Efren “Bata” Reyes wins anew
Posted on January 29th, 2010
Philippine billiard icon Efren “Bata” Reyes is once again at the top of the world as he emerged as the winner of the Fat Boy 10-Ball Challenge held at the Horseshoe Casino and Hotel in Indiana, USA. Bata defeated hometown hero Brandon Shuff into a virtual workout as finished with 15-8.
Bata was in full control of the duel by taking a commanding 6-0 lead at the start of the match, although there were some anxious moments in the homestretch. But he eventually managed to snatch the match and walked away $6,500 (roughly P310,000) richer.
Shuff, the former Virginia state champion, was actually able to launch a small comeback and made it 5-13. Unfortunately, that was the best he can do as Reyes got into the hill in the next rack before sealing the win. Shuff has to settle for the $3,250 prize for the runner up.
Reyes finished the 16-player, single elimination round event, undefeated. He displayed one spectacular shot after another, living up to his billiard moniker as “The Magician.”
Among Reyes’ casualties include great names in billiard, which include his fellow world champion and billiard great from the United States Johnny Archer.
The victory allowed Reyes to redeem himself after his loss in the 9-ball banks event earlier in the ongoing 12th Derby City Classic held in the same venue. The Magician is also competing in the 9-ball division of the Derby City Classic.
He will go up against Bernie Collins of the USA, while stablemate and former World No. 1 Francisco “Django” Bustamante will face Sylver Ochoa of Mexico. Philippines’ Rodolfo “Boy Samson” Luat is also competing in the 9-ball completion.
