MISTICA TOPPLES MARTINEZ; RULES SACRAMENTO 9-BALL TOURNEY; POCKETS $600

FILIPINO legendary pool master Ramon “Maestro Monching” Mistica grabbed his first major title this year after topping the 2010 Hardtimes Billiards 9-ball tournament held at the Hardtimes Billiards in Sacramento, California, USA, over the weekend.

Mistica edged Mexican Rafael Martinez, 7-6, in the finals of the true double elimination format.

“I would like to dedicate my victory to my country and to my countryman,” said amiable Mistica.

The Murphy, Quezon City resident Mistica who is best to remember after beating another Filipino great cue master Jose “Amang” Parica in the mid 80’s went home the top prize of $600. Martinez, on the other hand received the runner-up purse of $380.

“It’s a great news for the Philippine billiards. In the past weeks, we have won four major titles including the exploits of Lee Van Corteza in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Django Bustamante in Winnipeg, Canada and Dennis Orcullo in Las Vegas. We are hoping that this will continue in the much awaited World Pool Championships later this month in Doha, Qatar,” said sportsman/ businessman Aristeo “Putch” Puyat, acknowledged Philippine God Father.

Earlier, Mistica scored back-to-back wins against Michael Lo (6-2) and Gene Ahola (6-2) before American Jeff Gregory (4-6) sent him in the loser’s brackets.

Mistica came back in the one-loss side by beating Paul Meyer (5-1), Pat Mc Load (5-1), Roger Estelle (5-2), countryman Ambrosio “Jun” Almoite (5-4), Chong Huang (5-1), Billy Palmer (5-4) and Gilbert Ariola (5-3) to arranged a titular showdown with Martinez.

BY: MARLON BERNARDINO