Can I beat the local pool shark? Challenge accepted...!!!

I love playing pool and I can honestly say that I never ever turn down a challenge from another player. When I am asked for a game, I always say yes. My logic is that if I win, I am happy; if I lose, I think about why I lost and I learn from it. I would advise all new players to accept all offers of a game! A kind gentleman wanted to play a race to 5 in 8-ball, and he certainly had some good shots in him. I enjoyed the game, not because I won 5-0, but because I played to the level that I know I am capable of. This is something every new player should strive to do.