JACKIE GLEASON"

Beloved US funnyman JACKIE GLEASON taught movie legend PAUL NEWMAN a hard lesson at the pool table when he conned the actor out of $100 (£55) on the set of THE HUSTLER.Newman, who was playing hustler EDDIE FELSON in the hit 1961 movie, thought he would make a fortune by betting on games with Gleason - until the stakes started getting high.He recalls, "Gleason was a hell of a pool player and he was also a great hustler."We played four games; we played three games for a dollar and I beat him all three games and then we played a game for $100 and he whipped my a*s."

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Wired News: Finding Your Inner Fast Eddy

2006-03-13T01:46:00.000Z

Wired News: Finding Your Inner Fast Eddy: "With a little help, says you, you could be a pretty good pool player. Well, help is on the way.
A new gadget that takes the brainwork out of billiards may help even an average player take on the meanest pool shark.
The Stochasticks, as it's called, consists of a 5-by-10-inch laptop carried in a backpack, a half-centimeter-by-1-inch long 'lipstick' camera and a headset.
The laptop is programmed to work out the best shot available on the table. The angles and trajectory of the shot are then displayed on the player's headset and superimposed on the table.
All the player has to do is follow the lines, shoot and, pop, there goes Fats.
Tony Jebara, mastermind behind the Stochasticks, is an assistant professor at Columbia University's Department of Computer Science who got the idea from watching an old science fiction flick.
'I don't remember the name; I saw it ages ago,' he said. 'It had a guy playing billiards and the angle of the shots were overlaid on the table and I thought, I can build that.'
Although Jebara said the gadget could take some of the romance away from the game, the players themselves are excited about the Stochasticks. On a certain level, anyway.
'There is a teaching need for it as it makes it easier for the student to visualize the angles,' said Mike Sprinkle, president of the United States Poolplayers Association.
'Some people just can't pick up the angle. They can't understand how it works, but with this, after a while, the players will get to the point where they can see the angles for themselves,' Sprinkle said.
Amy Long, director of marketing at the Billiard Congress of America, agreed. 'It would be very useful for beginners who can't always pick out the best shot. It has a great potential and pe"

Congratulations Ding!

2005-12-19T00:11:00.000Z

Well done Ding, he out safety'ed Steve Davies in an intriguing match. Steve didn't disgrace himself and fought till the very end. I have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more of the chinese fella in the masters too.

steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Steve's big day

2005-12-18T12:08:00.000Z

Well who's going to win, the old gaurd in Steve Davies or the upcoming whippersnapper Ding. Have you noticed since Ronnie got beat the UK has been wide open. I remember watching Steve in the 80's (showing my age) so I'll be rooting for him. Mind you, there'll probably be 100 million chinese rooting for Ding. I reckon there'll be a lot more competition from China in the future

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

BBC SPORT | Other Sport... | Snooker | Relieved Davis makes 100th final

2005-12-17T00:23:00.000Z

BBC SPORT | Other Sport... | Snooker | Relieved Davis makes 100th final: "Relieved Davis makes 100th final "

Latest scores
Steve Davis survived a scare to reach his 100th final by beating Stephen Hendry 9-6 at the UK Championship.
The Englishman came into the evening session 7-1 ahead, but he began to wobble under severe pressure in York.

Playing below his best, Hendry did just enough to close the gap to 8-4 and then rattled in a superb break of 130.

The Scot took the 14th frame as well and was on course to take the next, but he missed an easy black and Davis clinched the match with a cool 66.

In a battle of snooker legends, breaks were at a premium early on, but Davis showed more tactical nous to move into a commanding lead.

I owed him one - I owed him about 30 actually

Steve Davis

Without sealing frames in one visit, he dictated proceedings with his tight safety play, leaving Hendry scratching around for difficult long pots.

Hendry got into the match after the break and started to find his usual fluidity among the balls.

But just as he looked set to close to 8-7, he failed to sink a simple black and Davis needed no second invitation to progress to the final.

The "Nugget" now faces Ding Junhui or Joe Perry in the final.

"It's a double bonus for me - I've reached 100 finals and beaten my nemesis," said Davis.

"I owed him one. I owed him about 30 actually. This afternoon I've never seen Stephen play so badly against me or against anyone.

I changed my mind about what shot to play and it's a fatal mistake to make

Stephen Hendry

"He didn't look like potting a ball and it was a shock.

"I played a really great frame to go 8-2 up and everything was going nicely, but I botched chances in the next two and then Stephen started playing better.

"I had a couple of smelly shots that were missable and I left him in to score big each time."

Hendry revealed he had been indecisive when he missed the key black.

"I changed my mind about what shot to play and it's a fatal mistake to make," said the world number two.

"I fancied winning the match in the end because I had started to play better, but Steve deserved to win. He played well this afternoon."

The Old man and the snooker table

2005-12-17T00:17:00.000Z

What about Steve davies reaching the final of the UK. Awesome, although Hendry was not at his best Steve Davies was majestic going through to the next round. It will be a final of the old gaurd vs the new kids on the block. I just hope Davies can keep up the good play and we have a fascinating final Sunday.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Sport news and comment from The Times and The Sunday Times - Times Online

2005-12-15T02:45:00.000Z

Sport news and comment from The Times and The Sunday Times - Times Online

Former snooker world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan is planning to switch his focus to the pool circuit in the United States after a five-month break from the tables.

The 29-year-old took a rest from snooker after his quarter-final exit from the World Championships in April.

Now back in action, he is hoping to combine a pared-down snooker schedule with an attempt to make his name across the Atlantic, starting with a pool tournament in Orlando in November.

O'Sullivan, who has had to combat bouts of depression during his career, said he was looking forward to the fresh start.

"It's a whole new challenge and I'll get no favours while I'm learning, " said O'Sullivan. "Who I am and what I've done in snooker won't matter.

"I need that competitive edge. I've been thinking about turning my hand to pool for a while. No one will know me over there and I'll no doubt get my bum smacked a few times - but I'm game.

"There are also tournaments in places like Las Vegas and who knows? If I like it over there I may live on the road and never come back."

O'Sullivan, who was world champion in 2001 and 2004, is snooker's biggest drawcard and would be sorely missed by the sport if he did decamp to the United States permanently.

Davis in control against Doherty

2005-12-14T21:41:00.000Z

Latest scores Steve Davis showed no signs of letting up on his excellent form as he marched to a 6-1 lead against Ken Doherty in his UK Championship quarter-final.
Davis, who beat Stephen Maguire on Tuesday, moved 5-0 ahead before Doherty pulled a frame back, and then ended the session with a 101 break.
Elsewhere, Stephen Hendry had to endure a spell of pressure from Ali Carter before taking a 5-3 first-session lead.
The number four seed and tournament favourite was leading 4-1 at one stage.
But Carter posted two successive centuries to reduce the deficit to a single frame at 4-3 - with the former of those centuries also representing a failed 147 attempt from the Essex man.
In the final frame of the session too, the pair traded humble breaks before Carter left a red hanging on the edge of a pocket and allowed Hendry to close out the frame.
Davis, who had produced a stunning comeback against title-holder Maguire in the previous round, was still in vintage form with a dominant lead at the halfway point of his quarter-final clash, needing just three frames to secure a fairytale semi-final berth.
The 48-year-old took nearly an hour to clinch the first frame but went on a 5-0 lead thanks to solid contributions of 54 and 81.
Doherty fluked a black on a re-spot to offer himself a semblance of hope at 5-1.
But Davis, who first won the event in 1980 and last in 1987, took the last frame of a shortened session to regain his five frame advantage.

Taken from bbc sport

steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Tabletop Snooker Going Cheap

2005-12-14T21:15:00.000Z

Fun for all the family Complete with Accessories (2 cues, triangle, balls and chalk)1 1/2in (38mm) balls Bolt on legs91mmx51mmx20mm Only £44.99

what a bargain (oh yes it is and a bit of fun for the kids)

steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Davis Rolls Back The Years - Yahoo! Sport UK

2005-12-13T21:34:00.000Z

Davis Rolls Back The Years - Yahoo! Sport UK

Steve Davis was back to his vintage best on Tuesday night as he produced a stunning comeback to knock title-holder Stephen Maguire out of the Travis Perkins UK Championship in York.

Advertisement
The 48-year-old took five of the last six frames, including the penultimate with a 145 break - his highest since his ground-breaking maximum in 1982 - to win 9-8 and book a quarter-final meeting with Ken Doherty.

It was like turning the clock back to the 1980s, when Davis was in his heyday, as he steadfastly compiled three centuries during a high-quality match in which the defending champion did little wrong either.

Maguire, who led 5-3 overnight, matched Davis' trio of tons and at 7-4 looked poised to wrap it up.

But the six-times former world champion refused to buckle and worked his way back into contention with some typically inspired safety play.

At 8-7 down the 'Nugget' knocked in his 145 and in the final frame, after Maguire had missed a presentable opening red, he again got over the line with just a single visit to the table, a run of 78 proving enough to dethrone the Scot.

"That was the best match I've been involved in for ages, if not ever in some respects," said the world number 15.

"Some people would say it was my best performance since the 80s and it may have been my best ever.

"I was never that far behind and it was more a case of hanging in there. I enjoyed every minute of it.

"I knew I would play well, I just didn't know if I could compete to Stephen's standard.

"I just went out and played, put my brain in neutral and mugged him on the line."

A clearly stunned Maguire said: "I didn't expect Steve to play that well - you wouldn't expect God to play that well. I'd like to see him win it now - he's playing well enough."

Earlier, Stephen Hendry showed no mercy to his close friend Mark Williams by knocking him out with a 9-3 drubbing.

It meant more snooker misery for the Welshman, who was the game's dominant player three years ago but his subsequent fall from grace means he is struggling to retain his place among the elite top 16 for next season.

The scoreline was somewhat flattering to Hendry, however, for he admitted he had enjoyed much more 'run' than his opponent and it appeared that if anything could go wrong for Williams then it would.

The Scot led 6-2 overnight and needed only one significant break, a 90, today to wrap up a quarter-final meeting with world number 19 Ali Carter.

"You don't expect to win 9-3 against someone as good as Mark Williams," said the five times former winner of this title, the last occasion being in 1996.

"But Mark isn't playing as well as he can and isn't as confident as he was. The long pots he usually produces aren't there at the moment.

"I played pretty solidly and had good 'run'. There were a couple of really big flukes that let me in to win frames."

More from Ronnies Shock defeat at York

2005-12-11T14:53:00.000Z

World number one Ronnie O'Sullivan crashed out of the UK Championship by losing 9-8 to Mark King on Saturday.
Englishman O'Sullivan, a three-time winner of the event, was out of sorts for most of the evening in York.
He even sat with a wet towel draped over his head for most of the contest as he struggled against his rival.
Reigning world champion Shaun Murphy avoided any mishaps by moving into the third round with a 9-7 victory over fellow Englishman Nigel Bond.
O'Sullivan will now face disciplinary action after failing to show up for a compulsory press conference after the match.
He was also warned in the 11th frame for conceding early and was then again cautioned by referee Alan Chamberlain for breaching tournament rules.
Despite the distractions King maintained his focus and was delighted set up a third-round match against Joe Perry.
"He played right-handed, left-handed and put a towel over his head, but that didn't bother me," said King.
"I played good. I missed a red at 8-6 in front, and at 8-7 I twitched, but I thought if I got in during the last frame and got a good break I'd win.
"Maybe he put the wet towel on his head because it was hot in the arena, but I think it might have been because I was putting him under pressure."

taken from http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/4517744.stm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Steve Davies goes part time

2005-12-11T14:50:00.000Z

I have to admit that I don't prepare for the UK Championship like I used to.

That's the same for the season as a whole - because there's only a few tournaments now, I play less and therefore I practise less.

York preview
UK Championship draw
I do still knock the balls around with my eldest son, but I don't do any lengthy extended sessions any more. No more six-hour days.
I see myself as more of a part-timer, although I do enjoy the game and the thrill of competition. I especially enjoy the World Championship which I prepare physically and mentally for.
I do love the UK Championship though, and I think York is a great place to stage it. It's been a good tournament there for the last few years.
I also know how long I'm going to be there now - the whole tournament.
If I lose, I work for the BBC and if I win, I get to play another round.
I've won the UK six times in total, and my first victory was certainly the most special.
UK Championship history
It was when I beat Alex Higgins 16-6 in November 1980 - a very comprehensive win in the end.
The longer the match progressed, the more likely it seemed I would land my first big title
Afterwards I think we went back to Crest Hotel in Preston and I got tanked up with my mates.
I don't know what Alex did, I don't think I actually remember much from that night.
Snooker mourns death of referee
This year's tournament will be tinged with a bit of sadness, because referee Colin Brinded won't be there.
It was all a bit of a shock when we found out he was ill during the summer and then when we heard he wasn't going to return.
I'm sure everyone will spare a moment's thought for Colin at York.

taken from http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/snooker/4486914.stm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

What happened to Ronnie?

2005-12-11T14:44:00.000Z

Its Mark King's biggest day in snooker, beating Ronnie in the Uk championship. Whats happened to Ronnie? Maybe he's thinking of the American Pool Tournaments next year. What do you think.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Stocking filler

2005-12-10T12:54:00.000Z

Jimmy & Ronnie 9 Ball Keyring and Tip Shaper. Cool stocking filler

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Cheap Snooker

2005-12-09T02:25:00.000Z

For the money £249 this has to be a great beginner's table Complete with Accessories (2 cues, triangle, balls and chalk)1 7/8in (48mm) ballsBolt on legs (square)Professional ball runnersIndependent leg levellers183mmx91mmx79mm

steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Got a Very big room?

2005-12-07T22:28:00.000Z

Then fill it with this:- A full size 12 ft Snooker Table. Made from Ash

High on quality and exquisitely hand-crafted from the finest kiln-dried hardwoods available, this table offers excellent value for money.Its innovative design and traditional features ensure that 'The Kensigton' is one of our most popular tables. It will certainly add style to your snooker room.With its precision ground slate bed covered in the world famous 'West of England' billiard cloth 'The Kensington' has a playing surface able to meet the rigorous standards of the World Professional Billiard and Snooker Association (WPBSA).The pocket covers are top-quality English leather and the pocket nets are made with the finest pure cotton.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Dinner then Pool Anyone?

2005-12-07T21:50:00.000Z

Crafted in the finest kiln dried hardwoods from managed forests, 'The Classic' is our entry level table. 6 feet Featuring slender turned legs and complete with its 1 and 2 piece dining top, it becomes an elegant focal point in any dining room.This table comes complete with the following:2 Cues1 Table Brush1 Set of Snooker Balls1 Triangle1 Marking BoardCue Chalk

Gives a whole new meaning to dinner time

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

9 Ball Keyring and Tip Shaper

2005-12-06T23:40:00.000Z

Nice inexpensive xmas pressie. Jimmy & Ronnie 9 Ball Keyring and Tip Shaper

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Boxwood Tip Clamp

2005-12-06T21:56:00.000Z

The Boxwood Tip Clamp for all your DIY re-tipping jobs! Glue your tips on accurately with this amazing gizmo

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Table Iron

2005-12-06T18:38:00.000Z

240v electric flat snooker table iron. Meets all table care requirements for any colour baize. Uses UK 240v electric and meets EU standards. Price includes UK

Solid looking isn't it.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

2005-12-06T18:32:00.000Z

What about this for a games room cool heh!

A multi games table

It even has an air hockey table feature with a 240 v fan. 4 ft table, all the bits get stored in the drawers.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

The Heritage 3 Piece Cue Case

2005-12-06T01:41:00.000Z

What a nice cue case for the discerning snooker player

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

A present from Jimmy, Jimmy White Cue & Case combo

2005-12-05T23:57:00.000Z

Combination set consisting of:Jimmy White 2 piece ash cueJimmy White attache cue case.
Thanks Jimmy

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Budweiser Cue

2005-12-05T23:54:00.000Z

An official Budweiser productThis is an official Budweiser product made under licence by BCEThis cue is of the finest quality and comes with: -Sumptuous red & silver butt with the official Budweiser logo running its lengthBlack and white wrap handleQuality shaft10mm blue diamond tipWeight approx 18ozLength approx 57”Rapid release brass joint systemFree Budweiser soft caseFree 3 extra tips and 3x chalk. Can you put one in my stocking?

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Really Stylish 6' Oval Pool Table

2005-12-05T16:50:00.000Z

This is a beauty, comes with all the gear, (2 cues, triangle, balls and chalk) 2in (51mm) balls Bolt on legs Independent leg levellers
183cmx107cmx79cm see it at

http://www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk/item.asp?ItemId=187

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

7' Pool Table for christmas Anyone?

2005-12-05T16:43:00.000Z

7' Pool Table what a beauty, got to be the best you can get without forking out for a slate bed. See http://www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk/item.asp?ItemId=206 for more details

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

The Ultimate Snooker Cue Hand Made

2005-12-04T23:11:00.000Z

Our cue maker has over 20 years experience in making and designing cues and his skill and attention to detail will ensure our cues are the best a customer can buy.All cues are made from straight grain ash.The ash shafts are turned oversize and left to stand.Only the finest selected plain black ebony or Indian rosewood is used.All cues are hand-spliced with a variety of exotic hardwoods and veneers.Finally they are finished off with a shaped genuine leather pad and engraved brass nameplate.This range of cues is all handmade to a length of 48 - 58 inches, 17 to 22oz weight and 8-11mm tips. Price approx £207 or more depending on options.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

A 6ft Pool table with ball return

2005-12-04T23:08:00.000Z

Complete with Accessories (2 cues, triangle, balls and chalk)2in (51mm) ballsBolt on legsBall return systemIndependent leg levellers183mmx91mmx79mm

What a great christmas prezzie

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

BCE Bi Bridge Rest Aid

2005-12-04T12:17:00.000Z

The bridge rest aid comes in 3 pieces for versatility, enabling you to reach the ball you want to. This bridge rest aid can be used as a rest on a normal cue simply by conecting the relevant part, so instead of paying for a separate cue you can just use this. What a neat idea for the snooker hall

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

When you have to have the best

2005-12-04T12:12:00.000Z

2 Piece Heritage Cue

A superb alternative to other UK-manufactured cues using exquisite exotic woods including ebony, cocobolo, birdseye maple, lace wood, thuya burr and the finest snakewoods available. These woods are used specifically to enhance the appearance of the Heritage range while each shaft is made from Grade A North American ash, kiln dried to ensure the shaft performs to the highest possible standard.Once manufactured, all Heritage shafts are treated with a unique resin that penetrates the wood and replaces any moisture. This process is available to only a few manufacturers in the world and it has been found to improve the cues' overall stability.Heritage cues also feature a polished brass-to-brass rapid release joint, cotton sleeve to protect against scratching and knocks and an optional case.Heritage cues come with the finest 9.5mm snooker tip in the world as standard. Blue Diamond are a cut above the rest, providing the player with outstanding control and accuracy with every shot. Each Heritage cue is put through rigorous quality control spot checks before being packed and despatched to you.Only exquisite, exotic woods are used in the front splices of Heritage cues. Each cue is complemented by the distinctive Heritage plate.Each two piece cue is carefully manufactured to ensure that the Ash grain matches across the joint. Each cue is supplied with polished ebony joint protectors. Precision engineered rapid release brass joint system.

Simply the best

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

More Christmas Bargains 2

2005-12-03T14:23:00.000Z

2 Piece Attache Cue Case Ideal Christmas present. Will take a 2 piece snooker cue. Wonderful pose value, made of aluminium, strong and light.

steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

More Christmas Bargains

2005-12-03T14:18:00.000Z

Ronnie O'Sullivan 2 Piece Titanium Cue & Case Combination

Made from titanium, so its light and very strong, (this one won't warp) Complete with case a great christmas present.

Christmas bargains

2005-12-03T14:14:00.000Z

6' Folding Leg Snooker Table.
A brilliantly simple idea. Folds away
really neatly. Comes complete with
Cues Snooker balls and 5 extra yellow balls so you can play pool as well.

Christmas is coming

2005-11-22T23:32:00.000Z

This is a lovely sturdy Black No. 8 Pool ball Keyring. The ball is 33mm in diameter. This is a very high quality keyring will make a great gift for any Pool Player.

Available from www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Tricky Stuff

2005-11-22T23:29:00.000Z

Have fun and trick your friends with this fantastic crazy trick cue ball - it is specially weighted so that when struck it wobbles all over the table.

Available fron www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

George Washington and Billiards

2005-11-21T21:15:00.000Z

The Father of our Country kept detailed records of the money he won at the billiard table. Although his Mount Vernon home did not have room for a table, he frequently visited homes that did. Entries in his diaries tell of his wins and losses, and often the "pigeon" he took. The most he ever lost in one day was one pound, ten shillings. The most he ever won, about $1.75.

http://www.cuecare.com/personalities.htm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Mary Queen of Scots vs Ronnie O' Sullivan

2005-11-21T21:12:00.000Z

One of the first true billiard fanatics. Executed for her part in an assassination attempt on Queen Elizabeth I, in 1588. Allowed the use of her billiard table in her prison cell, upon her incarceration. When this privilege was revoked, months before her beheading, wrote a letter of complaint to the Archbishop. Though never allowed to play again, one final wish was granted, reflecting her undying passion for the game. Upon her beheading, her body was wrapped in the cloth from her beloved table.

extracted from

http://www.cuecare.com/personalities.htm

Steve

www.snookerbilliards.co.uk

A Fantastic Snooker Cue

2005-11-21T21:08:00.000Z

A superb alternative to other UK-manufactured cues using exquisite exotic woods including ebony, cocobolo, birdseye maple, lace wood, thuya burr and the finest snakewoods available. These woods are used specifically to enhance the appearance of the Heritage range while each shaft is made from Grade A North American ash, kiln dried to ensure the shaft performs to the highest possible standard.Once manufactured, all Heritage shafts are treated with a unique resin that penetrates the wood and replaces any moisture. This process is available to only a few manufacturers in the world and it has been found to improve the cues' overall stability.Heritage cues also feature a polished brass-to-brass rapid release joint, cotton sleeve to protect against scratching and knocks and an optional case.Heritage cues come with the finest 9.5mm snooker tip in the world as standard. Blue Diamond are a cut above the rest, providing the player with outstanding control and accuracy with every shot. Each Heritage cue is put through rigorous quality control spot checks before being packed and despatched to you.Only exquisite, exotic woods are used in the front splices of Heritage cues. Each cue is complemented by the distinctive Heritage plate.Each two piece cue is carefully manufactured to ensure that the Ash grain matches across the joint. Each cue is supplied with polished ebony joint protectors. Precision engineered rapid release brass joint system.

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Transformation to the modern game part 4

2005-11-16T15:23:00.000Z

Billiard chalk came into use soon after the advent of the leather cue tip. Throughout most of the 1800's, common white chalk was used, because it was cheap and easily obtained. The early chalk was made entirely of carbonate of lime—blackboard chalk. Its short-coming was its inability to "grip" the cue ball, especially when the tip became glazed. While it kept the leather dry and somewhat prevented "slipping" upon impact, it had no "grit" allowing the leather "to take hold of the ball." Consequently, miscues were common, especially with the higher-impact games.
In 1892, William A. Spinks, a professional billiard player from Chicago, began working with chemists on the components of chalk. During a visit to Paris, he'd discovered a chalk unlike any in America, being used by players in France. Upon analysis, the chalk proved very different, grittier, made from an entirely different material. Encouraged by its ability to "grip" while shooting, he sought to develop a chalk with even more "gripping" power. In 1897, he was granted a patent for a billiard chalk—which did not contain a speck of chalk at all. It was comprised entirely of abrasives—silica and axolite— crushed to near-powder and air-floated, to exactly the right fineness.
The effect of this new "chalk" on shotmaking would forever alter the game. The "grit," when applied to the cue leather—"took hold of the ball" upon impact, in a way never before seen. It also remedied another problem of the "blackboard" chalk. Carbonate of lime, with time, not only discolored the billiard cloth; it actually rotted the fabric. Spinks thusly chose green for the color of his chalk. (As other manufacturers joined the market, spurred by his success, chalk became available in virtually every color.) It was the effectiveness of his chalk that changed the game of billiards and carved a whole new niche in the industry. Spinks' Billiard Chalk revolutionized the performance of the cue tip. By allowing it to "grip the cue ball" at the moment of impact, every aspect of shotmaking was enhanced.
Cue construction became an art form with the earliest cues. With the elaborateness of the maces that preceded them—the hand-carved ivory, the inlaid jewels and gold—the finest craftsmanship was all but required. Even the early tables were magnificent works of art ... because the birth of billiards coincided with the Renaissance, where expression, beauty and creativity were revered. (And royal families ruled over the tables.) Consequently, the game—and everything about it—was sculpted with a regal elegance. To this day, the role of beauty has never diminished. The influences of the Renaissance can still vividly be seen in the creation of cues and tables.
Marquetry—the art of making pictures or designs with thin slices of wood, shell or other materials—has been a part of billiard culture from its infancy. Floral, geometric or other inlaid designs have richly enhanced the beauty of tables and cues. Precious gems and metals have also been used, on extravagant pieces for the wealthy. Mother-of-pearl (to this day, a cue maker's favorite) has been used in inlays for thousands of years. Even the art of "finishing," applying the final luster, was perfected by the days of Stradivari, as evidenced by his prized violins.
With the advancements in machinery in the early 1800's, breathtaking cues were not only created, but mass-produced in hundreds of styles. One of the earliest manufacturers was the B. Finck Company. Founded in 1839, in Berlin, Germany, they were pioneers in the science of cue making. Their quality—both in beauty and playability—was unequaled. Their cues were used by Europe's finest players. They rapidly expanded to meet the growing demand, and became "the largest billiard cue company on the continent."
By 1879, Finck's catalog contained 162 cues, each unique in its own way. They offered one- and two-piece cues, in a host of designs and styles. There were cues designed for specific games—and specific levels of society. In addition to its production lines, Finck also specialized in "cues built for kings." These custom-made cues were ornately decorated and often inlaid with precious gems and gold. These were often more "status-symbol" than pool cue, bought more to be admired than played with. He created other custom cues, which were awarded as prizes at some of the world's first tournaments.
Since Finck, many other "legendary" cue makers have emerged. Britner. Rambow. Paradise. Balner. Martin. Szamboti. Balabushka. Today, their cues are treasures, hallowed possessions, their names synonymous with billiard cue excellence.
The quality of cues was already mind-boggling by the late 1800's. Perhaps that's why beauty has remained so valued—because the producing of a sound, reliable cue has been a science for over a century. Because advancements in production have perfected every detail. Because methods of lathing and splicing (advanced even in the 1800's) have only improved with more exacting machinery. Because the quality of wood is always superior. (Manufacturers employ timber experts, who travel the world, leaving no stone unturned in their search for the perfect wood.)
Variations in cues remain numerous. Often, they are dictated by the game. (Billiard cues, for example, are stiffer than pool cues, because billiard balls are larger and heavier.) Other variations—the type of wood used, joints, shafts, wraps—remain as numerous as the product lines available, from manufacturers all over the world. Their common goal, like the pioneers before them—from Thurston to Goodyear, Hyatt to Finck—is not only to create the finest product ... but to never stop searching for new ideas and innovations, to enhance the beauty of the game.
What began as a mania in France, was quickly becoming a worldwide phenomenon. By the 1850's, games had become standardized, and equipment was approaching its modern-day level. Individual players began to emerge. Claims of superiority spurred challenges, and competitive billiards rose to new heights. With the advent of tournaments, the final step was taken, elevating billiards to its next incarnation. No longer could the game be considered a mere pastime. It had reached the level of "sport."

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

Steve
www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Transformation to the modern game part 3

2005-11-16T15:21:00.000Z

Billiard balls have also undergone many changes. Most notably, in their composition. Most of the earliest billiard balls were made of wood. It was easily shaped, inexpensive and readily available. Ivory balls came into use in the 1600's. While far more playable than wood, they were relatively scarce. Only the wealthy could afford the material.
While beautiful to look at, ivory balls were never very dependable. They were also time consuming to make—properly seasoning a tusk was a preparatory process that often took as long as two years. The gelatin in tusks provided a rich, glossy finish. Unfortunately, it was also a source of moisture. Unless properly dried, temperature changes could cause the ivory to fracture or split. New balls had to be broken in gently, struck softly for the first couple months. Even then, they tended to lose their shape quickly, when subjected to a high-impact game.
Still, ivory all but entirely replaced wooden balls by the early 1800's. As the demand for the balls increased, so did the number of slaughtered elephants. (Curiously, the concern at the time was not the treatment of the elephants, but the safety of those who tracked them to their deaths.) One elephant tusk generally yielded only four or five balls. (Balls had to be cut from the dead center of the tusk in order to roll properly.) As the demand grew greater and the herds dwindled, the price of ivory skyrocketed. With games and equipment becoming standardized, another problem developed: producing balls of the exact same size, weight and density was nearly impossible when working with ivory.
In 1869, an Albany chemist mixed nitrocellulose with camphor under high pressure. The result was a hard, shiny, moldable substance he called celluloid. Though John Wesley Hyatt didn't know it at the time, he'd just invented the world's first plastic. Though its application to billiard balls would continue for years, it was Hyatt's discovery and subsequent improvements that would lead to the balls of today.
His discovery resulted, in part, from an ongoing quest. Six years earlier, the New York firm of Phelan and Collender had offered a $10,000 prize for the patent rights to anyone who could develop a suitable substitute for ivory in the manufacture of billiard balls. In the next five years, Hyatt was granted two patents—for improved methods of "constructing a composition billiard ball." The first utilized shellac, alcohol and ivory dust; the second, paper pulp and gum-shellac. Though neither was deemed worthy of the $10,000, he continued in his search for the perfect product. (It is interesting to note, that Hyatt's discovery of the world's first plastic may well have resulted from a billiard-related quest: the search for the perfect billiard ball.)
In April of 1869, Hyatt discovered "collodion," a forerunner to celluloid. The addition of collodion to the surface of the balls resulted in a hard and perfectly smooth surface. Though Phelan and Collender weren't quite ready to award him the prize, they did offer to distribute the balls, under an exclusive contract. The results were ... well, calamitous, at best. Shortly after the first shipments, reports of exploding billiard balls surfaced all over the country. Rumors spread that the new materials were highly explosive and dangerous. And they were, but only during the manufacturing process. In truth, the balls weren't explosive at all. The problem was merely a design flaw. The inner weight of the ball was simply too great, causing the collodion casing to shatter, upon heavy impact.
The discovery of celluloid ended the "explosions." (At least as they applied to the actual balls; in the next 36 years, Hyatt's celluloid factory was the scene of 39 fires and explosions, resulting in nine deaths.) Hyatt's balls—whether comprised entirely of celluloid, or only coated with the material—gained only luke-warm acceptance. It was his process, however, that led to the discovery of Bakelite and cast-phenolic resins, in the early 1900's. These "artificial plastics" proved cheaper, less flammable and far more playable, and remain the main component in billiard balls today.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Transformation to the modern game part 2

2005-11-16T15:19:00.000Z

Mingaud was a student of the physics of shotmaking, and truly transformed the cue into a scientific instrument. By first creating a hard backing, on which the tip could be adhered to the surface of the cue, he reduced the pressure exerted on the wood. More importantly, an even distribution of force was created between the point of impact and the shaft of the cue. His greatest advancement was in the cue tip itself. By rounding off the hitting surface, he increased the area of the tip that could impart rotation on the ball, when the ball was struck off-center. What resulted was the magic of "english" and "backspin" that would impact the game forever.
With improvements in the cue came improvements in the tables and other innovations that would elevate the game. Throughout the 1800's, advancements would be made—from the construction of tables, cushions and balls, to the advent of chalk, the first championship tournaments and standardized rules for a host of new games.
Historically, tables developed much like the game itself: very slowly, until the 1800's. Though the early tables of the monarchs were breathtaking visions, they were functionally crude by modern-day standards. Generally, they were constructed by cabinetmakers. Because the beds were made of wood, they often warped within years, and structurally weren't very sturdy. The "cushions" were little more than attached wooden rails, unpadded until at least 1600. Their function was more to keep the balls on the playing field, than adding to the level of strategic play.
There was little standardization in the early years—in table size, implements, even the use of pockets. Even the shape of the table evolved slowly. Many early tables were square. As they increased in size to accommodate newer games (or larger rooms), they became oblong, generally twice as long as they were wide. The implements used depended on the game. Since the game of choice varied widely—not only among the nobility within the same country, but also among countries themselves—the tables were as varied as the games. Bagatelle tables had pockets. Many "post-and king" games did not. Some forms of ground billiards utilized a hole in the playing field. Consequently, some versions of the post-and king games were played on pocketed tables. The make-up of a table was generally reliant on the wishes of the table's owner. The question of size and the addition of implements or pockets, was reliant on the game he wished to be played.
Tables continued to vary in the 1700's, even as the games became standardized. Different countries simply embraced different games, and built their tables accordingly. In France, "The French-Game" became the newest billiard rage. The king, post and arch were discarded. Pockets, widespread throughout Europe by this time, were eliminated from the table. The game featured one red ball and two white cue balls, one for each player. The objective was to make caroms. This was achieved when a player's cue ball struck the remaining two balls in succession. Variations requiring the striking of cushions were gradually added to the game. This version of billiards is still widely popular in many parts of the world.
In England, a similar game was adopted. They also discarded the king, post and arch. They added the red ball but continued to use pockets, which served as hazards. They developed a complex system of strokes and scoring. There were eleven different ways a player could score points. By 1819, there were seven different versions of the game ... all of which would contribute—along with the French, Spanish and other European influences—to the developing game in America.
As late as 1820, the beds of most billiard tables were still constructed of wood. In 1826, England's John Thurston made a change in the composition of table beds, that would alter the game forever. Unsatisfied with the playability and warping tendency of wood, he set out in search of a new material. Though marble had been used, with some success, on the most extravagant tables, the cost was far too prohibitive. What he strove for was something cheaper, readily available, to be used on every table his company produced.
His discovery came in the form of slate, which offered many advantages to both producer and player. First and foremost, was cost and availability. Slate, unlike marble, was inexpensive, and the supply was virtually limitless. Like marble, it offered a far smoother surface, which resulted in faster, more elaborate games. Finally, once cut to the correct measurements and fitted correctly, slate all but eliminated the problem of warping. Its only problem was weight—which indirectly led to a further advancement: tables had to be constructed far sturdier, which also led to an improvement in play. By 1835, 2-inch slate beds had become standard features in English tables. Its cost and playability continue to make it the material of choice today.
With vast improvements in the construction of tables, focus once again shifted to the cushions. It was generally agreed that to truly elevate the game, consistent play off the cushions was imperative. The earliest cushions were nothing more than short walls of wood. Lining the walls with leather or cloth—even stuffing them with hair or cotton— did little to achieve the desired result. Crude rubber from India was tried around 1835. Affixed to wooden blocks screwed into steel plates, these first rubber cushion showed immediate promise.... Until, of course, the seasons and the weather changed. The India rubber turned soft in the heat and rock hard when the temperature dropped. Remedies to keep the cushions at a "playable degree"—candles, ice, pots of hot water—proved far more bothersome than they were worth.
In 1837, Charles Goodyear began experimenting with a process combining sulfur and rubber. Two years later—by accidentally dropping a mixture of the components onto a hot stove—he discovered the process for vulcanized rubber. It was a discovery that would impact a host of different industries. Vulcanized rubber retained its resiliency in the most searing heat and the bitterest cold. In 1845, John Thurston was granted a patent utilizing Goodyear's discovery in the construction of billiard cushions. His "frost-proof" cushions, constructed of cork, leather and vulcanized rubber, was truly a long-awaited breakthrough. Cushions were suddenly consistent and reliable. Bank shots, once all but unpredictable, became integral parts of the game. The impact on the carom games was astronomical. Three-cushion shots became games all their own. Vulcanized rubber has proven so unsurpassed, it is still used in cushions today.
Major improvements in the quality of billiard cloth were also not made until the early 1800's. Like the improvement in cushions, it was a technological innovation that enhanced the quality and playability of billiard cloth.
Cloth had been problematic, from the earliest tables. Finding the right type of cloth—one providing a smooth surface, yet durable enough to withstand play—was a problem that would linger for centuries. Properly "fitting" the cloth was a whole other headache. Commoners generally draped a cloth across the table, spreading out the wrinkles with their hands. Only the wealthy had custom-fit cloths, which often had to be replaced, on their custom-built tables.
By the 1500's, wool had become the fabric of choice. (And, surprisingly, to this day, it remains so; some wool/nylon blends are also produced.) Wool proved to be durable, but not very playable. (Major refinements in the production of textiles were hundreds of years away.) Even stretched, wool provided a coarse playing field. Wool was thick, rough and whiskered, and often misdirected the roll of a ball. Frustrated monarchs imported weavers, who tried vainly to transform it into a smooth-playing cloth.
It wasn't until the late 1700's, that England developed a machine for spinning wool. Unlike earlier machines, the English "spinning mule" utilized more than one spindle for the spinning of wool into yarn. To ensure a worldwide monopoly on the machine and the process, the British Government issued a decree: anyone caught trying to export the techniques or details of the mechanisms, would be sentenced to exile for life.
Fortunately, one man was not so patriotic. He realized the enormity of this invention, and the riches that could be had in foreign lands. What the spinning mule did for the texture of wool would revolutionize the entire textile industry.... And with it, of course, the future of billiards. In 1797, William Cockerill left England, armed with a secret that would impact the game by bringing unparalleled smoothness to the table.
Perhaps by fate, he landed with the Iwan Simonis Company—the most famous billiard cloth manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1680, in the Belgian town of Verviers, they remain, to this day, one of the most respected—and copied—producers of fine billiard cloth. They immediately set to work, building their own spinning mule. The effects on the wool were miraculous—especially when applied to their signature product. Subsequent treatments—weaving, felting, dyeing, shearing—resulted in a cloth that had only been dreamed of....
One strikingly similar to the cloths of today. One steadily improved upon—higher quality wool, improved methods of produc-
tion—with the advancements of the past 200 years. Yet, a cloth, even then, so revolutionary, so perfect, it immediately—and forever—changed the game. Even when used on wooden table beds, the result was near-perfection. When added to Thurston's new tables, the texture was so sublime, it actually enhanced the smoothness of the slate.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Transformation to the modern game

2005-11-16T15:17:00.000Z

The innovation most responsible for transforming the game of billiards was the creation and refinement of the billiard cue. Though the cue did not appear until the 1700's, "makeshift" cues had been utilized for nearly 100 years. Ironically, it was the mace that led to the cue (and, ultimately, the mace's disappearance). By using the narrow end of the mace to execute shots, players discovered a whole new way of playing.
Before the 1600's, the mace had always been used to "push" the ball forward (much like a miniature shuffleboard stick). Its narrow end had always been a handle. The new way of "shooting" likely grew out of the difficulties faced in executing shots with the cue ball pressed against the rails. By turning the mace around and striking shots with the "handle," players discovered a stunning revelation: Immediate improvement. Increased accuracy and control—that the most demanding shots could be "struck" not pushed, utilizing the narrow end of the mace.
With the emergence of the cue came other improvements: leather tips, chalk, slate beds, fine cloth, rubber rails and standard sizes for tables. More dependable cushions led to more elaborate shotmaking, giving birth to the "carom" games that swept across France. Billiards gradually became seen as a scientific game, as well as a game of skill. Rules, like the equipment, slowly became standardized. Variations evolved into games all their own. By the mid 1700's, Europe's passion for billiards had spread to the rest of the world.
Thanks, in part, to perhaps the most significant event in the long history of billiards. By the 1700's, billiards popularity was soaring throughout Europe. With an ever-growing market came a monstrous demand for standardized rules, tables and equipment. Which led, of course, to Big Business, manufacturing plants—the rapid industrialization of billiards. Merchants, investors and, not least of all, kings, scampered to capture a piece of the market.
Once again, monarchs competed with one another—not merely to create the finest tables and gaming rooms, but to grab the biggest piece of the lucrative pie. Craftsmen and manufacturers, often working for the king, covered every nook and cranny of the burgeoning industry. Many specialized, producing only cushions or cloth. Others purchased their products and built entire tables. Importers worked feverishly to satisfy demand, bringing in entire fleets of the finest linen, wood and metals. Jeweled maces, inlaid tables—whatever needed could be had— or exclusively produced, for a hefty price.
It was the industrialization of billiards and the competition for profits that spurred the many changes that would transform the game. There was money to be made now—big money. Innovations that caught on could yield lifetimes of profit, pouring in from all ends of the world.
In Cotton's Compleat Gamester of 1674, there is already mention of the mace being used as a cue and tipped with metal ferrules. By the end of the century, maces designed solely for this purpose were commonplace in many parts of Europe. No one man is actually credited with the invention of the cue. It seemingly emerged as a result of a sharing of ideas between players, countries and inventors. By the early 1700's, the earliest cues had appeared in France, Spain and Portugal. By 1740, it had become the tool of choice, utilized by the game's finest players.
Perhaps as influential as the cue in transforming the game was the addition of the leather cue tip. No other invention would so dramatically affect the magic one could perform on a table.
The cue tip was invented by Captain Mingaud, an imprisoned French soldier, in the early 1800's. Though leather had been used on the end of cues prior to his invention, these "tips" did little to affect shotmaking. They were little more than leather patches, used to protect the wood. The exact date of Mingaud's invention has always been questioned. Most historians place the date between 1807 and 1823. What differentiated his tips from the earlier leather "patches" was the radical effect they had on shotmaking ... on the "spin" that could now be imparted on the ball: "touch," positioning, accuracy and control.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

Steve

http://www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk/

2005-11-16T15:15:00.000Z

By the 1600's, references to billiards were regularly being made in European literature. In Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra—probably the most quoted passage—the Egyptian queen suggests to her handmaiden, Charmian, "Let's to Billiards" (Act II, Scene V).
While the game had been embraced by European royalty, only in France had the mania spread to all levels of society. Outside of France, it was a Nobleman's game, confined to the Crown's inner circle. It wasn't until the reigns of the French Kings Louis XIII and Louis XIV (1610-1715), that the game truly spread across Europe.
What differentiated these kings from their predecessors, wasn't merely their love for the game. It was their expectations of others—their courts, foreign dignitaries, anyone seeking to gain favor—to not only join them at the table, but to exhibit a competent level of play. No longer were the games a mere amusement. They were chances of a lifetime, pivotal affairs, makers or breakers of political careers. To play and play well was a show of respect—to the King, the Crown and country. Even visiting monarchs, seeking favor with the King, were silently judged by their respect for the game.
Which seemingly led to a passion all its own, in kingdoms all across Europe. Whether to keep in France's good graces, or for the sheer love of the game, billiards play suddenly exploded, with a renewed competitive edge. Accomplished players were imported by royal families, to teach their children—and themselves—the subtleties of the game. Rivalries developed. Royal tournaments were played. What had always been seen as a genteel pastime was steadily turning to "sport." The enthusiasm inevitably splashed into the cities, where tables emerged in taverns and inns. And just as in France, the wave rose and spread outward, to every connecting village and town.
Charles Cotton's book, The Compleat Gamester, was published in 1674 and contains some of the earliest descriptions of English sports and pastimes. Though largely devoted to rules and equipment, the book is a telling study of 17th century European society and the marked distinction between classes.
Gambling, at the time, was an accepted pastime for all levels of society. While "gentlemen" were required to play by the rules (and definitely had far more to lose), it was generally assumed that those "nearer to the gutter" would do anything within their means to cheat them of their stakes. Cotton repeatedly warned his readers to beware of "sharpers" and to avoid playing in "publick" rooms. In this and similar writings, the earliest seeds were sown, seeds that would forever tarnish billiards' reputation. Hustlers. Intimidation. Dark, smoky rooms. From subsequent writings to modern-day Hollywood, the stigma continues to tarnish the game.
By the mid 1600's, the table version of the game was still strikingly similar to the ground game. The most significant change in the evolution of the sport was, indeed, the move to the table. In the next hundred years, changes would come quickly, moving the game ever closer to its modern-day character. The implements of ground billiards would gradually disappear, giving way to a variety of complex new games, requiring greater skill and more exacting equipment.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Ancient Billiards part 2

2005-11-16T15:13:00.000Z

Instead, they simply moved the games further out of view—perhaps even indoors—deeper into the countryside. In an attempt to appease the church, "gentler" games were invented ... which gradu-ally evolved into other modern-day pastimes, like golf, tennis and croquet.
Ground billiards of the 1300's was actually very similar to golf and croquet. Variations of the game were probably as numerous as the towns in which it was played. The object was generally to propel a ball, through obstacles, to a predetermined destination. The equip-ment was often primitive, but definitely functional: a ball (sizes varied, often one per player); a propelling device (maces—elongated sticks, curved and flattened at the end—were widely used by the 1300's); and a variety of posts, pegs, cones and arches, to be struck, knocked down or passed through.
Many of the cities of this period had been designed to protect their inhabitants from hostile attacks. Many were built on plateaus and surrounded by walls. This greatly reduced the areas where ball games requiring a great distance could be played. Consequently, many games became miniaturized, played in small enclosures or courtyards. From there, it was just another small step to reduce the game further by moving it indoors and onto a table.
No one knows precisely when, or even where, the first billiard table was constructed and the game moved indoors. Very little is known about the day-to-day lives of the commoners. Only the wealthy could afford to document their history through artwork or written records that would withstand the test of time. Consequently, most of the earliest evidence concerning gaming and sport resides in the annals of nobility and kings. The first definitive account of the existence of a billiard table was found in a 1470 inventory of the possessions of King Louis XI of France.
This account did more than place a date on the first known billiard table. It spoke volumes about the changing social attitudes, and the influence of the Church on recreation and sport. With the King's approval for the game, came a long-awaited end to religious persecution. The decrees of the Church slowly faded. Nobility, even the clergy, joined in the rebirth of the game. Players came out of the "closet." Tables sprang up like flowers after a rain. And France's passion for billiards, no longer enchained, blossomed like love unrestrained.
The early table games were played much like the ground games, with an assortment of posts, pegs and arches. The maces were smaller, re-contoured to accommodate the raised surface. Rails were affixed to keep the balls in play. As with the outdoor games, there were many variations. Generally, tables were built for specific monarchs or noblemen, who dictated the rules on his "home" table. Records of "pocketed" tables remain sketchy, at best (though Louis XI's 1470 table did have a hole in the center).
In the 1500's, the popularity of the table game spread through all levels of French society. By the end of the century, tables could be found in taverns, inns and other public places. The game steadily spread to other European countries, taking root among the nobility and in the royal courts. As the need for tables increased, the monarchs vied with one another—hiring the finest artisans in an unspoken quest to create the most magnificent tables and gaming rooms.
Of course, tables weren't restricted to the wealthy. The commoners, migrants, farmers, field hands ... well, they built their own tables too. They were crude perhaps, by noblemen's standards, comprised of whatever materials could be had. A base. A surface. A tablecloth cover. Makeshift pegs and arches and rails. The games they played, like their method of construction, was limited only by imagination. And their passion to play, and the joy it brought them, was unequaled by the wealthiest kings.
Billiards fever spread to England in the mid 1500's. One of the more noted enthusiasts was Mary, Queen of Scots, who was executed for her part in an assassination attempt on Queen Elizabeth I in 1588. Initially, upon her incarceration, she was allowed the use of her billiard table inside her prison cell. When this privilege was revoked, months before her beheading, she wrote a letter of complaint to the Archbishop of Glasgow. Though she was never allowed to play again, one final wish was granted, reflecting her undying passion for the game. Upon her beheading, her body was wrapped in the cloth from her beloved table.
It's clear from the earliest images of billiards that women have enjoyed the game as much as men; that they've played and competed on a virtually even level, from the earliest table games to modern-day pool. Legend has it, a number of prominent female players—Marie Antoinette, for one, on the eve of the French Revolution—were so highly skilled in the intricacies of the game, they regularly trounced their male competition. Perhaps like no other sport combining strategy, concentration and physical execution, billiards is—and always has been—an equal battle of the sexes. One far more reliant on subtlety and mental toughness than size, speed and brute strength.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

posted by steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Ancient Billiards

2005-11-16T15:10:00.000Z

The evolution of billiards can actually be traced to the centuries preceding the Renaissance (approx. 1100 AD). It was during this time that images and descriptions of early billiard-like games first began appearing with any frequency.
Life in Europe changed dramatically during this period. With the onset of the Crusades—Christian military expeditions to recapture the Holy Land from the Muslims—cultures came together like never before. Men from England, Scandinavia and most of western Europe traveled thousands of miles to fight a common enemy. Long-feuding states joined forces. Roads and bridges were built. Industries were born. Migrants flocked to the cities in search of employment. Rome was re-established as the capital of Christianity. Towns sprang up around churches. Local governments were formed. The "cause," cooperation, and contact with the East, opened rivers of communi-cation, revitalized Europe and helped bring it out of the "Dark Age." And the games, pastimes and traditions of Roman culture were brought back to western Europe by returning Crusaders.
The Knights Templar were among the wealthiest and most powerful Crusaders. Primarily of French descent, active during the first Crusade, they are widely credited as being the first to bring billiards to western Europe.
Many have suggested, even argued, that billiards was invented in France. That the name "billiards" was derived from the French word bille (meaning: a piece of wood, or a curved stick); or billes (a variety of spherical objects, including balls). And that these words were used in reference to ball games, as far back as 1164.
No one can deny France's influence in transforming the game—embracing it as a culture, refining the tools, moving it indoors to be played upon tables, and spreading its popularity throughout western Europe. But to call it "the birthplace of the game" will probably always be questioned ... as billiards was not "invented" in France at all, only named, nurtured and encouraged to grow there.
But not without substantial opposition. And not for nearly 400 years. The game flourished among the Templars during the Crusades. But the end of the struggle brought the end of the Templars. They had simply become too wealthy, too powerful. They were no longer seen as conquering heroes (in part, because the Crusades were unsuccessful), but very real threats to the aristocracy. In 1314, under the direction of the Pope and several European monarchs, the Knights Templar was abruptly abolished. Its members were tortured, their properties seized and taken by the King of France.
During this period, the monarchs of Europe began to regulate not only the commoners' time for work, but also their time for relaxation. The Crusades had ushered in a zealous Christianity. Government and religion had become integrally entwined. Recreation time was naturally controlled by the ruling class. But also, to an increasing degree, by the Church, who denounced all forms of recreation, outside the Church, as dangerous sins against God.
Pleasure, simply put, was seen as evil; commoners engaged in pleasurable pursuits as threats to the status quo. Only in church was such gaming acceptable, and only under the "rules" laid down by the Church. Competition was all but abolished. Skillful displays on the playing field were seen only as offerings to God. "Winning" meant loving one's opponent, working together to achieve a common goal. Games once played for fun, for the love of the game, had become little more than religious rituals, symbolic celebrations of faith.
And even these were gradually seen as "too dangerous." In 1369, Charles VI of France tried to suppress the playing of these ritualistic games by limiting their play—to one day a year! In 1441, the Bishop of Trequier issued a warning concerning the evils of the games, prohibiting all play within Church jurisdictions. Calling the games a direct cause of hatred and malice, he threatened excom-munication to all who disobeyed.
Of course, the games hardly died with the decrees of the Church, or even the orders of the King. They'd quietly been growing for nearly 300 years, from the outskirts of the cities to every sleepy rural town. They'd trickled throughout the countryside upon the Templars' return. They'd been passed down for generations and spread from town to town. They'd provided joy and needed pleasure to the life of the common man—who wasn't about to give up what little pleasure he had in what was surely a mundane existence.

http://www.cuecare.com/history.htm

posted by Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

New Training Aid for Snooker

2005-11-13T12:30:00.000Z

I came across this intriguing new training aid the Site Right. It does what it says on the tin, helps you aim correctly. Two former World Snooker Champions, Terry Griffiths and Steve Davis and a current Top 18player, Barry Pinches, have all been helped by SightRight®.

Available at http://www.sightrightuk.com/snooker.htm

I am pretty erratic myself like most players so this might just help me improve. I'll let you know

Steve

www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

English Slatebed Pool Table

2005-11-12T15:41:00.000Z

This professional table has been designed for the serious pool player.This free play pool table has the strength and durability of a coin operated table and will give good service in the busiest of environments. It is unique in that it has a ball separator, sending the white ball and the coloured balls to their respective ends. Polished chrome corners as on commercial table Full size cushion rubber giving excellent ball response Hardwearing wool/nylon cloth available in either blue or green 3/4" Italian slate bed provides the ultimate playing surface Finished in sleek black ash or classic mahogany Each table is supplied with 2" pool balls, cues, triangle and chalk

Details at www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

How Big Should my Snooker Room Be?

2005-11-12T15:31:00.000Z

When buying a Pool/Snooker table it is important to check the size of the room to see if your intended table will fit to include an allowance all round for cueing. If a table is too large for the room you may not enjoy playing on it.A good idea is to draw a plan of the room and measure it at the nearest points to where your table is intended to stand. Do not measure into bay windows or to the recesses of a fireplace. All large furniture should be outside the measurements.Positioning a table diagonally in a room is not a good option, as the corner pockets are brought closer to the walls.Below you will find a guide for the room sizes for different sized Pool/Snooker tables.The minimum room size measurements allow for normal shots to taken with a standard length cue. Awkward long shots, or shots hard against the cushion will require shorter cues.
Table Size
Minimum Room Size

6'
14' x 11' (4.2m x 3.4m)
7'
15' x 12'6" (4.6m x 3.8m)
8'
17' x 13' (5.2m x 4m
9'
18' x 14' (5.5m x 4.2m)
10'
20' x 15' (6m x 4.6m)
11'
21' x 15'6" (6.4m x 4.7m)
12'
22' x 16' (6.7m x 4.9m)

Shorter cues can be supplied to accommodate rooms with awkward corners or where space is at a premium.

Booing Ronnie

2005-11-12T15:28:00.000Z

Former world champion Steve Davis was shocked to hear the crowd boo Ronnie O'Sullivan during his Grand Prix final defeat to John Higgins on Sunday.
O'Sullivan, who admitted to being bored with the game after his semi-final win over Barry Hawkins, was audibly jeered as he came out for the evening session.
Davis told BBC Sport: "It was a shock, but it was not a vast amount of people.
"It's happened to me before when I was in my prime but I think that was people who were fed up with me winning."
The booing was clearly heard within the auditorium and on television, but Davis feels O'Sullivan may have brought it upon himself.
He continued: "The people who pay money to come and watch the game live are enthusiasts and if a percentage of them are booing it is not down to Ronnie's play.
I'm bored with the game and I'd rather be planting a few shrubs in the garden
Ronnie O'Sullivan
O'Sullivan squeezes past Hawkins
"So it must be down to his comments and the fact the fans feel they are disrespectful to the game and that snooker is losing out because of that.
"It's now down to Ronnie if he wants to do anything about that.
"It's OK to complain about the way the game is going, but perhaps it is not in your own best interests to say you are fed up with the game and you'd rather be digging up roses."

John Spencers Autobiography is out

2005-11-11T01:43:00.000Z

I will definitely get that one I am old enough to remember the first pot black that was in black and white on our TV and he was a star then with the vampire Ray Reardon. Didn't he have the cue with the nail in it? It's always tempting to compare the players of yesteryear with today's heroes, but I think standards have increased dramatically these days. Hell if Ronnie was on Pot Black back then they would have to have filled in the half hour program with the test card or something. However fond memories..........
Steve
www.snookerbilliardspool.co.uk

Drago under pressure

2005-11-10T10:58:00.000Z

INDEPENDENT online: "Tony Drago will be in action today in the qualifying round 3 of the Malta Cup.

He will be facing Shokat Ali, who beat Joe Delaney 5-4 in the second round.

Drago is under pressure to earn his place in his 'home' tournament, though, if he wins today, he still faces a fourth round qualifying match against Barry Pinches to go through to the Malta event.

Last Monday, the other Maltese professional, Alex Borg, was dumped out of the tournament, after being beaten 5-3 by Sean Storey."

Can Dennis trip the light fantastic

2005-11-10T10:51:00.000Z

THE weekend cannot come soon enough for Dennis Taylor. Having so narrowly escaped eviction in the Strictly Come Dancing phone vote, he goes into this week’s contest knowing, deep down, that he is dancing at the last-chance saloon. It was no surprise to learn, during one of BBC Two’s nightly, behind-the-scenes updates, that on Sunday, while his fellow contestants were at home, taking the weight off their cha-cha-chas, Taylor had gone “straight back into the training studio”.
The former snooker world champion clearly understands the size of the task ahead, if he is to silence the ballroom boo-boys and demonstrate categorically that the rhythm he generated early in the series was no flash in a sequinned pan.
NI_MPU('middle');
First and foremost, Taylor will need to set aside the feelings of resentment understandably generated in him by the judges’ most recent comments. True, his paso doble to the classic rock anthem by Survivor was, in places, more ear of the pig than Eye Of The Tiger. But it could hardly have prepared him for the personal nature of the invective that followed. “It knocked me for six,” Taylor confessed. “When you play snooker, you never really get criticism like that.”
No, indeed — nor in many other professions. Clearly, the line on acceptable human comment was wildly overstepped by Craig Revel Horwood when he told Taylor: “You’re starting to rival Quentin Wilson.” At this point, cognoscenti of the pro-celebrity ballroom scene will have turned ashen and started clutching their faces in appalled horror. During a brief and unhappy stint on the previous series of Strictly Come Dancing , Wilson revealed himself to be to ballroom dancing what a three-legged donkey is to — well, ballroom dancing.
Accordingly, in the context of dance criticism, to invoke a comparison with Wilson is to leap directly at the jugular. You couldn’t cause greater affront if you attacked the way one of the male professionals had done his make-up. When you question a man’s talents in the ballroom, by implication you question the man and an overwhelmingly hurt Taylor was having none of it. “There’s criticism,” he pointed out, “and there’ s being nasty.”
He responded by turning the tables. “What I’m going to do with Craig is buy him a snooker cue and see what he can do with that in five days,” he said. At this stage in the competition’s history, I would hazard, there will be millions of viewers (and not only fans of Taylor) with a clear idea about what the waspish Craig could do with a snooker cue and a large number who would be happy to take hold of the cue and do it for him. But Taylor, being above all a dignified man, is merely proposing a snooker match early next week.
Revel Horwood has, gamely if hesitantly, accepted. It is an encounter to relish. But Taylor needs to put all that out of his mind and concentrate on the more significant appointment that awaits him: with destiny on Saturday evening.
While Taylor clings on, sport’s triple-pronged attack on Strictly Come Dancing glory remains in motion. Still standing with Taylor are Darren Gough, the cricketer, and Colin Jackson, the former sprint hurdler, and all three of these sporting legends can pride themselves that they have seen off Gloria Hunniford. Whatever else happens, they’ll always have that to tell the grandchildren.
Jackson has cut a swath through this tournament and may yet cut a wider one. “I’ve been holding back in my jumps,” he reported ominously, suggesting that there may be more to come from him.
Gough, though, has been the big revelation. On Saturday, wearing a glittery black top, which made it look as if the giant fairy of fortune had sneezed on his shoulder, he became the first Yorkshire paceman to be acclaimed for “the best paso doble of the night” in a televised context. “Darren,” Arlene Phillips breathed, “you must have been a dancer in a former life.” We ’ll take that as a compliment.
Chuffed to his diamondstudded earlobes, Gough told Claudia Winkleman on Tuesday: “I’ve started preparing as I would for a Test match. I hit it hard for three days, then just go through the basics on the Thursday and Friday, so I’ve got that edge factor for the Saturday.” Interesting, although, by Saturday, a Test match can sometimes be over, making it a risky time to aim to peak.
Still, we trust Gough to know his body in this respect. We hope so, anyway, because if all continues to go well, he could soon be in a position to loosen the showbiz stranglehold on pro-celebrity dancing’s most coveted prize, succeeding where dancers of the quality of Roger Black, Denise Lewis and Martin “Chariots” Offiah have failed. Remember, too, that in the history of Strictly Come Dancing (two years), nobody has carried away the trophy who wasn ’t manifestly and undeniably a woman.
That’s got to be a worry for the likes of Taylor and Gough, not least with Zoe Ball in the kind of form she is showing and with Patsy Palmer, once of EastEnders, ready to mop up anything that Ball spills. But stranger things have happened.

In The Begining...........................

2005-11-10T01:38:00.000Z

Snooker, they say, began on a very wet and miserable day in Jubbulpore in India in 1875.
In those days, the officers of the Devonshire regiment would spend many hours around the billiard table as the monsoon lashed down. Boredom was the order of the day for those young men and one such officer, Sir Neville Chamberlain, started to experiment.
Various games, such as pyramids, life pool and black pool, were devised involving more than the traditional three billiard balls. These variations started to catch on and the inventive Chamberlain started to add various coloured balls until a basic form of Snooker was evolved.
That game included 15 reds, yellow, green, pink and black. Snooker was finally born when blue and brown were added in later years. Then, during the 1880’s word filtered back to England about this new game. Top Billiard player, John Roberts, journeyed to India in 1885 and was introduced to Chamberlain, and snooker was on the way.
Snooker grew and grew, though Joe Davis earned just £6.10s.0d. for his initial first World Championship win in 1927.
That was a far cry from 2004 when Ronnie O’Sullivan banked £250,000 for capturing the Embassy World Championship trophy.
Snooker has come a very long way in a relatively short period of time, to a stage where it can rightly claim to be a major internationally televised and participation sport.
Times have changed from those early days and, if it had not rained in India, who knows what might have happened?

Posted from http://www.worldsnooker.com/about_the_game.htm

Ladies Snooker

2005-11-09T09:34:00.000Z

"World Champion and World No. 1 Kelly Fisher collected her seventh European Ladies title with a 5-4 win over Belgium's Wendy Jans, who for the fifth time in succession, had to settle for runners-up spot.
Fisher established a 3-1 lead, a break of 69 in the second frame proving to be the best of an uncharacteristically low scoring match.
Jans took the next but Fisher regained a two frame margin thanks to a break of 65.
Jans, the new World Ladies No. 2, fought back, winning the next two frames to send the match into a decider. An early error from the Belgian gave the World Champion the chance she needed and Fisher slotted in a match winning 54 break.
'Phew!' said Fisher after the match. 'That was really hard work today, but I'm thrilled to win again. I would have liked to have produced my best form but I'll take the win.'
Belgium's leading lady was philosophical in defeat commenting 'I'd rather lose 5-4 than 5-0 like last year. I'm getting closer!'"

BBC In-form Ding earns place in York

2005-11-09T01:49:00.000Z

BBC SPORT | Other Sport... | Snooker | In-form Ding earns place in York: "Chinese teenager Ding Jun Hui produced some brilliant break-building to reach the final stages of next month's UK Championships in York.
The 18-year old had runs of 91, 127, 58 and 65 to go 4-0 up on Fergal O'Brien and 91, 121 and 74 in the second session to wrap up a 9-4 victory.
He now meets Anthony Hamilton with the winner going on to face Jimmy White.
Jamie Burnett hit back from 3-0 down to beat Mark Selby 9-4 and Stuart Bingham and Ryan Day also went through.
Bingham, who beat world champion Shaun Murphy in last month's Grand Prix, saw off Andrew Norman 9-4.
Day's reward for his 9-2 victory over Tom Ford could be a meeting with world number one Ronnie O'Sullivan, if he can beat Mark King at the Barbican Centre. "

Whats Going on with Ronnie

2005-11-08T22:30:00.000Z

What is happening with Ronnie O'Sullivan, is he leaving the Snooker scene or just spreading his wings? Ronnie is off to the US to try his hand at Pool, how will the Yanks view him? I'll bet he storms them just like he's stormed the Snooker scene here. I think he just wants another challange but I suppose we'll see less of him over here now.