Marc Farnsworth leads Coral betting for 2016 Scottish Open

Scottish Open breaks-off

The IPA (International Professional Pool Players Association) tour moves on to Erskine Bridge Hotel for the weekend of June 10th-12th for the Scottish Open, Professional, and Amateur events which have attracted the best cueists to the country to compete for prize money and kudos on offer.

With a maximum field of over 200 for the Open, competition is sure to be fierce with the fast and furious blackball rule set, and the industry leading HD live stream provided free of charge via www.ipapool.com or www.coral.co.uk (our official betting partners).

For those unfamiliar with the sport, it’s the official version of the game we have all tried (pound in the slot, red and yellows and a black), which makes it all the more spectator friendly. But, whereas we can play it, they have perfected it and, although the difference may look slim, their ability, consistency, concentration and nerve is legendary in the world of cue sports.

Played in a room with over 20 pool tables, the atmosphere is electric and the sportsmanship perfect, while the noise can be deafening at times, both from the crash of a hammer break and form the cheers or groans for each players supporters. Though generally speaking, defeat is taken on the chin with a handshake and a smile and, with the best tables cloths and balls that money can buy, there is nowhere to hide and no excuses.

Usual suspects in prime position

Behind the scenes, tournament director Paul Bebb keeps his team working away to make sure things are running smoothly, with the techies updating the live scores as needed and two wandering referees to answer any questions. If everything goes as smoothly as normal (famous last words), then both players and spectators alike are in for some show.