Sad news from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma: one of USA cue sport's brightest young cue stars, Tyler Strawn (20), passed away in an unfortunate highway accident on October 7. Also a victim in the accident was his girlfriend, Elyse Cannon, also of Broken Arrow.
Tyler stroked his way to one of the most prestigious records amassed by any young player in recent history:
2000 BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships – 14 & Under Boys National Champion
2000 BEF Junior National Artistic Pool Championships - 14 & Under Boys National Champion
2001 BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships – 14 & Under National Champion
2002 BEF Junior National Artistic Pool Championships - 18 & Under Boys National Champion
2003 BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships – 18 & Under National Runnerup
2003 BEF Junior National Artistic Pool Championships - 18 & Under Boys National Champion
2004 BEF Junior National 9-Ball Championships – 18 & Under National Runnerup
In 2002 Tyler represented the USA for the second time at the WPA Junior World 9-Ball Championships in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan and won a bronze medal against the world's elite players. He also represented USA in the Junior World Championships on three other occasions.
BEF President and former USA junior team leader, Tom Riccobene, knew Tyler well and observed, “I am sure most people Tyler came in contact with will immediately remember his energy, unending competitive spirit and most of all his playful antics. He was a natural pool player and never afraid to play. He made a difference and will always be in our hearts.”
Tyler is survived by his mother Elane, father David, brother David II and sister Megan. The funerals for both Tyler and Elyse will be conducted at 10:30 am on Friday, October 12 at Fitzgerald's Southwood Colonial Chapel at 91st & Harvard in Tulsa, OK. Messages of sympathy may be sent to the same chapel at 3612 E. 91st St. S. / Tulsa, OK 74137.
The Passing of Tyler Strawn
October 10, 2007