And race they did, as the Junior National 9-Ball Championships got under way in Tucson, Arizona. Hopes were high and cues were chocked as the balls were racked for three divisions of play:

• 14 and Under Open

• 18 and Under Open

• 18 and Under Girls

Both the 14 and under open and the 18 and under girls matches, race to 9 wins. The 18 and under open matches are taken with the first 11 game wins.

The photo to the right shows Bradley Eckberg, 7 years old, making that next shot count. Bradley made that shot, however he was unsuccessful at claiming the match. The win went to Cody Goodman.

Each o­ne of these junior players came to the Nationals as a proven champion. Several will walk away feeling they might have done better, yet, they can remember the words of Tom (Dr. Cue) Rossman as he spoke at the opening ceremonies, “Never give up”.

Southern Billiards is also keeping the stats o­n line this year at www.southernbilliards.com.

Visit InsidePOOL for the latest news from the sport of billiards and pool.