Efren Reyes vs Bradley Fleming / Live / 4pm PST / May 22
Thanks, Frank. I don't think we were introduced, but it was kind of a whirlwind of new faces in a strange pool hall for me. My one pocket game is a work in progress. I'm sure there were plenty of cringeworthy moments, in both shot selection and execution, but I had my good moments, too. For me, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to play a legend of the game and my personal favorite player since back when he and Earl were battling it out on ESPN. I've been meaning to go to DCC for several years just so I could see him play in person. But the stars aligned just right so that I could actually play him for a fraction of what a DCC trip would cost. How could I turn that down? How often do you get to test your skills against a Tiger, Ruth or Federer? I'm surprised there's not a line of challengers around the block.
I wish I could've shown a little more of my skill, but Efren really had me on my heels from the lag. A lot of that is my fault, but sometimes he manufactured shots out of thin air. Quite the magician. I'll consider the video to be a snapshot of my game to study and learn from. Stepping up against the best in the limelight was quite an experience and can only be good for my game and personal growth.
Thanks to Daniel and Geraldine for their hospitality, to the audience for being knowledgeable, respectful and encouraging, and to Efren for being a more than worthy opponent.