-It’s rack your own.

Game 1: Souquet breaks clean with controlled cue ball and pockets 2 balls. Table is clean and open but he bumped the 2 while pocketing one and plays saftey with cue ball behind 6.

Corteza pulls “cue behind your back, leaning backward with one foot balance” kick but table is relatively open… Souquet lets Corteza back to the table failing to pocket the 2. Corteza makes it look easy and is first on the board.

1-0 Corteza
—-
Game 2: Souquet and Corteza are exchanging safety battles and couple of missed opportunities. Both players seem a little nervous… Souquet over draws to get a shape on 4 ball which is on foot rail and sinks cue ball into the corner pocket. Ball in hand for Corteza and he should be fine from 7-10.
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Keep reading the reports by clicking the ‘more’ link below………
2-1 Corteza.

Game 3: Souquet runs out methodically and catches up 2-1 Corteza.
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Game 4:

Sorry, I got distracted and didn’t see what happened at break, but Corteza is running out but misses 7. Souquet calmly runs out last 4 balls to tie the score at 2-2.
—-
Game 5: Souquet pockets a ball on the break. Running out and shooting straight.

3-2 Souquet
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Corteza picks up game 6, score is tied at 3-3
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Game 7: Corteza breaks dry, but not a clean shot at 1. Upon careful selection, Souquet pushes out and Corteza hides the cue ball behind 2 and leaving 1 7 foot away. Souquest misses 2 rail kick and Corteza is gifted with a ball in hand. Quickly lines up 1/10 and leads 4-3.
—-
Game 8: Another dry yet safe break…and Souquet pushes out again. Corteza makes a combo but hooks him self for leave. Now Ralf with ball in hand.. wow, I turned my head to order a beer and Corteza is back on the table running out! 5-3 Corteza.
—-
Can you believe it? another dry break for Corteza, except Souquet has an open shot at one. 7 and 8 looks to be a problem, but in attempt to break it out after shooting the 4, Souquet only makes it nastier! 7 ball did give him problem and Corteza is back on the table with 4 balls… Another game to Corteza. 6-3 Corteza
—-
Corteza is stunned, just starring at the table after he comes up with another dry break on game 10.

Souquet combos 1/6 and the 6 ball stops short at the pocket for 2 seconds and barely falls in. Tries to safe the 1, but it’s clearly visible and makable. It’s 2 ball that give him the trouble and Ralf is back on the table and looking determined to run out this time and he does.

6-4 Corteza
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Corteza picks up game 12 leading 7-4 and makes a ball on the break and pumps his fists but misses 1 and lets Ralf on the table. It looks pretty much of connect the dots from this end.
—-
Wow, Ralf misses pretty simple cut on 3 and gives up the table. Right now, I can count for only 1 break and run. I think they should be loose by now but then again, they are playing 1 race to $10,000.

Corteza runs out and score is 8-4 Corteza.
—-
Game 13: Dry break and I am going on potty break    So did the players.
—-
Sorry, connectivity problem.

8-6 Corteza
—-
Corteza makes a smooth run and leads 9-6.
—-
Game 16: Corteza pockets 8 ball on the break and on the way to clear the rack but the 3 ball didn’t let him. Ralf banks 3 and clips 10 which helped it into the pocket. 5 to 6 is a little tricky so Ralf is pacing around the table and comes to the short side for leave. With 6 gone 3 balls remainin to close out the game and he does

9-7 Corteza
—-
Corteza looking pretty comfortable running out the next game and finishes early with carom from 5 to 10. Score is 10-7 Corteza.
—-
Sorry, I keep loosing connection…

It’s 12-9 Corteza and Ralf is on the table and shot a safety for 1. Cut ball is completely barried behind the 7 ball and Corteza kicks 2 rails and fails to make a contact. Ralf with a ball in hand carefully maps out the table for a run walking from this end to the next. Ralf starts with 1 ball and carefully runs out the rack, earning a clap or two. Came up funny on 6 and is facing an extreme cut to side and barely misses. Once again giving the table to Corteza with last few balls. This must be boosting Corteza tremendously…he runs out and the score is 13 to 9 Corteza.
—-
Corteza pockets a ball on his break and is rewarded with an open shot to 1but ops for a safety. Overall look of table is nasty… 5/9 is tied up and so is 2/6. Ralf tries to thin the one but completely misses and giving Corteza ball in hand. Looks like Corteza tried to break the 2/6 with the cue ball in hand, but misses the break out and is forced to play another safe. Starring at an open 2 ball for few minutes, Ralf fires it into the pocket, but alas, gets the cue ball barried behind the problemetic 5/9 cluster. Ralf kick out with an extreme reverse to cut the angle and contacts with a safe result. 3 ball is now in open but 6 ball blocks it’s pocket but Ralf caroms it with an ease!
—-
Still wondering what Ralf would do wth 5/9 cluster… tried for a safety, but not this time… once again, corteza back on the table with last 4 balls to win the game. 14-9 Corteza.

Ralf looks calm but I can see a bit of fluster on his color and looking down on the floor.
—-
Corteza breaks for the win and almost made the 10 in the corner…

Even though a ball was pocketed, 1 ball is hiding behind the 4. Corteza pushes but cue ball is behind the 9. Ralf gives back the turn to Corteza and but after not being able to make anything happen other than a good hit on 1 Ralf is back on the table. Table is wide open with no problem with the layout. Ralf shoots combo for 7-10.

14-10 Corteza.
—-
Ralf pounds the break but nothing on the break. 1 ball is haning in the pocket but 5 ball blocks it’s path and Corteza kicks 1 in… Misses 2 ball badly. Ralf takes charge and pockets 2, 3, 4…and finishes the rack to trail 14-11.
—-
Ralf breaks dry, open shot at one and no cluster… Corteza should be able to finish out the set here to win the 10G.

Ball by ball Corteza is nearing to win the First Fatboy 10 Ball Challenge at Derby City Classic.

But he misses 5 ball in the side which hits both picks and hides behind the 7. Ralf should be red hot! but not showing any emotions. Just circling the table looking for an opening…
—-
Ralf fails to execute the safety on 5 and Corteza easily pockets it. Only 6 balls with the DCC 09 Bank Champion!
Corteza is first Fatboy Challenge 10 Ball Champion!!!! 15-11

I enjoyed sweating the Souquet-Bustamante match with JoeyA and Lou Figeroa.

A dazzling shot played by Souquet against Bustamante was this one. Note that the four ball is frozen to the bottom rail. The position paths available are scarce and are filled with possible obstructions if missed even barely. The gist of the position was this, though I certainly don’t remember all the details. Finally, the speed control that was needed was particularly challenging:

Photos from the Fatboy 10-Ball 20k Challenge HERE.

Stevie Moore 6  v Mika Immonen 15
Busta 15 v Appleton 3
Efren 9 v Souquet 15
Corteza 15  v Morra 12

From Sunnyday:  Souquet makes 4 balls off the break including the 10 ball, per rule 10spots back up and he runs our effortlessly. Final 4 tomorrow are Mika, Corteza, Busty and Souquet.Good nite everyone. My phone is out of juice.

Morra led 6-1 early on, later trailed  7-12.

$10,000 first. $5,000 second. $2,500 for 3rd & 4th.

That’s all for now…. will update more later.

Darren Appleton over Rafael Martinez 15-11
Efren Reyes over Parica 15-11
Ralf Souquet over Marcus Chamat 15-12
Lee Van Corteza over Shane Van Boening 15-9
Francisco Bustamante over Hennesse 15-7
Mika Immonen over Hillbilly Charlie Bryant 15-11
Stevie Moore over Corey Duel 15-7
Morra over Dechaine 15-11
The eight winners play again tonite at Midnite. The brackets look just like what you see above. Ralf vs. Efren etc. Winners tonite are guaranteed $2,500.

Highlights last night – Francisco played a fantastic match, nearly flawless. Lee Van may have been the second most impressive (he’s got Shane’s number). Mika and Charley had a real battle, so did Darren and Rafael (who still makes the most spectacular shots of anyone). Jose and Efren match was also hard fought (still battling for supremacy after three decades+). Matches all lasted two and half hours or more. Ralf vs. Marcus the longest, over three and a half hours. Corey may have played the worst match, totally out of synch, miss miss miss.

Interesting, not one hill-hill match. 15-12 was the closest. They’ll be closer tonite, my prediction.

One final comment – Maybe the best display of pool talent in one room, all playing at the same time, ever assembled! The place was packed and they were hanging off the walls trying to see. I had trouble finding a seat.
~ Jay Helfert

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Email me at info@ this domain with any details or post it to that AZB forum thread.

This video is worth a watch if only for the cool (women can say cute  ) props. Check that tiny shoe!

February 7-8,2009

Chicago, IL at Palace Billiards

[Ed. There aren't many sports in the world where you can get a  chance to have professional one-on-one instruction from players at the peak of their sport. Well done to Dragon Promotions for making such opportunities available for the serious pool aficionado.]

For the first time ever in Chicago and the midwest, Dragon Promotions brings you 2008 Player of the Year Mika Immonen of Finland , Former #1 Francisco Bustamante of Philippines, and Top 5 USA ranked Charlie Williams to the Chicago Predator Pro Pool School. These world class professional players will reveal in depth training methods and secrets of professional pool. Students will get insight on their style and knowledge of play which has inspired countless players hroughout Europe, Asia, the USA and the world of pool! This rare experience will be hosted by Palace Billiards and brought to you by Predator Cues, Simonis Cloth, Brunswick Centennial Balls, and Master Chalk.

The instructors will cover a myriad of hot topics relevant to professional cue sports today. The pro champions also have had prior experience in teaching players of all levels from beginner to highly advanced levels. Mika Immonen instructed at past Pro Pool Schools in Roanoke VA, Korea, and Norfolk VA. Bustamante made his teaching debut in 2008 in Jacksonville FL, while Williams has taught in VA, Boston, Korea, India, and Florida.

“The Predator Pro Pool School is a program that we really believe in. It plays an important grass roots role that gives players the opportunity to learn from some of the best professionals in the game, first hand. We’re proud to be part of an effort that supports the growth of billiards and encourages constant game improvement.” explained Tara Walton, Marketing Manager for The Predator Group.

“I’ve attended almost every school out there and had the honor of taking lessons from many top pros. Out of all of them, PREDATOR PRO POOL SCHOOL WAS THE BEST !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” said John Rousseau of Phoenix, AZ.

World 9-Ball and US Open Champion Mika Immonen of Finland was recently announced Player of the Year by Pool & Billiard Magazine, Billiards Digest and Inside Pool Magazine, making him by popular vote the current greatest player in the world. Known as the “The Ice Man” because of his near invulnerable skills and consistent error free match play, Immonen will cover subjects such as Development of a straight stroke,Banking Systems, Jump Shots, Cueball Control & Position playing,European Training Drills, Mental Game & Attitude, One on One Q & A. Mika will also cover modern topics such as Fitness & Health Pool Training. Mika is sponsored by Mezz Cues, Cafe Puro, OTA Enterprises Japan, Brunswick, Billiard Life and Managed by Dragon Promotions.

Mika Immonen teaching in Korea

Former #1 Francisco “Django” Bustamante of the Philippines will be making his second appearance teaching in the United States. Bustamante has long been considered one of the world’s top four players and perhaps the most feared player in the world. Bustamante’s thunderous game has shocked and wowed audiences around the world with his unmatched ,explosive firepower and supernatural breaking power, Bustamante’s flamboyantly smooth stroke is world renown. Francisco will cover Breaking, Safety Play,-Kicking systems, Shotmaking & aiming, Drills, Mental Game,One on One Q & A. Francisco is sponsored by Puyat Sports and Bear Cues.

Francisco Bustamante teaching in Jacksonville, FL

Former BCA Open Champion Charlie”Korean Dragon” Williams has been consistently ranked in the top 10 in the USA for more than half his pro career. Williams is known by his pro peers to be an astute observer when it comes to helping players and an expert on the mental game. Perhaps from his vast experiences in team play including 4 out of 5 wins for Team USA at the Mosconi Cup and playing vital MVP roles in winning for Team Korea vs Japan and Philippines vs The World in 2008. Williams also coaches billiard stars Shanelle Loraine and Yu Ram Cha, recent winner of the WPBA Most Improved Award. Williams will cover Perfect technique, Stroke Mechanics, Aiming and shot making, Fitness & Health Pool Training, Breaking techniques, Drills, Mental Game, One on One Q & A. Charlie is sponsored by Predator Cues and Dragon Promotions.

Charlie Williams teaching in India

“The participants at our schools get hands on training by the best players in the world today, so they get all the modern information and knowledge of what works. Mika and Charlie are great examples of the modern pool player because they incorporate fitness and exercise in their training. The students also really get to know the players on a personal level. Our pro schools offer an experience unlike anything out there.” says Cindy Lee, CEO of Dragon Promotions.

“It’s really an honor to be hosting an event like this with Mika, Bustamante, and Williams. These are world class pros and I know my patrons, as well as people all over Chicago, will appreciate their presence. In an economy like this, programs like The Predator Pro Pool School will help keep pool alive and inspire more long term business for roomowners. ” commented Bill Wickman, Owner of Palace Billiards.

Predator Pro Pool School Tuition

$1150 fee per student To reserve your spot Pay Online at www.dragonpromotions.com and click on the top banner or mail check/money order to
2516 Waukegan Rd Unit 144, Glenview IL 60025
For more info email propoolschool@gmail.com or call Dragon Promotions at 407-782-4978
Please also email us your contact number so we can reach you.

Limited to the first 15 Students. (currently only 12 spots available)
The school will host a maximum of 15 students divided into 3 groups of 5 pupils. The class will take place over 2 days , 7 & 1/2 hours each day plus 1 hour lunch break where students will eat with Mika, Francisco, and Charlie. Total 15 hours of up close and personal coaching from three of the world’s premier players. Lunch is already included each day.

There will also be an exhibition by the pros after the first day of class is finished on Feb 7 at 730pm.
On Feb 8, all the graduates from the Predator Pro Pool School will participate in a free entry 9-Ball Tournament with the champion receiving a free Predator Cue.

Students may also try out Predator products during the school at no cost. Predator shafts including Z, Z2, 314, 314 2, The BK Break Cue 2, and the Predator Air Jump Cue. Almost 70% of the world’s pros use Predator technology. Any student or fan who would like to purchase , Palace Billiards will be happy to sell you what you desire or place an order for you. Please visit www.predatorcues.com

Thanks for joining this historic event and rare opportunity with Mika Immonen, Francisco Bustamente, and Charlie Williams. It will for sure be a memorable experience to tell your grandkids and friends about now and later.

Palace Billiards will be hosting this monumental event featuring 12,000 square feet with eighteen 9′ Brunswick Gold Crowns and six 7′ Diamond bar tables. Palace Billiards has had a rich history of hosting major events such as WPBA Pro Tour stops and the recent IPT Pro Am Championships won by non-other than the “Ice Man” Mika Immonen. Address: 160 West Roosevelt Rd. Villa Park, IL 60181. (630 ) 941-3500

Predator Cues, an international billiards industry leader, is a high-performance, professional pool cue producer focused on developing revolutionary technology that enhances performance for billiards players worldwide. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, USA, Predator Cues is a division of The Predator Group whose core brands also include Poison Billiards and Uni-Loc®. For more information regarding The Predator Group’s products, visit www.predatorcues.com, www.poisonbilliards.com, www.uni-loc.com.

Class of ‘08 Jacksonville, FL

Meet the Instructors:

Mika Immonen- “The Ice Man” Fulda, Germany
Sponsord by Mezz Cues, Cafe Puro, OTA enterprizes Japan, Brunswick, Billiard Life
Managed by Dragon Promotions

Titles & Credentials
2008 Player of the Year Pool & Billiard Magazine, Billiards Digest, Inside Pool
2008 US Open Champion
2008 Mosconi Cup MVP Team Europe
2008 All Japan Champion
Former World 9-Ball Champion

Mika will cover
- Fitness & Health Pool Training
- Development of a straight stroke
-Banking Systems
-Jump Shots
-Cueball Control & Position playing
- European Training Drills
-Mental Game & Attitude
- One on One Q & A

Francisco “Django” Bustamante – Manila, Philippines
Sponsored and managed by Puyat Sports

Titles & Accomplishments
- US Pro Tour Champion
-Camel World 8-Ball Open Champion
-Former #1 Ranked & Player of the Year
-World All Around Champion Derby City Classic
-UPA Peninsula Open Champion

Francisco will cover
- Breaking
-Safety Play
-Kicking systems
-Shotmaking & aiming
-Drills
-Mental Game
-One on One Q & A

Charlie Williams- “The Korean Dragon” Orlando, FL USA
Sponsored by Predator Cues & Dragon Promotions

Titles & Credentials
- BCA Open Champion
- 4x Mosconi Cup Team USA Champion
-2008 Lucasi Classic 10-Ball Champion
-2008 Korea vs Japan, Team Korea Champion MVP
-2008 Philippines vs World Team, World Team Champion
-2007 Korea Pro Tour Champion

Charlie will cover
- Perfect technique
-Stroke Mechanics
-Aiming and shot making
-Fitness & Health Pool Training
-Breaking techniques
-Drills
-Mental Game
- One on One Q & A
————————————————————————————

Thanks for joining this historic event and rare opportunity with Mika Immonen, Francisco Bustamente, and Charlie Williams. Something to tell your grandkids and friends about now and later.

For more info email propoolschool@gmail.com or call Dragon Promotions at 1-407-782-4978
To reserve your spot pay online at www.dragonpromotions.com
Please also email us your contact number so we can reach you.

More Photos of the Pool School Instructors

More pics from Past Pool Schools……

Recommended Hotels

Comfort Suites
17 W. 445 Roosevelt Rd., Oakbrook Terrace, IL‎

Motel 6‎
10 W Roosevelt Rd, Villa Park, IL‎

Intown Suites Chicago West‎
350 E Roosevelt Rd, Villa Park, IL‎

Highland Manor Hotel‎
19W545 Roosevelt Rd, Lombard, IL

Staybridge Suites Hotel
200 Royce Blvd, Oakbrook Terrace, IL‎

Staybridge Suites Chicago-Oakbrook Terrace Extended Stay Hotel‎
200 Royce Blvd, Oakbrook Terrace, IL‎

La Quinta Inn‎
1S666 Midwest Rd, Oakbrook Terrace, IL‎

Courtyard Chicago Oakbrook Terrace‎
6 Transam Plaza Drive, Oakbrook Terrace, IL‎

Holiday Inn‎
1250 E Roosevelt Rd, Lombard, IL‎

This was one of the most popular educational films Disney ever produced and was shown widely in elementary schools.

According to macguy, the man playing several shots in the clip is Romey Yance (sp?) from the San Francisco area.