11/16/2025
π 520 & Under Open Circuit β November 15th at Golden Fleece Billiards
What a weekend! Our 520 & Under Open Circuit brought together ten of the most prestigious and determined players in the region for a $300-entry, race-to-nine showdown β and it did not disappoint.
We kicked off the event with a raffle, where Mak Mapulo took home the prize valued a rare pool hall canvas, setting the tone for an exciting day ahead. Following another raffle for Margaret Goodmans canvas going to the none other but Colin Su With Evosports!
From the very first rack, it was clear this was going to be a battle of heart, focus, and endurance. Players fought through the brackets with intensity and respect for the game that defines the BlueTip spirit.
Weβd like to extend a huge thank you to Vern Felt, who made the trip all the way from Anchorage, Alaska, bringing his crew as he always does. Vern showed true professionalism and grit, securing 3rd place and a $500 payout.
In 2nd place, none other than Walter DeGroat, the first to pay his full entry via Venmo β showing dedication long before the first break. Walter displayed steady momentum and solid play all weekend, only falling short in the finals against our eventual champion.(700$) payout
Coming from the B-side, facing multiple hill-hill matches and defeating his longtime rival Curtis George (5th/6th place) along the way, Yuwei Chen showed unstoppable determination. In the finals, Yuwei battled back to double-dip Walter DeGroat β taking the first set 9-6 and dominating the second 7-2.
His comeback story crowned him as our Champion of the 520 & Under Open Circuit, earning $1,200 in cash and a Jacoby Custom Cue β a fitting reward for a truly championship performance.
π Congratulations to all participants for showing what BlueTip competition is all about: skill, sportsmanship, and resilience. The energy inside Golden Fleece was electric β and this is just the beginning.