By: Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
After three decades of dominance in the world of billiards, the “Greatest of all Time”, “The Magician”, Efren “Bata” Reyes made his way to the roster of pool players who will represent the PH in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, in what many believe to be Efren’s last foray in the sport.
At the age of 65, Reyes already expressed his decision in retiring from the sport this year, saying that he can no longer cope up with the physical aspects of the game.
Considered as the “Greatest of all Time” by most of the legends in the sport including ultimate rival Earl Strickland, Reyes will banner the PH squad in the three-cushion carom event.
Listed in the roster to guide the next rising stars of the PH billiard team that will compete in the international scene in the next years, Reyes will try to be the leader and orchestrator of the team.
Among the talented members of the SEA Games roster in billiards are former PH team members Carlo Biado, Jeffrey Ignacio, Dennis Orcollo, and Rubilen Amit.
Reyes will strive to bring the gold medal to PH in the three-cushion carom and end his last SEA Games in memorable fashion.