the name of pool originated from collective bets that were made in horse racing  parlours. horse racing facilities introduced pool tables to entertain their customers between races, and with great success, the game quickly grew so popular, that it became a common symbol associated with horse racing facilities.

after many hours at the pool halls patrons were hooked and the game continued to gain popularity up until today - pool tables are quite common in night time destinations of rio de janeiro and the game is called 'sinuca' or 'bilhar'.