As a dedication to Charles “Bo” Keen, a deceased former staff member at the Red Hook recreation center, a twelve week billiards tournament was established this year.
The contest was open to all members of the Rec Center and offered a tremendous opportunity for fostering new friendships.
Each participant received a medal for participating and the first and second place winners won trophies.
The finals took place on Leap Day, February 29, starting at 7 pm. Spectators, which included local District Leader Jacqui Painter, were offered pizza, lo mein, chicken wings, soda and water, which was all sponsored by the Rec Center staff.
Spectators were given chairs to watch the best of nine match. The finalists, who survived twelve weeks of matches, were Stanley Morrison and Miguel Morales.
Stan took charge immediately, winning the first four games. His game is distinguished by a very soft touch, which enables a lot of difficult side-pocket shots to go in.
They played 8-ball, with professional rules, meaning that on a scratch the player gets to place the cue ball anywhere on the table. Antoine Smith ran the tournament and I believe he was the referee that kept the players honest.
Miguel, encouraged by his family that attended, picked up his play and won the next two games, but Stan proved the better this night as he won the seventh game going away.
A trophy ceremony followed, in which all participants had medals placed around their necks and the two finalists were presented with trophies.
The Rec Center features two billiards tables right as you walk in, and for information as to their availability, just ask the friendly people at the front.
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