Players (L-R) include PebbleCreek’s Rochelle Zuckerbrow, Judy Jensen, Norma Laxer, Diana Horton-Smith, and Betty Weaver; and CantaMia’s Vickie Jones, Judy Spiller, Sherri Cassidy, and Claudia Deardorff. (Photo by Rochelle Zuckerbrow)
Dan Harris, Travel Team Coordinator
On July 10, five players from the PebbleCreek Billiards Club (PCBC) headed south to face four members of the CantaMia (CM) Billiards Club in a spirited afternoon of semi-short-rack 8-ball. Playing on CM’s home tables, the hosts used sharp shooting and steady momentum to claim both matches and a 17-11 overall victory.
Semi-short-rack 8-ball delivers fast-paced, action-filled games using just 11 balls—five solids, five stripes, and the 8-ball—racked in a tight Christmas-tree formation. With fewer balls on the table, players see more shots and turns, creating non-stop excitement that’s ideal for inter-club competition.
Match 1: Round-Robin Style
Each PCBC player faced each CM player once, producing 20 competitive games. PCBC jumped out to an early 5-2 lead, but CM responded with a steady rally, pulling ahead to win the match 11-9. PCBC’s Rochelle Zuckerbrow stood out as the top performer, going a perfect 4-0. For CM, Claudia Deardorff and Vickie Jones each posted impressive 4-1 records.
Match 2: Ranked Heads-Up
Pairings for the second match were set by win totals from the first. With time running short, the teams completed two full rounds. CantaMia maintained their momentum, winning the session 6-2.
Beyond the final score, the afternoon showcased everything that makes these inter-club gatherings special: clutch shots under pressure, plenty of good-natured banter, bursts of laughter, and warm camaraderie. The room stayed electric from start to finish, closing with hugs, handshakes, and eager anticipation for the rematch.
The two clubs will renew their friendly rivalry next month at PebbleCreek. Expect more outstanding pool and even stronger fellowship on home tables.