The Brian Mason Memorial Tournament was an overwhelming success, with 32 fellow APA league players and Brian’s family and friends coming together to remember Brian. In one of the largest league tournaments ever held at Diamond Eight, 16 teams played scotch doubles 9-Ball, with the all-female final match going to the hill. Audre Hartman and Bernadette Westbrook edged out Christine Skawinski and Jen Oliver to win 1st place. Dan Murray won the beautiful Cuetec cue donated by the APA of Albany while his brother Dave took home a Diamond Eight gift pack. Over $550 was raised for the American Diabetes Association. A plaque was installed at Diamond Eight to remember Brian. Frank Rogers shared some memories of Brian with the emotional crowd of players, family and friends, who all shared in a delicious hot and cold buffet. Thanks again to everyone who participated to help make this event so successful!

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The 2010 Diamond Eight edition of the Joss Tour Stop was not the same old story, as favorite Dennis Hatch was eliminated early, leaving the door open for the rest of the field. Canada natives Chris Orme and Dan Hewitt took advantage of the situation to reach the finals. Chris played brilliantly, defeating Bob Cunningham, Dwight Dixon, Dan Hewitt, Dave Fernandez and Redgie Cutler on his way to fill the hot seat. Chris made quick work of Redgie Cutler, 9-1, to send him to the 1-loss side to face Dan Hewitt, who had rolled through tough matches against Mike Zuglan, Paul Rozonowski and Bucky Souvanthong, Dan and Redgie traded games until 6-6, when Dan was able to pull away with the victory and get to the finals. Chris took an early 5-1 lead in the final match, but Dan started a comeback to get to 5. Chris was able to stay focused and stay undefeated to win the $1400. first place prize, 9-5. Payouts appear after the jump.
Congrats to Kevin Soranno, who won the $1100 Custom Joss Cue! Thanks to Mike Zuglan, all the spectators, and the field of 39 players for their support of Diamond Eight!
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