TRICK SHOTS have always been about the flare and excitement of doing what some might think unimaginable. Here's one of my favorite "just passing by" shots that's pretty impressive. With the right speed and solid stroke, you can jump both the 8 ball and the cue ball over an otherwise imposing set of blocking balls.



The Setup

Place four balls in a line starting on the head string and frozen to the rail (the 9 through 12 balls in Diagram 5). Position another three balls (13-15 balls) at a right angle to create somewhat of an enclosure. Set the 8 ball near the first diamond and close enough to the long rail so the side pocket is out of question. Finally, take the cue ball and spot it behind the 8 ball with a slight angle to the corner pocket, so you don?t have a straight-in shot.

The Execution

I like to use a break cue for this shot, because it allows you more control than a playing cue when jumping a ball - but it's still possible with a normal cue. Strike the cue ball with high running English (top spin), with the cue hitting down at an angle of about 15 degrees.

When struck properly, the cue ball will jump slightly into the 8 ball. The cue ball's downward impact will then cause the 8 to hop over the wall of blocking balls and - with a little practice - into the top corner pocket.

Two Tips

• Strike through the cue ball with a firm stroke, but be sure you don't clench your grip before or during contact.
• Speed is the most important component of this shot, but don't forget to aim!