2023 CueLee’s Connecticut 9-Ball Open: An Ultimate Billiards Showdown

The CueLee’s Connecticut Open is a premier billiards event organized by US 1 Billiards. It is a part of the World Nineball Tour (WNT) and holds a significant place in the professional billiards calendar. This year, the event is scheduled to start on September 22, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. EST.

The world of billiards is set to witness an exhilarating event in Connecticut this September. The 2023 CueLee’s Connecticut 9-Ball Open promises intense competition, thrilling matches, and a showcase of exceptional skills. In this article, we will delve into the details of this tournament, from the format and rules to the equipment and key players. So, cue up and let’s break down what makes this event so exciting!

Event Details:

• Start Date: September 22, 2023, at 11:00 AM (local time).
• Format: Double to Single elimination with 64 participants.
• Race to: 9
• Prize Pool: $25,000
• Handicap: No handicap
• Dress Code: Collared Shirt/Jersey, long black pants (no jeans or jogging bottoms), and sufficiently black shoes/sneakers. No headphones/earphones are allowed, but hearing aids are permitted.
• Venue Rules: No outside food or beverages allowed inside the premises. No smoking, vaping, or e-cigarettes indoors.
• Live Stream: Watch Here

Tournament Format

The format of the tournament is designed to test the skills and endurance of the players. It features a double to single elimination format with a maximum of 64 participants competing for the title. Here’s what you need to know about the format:

Race to 9

In each match, players will be racing to reach a score of 9. This adds an element of suspense and strategy to the games, making every shot count.

No Handicap

Unlike some tournaments that use a handicap system, the CueLee’s Connecticut Open is a level playing field, where skill and precision are the ultimate deciders of victory.

Dress Code

Players are required to adhere to a strict dress code, which includes wearing a collared shirt or jersey, long black pants (no jeans or jogging bottoms), and sufficiently black shoes or sneakers. Headphones or earphones are not allowed, but hearing aids are permitted.

No Outside Food or Beverages

To maintain the integrity of the tournament, no outside food or beverages are allowed inside the premises. Players and spectators can enjoy refreshments provided by the venue.

No Smoking or Vaping

For the comfort and well-being of everyone at the event, smoking, vaping, and e-cigs are strictly prohibited inside the premises.

Equipment

The quality of equipment plays a crucial role in the outcome of any billiards tournament. At CueLee’s Connecticut Open, players will have access to top-notch equipment, including:

• 13 – 9’ Rasson Acurra Ball Return Tables: These tables are known for their smooth and consistent play, ensuring a fair competition.
• 4-3/8” Chalk Grey Simonis Cloth: The playing surface is covered with high-quality Simonis Cloth, providing excellent ball control.
• Aramith TV-Pro Cup Ball Set: The choice of professionals, this ball set guarantees precision and accuracy.

Tournament Rules

To maintain fair play and ensure a smooth flow of matches, the tournament follows a set of rules and guidelines:

Races to 9 Winner Side

Players on the winner’s side will compete in matches where the first to reach 9 points emerges victorious.

Races to 7 One Loss Side

On the one-loss side, matches are slightly shorter, with players racing to 7 points.

Single Elimination Stage for Final 16

After the initial rounds, the tournament moves to a single elimination stage for the final 16 players. This phase concludes on the first day of the event.

Semi-finals: Race to 10

As the competition narrows down, the semi-finals feature matches with a race to 10 points.

Finals: Race to 13

The grand finale of the tournament sees players competing in a race to 13 points, adding even more excitement to the climax of the event.

Winners Break Format

The player who wins the lag will have the option to break. This format adds an extra layer of strategy to the game.

Break from the Box

Players must execute the break shot from specific positions on the table, enhancing the fairness of the game.

9 Ball on the Spot

The 9 ball will be placed on the spot, setting the stage for potentially game-changing shots.

Score Controllers and Referees

To maintain fairness, each table will have a score controller responsible for racking and shot clock operation, except for Table 7 and Table 8, which will have a dedicated referee. This ensures that the rules are upheld and the game progresses smoothly.

Time Management

Time management is crucial in billiards. The tournament employs a 30-second shot clock, with players receiving one 30-second extension per rack. This extension can be called verbally at any time within the initial 30 seconds.

Clock Management

After the break shot, players have a maximum of 60 seconds to assess the table. The clock starts after the first shot in open play, and a push out does not count as the first shot. The shot clock also starts when the last moving ball comes to a rest. Failure to play a shot in the allocated time results in ball in hand for the opponent. The Score Controller or a tournament director can stop the clock if deemed necessary.

Live Streaming and Brackets

For those unable to attend in person, the tournament will be live-streamed on the Matchroom Pool YouTube channel. You can catch all the action at Matchroom Pool Youtube. Additionally, you can follow the tournament’s progress and check out the brackets on CueScore.

Conclusion

The 2023 CueLee’s Connecticut 9-Ball Open is set to be a spectacular event, bringing together the best billiards players from around the world. With its exciting format, top-notch equipment, and strict adherence to fair play, this tournament promises unforgettable moments on the billiards table.

So, mark your calendars for September 22-23, 2023, and be prepared to witness billiards excellence like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned billiards enthusiast or a casual observer, this event is not to be missed.

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