More than 400 pool players will gather for the American CueSports Alliance 2018 ACS Texas State Championships in Port Arthur on Oct. 24–28.

The public is invited to watch the tournament from 10 a.m. to midnight Wednesday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday at the Robert A. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center, 3401 Cultural Center Drive in Port Arthur. More than 40 pool tables will be set up for the tournament.

There is no charge to watch the tournament.

“ACS Texas is super excited about bringing our game to Port Arthur,” treasurer Janet Ybarra said.

The first place winner will receive entry fees to the ACS Nationals in Las Vegas in May 2019. There will be doubles, singles and team events

“This year, $10,000 has been added to prize money, thanks to local sponsor Reel Cajun Seafood Restaurant and Bar,” Ybarra said.

“But, it’s just a game. You win some, you lose some. As long as you’re having fun… That’s what counts,” Ybarra said.

Prize sponsor Tony Nguyen, owner of Reel Cajun in Port Arthur and Lumberton, is also owner of Diamond Sports Bar & Grill in Port Arthur. He said pool is now his passion.

“I grew up playing it. It’s embedded in me. It’s something I love to do,” Nguyen said.

Past tournaments have been staged in cities such as Fort Worth, Belton and Midland-Odessa.

“We’re ready for the players. This is the first event of this kind to be held at the civic center as the group moves in over 40 pool tables. We know they’re here to compete, and we extend an invitation for them to unwind in Port Arthur and enjoy our scenic views and restaurants,” Port Arthur Convention & Visitors Bureau director Tammy Kotzur said.

For a list of past ACS-Texas winners, visit www.acs-texas.net

For more information on Port Arthur’s hotels and attractions, visit www.visitportarthurtx.cm