Corteza pockets second 10-Ball title

MANILA, Philippines - Lee Vann Corteza pocketed his second 10-Ball crown in the US in three weeks as he nipped Chinese Hi Wen Lo, 13-12, to rule the US Open 10-Ball Championship at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada Saturday.

Corteza gained momentum and confidence after edging American Shane Van Boening, 9-8, in the losers’ side of the semis to arrange a rematch with Lo, who beat him, 9-6, in their duel for the hot seat.

“I regained my confidence after winning against Van Boening,” said Corteza, referring to his crucial victory over the American to clinch the other finals berth.

The victory was worth $20,000 for Corteza, who also topped the first Annual Hard Times-Mezz Cues 10-Ball Open at the Hard Times Billiards in Bellflower, Los Angeles, California two weeks ago.

The twin wins also moved Corteza to No. 5 in the world rankings released by the World Pool Billiard Association (WPBA).

Lo settled for the $12,500 runner-up prize while Van Boening took $8,500 for third. Francisco “Django” Bustamante ended up fourth worth $5,700.

“Winning a tournament wherein you have to compete against the world’s best is a very big accomplishment,” said Corteza. “I’m very happy for this win.”