A new face emerged as the one to beat at Tour Stop 2 of the Tiger Florida Tour at Boulevard Billiards in Ocala. Debbie McIntosh came from the one loss side to win this $500-added, modified double elimination format. Debbie is relatively new to the Tour and played only a few times last year. Most players are more familiar with her teenage daughter, Kayee, who also plays on the TFT and who is emerging as one of the top junior players in the country. Kaylee finished 5th-6th.
Debbie McIntosh surprised many, winning over newcomer Gwen Sharpton (7-1), taking the hill-hill match from top TFT player Stephanie Mitchell, before losing on the hill to “Mike” Fitzgerald. On the one-loss side, McIntosh challenged another top player, Michell Monk (5-2), earning her way back to the single elimination board. McIntosh drew Fitzgerald again, but this time McIntosh prevailed (7-5) to take on Nicolle Cuellar in the finals.
Cuellar’s path to the finals started by sending Margarita Makeeva to the one-loss side (7-2), followed by CameRon Cook (7-1), and then meeting Kaylee McIntosh in a lengthy double-hill match. Once on the single elimination board, Cuellar ended the day for Mitchell in another lengthy double hill match in the semi-finals. Cuellar’s match in the finals with McIntosh wasn’t easy, and a few mistakes cost Cuellar the win against McIntosh, who was playing lights out.
Thanks to the players who turned out for this event. We thank our title sponsor Tiger Products; and sponsors Great Lakes Billiards, Ultimate Chalkers, Boynton Billiards, AZ Billiards and Discount Mugs. Thank you to room owner Donald Krischer and everyone at Boulevard Billiards for being great hosts!