Stars Shine at Billiard Education Fundraiser

Posted by admin as Billiard Tour News - Pool Tour News

Stars Shine at Billiard Education Fundraiser
Pros help raise funds for junior billiards
The Billiard Education Foundation (BEF) held their annual “Challenge the Stars” fundraiser on May 13th at the Riviera Hotel Casino in Las Vegas. The BCA Pool League (BCAPL) National 8-ball Championships and the 8th Annual Predator International 10-ball Championships were held at the Riviera that week, providing opportunity for participation by both pro and amateur billiards talent. Over $4,000 was raised through “challenge the pro” matches and auctions to help support junior billiard programs and scholarships.

Thirteen pros accepted challenges from highly skilled amateurs who were among the 7,000 players competing in the BCAPL National 8-ball Championship. Participating pros were Francisco Bustamante, Dominic Esposito, Allison Fisher, Thorsten Hohmann, Melissa Little, Rafael Martinez, Cathy Metzinger, Caroline Pao, Stefano Pelinga, Efren Reyes, Tom“Dr. cue” Rossman, Adam Smith, and Laura Smith. All challengers received a certificate and an autographed souvenir photo taken with their pro.
Challengers and spectators alike participated in the silent auction and raffle made possible by the generous donations from dozens of industry supporters. Donating companies included Ozone Billiards, Viking cue Mfg, Cuestix International, PoolDawg.com, Frank’s Center, Omega Billiards, Chalkeys by Ken, Predator Products and Poison Cues. Mark Griffin of Diamond Billiard Products provided pool tables from the BCAPL tournament.

The BEF charity event was made possible with the help of a team of volunteers including Keven Engelke, Brent Johnson, Shanna Lewis, Dave Merrill, and BCA Pool League referees. BEF President Tom Riccobene served as Master of Ceremonies. A complete list of those who helped make this event possible is available on the BEF website at BilliardEducation.org.

All proceeds benefit the BEF scholarship fund and junior programs throughout the year.
The Billiard Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization committed
to furthering the standard of excellence and leadership within the billiard community by engaging in activities related to the education and cultural advancement of tomorrow’s leaders.
For more information about the BEF, please visit BilliardEducation.org
or contact Laura Smith at 303.926.1039 or e-mail LauraSmith[at]BilliardEducation.org