Emotional evening as pool world salutes Django
FRANCISCO “DJANGO” Bustamante has been inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in a simple but colorful ceremony at the Marriot Hotel in Chesapeake, Virginia.
The Filipino pool legend was inducted in the “Greatest Player” category of the event held in conjunction with the US Open 9-Ball Championships being played at the Chesapeake Convention Center.
Bustamante’s bosom buddy and fellow Hall of Famer Efren “Bata” Reyes delivered what was described as “a heartfelt induction speech” in Filipino, which was translated by former US Open and World 9-Ball champion Alex Pagulayan.
AZ Billiards reported it was “an emotional evening” as Reyes and Pagulayan “introduced their countryman into the elite club.”
Video highlights of Bustamante’s career were played and he, together with the two other inductees—Larry Hubbart and Terry Bell—received standing ovations.
Bustamante received a Hall-of-Fame jacket, a signature ring and pastel sketch of his likeness. Bustamante drew laughter from those present when he said, “Wow, I look handsome here.”
Bustamante, winner of the 2010 World 9-Ball crown, said he was very proud and honored that Reyes, Pagulayan and Jose “Amang” Parica, who began the Filipino invasion of the US circuit in the eighties, “are here with me. It’s a big honor because they have given me a lot of support.”
After the reception, Bustamante was greeted by a standing ovation as he reentered the tournament room for his next match still wearing the natty attire he donned for the induction minus the coat.
Ronnie Nathanielsz
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