European Pocket Billiards Federation
Alpina Hotel, St Johann
2026 Ballazzo Seniors Open
PUTNIK TRIUMPHS IN INAUGURAL BALLAZZO SENIORS OPEN
29th June 2026
CROATIA’S IVICA PUTNIK took down the inaugural Ballazzo Seniors Open as the one-day event for the over 45s played out at the Alpina Hotel in St Johann im Pongau. Supported by Predator, the tournament took place in the same arena as the preceding Predator Pro Billiard Series and Euro Tour events.
Putnik defeated Germany’s Gordan Farina in the title decider after an impressive run through a strong international field. Third place finishers were Claudio Pontuti of Italy and Czechia’s Roman Hybler, who’s current Predator Euro Tour ranking of #5 was a testament to the tournament’s strength of field.
Champion Putnik produced a series of excellent performances, including a standout semi-final victory over Hybler. The Croatian had played in both the Predator Pro Billiard Series and the Euro Tour and was well used to the venue and conditions.
Putnik said, "It's great to play these tournaments. There are so many players of our
age who still love competing, and I can see this growing into something special. I really hope this continues because we all had a lovely time here."
The tournament is named after Ballazzo, the predominant billiard club in Sankt Johann im Pongau, which is renowned for its strong community spirit. Wanting to create something special for senior players, the club partnered with Predator to launch a new event
dedicated to one of the sport's fastest-growing categories. With tremendous player interest and growth potential, it is hoped that the second edition will go ahead in 2027.
EPBF Sponsors
▸ Predator Group
▸ Iwan Simonis Billiard Cloth
▸ Aramith Billiard Balls
▸ Longoni Cues
▸ Kamui Brand