Bristol, TN, October 18, 2025
News Summary
The first Women’s Professional Billiard Association (WPBA) SemiPro event took place in Bristol, TN, showcasing emerging talent. Veronique Menard emerged as the champion, earning her first WPBA title amidst 89 competitors, with $10,000 in added prize money. The tournament served as a vital stepping stone for lower-ranked players aiming for higher-level competition, following new eligibility guidelines set by the WPBA. The event highlighted the growing interest in women’s billiards and concluded without major issues, thanks to the support of local sponsors.
Bristol, TN hosted the inaugural Women’s Professional Billiard Association (WPBA) SemiPro event from October 10-12, where Veronique Menard emerged victorious, marking her first WPBA title. The tournament was designed to provide opportunities for lower-ranked players who wanted to compete at a higher level, effectively acting as a feeder system to WPBA main events.
The WPBA created the SemiPro event in response to concerns about player eligibility based on FargoRates, a rating system used in billiards to determine skill levels. After deliberation, the WPBA Board of Directors settled on a FargoRate of 650 to define player eligibility, aiming to attract competitors who are skilled yet not at the top of the professional ranks.
Janet Atwell, a WPBA competitor, was instrumental in proposing the SemiPro event, which she envisioned as an opportunity for players seeking to advance in their billiards careers. The event saw a substantial turnout, featuring a total of 89 entrants and $10,000 in added prize money, underscoring the growing interest in the sport among women billiard players.
The tournament’s structure consisted of two stages: Stage 1, which included a double-elimination bracket for 59 competitors, and Stage 2, with 48 players where 16 advanced from Stage 1. Menard, seeded in Stage 2, faced an early setback when Ashley Benoit sent her to the loss side. Benoit secured her position in the final after defeating Rachel Walters, known as the hot seat holder.
Menard made her triumphant comeback by winning her rematch with Benoit after eliminating Walters in the semifinals. On her way to victory, Menard showcased her skills by overcoming notable players such as Tracy Hardie and Christy Norris in elimination rounds. Remarkably, only three players made it from the original 59 in Stage 1 to the money rounds, with Casey Cork and Hardie finishing in the 5th/6th place matches.
The WPBA, in hosting the SemiPro event, emphasized the importance of community support, thanking sponsors and local businesses for their contributions that helped ensure the tournament’s success. Atwell and her organizing staff received commendations for managing the event seamlessly, with no major issues reported throughout its duration.
Looking ahead, the next WPBA event will take place from November 12-16 and feature the Dr. Pool Tour Championships, during which Billie Billing will be inducted into the WPBA Hall of Fame. This event is anticipated to bring together players and fans alike to celebrate achievements in women’s billiards.
Key Highlights of the WPBA SemiPro Event
- Location: Borderline Brunswick Arena, Bristol, TN
- Date: October 10-12
- Entrants: 89 players
- Added Prize Money: $10,000
- FargoRate for Eligibility: 650
- Event Structure: Two stages (double-elimination)
- Champion: Veronique Menard
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the WPBA SemiPro event?
The event aimed to provide opportunities for lower-ranked players in tournaments, acting as a feeder system to WPBA main events.
How many entrants participated in the WPBA SemiPro event?
The event featured a total of 89 entrants.
What was the prize money for the tournament?
The event included $10,000 in added prize money.
What were the eligibility requirements for players?
The WPBA Board of Directors settled on a FargoRate of 650 for player eligibility.
Who won the WPBA SemiPro event?
Veronique Menard won the tournament, securing her first WPBA title.
What is the next WPBA event scheduled after the SemiPro event?
The next WPBA event will feature the Dr. Pool Tour Championships from November 12-16, including an awards ceremony for Billie Billing’s induction into the WPBA Hall of Fame.
Event Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Borderline Brunswick Arena, Bristol, TN |
| Date | October 10-12 |
| Entrants | 89 players |
| Added Prize Money | $10,000 |
| Eligibility FargoRate | 650 |
| Champion | Veronique Menard |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AZ Billiards: Menard Wins First WPBA SemiPro Event
- Google Search: Veronique Menard WPBA
- AZ Billiards: Ouschan Wins WPBA Olhausen Iron City Invitational
- Wikipedia: Women’s Professional Billiard Association
- AZ Billiards: Fefilova Wins WPBA Title at Olhausen Classic
- Google Scholar: WPBA SemiPro Event
- Google Search: FargoRate Billiards
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Billiards
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
