Justin Espinosa, Bobby Perez, Kevin Gray, Ruben Bautista, Jesus Alcocer and Roberto Gomez
Justin Espinosa went undefeated in the 55-player, open 9-ball division, defeating Ruben Bautista, 6-4, to win his first Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour, open division title. In the 64-player, amateur 9-ball division, Junior Jueco was unmatched, beating Felipe Yniguez, 5-4, to earn his first, amateur division, Tour title.
On January 4th-5th, 2020, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour Season Opener went off like a rocket at Slick Willies Family Pool Hall, located at 5913 Westheimer, in Houston’s upscale Galleria area. Slick Willies will host four stops on the 2020 Poison Lone Star Tour, including an event in San Antonio. Tour title sponsor, Poison by Predator Cues, sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls, APA of North Harris County, Alamo Billiards, and Outsville Billiards facilitated a successful event that drew notables Justin Espinosa, Ruben Bautista, Jesus Alcocer, Ernesto Bayaua, and Andy Jethwa, and paid out $8,485 in prize money. The next event is February 8th-9th, at Diamond Sports Bar and Billiards in Port Arthur, Texas. For more information about the Poison Lone Star Tour, visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
In the open 9-ball division, Austin’s Justin Espinosa fought his way to the winners’ side final four with victories over Michael Lui, Louie Vickio, 6-1, Kenneth Price, 6-4, and Will Felder, 6-0, while Jesus Alcocer denied Ronjan Mathur, Bobby Dominguez, Junior Jueco, 6-4, and J.C. Torres, 6-5. Brand new to the Tour, Kevin Gray bested 2019 Tour Champion, Ernesto Bayaua, 6-5, Joseph Corona, 6-5, and Victor Belmares, 6-5, and Roberto “Superman” Gomez powered through Eric Gauthier, 6-5, Aaron Springs, 7-2, and Ruben Bautista, 6-0. Down to the final sixteen, on the one-loss side, Bobby Perez eliminated Corona, 6-5, and J.C. Torres, 6-5, while David Leal took out Springs, 6-3, and Felder, 6-0. Bayaua sent home Price, 6-3, but succumbed to Bautista, 6-2, while Jueco fell to Andy Jethwa, 6-4, who in turn lost to Belmares, 6-5. On the winners’ side, Gomez dealt Gray his first loss, 6-3, and Espinosa overwhelmed Alcocer, 6-3. Gomez and Espinosa were set to battle in their first, hot seat match up. Fresh off a big win against Alcocer, Espinosa dominated Gomez, claiming the set, 6-3. On the consolation side, Perez plowed through Leal, 6-4, and Gray, 6-3, as Bautista derailed Belmares, 6-4, and ended Alcocer, 6-0. Bautista’s momentum seemed impenetrable, racking up five matches, including wins over Perez and Gomez, by the same score, 6-4. Bautista earned himself a shot at Espinosa, and the title. In the final set, Espinosa overpowered Bautista, 6-3, marking his first, open division win. Justin Won his first amateur division title in 2015, followed by two wins in 2017. In 2018, the Austin player was moved into the Tour’s “open only” division, and earned “runner-up” at the 2018 Space City Open. The Tour would like to congratulate him on his dedication to improving his game, over the last five years.
In the amateur 9-ball division, Jueco made his way to the winners’ side final four with wins over Ray Porter, Terry Washington, Jesus Alcocer, 5-2, and Johnny Hendrix, 5-4, while Bill Fuller defeated Jeremy Owen, Jeremy Lauer, 5-1, Carl Honey, 5-1, and Bobby Perez. Joshua Garcia was on fire, ousting newcomer Doug Grams, David Williams, 5-3, Darryl Amos, 5-1, and Kenneth Price, 5-3. Rounding out the final four, Felipe Yniguez denied junior player, Kaleb Gray, Tim Jerkins, Fadi Barah, 5-3, and Brandon Tang, 5-3. On the west side, in the final sixteen, Javier Alienas eliminated Robert “Phaminator” Pham, 5-1, and Hendrix, 5-3, while Amos terminated Chris Hogan, 5-2, and Perez, 5-3. Springs bestEd Porter, 5-4, and Price, 5-4, while Victor Belmares overcame Pete Charles, 5-2, falling to Brandon Tang by the same score. On the east side, final four action witnessed Yniguez detour Garcia, 5-2, and Jueco derail Fuller, 5-3. Playing in their first-ever, hot seat match, the players kept it close, but in the end, Jueco edged out Yniguez, 5-4, to conquer the winners’ side. On the one-loss side, Amos defeated Alienas, 5-4, only to be stopped by Garcia, 5-3. Following a third round blow by Perez, Springs wrapped up six wins, toppling Fuller, 5-4, and Garcia, 5-0, but was cut short by Yniguez, 5-4. Once more, Yniguez and Jueco faced-off, but this time, it was for the title. Yniguez had to beat Jueco two sets in the true, double elimination format, and he was prepared to do just that. Jueco was prepared to go all the way, but it was déjà vu for Yniguez, as Jueco closed out the opening set, 5-4, to win his first, Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour title.
First-time players, Kevin Gray (finished 5th-6th in the open), and his son, Kaleb, brought the entire family out to enjoy a weekend of pool. PLSBT would like to welcome all the new players who attended this event, and invite them back at every opportunity.
Congratulations to Joseph Corona who took home a new, Poison Arsenic3-2 playing cue, and Brian Rosenbaum who scored a Poison VX Break/Jump cue, in the weekend raffles.
Tournament director, John Newsome, Chuck Adams, and David Kimmy worked tirelessly on the production of this event, and their efforts are greatly appreciated.
The next event is February 8th-9th, at Diamond Sports Bar and Billiards in Port Arthur, Texas. For more information about the Poison Lone Star Tour, visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
Houston’s David Mendiola tore through a field of 55 competitors in the amateur 9-ball division, beating Steve Lenz in the finals, 5-2, 5-3, to win his first, Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour title. Ernesto Bayaua went undefeated in the 50-player, open 9-ball division, defeating Manny Chau in the finals, 7-1, securing his second, consecutive win of 2018.
On February 10th-11th, 2018, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour held its second stop of the season at Bogies Billiards West in Houston, Texas. The tournament amassed 94 players from cities throughout Texas and Louisiana, with a payout in excess of $7,000. The Tour would like to thank Bogies West and staff, title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls Facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County Facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and www.VaporKnightsUSA.com for facilitating another successful event for the Poison Lone Star Tour players.
In the amateur division, David Mendiola made his way to the final four with wins over Kenneth Espina, 5-2, Bob Valliere, 5-4, Steve Williams, 5-0, and Rudy Sanchez, 5-0, while Steve Lenz took care of Jim Shipman, 5-0, Burak Temel, 5-4, and Dallas’ Joe Pelayo, 5-1. Beaumont’s Carl Honey bested San Antonio’s Scott Spiegel, Richard “The Black Diamond” Stuart, Louisiana’s Shane LeBlanc, 5-3, and Bill Fuller, 5-3, while Brian Rosenbaum tagged Ron Wrobleski, Jong Yoo, 5-4, Angelo Martin, 5-1, and John Braud. On the one loss side, Yoo eliminated Fuller, 5-1, while Joey Bourgeois ended Braud, 5-3. Following five match wins, Chris Rogers went on to eliminate Sanchez, 5-2, while Pelayo slid by Felder, 5-4. Cruising to the hot seat, Lenz dealt Mendiola a blow, 5-2, while Rosenbaum denied Honey, 5-4. Lenz dusted off Rosenbaum for the hot seat, 5-3, seemingly on the road to a second, amateur division victory. On the west side, rounding out the final eight, Fuller fell to Bourgeois, and Pelayo denied Rogers, 5-2. Mendiola eliminated Bourgeois, 5-4, and Honey curbed Pelayo, 5-2. Mendiola forged ahead, edging out Honey, 5-4, and Rosenbaum, 5-4, earning himself a rematch with Lenz. In the finals, a collected Lenz attempted to fend off a relentless Mendiola, and it was a fight to the finish. Mendiola latched on, claiming the first set, 5-2. In the second set, Lenz tried to turn it around, but Mendiola’s momentum was too strong. The Houston player closed out the second set, 5-3, to win his first-ever, Poison Lone Star Tour title.
In the open 9-ball division, Ernesto Bayaua was unstoppable. He secured wins over Dallas’ Vic Sorto, 7-1, Brian Rosenbaum, 7-2, Robert Wendel, 7-2, and New York’s Dale Briones, 7-2, while Denis Strickland overwhelmed Richie Richeson, 7-5, Joe Pelayo, 7-2, and Jong Yoo, 7-0. Young gun, Joey Torres, overcame Ronjan Mathur, Manny Chau, 7-5, and Bob Valliere, 7-1, while Lufkin’s Chad Reece bested Shane LeBlanc, 7-2, Joey Bourgeois, 7-4, and Chris Rogers, 7-5. Bayaua squeezed by Strickland, 7-6, while Torres tamed Reece, 7-5, pitting two Houston locals for the hot seat match. Bayaua made quick work of Torres, 7-1, which marked his twelfth, consecutive match win in the first two events. On the one loss side, following a third round upset by Chris Rogers, Tommy Tokoph took out Jong Yoo, while Chau overcame Briones, 5-3. LeBlanc took out Valliere, 5-1, and Felder extinguished Rogers, 5-2. Chau powered through Tokoph, 5-0, and Reece, 5-1, while LeBlanc finished off Felder, 5-2, but fell to Strickland, 5-0. Chau, the 2017 Tour Champion, sent home Strickland, 5-3, and Torres, 5-2, for a final match up against 2016 Tour Champion, Bayaua. With an incredible seven match wins to his credit, Chau headed into the finals with an undefeated Bayaua. In the final set, Bayaua set the pace, took the lead, and never looked back. Bayaua defeated Chau, 7-1, winning his second Tour event, and marking his thirteenth, straight match win this year.
Special “congratulations” to Joe Pelayo of Dallas, Texas, on securing his highest, Poison Lone Star Tour finish to date! The Tour would also like to recognize Ruth Paine of San Antonio, Texas, for her assistance with the production of this event. Match recordings on the live stream table were facilitated by www.SouthernStreaming.com, and are now available for viewing in their online library.
The next event will be held March 10th-11th, 2018, at Fat Rack’s Sports Bar and Billiards in San Antonio, Texas. For more information, please visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
Brian Rosenbaum, Ernesto Bayaua, Joey Torres and Robert Crane
Ernesto Bayaua went undefeated to capture the 39-player, open 8-ball division, while Sonny Bosshamer ran through a 47-player field, to secure the amateur 8-ball division, at the first stop on the 2018 Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour. Bayaua overwhelmed Brian Rosenbaum in the final, 3-0, while Bosshamer denied Lufkin’s Chad Reece in both sets of the true double elimination final, 3-2, 3-2.
Lake Jackson, Freeport, Stafford, Lufkin, Victoria, and San Antonio, were just a handful of cities represented by players competing in the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour 8-ball event, held on January 13th-14th, 2018, at Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar in Houston, Texas. The Tour would like to acknowledge and thank all the new players who attended their first Tour event, some hailing from Houston’s North Harris County APA and Houston Best of Billiards leagues. Props go out to Ruth Paine, Alamo City 8-Ball Association operator, who was the lone, female competitor in the event. Many thanks to Mike Fabacher who provided the free, two-day live stream, and Michael Presley for his assistance in the booth. Once again, Tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and VaporKnightsUSA.com, facilitated another successful event that paid out over $4,500 in prize money, to the top twelve finishers in each division.
In the open division, former Poison Lone Star Tour Champion and APA National Champion, Ernesto Bayaua, ran through Jake Jurgens, 3-1, Sonny Bosshamer, 3-1, and Kevin Frauenberger, 3-1, while Canada’s Robert Crane bested Lance Johnson, Steve Williams, 3-2, and Joey Torres, 3-1. Former Tour Champion, Brian Rosenbaum, overcame “Mikey Boy” Martinez, 3-1, Sylver Ochoa, 3-1, and Mark Cardenas, 3-1, while Doug Gray ousted Brian Humphrey, 3-2, Dave Ramirez, 3-1, Michael Presley, 3-0, and Chris Thompson, 3-2. On the west side, in the final twelve and in the money, Frauenberger slid by Curt Sheldon, 3-2, and Torres eliminated Ochoa, 3-2, while Cardenas cancelled Williams, 3-0, and Bosshamer terminated Thompson. On the winners’ side, Rosenbaum stopped Gray, 3-2, while Bayaua closed out Crane, 3-0. In the hot seat match, Bayaua made quick work of Rosenbaum, 3-0. On the flip side, Torres was on a tear, eliminating Frauenberger, 3-2, and Gray, 3-0, while Bosshamer overcame Cardenas, but fell to Crane. In turn, Torres eliminated Crane, but lost the next round to Rosenbaum, 3-1. With that win, Rosenbaum earned a rematch with Bayaua. In the finals, Bayaua won the flip and never looked back, running three racks against Rosenbaum, and going undefeated to win his first event of 2018.
In the amateur division, newcomer Shane Aguinaga of Freeport, Texas, made his way to the winners’ side final four, booking wins over Shelby Green, Chuck Adams, 3-2, Eboo Alali, 3-2, and Bill Fain, 3-1, while Sonny Bosshamer sliced through Brandon Anderson, 3-0, Brian Humphrey, 3-0, Robert Crane, 3-0, and Mark Cardenas, 3-1. Lufkin’s Chad Reece took charge, logging wins over Chris Gutierrez, Michael Presley, 3-0, Steve Siarski, 3-1, and Eric Hsu, 3-2, while Tony Scott took down John Frye, 3-0, Jake Jurgens, Lance Johnson, 3-0, and Will Felder, 3-1. On the west side, in the final twelve and in the money, Hsu fell to Frauenberger, 3-1, and Felder foiled Alali, 3-1, while Fain bested Williams, 3-1, and Siarski ousted Cardenas, 3-2. Winners’ side final four action witnessed Bosshamer defeat Aguinaga, 3-2, and Reece derail Scott, 3-1. Reece went on to end Bosshamer’s run, 3-1, winning his first hot-seat match, on Tour. Staying alive on the one loss side, Felder dusted off Frauenberger, 3-2, and Aguinaga, 3-0, while Fain ended Siarski, 3-1, only to fall short against Scott, 3-2. Felder slipped by Scott, and into the final four, but was denied by Bosshamer, 3-1. Once again, Bosshamer met up with Reece, in a battle to the bitter end. Reece faltered the first set, 3-2, sending the finals into overtime. In the second set, Bosshamer edged out Reece, 3-2, to win his first event of 2018.
Serving pool players, pool rooms, and sponsors, since 2009, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 10th Anniversary this year as the longest-running billiards tour in the south. A special 10th Anniversary Event will be held for players who compete in at least two events between now, and July 7th, 2018. Players are strongly encouraged to meet the eligibility requirements, in order to gain entrance into this event. The next tour stop will be open and amateur 9-ball, held on February 10th-11th, at Bogies West, 9638 Jones Road, Houston, Texas. For more information, including access to the free live stream, visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
Justin Pena of Kyle, Texas, took down the Poison Lone Star Billiard Tour’s amateur 9-ball division, winning his first-ever, amateur title, while Manny Chau secured his fourth, open 9-ball division win this year. Pena went undefeated, overcoming Austin’s Floyd Smith in the final set, 5-4, while Chau also went unchallenged, ousting Alex Calderone in the first set of the true, double elimination final, 7-6.
On October 14th-15th, 2017, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour held its tenth stop of the year at Bogies West in Houston, Texas. The tour would like to thank Bogies West and staff, title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Realtor Jimmy Jenkins, for their continued support.
In the amateur division, Justin Pena took no prisoners on his way to the winners’ side final four. Pena hit Jeremy Byrd, 5-2, and Pete Charles, 5-2, while Bill Fuller tagged Brian Rosenbaum, 5-4, and Floyd Smith, 5-1. Will Felder chipped away, booking wins over Freeport’s Alan Myers, 5-1, Austin’s Mark Smith, 5-1, and Bobby Broussard, 5-1, while Chuck Adams overwhelmed Creed Aumaugher, 5-0, and Jimmy Jenkins, 5-2. On the west side, Smith secured five matches, including wins over Robbie Salinas, 5-1, and Charles, while Myers claimed an equal number of victories, eliminating Chris Ramoz, 5-3, Byrd, Jenkins, 5-1, and Rosenbaum, 5-1. Back on the east side, Fuller fell to Pena, 5-4, and Adams overcame Felder, 5-3. The hot seat match featured two, brand new participants, both vying for their first hot seat win, and a possible a tournament victory. Pena overpowered Adams, 5-3, earning himself a ticket to the finals, while Smith ended Felder, 5-0, and Myers depleted Fuller. Smith went on to extinguish Myers, 5-3, and Adams, 5-1, for a shot at Pena. In the final set, Pena powered through, sliding by Smith for the win, 5-4. Congratulations to Justin Pena on his first, amateur division title!
In the open 9-ball division, Manny Chau was on fire, securing wins over Jimmy Jenkins, 7-5, Alex Calderone, 7-5, and Kevin Guimond, 7-3. Marc Garza was also on his way to the winners’ side final four, ousting Alan Myers, 7-1, Thomas Madison, 7-2, and Jeremy Byrd, 7-3. Ernesto Bayaua bested Mark Smith, 7-2, Robbie Salinas, 7-5, and Shelby Green, 7-4, while Will Felder defeated Brian Humphrey, 7-1, and Austin’s Justin Espinosa, 7-5. On the west side, Calderone was on the comeback, eliminating Chuck Adams, 7-0, Brian Rosenbaum, 7-2, and Espinosa, 7-6, while Pete Charles took out Chris Ramoz, 7-6, Madison, and Green, 7-3. Guimond ended Bill Fuller, 7-5, while Tom Rehm reigned over Jenkins, 7-5, Salinas, 7-6, and Byrd. As the final four on the one loss side took form, east side action witnessed Chau defeat Garza, 7-4, and Bayaua blast Felder, 7-3. Chau overcame Bayaua, 7-4, for the hot seat win. On the opposite side of the bracket, Guimond rounded up Rehm, and followed up with Felder, 7-2, while Calderone canned Charles and Garza. Calderone went on to eliminate Guimond and Bayaua, marking up an impressive seven wins to meet Chau in the finals. In the final set, Chau ended Calderone’s run, 7-6. Congratulations to Manny Chau on clenching his fourth, open division title of 2017.
Long-time tour player and supporter, Chuck Adams, secured his highest finish to date at this event (third). Chuck began competing on tour just prior to its official start in 2009, making him one of the longest-running, tour competitors to date. The tour would like to congratulate Chuck, and recognize his years of dedication to the tour, and the sport of billiards.
The tour would like to thank each and every player for their participation, whether it’s one event, or every event year round. The final event of the 2017 season will be held October 28th-29th, at CK Billiards and Bar, 9247 Skillman, #105, Dallas, Texas, 75243. If you are unable to make the final stop of the year, we look forward to seeing you next year. The 2018 schedule, and details about next year’s 10th Anniversary Event, will be published at www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
Chase Rudder, Jason Breland, Yousef Jalal and Manny Chau
Steve Lenz of Orange, Texas, went undefeated to capture the 45-player, amateur 9-ball division, while Chase Rudder ran through an elite, 42-player field, securing the open 9-ball division, at the ninth stop on the 2017 Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour. Lenz conquered Austin’s Floyd Smith in the final, 5-1, and Rudder came from behind, winning nine matches, and defeating Yousef Jalal (VEN) in the finals, 7-2, 7-4.
Cliff Joyner, Josh Roberts, and Tommy Tokoph, were among the 79 competing on September 30th-October 1st, 2017, at Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar in Houston, Texas. Tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Jimmy Jenkins Realty , facilitated another successful event that paid out over $6,500 in prize money, to the top eight finishers in each division.
In the amateur 9-ball division, Ricky Hughes ousted Lee Clark, Robyn Haak, 5-4, Danny Schauer, 5-0, and Pete Charles, 5-2, while Steve Lenz powered through Brian Rosenbaum, 5-1, newcomer Jose Marroquin, 5-1, and Chuck Adams, 5-1. J.C. Torres handled Carlos Sanchez, 5-2, Jonathan Poon, 5-4, C.J. Escalera, 5-1, and Floyd Smith, 5-3, while Jeff Chauncey overcame Jason Breland, 5-2, Matt Cash, 5-1, and Kevin Frauenberger, 5-2. On the one loss side, Breland won five matches, eliminating Karol Hughes, 5-4, Brian Humphrey, 5-4, Nick Chavira, 5-1, Bob Guzik, 5-3, and Frauenberger, 5-0. Poon eliminated Tyler Partin, 5-1, but fell to Smith, 5-2. Cash finished off Sanchez, 5-4, Mark Smith, 5-4, and Adams, 5-1. Paul Alderete secured wins over Charles Williams, 5-2, Haak, 5-3, Escalera, 5-3, and Chris Ramoz, 5-0, until he was stopped short by Charles. On the winners’ side, Lenz squeaked by Hughes, 5-4, while Torres bested Chauncey, 5-3. Lenz made quick work of Torres in the hot seat match, 5-2. On the one loss side, Smith overcame Breland, 5-2, and Hughes, 5-3, while Charles defeated Cash and Chauncey, by the same score, 5-1. Smith was on a roll, besting Charles and Torres, by the same score, 5-4, capturing five matches to meet Lenz in the finals. Lenz was ready, and came out firing. Smith was overpowered, and fell to Lenz in the first set, 5-1. Congratulations to Steve Lenz on his new, amateur division title.
In the open 9-ball division, Tommy Tokoph began his trek to the final four on the winners’ side with victories over Paul Alderete, 7-3, Bob Guzik, 7-3, and Cliff Joyner, 7-1. Yousef Jalal made his tour debut, ousting Will Felder, 7-5, Daniel Forster, 7-4, and Mark Smith, 7-5. Jason “Jaybird” Breland defeated J.C. Torres, 7-6, Nick Chavira, 7-5, and Kevin Frauenberger, 7-1, while Josh Roberts overwhelmed Brian Humphrey, 7-1, Karol Hughes, 7-2, Ernesto Bayaua, 7-0, and Steve Lenz, 7-5. The east-side, final four was set, and the one loss side was underway. Manny Chau was upset in the second round by Jeff Chauncey, 7-6, and came back to win 5 matches, eliminating tour newcomer Sam Abusalem, 7-2, Mark Smith, 7-1, and Lenz, 7-2. Joyner made his way, eliminating Chris Ramoz, 7-3, Floyd Smith, 7-2, and Frauenberger, 7-4. Following an early loss to Lenz, 7-3, Rudder ousted Adam Cooper, Bayaua, 7-4, and Chauncey, 7-5. Jeremy Byrd lost his first match to Rudder, 7-1, and plowed through the one loss side with wins over Chuck Adams, 7-4, Nick Chavira, 7-4, Bob Guzik, 7-0, and Danny Schauer, Jr., 7-1, before falling to Ricky Hughes, 7-3. The final eight players returned on Sunday, in the money. On the winners’ side, Tokoph fell to Jalal, 7-5, while Breland overcame Roberts, 7-3. On the west side, Chau dusted off Joyner, 7-2, and Tokoph, 7-3, while Rudder endEd Hughes and Roberts by the same score, 7-3. Meanwhile, two, first-time tour players, teed off for the open division hot seat. Jalal pulled ahead of Breland, securing the set, 7-4. On the west side, Rudder eliminated Chau, then Breland, by the same score, 7-1. After 7 match wins, it was undeniable; Rudder was on fire. In the first set against Jalal, Rudder was down, 2-1, then broke and ran six racks, ending the set, 7-2. In overtime, Jalal made a valiant effort to salvage the title, but it was too little too late. Rudder took the second set, 7-4. Congratulations to Chase Rudder on a well-deserved victory.
Serving pool players, pool rooms, and sponsors since 2009, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 10th Anniversary in 2018 as the longest-running billiards tour in the south. A special 10th Anniversary Event will be held for players who compete in at least two events between now, and January 1st, 2018. There are only two events remaining this year, and players are strongly encouraged to meet the eligibility requirements, in order to gain entrance into this one-of-a-kind tournament. The next tour stop will be held on October 14th-15th, at Bogies West, 9638 Jones Road, Houston, Texas. This will be the last stop in Houston for the 2017 season. The final stop will be October 28th-29th, at CK Billiards in Dallas, Texas. For more information, please visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
Will Felder took down the Poison Lone Star Billiard Tour’s amateur 9-ball division, winning his first amateur title since 2013, while Manny Chau secured his third open division win this year. Felder faced off with Brian Rosenbaum, losing the first set of the true, double elimination final, 5-4. Following a first round loss, Rosenbaum came back to win an astounding eight matches to meet Felder in the finals. In the second set, Felder overcame Rosenbaum, ending his streak, and clenching the division, 5-4. In the open 9-ball division, Manny Chau took a third round hit, and won eight in a row to meet hot seat winner, Chase Rudder, in the finals. Chau overcome Rudder in both sets, by the same score, 7-2.
On Saturday, August 26th, 2017, Hurricane Harvey’s torrential downpours inundated the Houston area. Due to the potential for flooding, this Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour event was concluded in one day, instead of its customary two days, to ensure players would not have to brave flood waters on Sunday. Bogies West in Houston, Texas, hosted another first-rate event, along with tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Realtor Jimmy Jenkins.
As the winds kicked up on Saturday, the amateur and open 9-ball divisions kicked-off. In the amateur 9-ball division, Felder fended off Brian Humphrey, Pablo Trinidad, 5-1, and newcomer Foots Ferguson, 5-1, while Lake Jackson’s Jason Galetka ousted Randy King, C.J. Escalera, 5-1, and Chuck Adams, 5-4. Sonny Bosshamer bested James Costello, Jerry Cook, 5-4, and David Chow, while J.C. Torres sought to defend his title, blazing through Shelby Green, Viet Do, 5-3, and Alan Myers, 5-3. As the final four on the winners’ side took shape, the one loss side was full steam ahead. Brian Rosenbaum took a first round hit, and came back to win eight matches, securing wins over Cook, 5-1, Alan Martin, 5-0, and Ferguson, 5-0. Myers eliminated James Costello, 5-2, Green overcame Chow, and Rivera eliminated Adams, rounding out the final four players on the one loss side. On the winners’ side, Torres made quick work of Bosshamer, 5-1, while Felder slid by Galetka, 5-4. On the west side, Rosenbaum booked his third 5-0 victory over Rivera, then ended Bosshamer, 5-4. Myers defeated Green, 5-3, but fell to Galetka, 5-4. East side action witnessed Felder secure the hot seat over Torres, 5-3. Rosenbaum made his way to the finish line, eliminating Galetka and Torres, by the same score, 5-4. Felder prepared for what he knew was going to be a tough battle. Rosenbaum added an eighth notch to his tournament belt, besting Felder in the first set, 5-4. A resilient Felder stepped back up to the plate, and came with it, ending Rosenbaum’s run, 5-4. Congratulations to Will Felder on another long-awaited title!
In the open 9-ball division, Chase Rudder was on his way, logging wins over Will Felder, 7-2, and J.C. Torres, 7-0, while Waco’s Doug Young overwhelmed Jason Galetka, 7-2, and Foots Ferguson, 7-1. Brian Rosenbaum defeated Brian Humphrey and David Chow by the same score, 7-5, while Ernesto Bayaua hit Erik Renteria, 7-2, Manny Chau, and Alan Myers, 7-4, finalizing the final four on the winners’ side. Following a second round blow at the hands of Bayaua, Chau came back to win a total of eight matches, including wins over Viet Do, 7-1, and J.C. Torres, 7-1. After a first round upset at the hands of J.C. Torres, Richie Richeson came back to win three in a row, eliminating Shelby Green, 7-6, Humphrey, 7-2, and Ferguson, 7-3. Felder made a run, taking out Marcus Flores, 7-6, and Alan Myers, 7-6, while Tom Rehm powered through Erik Renteria, C.J. Escalera, 7-4, and David Chow. Down to the final eight, on the winners’ side, it was Rudder over Young, 7-3, and Bayaua over Rosenbaum, 7-4. Rudder went on to defeat Bayaua for the hot seat, 7-2. On the one loss side, Chau rolled over Richeson, 7-0, and Rosenbaum, 7-1. Felder ended Rehm, 7-6, but fell to Young, 7-5. Chau overcame Young, and Bayaua, 7-0, to meet Rudder in the finals. Needless to say, Chau was on fire, blasting through Rudder the first set, 7-2. In the second set, Chau soared to the finish line, 7-2. Congratulations to Manny Chau on his win, and third open division title of 2017.
The tour would like to recognize its 2017 sponsors and venues: Poison by Predator Cues, Cyclop Pool Balls, Ozone Billiards, APA of North Harris County, Outsville Billiards, and Realtor Jimmy Jenkins. This year, the tour welcomes back Texas venues Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar (Houston), Bogies West (Houston), Skinny Bob’s Billiards (Round Rock), and brand new venues, Fat Racks Sports Bar and Billiards (San Antonio), and CK Billiards (Dallas).
Without the nearly 300 players who attend Poison Lone Star Tour events, annually, production of this tour would not be possible. The tour would like to thank each and every player for their participation, whether it’s one event, or every event year round. It is because of your patronage, that the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 9th birthday this year, serving players across Texas and in surrounding states. The tour welcomes everyone back for the next event, to be held on September 30th-October 1st, at Bogies Billiards, 3040 FM 1960 E., in Houston, Texas. The full 2017 schedule is published at www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com. The Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour encourages everyone who loves to play pool and compete in a friendly atmosphere, to attend an event. “Like” us on Facebook @LoneStarTour and “Follow” us on Twitter @LoneStarTour09.
Round Rock’s Justin Espinosa clenched his third, consecutive amateur 9-ball division title on the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour, defeating Hiro Nakahara in the second set of the true, double elimination final, 5-0. Espinosa now joins an elite list of fellow tour players whose game has drastically improved on tour, and have graduated to the tour’s prominent “Open Division Player List”. In the open 9-ball division, an undefeated Manny Chau racked up his second win of the year, overcoming Chase Rudder in the final set, 7-2.
On June 10th-11th, 2017, Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar in Houston, Texas, along with tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Jimmy Jenkins Realty , facilitated another successful event for Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour players. The tour would like to thank room owners David and Shannon Richardson, and their entire staff, for hosting another first-rate event.
In the 41-player, amateur 9-ball division, Justin Espinosa made his way to the final four winners’ side with wins over Tom Rehm, 5-1, Cody Smoke, 5-1, Robbie Salinas, 5-0, and Steve Williams, 5-2, while Jeff Chauncey ousted Will Felder, 5-3, Bill Fuller, 5-2, and Bob “Pittsburgh Flash” Guzik. Doug Gray ousted Gerald Holland, 5-4, Sonny Bosshamer, 5-2, and Robert Cooper, 5-0, while Hiro Nakahara overcame Dave DeVaney, Johnny Cope, 5-0, Robyn Haak, 5-0, and Jim McCary, 5-4. After losing his second round match to Bosshamer, 5-3, Pete Charles came back to win eight matches on the one loss side, including wins over Kevin Johnson, 5-4, Holland, 5-3, Joe Fagan, 5-3, Salinas, 5-0, and Robert Cooper. Bill Fuller terminated Vic Sorto, 5-0, and Richard Hernandez, 5-3, before falling to Jim McCary, 5-3. In similar fashion, Felder sent home Brian Rosenbaum, 5-1, newcomer Red Hutch, 5-0, and Chris Ramoz, 5-3, only to be stopped short by Guzik, 5-3. Bosshamer made his play, ending DeVaney, Chris Rocha, 5-0, and Steve Williams, rounding out the final four on the one loss side. Winners’ side action witnessed Gray fall to Nakahara, 5-1, and Espinosa surge past Chauncey, 5-3. Espinosa was on a roll, and went on to secure the hot seat over Nakahara, 5-1. Back on the west side, it was Guzik over Bosshamer, 5-3, and Charles over McCary, 5-1. Following his seventh win, Charles slid by Guzik, 5-4, but fell to Nakahara, 5-3. This turn of events pitted a rematch for Nakahara, whose only hope to win this event, was to beat Espinosa two sets. Hungry for his first tour win, Nakahara overwhelmed Espinosa the first set, 5-1. Espinosa collected himself, bearing down and winning the second set, 5-0. Congratulations to Justin Espinosa on his third, amateur division title.
In the 39-player, open 9-ball division, Manny Chau began his trek with wins over Kevin Johnson, 7-6, Robyn Haak, 7-2, and Brian Rosenbaum, 7-2, while Waco’s Doug Young bested Robbie Salinas, 7-2, Hiro Nakahara, 7-2, and Jim McCary, 7-5. Chase Rudder defeated Paul Alderete, 7-3, Bill Fuller, 7-1, Justin Espinosa, 7-2, and Joey Torres, 7-3, while Sonny Bosshamer took care of Adam Gomez, 7-3, Jamie Polk, 7-5, and Richard Hernandez. Following a 7-2 upset at the hands of Hernandez, Ernesto Bayaua took charge, eliminating Chris Ramoz, 7-1, Tom Rehm, and Jim McCary, 7-4. Other one loss side action witnessed Espinosa take out Cody Smoke, 7-2, David Chow, 7-0, and Brian Rosenbaum, 7-1. Nakahara was on the comeback trail, blazing through Mike Robles, 7-2, Will Felder, and Hernandez. Guzik made his bid for the final four on the one loss side, logging wins over Fuller, 7-6, Haak, and Richie Richeson, 7-3, until he was halted by Torres, 7-2. Back on the east side, Rudder overcame Bosshamer, 7-5, and Chau made quick work of Young, 7-2. Thirsty for his second tour victory of the year and anxious to regain his number one ranking, Chau overcame Rudder for the hot seat, 7-5. Back on the west side, Espinosa took out Bayaua, 7-0, and Bosshamer, 7-0. Torres tamed Nakahara, 7-6, but fell to Young, 7-6. Young went on to defeat Espinosa, 7-5, only to be put out of commission by Rudder, 7-2. It was a hot seat rematch for the two, heavy hitters. Rudder, vying for his first title of the season, faced off with Chau, who was anxious to repossess his place in the rankings. Chau was focused, and his determination bled through to the table. Rudder was controlled and concise, but couldn’t keep up. Chau closed out the first set, 7-2, taking home his second victory, and enough points to regain his throne in the open division rankings.
Hopey Carter from Shreveport, LA, won the Poison Cue Raffle, taking home a VX Stroke Playing Cue, valued at $239.
Serving pool players, pool rooms, and sponsors since 2009, the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 10th Anniversary in 2018 as the longest-running billiards tour in the south. A special 10th Anniversary Event will be held for players who compete in at least two events between now, and January 1st, 2018. The tour strongly encourages all players to meet the eligibility requirements, in order to gain entrance into this one-of-a-kind tournament. The next tour stop will be held on July 7th-8th, 2017, at Fat Racks Billiards in San Antonio, Texas. This event will feature one, open 9-ball division, open to all players (limited to 64), with the option to pre-pay, online. For more information, please visit www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com.
J.C. Torres took the open 9-ball division by storm, going undefeated to win his first title on the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour. Torres bested Brian Rosenbaum, 7-4, in the first set of the true, double elimination final, to claim his first-ever, tour victory. In the amateur 9-ball division, Pete Charles found himself face-to-face with J.C. Torres in the final match, who had the opportunity to do what only one player has accomplished in the 9-year history of the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour; win both divisions at the same event. Unfortunately for Torres, an undefeated Charles took the first set, 5-3, along with Torres’ chance to break the 9-year record.
On April 1st-2nd, 2017, Bogies West in Houston, Texas, along with tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Realtor Jimmy Jenkins, facilitated another successful event for the players of the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour.
Open and amateur 9-ball division action kicked-off Saturday afternoon, and brought back the final 16 on Sunday. In the open 9-ball division, Eric Charlton was on his way with wins over Viet Do, 7-1, Justin Pena, 7-6, and Matt Cash, 7-0, while Pete Charles defeated John Newsome, 7-2, Bobby Perez, 7-5, and Justin Pena, 6-4. Steve Williams bested Brian Rosenbaum, 7-5, Jesus Sorto, 7-4, and Jerry Cook, 7-3, while J.C. Torres ousted Chuck Adams, 7-1, Aldo Rosso, 7-1, and Yogi Salinas, 7-1. On the one loss side, Rosso was eliminated by Cash, and Rosenbaum blew past Justin Pena, 7-4. Final four winners’ side action witness Charlton defeat Charles, 7-4, while Torres overcome Williams, 7-5. The hot seat match was a hill-hill thriller, with Torres capturing his first hot seat win in the open division, 7-6. On the west side, Williams eliminated Rosso, 7-4, and Rosenbaum ended Charles, 7-2. Rosenbaum went on to defeat Williams, 7-3, and Charlton, reaching his first open division final. Both Torres and Rosenbaum were vying for first-time wins, and following a grueling day of match play, both players were feeling the strain. They traded game for game, until Torres pulled ahead to close the set, 7-4, winning his first Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour division title!
In the amateur division, Pete Charles logged wins over Erik Renteria, Shane Thompson, 5-2, and Yogi Salinas, 5-1, while Steve Williams ousted Chuck Adams, 5-0, Jimmy Jenkins, 5-1, and Jerry Cook, 5-2. Bobby Perez came on strong with wins over Kane Thompson, 5-1, Matt Cash, 5-3, and Bill Fuller, 5-4, while J.C. Torres defeated Thomas Madison, 5-3, David Taylor, 5-3, and Eric Charlton, 5-2. As the final four on the winners’ side took shape, the one-loss side was heating up. Reaching the final four on the one loss side, Charlton eliminated Chris Rocha, 5-4, while Justin Pena ended brother, Jacob Pena, 5-4, and Fuller, 5-2. Newcomer Jesus Sorto dominated Aldo Rosso, 5-2, but lost to Yogi Salinas 5-2. After losing to Fuller in the third round, 5-4, Rosenbaum found his rhythm, eliminating Viet Do, Matt Cash, 5-1, and Jerry Cook, 5-3. It was down to the final eight, and winners’ side final four action was underway. Charles took care of Williams, 5-2, while Torres dominated Perez, 5-0. Torres put up a tough fight for the hot seat, but was taken down by Charles, 5-3. Back on the west side, Pena eliminated Williams, 5-3, and Rosenbaum scored his fifth straight win over Perez, 5-3. Pena ended Rosenbaum’s run, 5-2, but fell to a determinEd Torres, 5-2. The final match was an all-too familiar scene for Torres, with Charles taking the lead following a couple of unforced errors. Charles closed out the final set, 5-3, clenching his second, Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour, amateur division victory.
The tour would like to recognize its 2017 sponsors and venues: Poison by Predator Cues, Cyclop Pool Balls, Ozone Billiards, APA of North Harris County, Outsville Billiards, and Realtor Jimmy Jenkins. This year, the tour welcomes back Texas venues Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar (Houston), Bogies West (Houston), Skinny Bob’s Billiards (Round Rock), and brand new venues, Fat Racks Sports Bar and Billiards (San Antonio), and CK Billiards (Dallas).
Without the nearly 300 players who attend Poison Lone Star Tour events, annually, production of this tour would not be possible. The tour would like to thank each and every player for their participation, whether it’s one event, or every event year round. It is because of your patronage, that the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 9th birthday this year, serving players across Texas and in surrounding states. The tour welcomes everyone back for the next event, to be held on May 6th-7th, 2017, at Skinny Bob’s Billiards, located at 300 Hester’s Crossing, in Round Rock, Texas. The full 2017 schedule is published at www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com. The Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour encourages everyone who loves to play pool and compete in a friendly atmosphere, to attend an event. “Like” us on Facebook @LoneStarTour and “Follow” us on Twitter @LoneStarTour09.
Eric Charlton, Pete Charles, Jacob Watson and Aaron Springs
Former Junior World Championship contender, Jacob Watson, came from behind to claim the 35-player open 9-ball division, his first-ever open division win on the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour. After losing the hot seat match to Eric Charlton, 7-6, Watson fought his way back, ousting Charlton in the finals, 7-0, 7-5. Watson reached yet another milestone in his short, but successful playing career, winning his first open division title which accompanies two amateur division wins, this year. New on the scene, Eric Charlton mad a big splash in both divisions, taking home his first title in the 31-player, amateur 9-ball division, coming from behind to defeat Pete Charles in the finals, 5-4, 5-2. Charlton also finished second in the open, and took home $1,630 for his $80 investment!
On March 18th-19th, 2017, Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar (Houston, Texas), along with tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and Realtor, Jimmy Jenkins , facilitated another successful event for Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour players. The tour would like to thank room owners David and Shannon Richardson, and their entire staff, for hosting another first-rate event.
In the open 9-ball division, Watson made his way to the final four winners’ side with victories over L.J. Johnson, Duane Bryant, 7-6, and Jerry Cook, 7-4,while Richie Richeson overcame Johnny Lawson, Doug Young, 7-5, and Will Felder, 7-3. Tour newcomer, Eric Charlton, bested Justin Pena, Doug Gray, 7-6, and Aaron Springs, 7-4, while Brian Rosenbaum defeated Ruben Montelongo, Mike Palowski, 7-5, and Steve Williams, 7-3. On the one-loss side, after a first round loss at the hands of Bryant, Pete Charles won six consecutive matches, including wins over Palowski, 7-1, Thomas Madison, 7-6, and Cook, 7-4. After a first round loss to Jake Polendo, Yoko Joe went on to eliminate Damion Manning, 7-1, Duane Bryant, 7-3, Robbie Salinas, and Steve Williams, 7-2. Charles overcame McCary, 7-3, while Springs ended Joe’s run, 7-6. On the east side, Watson sent Richeson west, 7-5, while Charlton made quick work of Rosenbaum, 7-4. Hot seat action witnessed an intense, showdown for the books, as Watson and Charlton met up once again, this time in the amateur 9-ball division. The set went hill-hill, and in the final game, Watson scratched on the 9-ball, losing 7-6. Back on the one-loss side, Charles eliminated Rosenbaum, while Springs sent Richeson packing, 7-2. Watson took out Springs, 7-5, for a shot at redemption. These two players developed quite a history in just one event. Each competing in both divisions, the score on total sets against one another, coming into this final, was Charlton with (2) two sets, and Jacob, with (1) one set. Watson’s drive was at maximum speed, and his intensity made for great spectating. He dominated Charlton in the first set, 7-0. In overtime, Charlton found his stride, but it was too little, too late. Watson secured the second set, 7-5, winning his third Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour title of 2017. Congratulations to Jacob Watson, who has now earned the right to become an open division player, exclusively.
In the amateur 9-ball division, Jacob Watson took no prisoners on his way to the final four winners’ side, defeating Brian Rosenbaum, 5-2, Yoko Joe, 5-0, and Eric Charlton, 5-0, while Justin Pena bested Tom Rehm, Aaron Springs, 5-3, and L.J. Johnson, 5-1. Richard Hernandez was on a roll, securing wins over Gerald Holland, Steve Williams, 5-2, and Mike Palowski, 5-2, while Pete Charles ousted Joey Hatch, 5-1, Doug Gray, 5-3, and Bobby Garcia, 5-2. On the west side, after losing his first match to Aaron Springs, Tony Scott won six consecutive matches, eliminating Jim McCary, 5-2, Hatch, Joe, 5-2, Will Felder, 5-1, Garcia, 5-1, and Palowski, 5-1. Charlton eliminated Chuck Adams, 5-2, and L.J. Johnson, to reach the final six. Back on the east side, it was Pena over Watson, 5-1, and Charles over Hernandez, 5-3. On the one-loss side, Watson took out Scott, 5-2, while Charlton eliminated Hernandez, 5-1. Once again, Watson and Charlton found themselves face to face. This time, the saga played out a bit different, with Charlton dominating Watson, 5-1. In the hot seat match, Charles overcame Pena, 5-0, who was in turn eliminated by Charlton, 5-0. After securing five back-to-back wins, no doubt, Charlton was pumped for the finals. In the first set, a back and forth battle between Charles and Charlton ended in a 5-4 loss for the undefeated Charles. In the second set, Charlton came on strong, dealing Charles his final blow, 5-2. Congratulations to Eric Charlton on his first-ever win on the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour.
There were a number of players at this event competing on tour for the first time. The tour would like to thank all those players and invite them back at every opportunity. Also, congratulations to Jason Harris who won a Poison VX Break/Jump Cue, and J.C. Torres who took home a Poison VX Jump Cue, in the regular event raffle, and free raffle, over the weekend.
The tour would like to recognize its 2017 sponsors and venues: Poison by Predator Cues, Cyclop Pool Balls, Ozone Billiards, APA of North Harris County, Outsville Billiards, and Realtor, Jimmy Jenkins. This year, the tour welcomes back Texas venues Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar (Houston), Bogies West (Houston), Skinny Bob’s Billiards (Round Rock), and our brand new venues, Fat Racks Sports Bar and Billiards (San Antonio), and CK Billiards (Dallas).
Without the nearly 300 players who attend Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour events, annually, production of this tour would not be possible. The tour would like to thank each and every player for their participation, whether it’s one event, or every event year round. It is because of your patronage, that the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 9th birthday this year, serving players across Texas and in surrounding states. The tour welcomes everyone back for the next event, to be held on April 1st-2nd, 2017, at Bogies West, located at 9638 Jones Road, in Houston, Texas. The full 2017 schedule is published at www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com. The Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour encourages everyone who loves to play pool and compete in a friendly atmosphere, to attend an event. “Like” us on Facebook @LoneStarTour and “Follow” us on Twitter @LoneStarTour09.
Once again, former Junior World Championship contender, Jacob Watson, took the 59-player, Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour amateur 9-ball division by storm, defeating Elias Garza in the finals, 5-2. Watson went undefeated to win his second, consecutive amateur 9-ball division title. Manny Chau came from behind to claim the 53-player, Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour open 9-ball division, after losing his third round match to Justin Whitehead, 7-6. Chau came back to win, besting Whitehead in the finals, 7-1, 7-2.
On February 11th-12th, 2017, Bogies West (Houston, Texas), along with tour title sponsor Poison by Predator Cues PoisonBilliards.com, and sponsors Cyclop Pool Balls facebook@CyclopPoolBalls, Ozone Billiards OzoneBilliards.com, APA of North Harris County facebook@APANorthHarrisCounty, OutsvilleBilliards.com, and newest sponsor Jimmy Jenkins with the Gibson Realty Group, facilitated another successful Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour event, procuring a generous $1,000 in added money, and a near $7,000 prize fund.
In the amateur 9-ball division, Watson took no prisoners on his way to the final four winners’ side, defeating Barbara Parker, Michael Pickering, 5-4, Bob Guzik, 5-4, and Mark Cardenas, 5-1, while Elias Garza took down Ruben Montelongo, Chase Wheeler, Hiro Nakahara, 5-4, and Floyd Smith, 5-3. Justin Pena defeated Robyn Haak, Brian Rosenbaum, 5-3, Bobby Perez, 5-2, and Ricky Hughes, 5-3, while T.J. Ortiz ousted Gerald Holland, Matt Cash, 5-4, Robbie Salinas, 5-1, and Steve Lenz, 5-1. Powering through the one loss side, Lenz eliminated Bosshamer, 5-2, Alan Myers fell to Hughes, 5-3, Cardenas took out Boelk, 5-4, while Smith overcame Wheeler, 5-1. Back on the east side, Watson bested Garza, 5-3, and Ortiz made quick work of Pena, 5-1. On the west side, Lenz fell to Hughes, 5-2, and Cardenas was ousted by Smith, 5-1. In turn, Garza sent Hughes packing, 5-2, and Pena ended Smith’s run, 5-1. The hot seat match witnessed a focused Watson overcome Ortiz, 5-3, while Garza plowed through the one loss side. Garza took out Pena, 5-4, and Ortiz, 5-2, for a rematch with the player who sent him to the west side. Watson’s momentum went unmatched, and Garza suffered a final loss at the hands of Watson, 5-2. Watson went undefeated to win his second straight division title on the Poison Lone Star Tour!
The race to the final four on the winners' side of the open 9-ball division witnessed Nick Hood defeat Adam Cooper 7-2, Yoko Joe, 7-5, and Marvin Diaz, 7-3, while Justin Whitehead defeated Clay Cates, Lance Johnson, Manny Chau, 7-6, and Bobby Perez, 7–1. Richie Richeson defeated Denis Strickland, 7-4, Bobby Dominguez, 7–1, Ernesto Bayaua, 7–1, and Jacob Watson, 7–5, while Andy Jethwa ousted Alan Myers, 7-3, Ricky Hughes, 7-1, and Brian Rosenbaum, 7-1. Following a first round loss to Tim Boelk, Chase Wheeler won five consecutive matches, eliminating Johnny Lawson, 7-1, Aldo Rosso, 7-6, Tom Rehm, 7-4, Matt Cash, 7-2, and Patrick Perez, 7-2. Rosenbaum ended Wheeler, 7-4, while Chau made his way through the one loss side with wins over Chase Rudder, 7-1, Steve Lenz, 7-1, and Jacob Watson. Elias Garza won four straight matches on the one loss side, but it wasn’t enough. Perez eliminated Garza, while Marvin Diaz took down Ricky Hughes, 7-4. As the final four on the one loss side took shape, back east, Whitehead overcame Hood, 7-2, and Jethwa sent Richeson west, 7-2. The hot seat witnessed Whitehead defeat Jethwa, 7-2, while Chau made his way through the one loss side. Chau was on fire, dusting off Rosenbaum, 7-3, and Hood, 7-1, while Diaz disabled Perez, 7-1, and Richeson, 7-5. At this point, Chau was unstoppable, taking out Diaz and Jethwa, by the same score, 7-2. After nine, straight match wins, Chau earned himself a rematch with Whitehead. The finals witnessed a merciless Chau dole out some harsh punishment, as he defeated Whitehead in both sets of the true, double elimination final, 7-2, 7-1. Chau made an incredible comeback to secure his first open division title of 2017!
The tour would like to recognize its 2017 sponsors and venues: Poison by Predator Cues, Cyclop Pool Balls, Ozone Billiards, APA of North Harris County, Outsville Billiards, and newest sponsor, Jim Jenkins with Gibson Realty. This year, the tour welcomes back Texas venues Bogies Billiards and Sports Bar (Houston), Bogies West (Houston), Skinny Bob’s Billiards (Round Rock), and brand new venues, Fat Racks Sports Bar and Billiards (San Antonio), and CK Billiards (Dallas). This year the tour offer s cue repair by Roger Allen, James Hanshew, and Jerry Olivier, offered at each and every event.
Without the nearly 300 players who attend Poison Lone Star Tour events, annually, production of this tour would not be possible. The tour would like to thank each and every player for their participation, whether it’s one event, or every event year round. It is because of your patronage, that the Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour celebrates its 9th birthday this year, serving players across Texas and in surrounding states. The tour welcomes everyone back for the next event, to be held on March 18th-19th, 2017, at Bogies Billiards, located at 3040 FM 1960 East, in Houston, Texas. The full 2017 schedule is published at www.LoneStarBilliardsTour.com. The Poison Lone Star Billiards Tour encourages everyone who loves to play pool and compete in a friendly atmosphere, to attend an event. “Like” us on Facebook @LoneStarTour and “Follow” us on Twitter @LoneStarTour09.