Billiards Talent Ruth McGinnis: The One with the Cue
This article profiles Ruth McGinnis (1910-?), an American billiards prodigy who overcame gender barriers in the early 20th century. Born in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, she began playing in her father's barbershop at age seven, standing on a soapbox to reach the table. By age 10, she achieved a run of 47 balls in Straight Pool (14/1 endless). After earning a sports teaching degree in 1932, she couldn't find work and instead joined the 'Better Billiards' campaign, giving exhibitions and defeating local champions. In 1933, she decisively beat multi-sport star Babe Didrikson Zaharias 400-62 in a six-day match. In 1937, she defeated world champion Ralph Greenleaf. Despite her skill, she was barred from official tournaments and had to maintain decorum. In 1942, she became the first woman to compete in the New York State Championships, winning several matches. She later opened her own billiard academy in Rhode Island.
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Billiards Talent Ruth McGinnis: The One with the Cue
This article profiles Ruth McGinnis (1910-?), an American billiards prodigy who overcame gender barriers in the early 20th century. Born in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, she began playing in her father's barbershop at age seven, standing on a soapbox to reach the table. By age 10, she achieved a run of 47 balls in Straight Pool (14/1 endless). After earning a sports teaching degree in 1932, she couldn't find work and instead joined the 'Better Billiards' campaign, giving exhibitions and defeating local champions. In 1933, she decisively beat multi-sport star Babe Didrikson Zaharias 400-62 in a six-day match. In 1937, she defeated world champion Ralph Greenleaf. Despite her skill, she was barred from official tournaments and had to maintain decorum. In 1942, she became the first woman to compete in the New York State Championships, winning several matches. She later opened her own billiard academy in Rhode Island.