June 5, 2005, Manila, Philippines . . . Two - time World Pool Champion Fong Pang Chao of Chinese Taipei converted his first attempt on the final trick shot as he topped the inaugural Asian Trickshot Masters tournament at the Robinsons Galleria Trade Hall today.
Chao was able to shoot the cue ball into a line of three balls then made the cue ball go past the rack and make a rapid arc towards the corner pocket to convert the nine ball for an automatic two points and a total winning score of eight points.
The player known as the "Cold-Faced Killer" earned the top prize of US$1,000 (PHP 54,000) for his feat in the event organized by ESPN STAR Sports.
Chao converted six out of the eight designated trick shots, two on the first attempt for two points each and four on the second attempt for one point each.
Local bet Francisco "Django" Bustamante could have tied Chao on his first attempt, but the former world number one failed to take advantage of his opportunity and eventually missed on his second attempt to end up with six points, the same score as Ching Shun Yang of Chinese Taipei. Efren "Bata" Reyes of the Philippines settled for fourth place with four points. The three non-winners settled for the consolation prize of $US 300 (PHP 16,200).
"I feel honored and happy to have won the inaugural Asian Trickshot Masters. It's a very interesting competition," said Chao.
For more information on the Asian 9-Ball Tour, please check out www.asian9-balltour.com. For the latest schedules and program information on ESPN STAR Sports, catch us on the net at www.espnstar.com.
