1968 World Straight Pool Championship

Results

Place	Player	Prize
1	Irving Crane
2	Luther Lassiter

Recap

Published April 13, 2026

The 1968 World Straight Pool Championship marked another victory for Irving "The Deacon" Crane, as the 54-year-old captured his fourth world title in the sport’s most prestigious tournament. Crane faced Luther "Wimpy" Lassiter in the finals.

During this period, the World Straight Pool Championship was the most prestigious tournament in professional pool, years before nine-ball became the dominant format among professionals. The championship tested players’ precision, endurance, and mental focus.

Crane had won world titles in 1942, 1946, and 1955. The Livonia, New York native was known for his technical skill and composure during matches. His opponent, Luther Lassiter, was a respected player throughout the billiards community.

The 1968 triumph was followed by two more world titles in 1970 and 1972, ultimately giving Crane six World Straight Pool Championship trophies. This achievement placed him alongside legends like Willie Mosconi in straight pool history. Crane had turned professional in 1937, making his championship win at age 54 a notable achievement after decades in the sport.

The 1968 championship featured two skilled players competing in straight pool, a format that would eventually decline in popularity but remained recognized as a comprehensive test of pool-playing ability.

Sources: Irving Crane – Wikipedia, World Straight Pool Championship – Wikipedia

This recap was compiled from public tournament records and tournament organizer communications. ForceFollow is not affiliated with the tournament organizer.