SCHILTIGHEIM - Pierre Soumagne has won his second title this week in the French championship. He won the final balkline 47/1 in a match which lasted only three innings. The young Frenchman had already given an impressive demonstration of his mastery in the second round, when he played the highest run of the tournament made (143). The appearance in the final against Michael Devogelaere was great class too.
Pierre Soumagne still suffered a defeat in the double knockout stage against the later finalist Devogelaere, but later repaired with victories against Johann Petit and J. François Florent and a revenge against Michael Devogelaere in a beautiful final match. J. Florent François and Jean Arnaud took the third place.
Soumagne had the best overall average of 27.45, the best match average 66.66 and the highest run of 143. With his victory the 23-year-old player cannot take a rust. He can win his third gold tomorrow in 71/2.