Alcano victory ensures bigger 2007 World Pool

The triumph of Ronnie Alcano in the 2006 World Pool Championship guarantees a bigger and better staging of the meet next year in the country.

Billiards and Snooker Congress of the Philippines (BSCP) chairman Yen Makabenta admitted support to the tournament featuring the world’s best 9-ball players is bound to pour in the wake of the 34-year old Alcano’s stunning victory over fancied German Ralf Souquet in the race-to-17-final Sunday night at the PICC.

The Philippines won the rights to hold the event until 2008, although it has an option whether to forego or not its hosting on the final year.

"There were a lot of skeptics this year since they have no concept at all on what kind of tournament this is. Pero ngayong nakita na ng bayan ito and saw the kind of exposure to the country, I think the payoff time is next year and beyond," said Makabenta as he graced the weekly PSA Forum with the reigning World Pool champion along with player Jeffrey "Bata" de Luna and Verna Mariano, better half of billiards patron and Alcano’s manager Perry Mariano.

Makabenta said the organizing Raya Sports which he heads, is bound to absorb a loss in its hosting venture of the annual meet, reportedly staged at a cost of P65 million.

But thanks to Alcano’s stunning feat, highlighted by his 17-11 rout of the 37-year old Souquet in the final, Makabenta sees a more lucrative undertaking by next year.

"It would be easier the next time around. This early, may mga sponsors ng lumalapit sa amin regarding the World Pool Championship in 2007," added the BSCP official in the public sports program sponsored by Pagcor, Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, Manila Sports Council (Masco) chief Ali Atienza and held at the main function room of the Pantalan Restaurant in Manila.

Makabenta also noted that Matchroom Sports, which stages the World Pool, considers the Philippine staging one of the best, if not the best ever.

"They (Matchroom) like it here. They said the venue is perfect, the crowd is very enthusiastic and the people in general is very warm,"said Makabenta.

Accompanied by Mariano and de Luna, Alcano came straight from Malacañang where President Arroyo conferred to him the Order of Lakandula, with the rank of Champion for Life.

The citation is bestowed on individuals who have done extraordinary feats in their chosen field of expertise.

Alcano said a special cake was also presented to him and a cash reward.

"Secret," was his curt reply when asked the amount given to him by the President.

"Siyempre, masayang-masaya ako lalo na at dito pa sa atin ako nanalo," said the 34-year old native of Calamba, who won the $100,000 prize money.