Players (L-R) include CantaMia’s Claudia Deardorff, Julie Hibbard, Judy Spiller, and Vickie Jones; and PebbleCreek’s Kathy Smith, Judy Jensen, Betty Weaver, Diana Horton-Smith, and Rochelle Zuckerbrow. (Photo by Dan Harris)
Dan Harris, Travel Team Coordinator
On May 21, four skilled players from CantaMia (CM) traveled here to PebbleCreek to take on five members of the PebbleCreek Billiards Club (PCBC) for two lively afternoon hours of short-rack 8-ball. The clubs split two team matches, but PCBC edged the overall game count 14-11 in a display of sharp shooting and excellent sportsmanship.
Short-rack 8-ball, an action-packed variation played with just nine balls (four solids, four stripes, and the 8-ball) in a diamond rack, keeps games fast and engaging. With fewer balls on the table, players get more turns, leading to non-stop excitement—perfect for inter-club competition.
In the first match, CM jumped ahead 2-0, but PCBC responded with a powerful rally, winning seven straight games en route to an 8-3 victory. The second match was a back-and-forth battle with the score staying tight throughout. CM held their composure down the stretch to win 8-6, squaring the team series at one match apiece.
PCBC’s Kathy Smith delivered the standout individual performance, going 4-1 on the day. Claudia Deardorff played best for the visitors, winning 4 of her 6 games.
Beyond the scores, the afternoon captured everything that makes these gatherings special: clutch shots under pressure, good-natured trash talk, bursts of laughter between and during games, and the easy camaraderie that turns opponents into friends. The room buzzed with energy, ending with plenty of hugs, handshakes, and plans for the return match.
The two clubs will renew their friendly rivalry next month at CantaMia. Given how evenly matched they proved to be, the next showdown promises more outstanding pool—and even better company.