Mike Vidas traveled from BC to northern Alberta on a mission, to follow the likes of Bill (the Gunne) Ganne, Kevin Cardinal and Benny (the Jet) Onyschuck; all Champions of the Cold Lake 8-Ball Classic. Not only is he the champion but he did it with impressive wins over 3 IPT Tour players in convincing fashion.
His most impressive win was over IPT Player Edwin Montal from Calgary, Alberta. Mike made short work of Edwin considering Edwin just made one mistake and that was to let Mike back to the table. Mike won the Race to 9 in 8-ball in just two turns at the table.
This was Mike's first trip to Cold Lake for this Event but he says it won't be his last. Railbird's Billiard owned by James and Trina Blackman plan to continue to grow the event next year to $5000 added.
Paul Potier was runner-up in the event but didn't seemed to bothered by his defeat in the final due to the fact that he and Mike are great buddies and road partners. Paul Potier performed two trick-shots shows for the Railbirds faithful with his dramatic and fun-filled show.
The Highest local finisher for the Tournament happened to be one of the Main sponsors for the event; Lou Muirhead owner of Couger Construction, a local contractor and avid pool enthusiast. He had a 9-12th finish for his work.
$6000 total Purse for the Open Event
1st Mike Vidas $1500
2nd Paul Potier $1000
3rd Edwin Montal $800
4th Bill Smith $700
5th/6th Tyler Edey, Phil Quennel $500
7th/8th Glen Collins, Benny Onyschuck $300
9th/12th Lou Muirhead, Phil Tourangeau, Cory Wood, Ray (Boots) Carter $100
The Ladies event was small but exciting.
Sharon Pahtaygan and Melina McGowen shared the Championship due to time constraints. Third was Trina Blackman. There was $800 in Prize money for a field of 6 players.
