Big Boom 10-Ball tiff rolls off today

CEBU, Philippines — Over 40 cue masters across the country led by former world champion Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes will try to outdo each other as the ‘Big Boom sa Sugbu 10-Ball Open Championship’ rolls off today at the Big Boom sa Sugbu in South Road Properties.

Event director Engr. Greg Pacres said the top four finishers in each of the qualifying round that will run for four days will advance to the Final 16 knockout stage on February 23.

Aside from Reyes, the other billiards greats invited to join the five-day tilt supported by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) are Francisco 'Django' Bustamate, Carlos Biado and Ronnie 'Volcano' Alcano.

Pacres said the tournament will follow a handicapping format to encourage local talents to compete against the big names.

Under this system, players with different skills level will be given a chance to play together on a more even playing field.

Pacres said the Class B or lower ranked participants will be given a 2-ball handicap against their Class A rivals. That means they can win the game by legally potting the 8, 9 or 10 balls.

A total of P320,000 is at stake for winners, with the champion pocketing the biggest chunk of P110,000.

The second to fourth placers will take home P70,000, P50,000 and P30,000, respectively. Those who will make it to the top 12 will get a consolation prize of P5,000 each.

Registration fee is pegged at P1,100. An eliminated player can still join again for a re-entry fee of only P500.

For further information, interested parties may contact Engr. Pacres at 0920-5324893. (FREEMAN)