World Pool Magazine 1st Edition

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WORLDPOOL OO CONTENTS Editor’s Message

Page 3

European Championships

Page 4

Inter-County Finals (England)

Page 6

Ladies International Pool Tour

Page 10

Interleague Finals (England)

Page 12

World Championships preview

Page 14

Eightball in Australia

Page 16

Scottish Open Report

Page 18

Wales – Champions of Europe

Page 20

Wales – Keltic Cup

Page 21

Coaching Skills with Steve Daking

Page 22

PROPOOL.CO.UK

Page 27

Welcome to Tour Two

Page 29

Professional Trophy Final

Page 31

World Masters – I.P.A.

Page 32

Tour One Report

Page 34

Referees’ Corner

Page 36

I.P.A. Qualifiers at Euro. Champs.

Page 37

Club One Report

Page 38

Professional Events and Rankings

Page 42

World Championship Qualifiers

Page 46

Diary of Events

Page 48

Administration Office 20 South View. Bamford, Rochdale, OL11 5HU Tel: 01706 642770 Email: gharwood@eightballpoolmarketing.freeserve.co.uk

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WORLDPOOL OO ENGLISH POOL ASSOCIATION MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN Firstly let me welcome all readers to the first ever on-line news magazine supported by EPA, working in conjunction with the IPA, WEPF and EEPF. EPA made a commitment to the magazine as a positive move forward in keeping all pool players informed of events, competitions, reports and general information surrounding the National Association. Since EPA was formed they have made huge advances through a lot of good ideas from a number of dedicated members. The first stage was the formation of the EPA National Inter-County league ending with the prestigious National Inter-County Finals held at one of the largest holiday parks in Norfolk. The second step was the introduction of the EPA National Inter-League section, again with a National Finals event being held at Vauxhall Holiday Park. To compliment this we introduced the National KO Cup as a sister event for the Inter-League competition. During this introduction I will also mention the other major events EPA hold during each year. The Golden Cue 3-man event open to amateurs, the Champion of Champions open to local league winners and runners-up and finally the Ladies KO Cup team event. All these being national events held at Vauxhall Holiday Park. Reports on all these events and more will be highlighted more in later issues. When they introduced the National Players ID Membership cards back in 1997. This has now been expanded to a more comprehensive database and also a revamped website allowing for better dissemination of information for players, tournament organisers, etc. To follow all the latest information and links log on to our website at www.epa.org.uk. I hope you enjoy this inaugural issue, and on behalf of the EPA, wish the World Pool Magazine every success.

Geoff Wilson EPA Chairman

W.E.P.F. CONGRATULATES WORLD POOL MAGAZINE The World Eightball Pool Federation congratulates the English Pool Association and the International Pool Players Association on the launch of WORLD POOL MAGAZINE. Finally, we have our own specialized Pool magazine, and of course, thank you to all the sponsors of this inaugural edition of the magazine. All WEPF Member Associations can now promote to their member players how they can access information, on what is happening in Pool, both in their own country and on the professional circuit plus the latest Pool news from various countries around the world. The magazine will be available to all pool enthusiasts and interested parties on major pool websites FREE OF CHARGE. You will now be able to follow our sport and discover who is winning the major titles and which major tournaments are taking place. The WEPF will stage the 19th World Championships commencing June 25, 2011 at the Imperial Hotel in Blackpool England, hosted by the English Pool Association and all results will be reported in World Pool magazine. The game has a long history to be proud of and to boast about. And the WEPF World titles and IPA Professional Tour provides competition for the best players in the world to challenge each other on a regular basis. The magazine promises to be a great promotion for these events and our game in general both for current players, supporters, and cue sports enthusiasts. Enjoy the first edition.

Joe Fanto President - World Eightball Pool Federation 2


WORLDPOOL OO NEW CHAPTER FOR TOUR PROGRAMME The title of editor may exude a certain amount of power and prestige. Indeed, I’ve had the fortune - and misfortune - to have been editor of various cue sport publications throughout my career. And while people outside these pages may think you are in charge, that’s not always the case. Indeed, take our new publication, featuring the best of English style 8-Ball Pool, as an example. My favoured title was ‘Planet Pool’ but there was suggestions of trying to play ‘Superman’by certain people so it was back to the drawing board. And after burning much midnight oil, the eventual choice was ‘World Pool.’ Hopefully, what follows after the front cover is what it says on the tin. We are all about 'world pool'-providing its ‘English 8-Ball’, ‘Reds and Yellows’ or whatever name you want to give the small table game. And while I maybe editor, the magazine belongs to the readers. It’s your publication, whether you be in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Uganda, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or wherever. And as such you set the agenda of what we write about. ‘World Pool’ makes no excuse for favouring our preferred pool discipline but there’s certainly no discrimination on what we can cover. There will be tournament reports, personality pieces, coaching advice. We’ve even dedicated some space to the referees so that shows how unbiased we are! In the end, ‘World Pool’ will stand or fall by the information we receive from you, the readers. Hopefully, you will be as enthusiastic about this project as we are. And we want to hear your ideas and suggestions to ensure ‘World Pool’ is a success. Indeed, you might even agree with me, that ‘Planet Pool’ is a better title and help me put pressure on those who know better. Seriously, we do want to receive your feedback, positive or negative. So, enjoy this first issue of ‘World Pool’ and we look forward to hearing your views and reading your news in future mags. Trevor Baxter - Editor Email: trevor@redandwhitesport.co.uk Tel: 07768 846839

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WORLDPOOL OO 2011 European Championship, Malta - RESULTS Men's singles: Quarter-finals: Clayton Attard (Malta) bt Russell Burgess (Wales) 7-5, Oly Bale (Wales) bt Ian Hubbard (England) 7-3, Adam Davis (England) bt Jordan Church (England) 7-4, Carl Morris (England) bt Clint Azzopardi (Malta) 7-3. Semi-finals: Attard bt Bale 7-3, Morris bt Davis 7-2. Final: Attard bt Morris 8-7. Men's A Team Semi-finals: Wales bt Belgium 8-2, England bt Malta 8-7. Final: Wales bt England 8-3.

Final: Rigby bt Sheridan 5-3. LADIES Quarter-finals: Barbara Taylor (England) bt Karen Grech (Malta) 6-3, Michelle Rooney (Northern Ireland) bt Kim O'Brien (Republic of Ireland) 6-3, Emma Cunningham (Northern Ireland) bt Michelle Brown (England) 6-4, Liesa Conlin (England) bt Lyndsey Roberts (England) 6-2. Semi-finals: Rooney bt Taylor 6-5, Cunningham bt Conlin 6-3. Final: Cunningham bt Rooney 7-3. Team

Men’s B Team Semi-finals: England bt Scotland 8-4, Malta B bt Malta C 8-2. Final: England bt Malta 8-6 Under 21's Semi-finals: England bt Northern Ireland 8-5, Malta bt Scotland 8-1. Final: England bt Malta 8-5.

Semi-finals: England bt Malta 8-2, All Ireland bt Wales 8-5. Final: All Ireland bt England 8-4. Juniors: Quarter-finals: Frank Costello (England) bt Ryan Shaw (Channel Islands) 6-2, Kingsley Peck (England) bt John Bowkett (England) 6-2, Jack Smithers (England) bt Scott Muscat (Malta) 6-5, Joe O'Connor (England) bt Dylan Attard (Malta) 6-1.

Final: England bt Malta 8-4.

Semi-finals: Costello bt Peck 6-3, O'Connor bt Smithers 6-1. Final: Costello bt O'Connor 7-4.

Over 50's:

Over 50's

Juniors:

Final: England bt Malta 5-4. Wheelchair: Individual Semi-finals: Theresa Sheridan (England) bt Gary Simpson (Scotland) 4-1, Andy Rigby (Wales) bt Joe Cardona (Malta) 4-0.

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Semi-finals: Bob Love (England) bt Tony Kay (England) 6-1, Bill Rigby (England) bt Shane Robinson (England) 6-1. Final: Rigby bt Love 6-2.


WORLDPOOL OO

2011 European Championship - Malta From start to end, this was one of the best European Championships we have ever held. Congratulations to Malta for a top class event, venue, set-up, opening ceremony and final presentation which were all of the highest level. There was also 13,000 euros Prize Fund. With over 300 players and spectators resident at the Dolmen Hotel, the atmosphere in the games room was electric, particularly when the host country were at the table. It was fitting that Malta’s Clayton Attard won the Mens Individuals event, whilst former

world champion Emma Cunningham from Northern Ireland is the 2011 European Ladies Champion. Well done to all of the event winners, details on Page 4, some great displays and certainly plenty of entertaining Pool for the knowledgeable spectators to view. But the main winner was the game, the Pool played, as you would expect for a European Championships, was excellent and the social side of the event was brilliant with all of the countries joining in. Hard act to follow for 2012 which will be in either Dublin, Ireland or Costa Del Sol, Spain.

Individual Winners

Junior Champion Tournament Director Ladies Champion Frank Costello Vincent Degiorgio Emma Cunningham England Malta N. Ireland Over 50’s Champion Men’s Champion Wheelchair Champion Bill Rigby Clayton Attard Andy Rigby England Malta Wales

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WORLDPOOL OO

INTER COUNTY REPORT 2011 O v e r 1 2 0 0 p e o p l e g a t h e re d a t Vauxhall Holiday Park for the English P o o l A s s o c i a t i o n ’s I n t e r C o u n t y Championships. The weekend commenced with the K.O. Cup, a new event which involved the teams from each of the 44 counties who ended as runner-ups in the eight regions which form the E.P.A. inter-county structure. Competition in the new event is as fierce as the main Inter-County finals with teams from all areas of the country determined to take the silverware back to their region. Categorises are Mens “A” & “B”, Ladies & Youth. After a very competitive quarter-final section the semi-final line-up was: Mens “A” section semi-finals Nottinghamshire beat Merseyside 23-17 with Leicestershire winning 23-18 against Bristol.

In the final Leicestershire “A” made a steady start, but turned the match in their favour at the third leg winning 9-2, and went on to retain their title with a 23-15 victory over Nottinghamshire , their “B” team also retained their title in a comfortable 23-12 win over Derbyshire. In the Ladies section Notts took the first leg 6-5, but South Yorkshire came back to take the second 7-4, the match was won in the third leg which South Yorkshire won 8-3, just needing 3 frames in the final leg to win the match 23-15 and take the trophy back to Yorkshire. In the Youth final Surrey took a 6-5 lead, but Bristol reversed that score in the second leg to level the scores, Surrey then took the third leg 7-4, winning five games in a row to win the final 23-17.

Mens “B” section semi-finals had Leicestershire defeating Hertfordshire 2317, and Derbyshire beat Northants 23-18. Semi-Finals of the Ladies had Nottinghamshire beat Somerset 23-20, and South Yorkshire beat Norfolk 23-13. In the Youth, last years champions Staffordshire were beaten 23-13 by Bristol, and Surrey beat G.M.C. 23-16.

Men's A Winners London

Continues over page

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WORLDPOOL OO The Main event the Inter County Championships commenced with the presentation of the National Ranking List winners trophies won by James Charlwood (Surrey) Youth Section, Anne Roccia (Lancashire) Ladies, and Ian Davenport (Lancashire) Mens, With most of the national team competing for their county, the weekend was one of Pool played to the highest possible level.

Staffs beat Cornwall 23-16, and in another play-off Anthony Dixon won for Cleveland, but Neil Callingham, and Max Brooker won for Surrey to take the match 24-23. Ladies section started with champions Lancashire beaten 23-13 by Cleveland, Bucks beat Cambs 23-11, G.M.C. beat Staffs 23-19, and Kent thrashed Devon 23-8. The Youth matches always draw the large support with their exciting open play, and last years champions were stunned in their first match when they were beaten 23-15 by Leicestershire, Somerset beat Cleveland 23-17, Suffolk beat Northants 23-15, and in the other match Luke Bowry, and Jack Galloway won for Kent in a play-off with Lancs.

Men's B Winners Lancashire In the Mens A section champions London beat Northumberland 23-19, Staffs beat Lancs 23-12, Somerset beat Norfolk 2318, and in a three player play-off between Surrey and Northants, it was Graham Berruto, and Danny Smith who swayed it Northants way with Tom Kennedy winning one for Surrey.

Junior Winners West Midlands

In the B section Lancashire played champions London, it went to a play-off Adam Coppen took one for London, but Ian Harle, and Geoff Hadgett won the match for Lancs 24-23, other matches saw Norfolk beat Worcestershire 23-20,

In the second matches in “A” division, London were beaten by Staffs 23-17, and had to rely on a 23-17 win over Lancs to reach the semi-finals, Somerset beat Northants 23-13 to reach the semi, and then Northants beat Norfolk 23-14

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WORLDPOOL OO in the play-off to go into the semi, in the semis London showed their class again, and beat Somerset 23-18 to reach the final, the other semi saw Staffs beat Northants 23-16 . In the B section Staffs beat Norfolk 2310, Lancs beat Surrey 23-19 to reach the semi, in the play-off matches Cornwall pipped Norfolk 23-21, Surrey beat champions London by the same score. The Ladies section Cleveland eased into the semi’s beating Bucks 23-20, Kent beat G.M.C. 23-13, the other two places were taken by Bucks who beat Lancs 2314, and Staffs who beat G.M.C, 23-16 In the Youth Somerset beat Suffolk 2319, Leicestershire beat Kent by the same score, in the play-off matches Cleveland beat Suffolk 23-21, West Midlands had a 23-21 win over Kent, The Youth final saw West Midlands taking the first leg 7-4, followed by a 65 in the second leg to go 13-9 ahead at the halfway stage, Cleveland won the third leg 6-5 to put themselves back in the match, West Midlands then won five of the next six frames to retain their title 23-16. In the Ladies final Cleveland made a good start going 4-1 up, but Kent then won six in a row to take the leg 7-4, Cleveland edged the second 6-5, again Kent hit back with an 8-3 third leg win for a 20-13 lead, but Cleveland would not give in, Kent needing to fight all the way before winning 23-19.

In the Mens B Lancs had a good start with a 7-4 first leg win, followed by a 65 win in the second leg, but Surrey are real battlers, taking the third leg 7-4 to trail by the odd frame into the final leg, each game was won alternatively until Chris Charnley, and Kevin Calverley won the final two frames for Lancashire giving them a 23-21 win. The A final between two of the best sides in the country proved a real classic with Staffordshire edging the first leg 6-5, then repeating that score in the second, London turned the match in the third leg with an 8-3 win to lead 18-15 into the final leg, in a tense final leg, Rob Chalmers, and Joe Prince won for London, Staffs then had wins from James Croxton, Gareth Potts, Lee Hammersley, and Adam Davis to make it 20-19, Jack Pople made it 21-19, Lee Kendall 21-20, Andrew Breen 22-20, Darren Shone 2221, and Rupert Ward won the final frame for London to retain their title 23-21.

Ladies Winners Kent

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WORLDPOOL OO

EPA Ladies International Pool Tour - Event 1 Sue’s Super Seven World champion Sue Thompson won her seventh consecutive EPA Ladies Tour title, beating Collette Henriksen 7-2 in the first final of 2011. The duo shared the opening two frames before Thompson raced into a 5-1 lead. Welsh international Henriksen gained her only other success in frame seven before Thompson closed out her latest Tour triumph. En route to the final she defeated Anne Louise Arkle 5-2, Helen Littlewood 5-3 and newly qualified England International Sharon Wright 6-1.

Sue Thompson & Jordan Church of Jordans Pool Lounge (5-1), Julie Fane (5-2) and Jackie Baker 6-3 in the quarters. Her semi against Liesa Conlin was a close encounter up to 4-all before the eventual runner-up came through 6-4.

Coley takes Plate prize Number 12 seed Amy Coley again showed her promise by claiming the first plate prize of the season.

Collette Henriksen & Jordan Church Victory over Wright set-up a semi-final with third seed and English National champion, Carly Smith. Despite her recent good form Smith was no match for Thompson who cruised through 6-1. Henriksen felt she didn't hit top form during the weekend but still defeated: Amanda Booth

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After a second round, main event exit to Jackie Baker, Coley breezed past Lynne Pinches (4-1), Sarah Nicklin (4-2), Amanda Booth (5-0) and Fran Rogers (5-2), before an impressive 5-1 victory over number five seed Lyndsey Roberts in the final. Tour Director Shirley Jewkes was delighted by the opening Tour and also welcomed 13 new players: Amanda Booth, Carrie-Anne James, Emma Wilkinson, Fran Rogers, Helen Gurd, Helen Metcalfe, Holly Can, Katie Bonham, Keely Clarke, Lisa McGirr, Louise EtheringtonLynne Pinches and Sarah Ramsden.


WORLDPOOL OO Last 16: Henriksen bt Fane 5-2, Baker bt Dickson 5-4, Rooney bt Lunn 5-2, Conlin bt Taylor 5-3, Smith bt Cann 5-3, Henrick bt Fletcher 5-0, Wright bt Beauchamp 5-2, Thompson bt Littlewood 5-3. Quarter-finals: Henriksen bt Baker 6-3, Conlin bt Rooney 6-1, Smith bt Henrick 6-3, Thompson bt Wright 6-1. Semi-finals: Henriksen bt Conlin 6-4, Thompson bt Smith 6-1. Final: Thompson bt Henriksen 7-2.

Amy Coley - Plate Winner "It is wonderful to see new faces on the Tour and always a great pleasure to welcome back players returning from a break," said Jewkes. "The ladies game continues to grow and looking at the Tour results you can see how the standard has risen over the recent years. "There is great talent and some great characters." Results: Last 32: Collette Henriksen bt Amanda Booth 5-1, Julie Fane bt Emma Senior 5-1, Jackie Baker bt Amy Coley 5-4, Sharon Dickson bt Sarah Nicklin 5-3, Michelle Rooney bt Anne Taylor 5-1, Sharon Lunn bt Theresa Sheridan 53, Barbara Taylor bt Sonya Chapman 5-0, Liesa Conlin bt Hazel Dabrowski 5-0, Carly Smith bt Donna Elliott 5-1, Holly Cann bt Jodie Holt 5-4, Sue Fletcher bt Liz Disney 5-1, Katie Henrick bt Michelle Brown 5-1, Sharon Wright bt Lyndsey Roberts 5-2, Amy Beauchamp bt Joe Coe 5-3, Helen Littlewood bt Julie Mackintosh 5-3, Sue Thompson bt Anne Louise Arkle 5-2.

Plate Last 16: Tina Wilcox bt Sonya Chapman 4-2, Fran Rogers bt Anne Taylor 4-2, Amy Coley bt Sarah Nicklin 4-2, Amanda Booth bt Emma Senior 41, Julie Mackintosh bt Anne Louise Arkle 4-1, Lyndsey Roberts bt Jo Coe 4-2, Michelle Brown bt Liz Disney 4-1, Jodie Holt bt Katie Bonham 4-2. Quarter-finals: Rogers bt Wilcox 5-0, Coley bt Booth 5-0, Roberts bt Mackintosh 5-1, Brown bt Holt 5-1. Semi-finals: Coley bt Rogers 5-2, Roberts bt Brown 5-1. Final: Coley bt Roberts 5-1. Full results, videos and lots more can be found on the official websit www.epaladiestour.co.uk

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WORLDPOOL OO TERRIFIC TRENT IN THE FLOW AT INTERLEAGUE FINALS It was business as usual for Staffordshire’s Trent Trophies as they eased to victory against first time finalists Northwich A in the National Interleague winner’s event held at Vauxhall Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth. The event starts with the top 96 teams in England divided into groups of three. The winner of each group then goes forward to the last 32 knockout stages. And there was one section that caught everyone’s attention when the draw was published-the group of death with: Trent Trophies, Dawley and Ipswich.

Bradley Wilson were on stage drawing out the pairings for the last 32. They were blissfully unaware of the significance of what they were doing. The same can’t be said of the various captains who were eagerly watching and waiting to see who their likely opponents were going to be. Avoiding one of the ‘big’ teams in the last 32 for as long as possible is one of the musts when reaching the knockout stage.

All three teams were previous finalists. So, two sides, more than capable of winning the title, would be knocked out before the knockout phase! The group could have been more interesting if the first match between Shropshire’s Dawley and Suffolk’s finest had produced a winner. Instead, the two sides fought out a 9-9 draw. That result was of no real use to either team and played into the hands of Trent Trophies. In the next match. Trent Trophies demolished Dawley 13-5 to all but secure their path to the last 32. In the third game Ipswich had to beat Trent Trophies and by a large score to stop them progressing. Faced with an all but impossible task, Ipswich never got to grips with Trent Trophies’ attack and could only manage four frames before Trent Trophies reached the winning line. While Trent Trophies demolished Ipswich, two young men were deciding the fate of some of the best Interleague teams in the country. London’s James Coffey and Nottingham’s

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Trent Trophies Int. League Winners Meltis Club from Bedfordshire would have fancied their chances of making an impression but drew Trent Trophies. And that was the kiss of death. Meltis didn’t really trouble Trent Trophies though they took six frames off them before being put to the sword. Meanwhile, Northwich probably would have enjoyed an easier draw than Preston South – another team that has reached a few finals in their time. However, Northwich put in a fine performance and pulled of a remarkable win to secure their passage into the last 16. Trent Trophies kept their momentum going with an emphatic 10-4 win over Derbyshire’s Dinnington. As Trent Trophies were


WORLDPOOL OO removing Dinnington from their list of hazards of contenders, Northwich were taking care of Trent Trophies B.

seen in the 30 years of the event. Poor old Midland Railway ran out of steam very quickly. They lost frame after frame and eventually went down 9-1. With the final moving on to three tables sometimes it can all be a bit of a blur if you are not ready for it. Trent Trophies of course are well used to it but for Northwich this was their first appearance in a National Final. Trent Trophies came out with all guns blazing and virtually killed the contest off within the first six frames.

Northwich “A” Int. League Runners-up In the quarter finals, there was no let up from Trent Trophies as they crushed Hammersmith 9-3. No team enjoys losing but they certainly want to go down fighting. And Hammersmith couldn’t mount a serious challenge-a result that probably said more about the power of Trent Trophies A than it did about Hammersmith’s weaknesses. Northwich kept on track for their first final by taking out the local boys South Norfolk 10-7. This was an excellent result for Northwich as, over the years, the Norfolk’s boys have always proved to be a difficult team. The event was now down to four teams. Trent Trophies A took on the tougher of the survivors, Sun Valley, who have won the Interleague title before.

Northwich rallied slightly and managed to notch up four frames but Trent Trophies were in no mood to be nice and rattled of the remaining frames to run out 9-4 winners. This means that Trent Trophies are running out of space to list their achievements and in a nice gesture Gareth Potts gave his winners’ trophy to James Coffey – the 10-year-old who had made the draw that saw Trent Trophies remain the world’s greatest Interleague team by some distance. National Interleague final results Last 16: Corn Exchange bt PJ's Stourbridge 10-7, Sun Valley bt Bilston Super League 10-7, Trent Trophies A bt Dinnington 10-4, Hammersmith A bt Braintree A 11-9, Midland Railway bt Accrington HIPL 10-5, Leicester bt Chesterfield 10-4, Northwich A bt Trent Trophies B 10-8, South Norfolk bt Walsall 105. Quarter-finals: Sun Valley bt Corn Exchange 10-8, Trent Trophies A bt Hammersmith A 103, Midland Railway bt Leicester 10-8, Northwich A bt South Norfolk 10-7.

But like the rest, they had no real answer to Trent Trophies and could only muster five frames before the champions’ elect reached the magical nine frames.

Semi-finals: Trent Trophies A bt Sun Valley 10-5, Northwich A bt Midland Railway 10-1.

Northwich took on Leicester’s Midland Railway in one of the most one sided semi-finals ever

Final: Trent Trophies A bt Northwich A 10-4.

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WORLDPOOL OO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW SPONSORSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT EXPECTED SOON With only three months to go before the start of the World 8-Ball Pool Championships there is still no final decision on who will sponsor the event. Discussions have been ongoing since January and an announcement is expected within days. After many years support from leading companies, including Embassy, 888.com, Foster’s, we understand another major brand name has expressed interest in the championships, which hopefully will be confirmed shortly. If it doesn’t materialise then the English Pool Association has formulated a Plan “B”.

seeds enter, including defending champion Mick Hill. So, this is surely a great incentive for anyone fortunate to gain entry at the Regional Qualifiers. There will be 20 venues in the National qualifiers. (See page 46-47 for details) All aspects of the championships will be as per last year, including Tiered Seating and T.V. Arena. If the championships are not televised, it is planned to “Stream” live on the World Wide Web.

With or without a sponsor, there is no doubt that the Barcelo Imperial Hotel, Blackpool will host this year’s World Championships starting on Saturday, June 25 with the final stages of the National qualifiers which will be played to a new format.

Prize monies will still be a total of £ 26,000 if “Streamed” and £ 30,000 if “Televised.”

In 2010, qualifiers joined the championships at the early stages and many of them fell by the way side having only played one match in the main arena.

Mick Hill aims to join an exclusive club of one when he gets to Blackpool for this year's World 8-Ball Championships.

This year there will be 28 qualifiers who will start their World Championships in the main arena on June 25 where they will play a roundrobin format giving each player several matches.

Hill defeated Gareth Potts in last year's excellent, high quality final to claim his second men's singles crown.

The top four from each of the groups will progress to the next stage when the first round of the men's individual event commences whilst the other competitors will leave the event. All qualifiers involved in the round-robin stage will receive accommodation at the Imperial for this part of the competition. As an additional prize, the final 16 qualifiers will also compete (on June 25) in a knockout event with the winner receiving the massive prize of a place in the last 48 stage of the championships. This is just one round away from where the

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THREE THE MAGIC NUMBER FOR HILL?

But it was a long time between drinks for the West Midlands born star`who first lifted the trophy in 2004. In doing so he became only one of five players to win the title twice after Potts, Jason Twist, Rob McKenna and Chris Melling. Potts is out on his own with three and Hill has his sights set on equalling that total while also becoming the second player to successfully retain his crown. The women's singles has almost become the personal property of Sue Thompson. The Hull based star has an aura about her that intimidated many opponents before they even get to the table. Thompson is a 10-time world champion, 15 years after taking the title for the first time.


WORLDPOOL OO Northern Ireland's Emma Cunningham has suffered more than most at Thompson's cue in recent years. They've contested six finals and Thompson has won the lot bar one. And after winning the European Championship in Malta, Cunningham will be confident of finally getting the better of her left handed rival. The individual tournaments may be the blue riband events but the team competitions are just as closely contested. And it promises to be just the same in 2011. Wales' men inflicted defeat on favourites England at the Europeans and are now looking to emulate their 1998 and 2002 winning squads. Indeed, it could prove one of the most open championships of recent years. Australia are sending their strongest squad for many years and the return of the South Africans add an unpredictable note. Kenya and Uganda won't be challenging for the title but their participation adds to the cosmopolitan nature of the tournament. England ladies want to get their trophy back from Wales. The English cue queens were stunned by Northern Ireland in the 2010 semi-finals while Wales defeated Australia before going on to win the title. London teenager Frank Costello returns to defend his junior prize and it might not be long before the 17-year-old is challenging for senior honours. All in all it promises to be another fascinating championship. And you can catch up with all the news and results at www.wepf.org KENDALL BACK TO SKIPPER ENGLAND BUT POTTS AND DAVIS ABSENT England's chances of retaining their world team title in June have suffered a double set back.

Stoke pair Gareth Potts and Adam Davis have decided not to take up their international places. And that gives hope to other nations including recently crowned European champions Wales and Republic of Ireland-the only team other than England to be crowned champions since 2003. However, skipper Lee Kendall, who has played in every edition of the world championships, is back to lead the squad. Kendall was one of six players assured of their places along with: Gareth Hibbert, Neil Toms, John Rowe, Ben Flack and Ian Hubbard. The four players to join them are former world junior champion Jordan Church, Chris Gill, Jack Pople and Darren Price.

JAMES THE THIRD James Croxton won six matches, including the scalp of 1998 world champion, Carl Morris, to qualify for the final stages of the World Championships for a third successive year. The Newcastle under Lyme cueman was one of four players to make it through to Blackpool from nearly 300 players who started out at Vauxhall Holiday Park. Last 16: Neil Raybone (Willenhall) bt Richard Twomey (Ipswich) 6-1, Rob Chalmers (Longfield) bt Kevin Holland (Rochdale) 6-3, Robert Harding (Stoke on Trent) bt Matt Brierley (GMC) 6-3, James Croxton (Newcastle under Lyme) bt Ian Duffy (Telford) 6-4, Trevor Sims (Bedford) bt Mathew Schofield (Walsden) 6-0, Jason Grigor (Helston) bt Ian Davenport (Wigan) 7-6, Jason Hill (Preston) bt Nick Wollerton (Barnsley) 6-5, Steve Robertshaw (Leicester) bt Lee Pickard (Sneinton) 6-1. Final qualifying round: Raybone bt Chalmers 7-4, Croxton bt Harding 7-3, Sims bt Grigor 7-3, Robertshaw bt Hill 73.

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WORLDPOOL OO

AUSSIES SEND STRONG SQUAD

TO REGAIN TEAM TITLE Rarely does any Australian team go 15 years in their chosen sport between world titles (writes Joe Fanto). And that’s why this year’s Aussie men’s pool team travelling to Blackpool for the WEPF World Championships is determined to show its true colours.

The Australian women’s side, winners in 2007, will be represented by:Renata Delahunty (captain), Lauren Jelly, Nicole Fielding, Julie McEwan, Tania McClure and Kolbe Poole. The team manager is Cheryl Congram.

The men in green and gold are looking to repeat the feat of our 1996 world championship winning team.

Unfortunately two of our top three selected players are not able to travel: 2010 Australian champion and World Championship semifinalist, Elise Mabbott, and 2009 Australian title winner, Marg Gorski.

Since then the trophy has always eluded them despite a couple of near misses.

However, it is still a strong team and expected do very well.

Tough competition, in particular from England, has had a lot to do with it.

The Australian Junior Team were semifinalists last year and expect to go one better by making the final in 2011 to give themselves a chance for a second world title. Their one and only World victory came in 1997.

However, due to the excessive costs to each individual that makes an Australian side each year, it is rare for us to send our best team. Indeed, it costs each player approximately $4,000 - $4,500 AUS (£2,500 - £3,000) to represent their country at a World Championship in England. However, in Surfers Paradise, Australia 2004 we did become World Cup winners, defeating England in the final. Sadly, this was the only time the event was held. In 2011, however, the first eight selected players have committed to travel, hence all 8Ball followers in Australia are expecting big things from their men’s team in Blackpool. That team then is: Brenton Collier (2010 Australian Champion), Ron Kelly, Ben Nunan, Stev Woods, Paul Hancock, Jake McCartney, Justin Sajich and Marc Robertson. Marc, brother of reigning world snooker champion, Neil Robertson, is captain of a team managed by Warren Ross.

16

The Australian Junior team is: Luke Foster (2011 Australian champion and captain), Jason Hawker, Dane Van Kempen, Mathew Gartrell, Luke Anglessey and Nick Young. The team manager is Shane Congdon. The Australian Over 50’s team rate themselves a good chance for their second title, but unfortunately John Lehman, 2010 world champion will not be able to travel. The over 50’s team will be Terry Bond (captain), Shaun Baker and John Howson. Eight ball Pool in Australia is enjoying great success and the game played using WEPF World Rules is by far the largest participated cue sport in the country. The World Championships are held in high esteem. And all elite players aspire to wear the National green jacket and Australian vest to pit their skills and represent their country, regardless of the financial sacrifice required.


WORLDPOOL OO It’s also a spring board for our National Championships- the main event on the calendar for the last 27 years. Also players take great pride in representing their State or Territory and great rivalry exists between States. The game in Australia is run by the Australian Eight-Ball Federation and a member incorporated administrative body in each of the eight States and Territories. National titles rotate around Australia each year with events for Men, Women, Over 50’s and a separate special event for Juniors in the under 12, 15 and 18 category.

Brenton Collier - Australian Champion

In 2010 the event was in Adelaide, South Australia and in 2011 they will be in Sydney, New South Wales.

History of State Team Champions in Australia Current Men Team Champions: Victoria Current Women Team Champions: Victoria Current Over 50's Champions: Victoria Juniors: Tasmania

Current Australian Singles Champions Men: Brenton Collier (South Australia) Women: Elise Mabbott (South Australia) Over 50's: Russell Youlten (South Australia)

Juniors Under 18: Luke Foster (Western Australia) Under15: Vijay Randall (Queensland) Under 12: Hayden Goode (Queensland)

Number of titles won

South Australia Victoria Western Australia Queensland Tasmania

Men

Women

15 5 3 2 1

9 4 3 2 1

All readers of WORLD POOL magazine are welcome to visit the Australian Eight-Ball Federation Website on www.aebf.com.au for a comprehensive history of results and statistics on Eight ball Pool in Australia.

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WORLDPOOL OO

FLEMING CAN’T TAKE THE MIKE CLARK CROWNED SCOTTISH CHAMP Mike Clark avenged last year's final defeat on his way to becoming BIS Salamis Scottish Open champion at Aberdeen Rileys. The experienced and prolific Scottish international knocked out 2010 conqueror Pat McCarron in the semifinals. And Clark, who backed himself at 10-1 prior to the tournament, then defeated Under 21 international and IPA Tour player, Ryan Fleming 9-5 in the final. Clark started the final strongly, gradually edging away from Fleming. Indeed, his experience and memories of last year's final defeat to McCarron helping him concentrate on doing the job. It wasn't mistakes costing Fleming the game, just the clinical finishing of Clark keeping him away from the table. Halfway through it was clear there was only going to be one winner. Clark's triumph ended an excellent day of pool which began with an early shock. Region 4 Tour winner, Peter Fyffe, surprised front-runner Richard Craddock in the prelims, demolishing him 4-0 before the bar had opened!. First round victories of note included veteran Phil Craig Snr's victory over another favourite, Shaun Wishart while former World Junior and Under 21 Champ McCarron defeated Thomas Bannon who was named player of the tournament at the U21 European Championships.

18

Final - Ryan Fleming v Mike Clark Fyffe met his match against Darren Matthew but only after the three-time world junior champion clinched a decider. Big games in the last 32 saw Chris Corcoran demolish Scottish captain, Adam Macleod, 6-1, while Matthew beat international team mate, Martin McIntosh,6-4. Dundee's Fleming brothers went head to head, with Ryan edging out Marc by the odd frame in eleven. McCarron brushed aside former Scotland skipper, Alex 'Zod' Stephen 6-2 and Clark saw off Mark Oaten. When play resumed at the last 16 stage on the following day, Corcoran continued where he'd left off the previous session, blitzing Phil Craig Jnr 6-2. Fleming enjoyed a great 6-3 win over the world number 15 Matthew and McCarron stepped up a gear with a


WORLDPOOL OO business like 6-1 demolition of Paul Simpson. Lindsay Ahern beat brother Derek 6-2 to set up an encounter with McCarron. Clark comfortably defeated Raymond Mackenzie 6-2 to set up a tie with the in form Ian Daniel. McCarron kicked off the quarter finals with an impressive 7-1 win over Ahern who only managed to touch the cue ball twice in the first five frames.

in the final against Fleming. *Phil Craig Snr won the Over 40s Scottish Open, defeating Alex 'Zod' Stephen in the final. FEDERATION FLOURISHES The Scottish Eightball Pool Federation goes from strength to strength with a record amount of entries for the Scottish Open, the creation of a new region and both a team and an individual semi final finish in the EEPF European Championships. The SEPF has broken into the blackball dominated Western area with the creation of SEPF Region 5 (Scotland West & Islands).

Headed up, initially by the Oban and District Pool League, they hope to begin their six event tour TEAM SCOTLAND 2011 European Final series in the summer with the top ranked player at the end of the In a classic encounter, Phil Craig Snr rolled season gaining automatic entry to the the clock back 20 years to gain a 7-5 win Scotland Squad for 2012. over Corcoran whilst Fleming cruised past Kev Coutts. The tie of the round saw In Malta, the Under 21 Team reached the Clark raise his game to overcome Ellon European Championships semi-finals and based Daniel 7-5. were unlucky to lose to the hosts who they defeated twice in the group stage. In the semis, Fleming squared up to Phil Craig Snr who was playing his best pool The team, which features IPA Tour for years. Fleming held his cool to win the players, Marc and Ryan Fleming are now match 8-5. setting their sights on Blackpool this summer with the aim of returning home In a repeat of last year's final Clark as World Champions. defeated McCarron, 8-6. Both produced a high standard but it was Clark's surgical Gary Simpson, Scotland's only precision whilst under pressure that representative in the wheelchair event, swung the balance. also reached the semi finals in Malta And he continued to show his best form before losing to Theresa Sheridan.

19


WORLDPOOL OO Wales - The Champions’ Report

The “Dragons” Roar The 2011 European championships were held in Malta from February 19th to 26th and Team Wales took a strong squad as normal. The men’s “A” team at last lifted the European Championship trophy after a dominant performance in Malta. Wales have contested three of the last four finals and lost to England on every occasion, but not this time Wales won the group stages easily after beat the host nation Malta 9 – 6, followed by the holders and current World Champions England 11 – 4. This seemed to spur Wales on as they won all group matches to record an 8 out of 8 performance. In the semi final Wales took on surprise qualifiers Belgium, who sneaked into the semis as a result of Wales beating Ireland in the last group game. Once again Wales were totally dominant and won the match easily by 8 frames to 2. The final was to be against England who came from 7 – 4 down in the semis against Malta to win 8 – 7. The final was full of drama as it started with two very long tactical frames both being won by England for a 2 – 0 lead. Wales however bounced back as Russell Burgess cleared the table for his win while Wayne Smith capitalise on a missed black by Lee Kendall to also clear the table. This seemed to give Wales the belief as they then ran the next four frames very quickly to lead 6 – 2. Gareth Potts then dished Paul Hawkins to reduce the lead to 6 – 3. Next up was Oly Bale against Gareth Potts and after a poor positional shot Gareth left Oly Bale a chance to clear and he did in double quick time. Tom Cousins now had the chance to win the title for Wales from the break against Lee Kendall. Tom Broke well but the table was a

20

Welsh Team Wayne Smith (Captain), Oly Bale, Russell Burgess, Tom Cousins, Paul Hawkins & Paul Penhale

mess and no chance of a clearance. That’s what we all thought, as Tom started to pull out shot after shot to leave a double on his last yellow for position on the black in the middle bag. In it went and he rolled the black in, the place went mad with delight as all of Malta and Wales started to celebrate the victory. A great run by the Welsh lads and a credit to the nation as usual. Tom Cousins and Paul Hawkins were top of the averages for Wales and the whole event as they lifted player of the tournament with 19 wins from 24 frames. All five welsh players were in the top six places of the rankings, showing how dominant they were. So Wales now look to the World Championships in July for what promises to be a show down between the two best sides in the World. Further information euro8ball.com

can

be

found

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WORLDPOOL OO Keltic Cup 2011 - Northern Ireland v Wales The Keltic Cup tournament was held at Racks Pool Club, Balleymoney, Northern Ireland on Fri18th – Sun.20th March Weekend started with Team Wales taking on local league sides, followed by Welsh professionals Wayne Smith/Oly Bale performing an exhibition routine to round the night off. INDIVIDUAL EVENT commenced Sat. when players were drawn into groups, two qualifying each group. All the international players came through to leave the following line up. Quarter Finals Russell Burgess bt Paul Penhale 6-0, Oly Bale bt Gareth Johnstone 6-4, Ryan Craig bt Nigel Craig 6-4, Wayne Smith bt Thomas Morrow 6-1 Semi Finals First semi final saw good friends Oly Bale take on Russell Burgess. The match did not last long as Oly took every chance that came his way. Russell made few mistakes but lost 6 – 3. Other semi final went all the way as both Wayne Smith and Ryan Craig traded frames from the break. Ryan went into a 2 – 0 lead but Wayne dug deep and responded in quick fire fashion to level the match. They both then traded frames before the match was poised at 5 – 5 with Ryan at the table, he made a basic error to let Wayne in for the victory at 6 – 5. Final The final was to be an all Welsh battle between the Welsh captain Wayne Smith and Number one welsh player Oly Bale. The match was always tight with both players taking the first opportunity every time to clear the table. The scores were level at 5 – 5 when Oly Bale took out a massive finish to lead 6 – 5. Oly then broke and had game on. He quickly cleared the table but missed a pressure long pot on his last ball to leave Wayne the chance to level. Wayne steadily took them out to level the match at 6 – 6. Smith broke in the final frame and potted four balls to leave the easiest of finishes to take the title of Keltic Cup Individual Champion 2011 by 7 frames to 6. Doubles Sunday saw the start of the scotch doubles event with seeded players being drawn with local players to give all players a chance. The final was contested between local players Gareth Johnstone / Jordan Craig and Wayne Smith / Marc Cochrane. It was a quality final with every player playing well but it was Wayne and Marc who came out

on top with 3 total clearances in a row. Wayne/Marc bt Gareth/Jordan 3 frames to 2. Keltic Cup Wales were in a confident mood after recently picking up the crown of European 8 ball pool champions and were determined to retain the Keltic cup for the second year. The match started well for Wales as they went into a 4 – 1 lead with every player winning their frames in the first session except Paul Penhale who lost to Thomas Morrow. Northern Ireland bounced straight back when Thomas Morrow beat Wayne Smith and Nigel Craig taking out Russell Burgess. The score then quickly went to 6 – 3 with wins for Paul Penhale and Oly Bale. Wales ended the second session 7 – 3 up when European player of the tournament Paul Hawkins dished from the break against Gregory Feeney. Wayne smith then added another frame as he beat Chris Mulholland, but again Northern Ireland bounced back with Nigel Craig recording a win over Oly Bale. The match was finally ended when Russell Burgess, Paul Penhale and Paul Hawkins quickly cleared for a well fought 11 – 4 victory to Wales. Thank you to Nigel and Nicola Craig for hosting such an excellent event, the venue is a credit to Northern Ireland with quality Supreme tables throughout. Wales now look forward to the World Championships in Blackpool, aiming to become champions of the world, making it a double for the mens team with their recent European Championship win, plus the Wales Ladies looking to retain their World title won in 2010.

Wales Ladies - World Champions 2010

21


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WELCOME TO THE TOUR 2

WELCOME TO TOUR TWO additional monies that come in will be used to increase the prize funds.

As always Tour Two is the players’ favourite, combining a trip to Hinckley Island Hotel along with the ever popular Festival of Pool competitions.

Tour Two also sees a qualifier for the World Championships with four members receiving entry to the individual event and three nights’ accommodation.

We start with the Tour and then the Club event for the amateurs plus U.K. Professional Challenge.

But the real excitement for this Tour is the introduction of World Pool magazine which will include our own Propool Magazine along with articles from countries around the world.

Starting on Saturday, we see the introduction of the Open event for Festival of Pool players and to top it off we have the ever popular Barcelo Doubles competition involving all of the entrants to the weekend.

Our partners in this venture are the English Pool Association, supported by the W.E.P.F.

And just for good measure we also have the World Championship Qualifiers for four places at the Blackpool finals in June.

Not only can you read the printed copy here at the Tour but thousands can now visit our own website www.propool.co.uk and read the entire magazine FREE OF CHARGE.

It is good to see that the recession is not causing us too much problem with Festival of Pool numbers which are up again.

We have opened a channel in all areas of the world where pool enthusiasts can read how the Professionals are doing.

However, this is not surprising. For only £120, players receive two nights’ accommodation plus entry into the £4,200 Barcelo Open and the £7,400 Barcelo doubles.

This is already proving to be of interest to advertisers and potential sponsors who want to reach the vast number of 8-Ball Pool Players throughout the world.

It’s also good to see previous Tour members and new faces returning to play in the Festival which is, without doubt, the number one amateur event on the pool calendar.

Now, there is no need to look at other cue sport magazines, which have only an occasional mention of our sport. We now have our very own magazine dedicated only to Pool players.

Entry figures are looking good. We have received more entrants since Tour One which gives us an opportunity to further increase the prize fund from Tour Three onwards.

Details of how to contact our Editor, Trevor Baxter, are shown in this magazine.

Indeed, there will be an increase on both Tour and Club events. Exact figures will be announced after the executive meeting at Tour Two. As with our policy since the Tour started, we are a non-profit making association. Any

Looking forward to another great Tour. See you at Barcelo Hinckley. George Harwood Chairman I.P.A. 29



PROFESSIONAL TROPHY

HARRISON HAS A CUNNING PLAN Phil Harrison knows what it takes to beat three-time former world champion Gareth Potts.

eight of the Professional Trophy. He trailed Derek Murphy 4-0 before reeling off eight straight frames for victory.

And in the final of the Professional Trophy at Leicester, Harrison's master plan worked a treat.

“Fortunately for me, Derek made a couple of mistakes and let me back in the match,” added Harrison.

The Cambridgeshire window cleaner won 9-5 to capture the final title held over from 2010.

“Then I started to play better, beat Neil Raybone in the semis and went into the final without any pressure.

“A lot of players get down hearted when they play Gareth because they know they don’t get many shots,” explained Harrison.

“Hopefully, now I can go on and win a few more this year."

“And he has got that little edge over people at the moment. “But as long as you realise that from the start, then you can beat him. “Gareth does give you some chances and when you get those opportunities, you must take them. “And that’s what I did in this final.” However, the 2009 world champion admits his victory came as something of a surprise. “I always seem to start the year badly. Because of my work load and looking after the youngster, I don't get much time to practice.

Phil Harrison Professional Trophy Winner Professional Trophy Results:

“I seem to get better as the year goes on. So, to win this tournament in January came as something of a shock.

Last 16: Potts bt Twist 8-4, Davis bt Munro 86, Toms bt Church 8-6, Hibbott bt Brewer 8-4, Murphy bt Davies 8-5, Harrison bt Kendall 8-3, Raybone bt Macdonald 8-4, Croxton bt Burgess 8-5.

“It’s probably only my fourth or fifth professional title.

Quarter-finals: Potts bt Davis 8-2, Hibbott bt Toms 8-7, Harrison bt Murphy 8-4, Raybone bt Croxton 8-1.

“I’ve been in loads more finals but usually ended up losing them.

Semi-finals: Potts bt Hibbott 8-6, Harrison bt Raybone 8-5.

“And for two or three years, I really struggled to get past the quarter-finals of a pro event.”

Final: Harrison bt Potts 9-5.

Harrison almost came a cropper in the last 31


WORLD EIGHTBALL MASTERS £19,000 PRIZE FUND 2nd & 3rd JULY 2011 FINALS – IMPERIAL HOTEL, BLACKPOOL ENTRY FORM FOR THE USE OF I.P.A. MEMBERS ONLY CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES: FRIDAY 3RD JUNE 2011 This is your opportunity to gain direct entry into the Grand Finals of the World Eightball Pool Masters to be held at the IMPERIAL HOTEL, Blackpool on the 2ND & 3RD July 2011. Entry:

This entry form is for the use of I.P.A. members only, Open to Professional and Club level members. Entry forms to be sent, with a cheque/postal order, made payable to IPA, to the address below. Direct entry to the Grand Finals starting on Saturday 2ND July – ENTRY FEE £ 40. Rules: Played to World 8-ball Pool Rules. Play: Grand Final limited entry, play commences 9 a.m. on Saturday 2ND July with the Final on Sunday 3rd July. No denims or trainers please. E.P.A. Dress code will be enforced. Venue: Imperial Hotel, Blackpool, North Promenade, Blackpool, Lancs. England. Regulations: All players must agree to abide by the Rules and Regulations of the event. The Tournament Directors decisions will be final. Members of the International Pool Players Association can only enter via I.P.A. Prize Fund: Champion £ 5,000 – Runner-up £ 2,000 – Semi-finals £ 1,000 each – Quarters-finals £ 500 each Last 16 £ 300 each – last 32 150 each – Last 64 £ 75 each --- PLUS Plate event £ 1,100. (optional entry) PLEASE DETACH AND RETURN

COMPETITION ENTRY FORM 2011 World Eightball Pool Masters NAME ………………………...............………….. SIGN ……….………........………………….. (BLOCK CAPITALS)

ADDRESS ……………………………………………………………………………...................... ………………………………………………......................………………………………………… COUNTY ……….........................…………… POST CODE …………...........………………… TEL. NO. ……………….......……………. EMAIL …....................……………………………… Complete the entry form and send with a Cheque/Postal order for £40 (payable to the I.P.A.) send to:Tournament Office: 20, South View, Bamford, Rochdale, Lancs. Tel. 01706-642770 CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES – FRIDAY 3RD JUNE 2011.


Mick Hill 2010 World Masters Champion


TOUR 1 REPORT

POTTS BECOMES RECORD BREAKER “And I am really pleased for him.

Gareth Potts established a new record for Strachan IPA Tour victories thanks to an opening campaign win over Lee Kendall.

“I know he was disappointed by his form at the end of last year.

Potts prevailed 8-5 in this all-Potteries clash to increase his number of tour titles to 12.

“He was losing to players he would normally expect to beat. I think it was either 'put in more practice' or retire.

That's one more than Keith Brewer and three ahead of Mick Hill and Darren Appleton.

“Lee decided to put in the hours and it seems to have paid off.

And Potts has chalked up his dozen wins in just seven years.

“As for me, I hope to continue playing well this year, win more titles and keep breaking records."

“It’s a big achievement for me,” said Potts after defeating a resurgent Kendall.

Tour One Results:

“And hopefully I have got a few more left in me yet.”

Last 32: Frank Costello bt Phil Harrison 7-5, Craig Waddingham bt Ronan McCarthy 7-4, Lee Kendall bt Neil Toms 7-3, Karl Sutton bt Nathan Bridges 7-3, Rob Chilton bt James Croxton 73, Jason Twist bt Liam Farrell 7-6, Keith Brewer bt Dean Anderson 7-3, Marc Farnsworth bt Clint I’Anson 7-2, Mick Hill bt Adam Davis 7-6, Ben Flack bt Ashley Radford 7-3, Wayne Smith bt Ben Davies 7-1, Steve Munro bt Tom Cousins 7-6, Lee Clough bt Mark Thrussell 7-2, George Reeves bt Carl Morris 7-5, Jordan Church bt Peter Mullaney 7-5, Gareth Potts bt Russell Burgess 7-4.

Potts has triumphed in at least one Tour every season since 2004 apart from a barren year in 2006. And he certainly earned his latest success, avenging his world final defeat by Mick Hill in the semi-finals. “I actually had a real tough draw all the way through,” says Potts, whose close rival Phil Harrison lost 7-5 in the last 32 to Frank Costello.

“I was 4-1 down and took out a big finish to get to 4-2. That was a big turning point.

Last 16: Waddingham bt Costello 7-5, Kendall bt Sutton 7-1, Chilton bt Twist 7-6, Farnsworth bt Brewer 7-6, Hill bt Flack 7-2, Munro bt Smith 7-2, Clough bt Reeves 7-4, Potts bt Church 74.

“I started to play really well after that and fortunately Mick missed his last ball in the decider to let me in.”

Quarter-finals: Kendall bt Waddingham 7-6, Chilton bt Farnsworth 7-5, Hill bt Munro 7-2, Potts bt Clough 7-4.

While Potts beat Hill 8-7, England skipper Kendall rolled back the years to beat Rob Chilton 8-4 in the other semi.

Semi-finals: Kendall bt Chilton 8-4, Potts bt Hill 8-7.

“It’s never easy playing someone like Lee who I know so well,” agreed Potts.

Final: Potts bt Kendall 8-5.

“But the match with Mick was of a real high standard.

34


Lee Kendall Tour 1 runner-up


REFEREES CORNER

ENGLISH POOL REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION We are "the men and women in the middle" who make sure the rules of the game are observed by the players and spectators alike. We referee frames from local league pool to high profile events like the World Championships.

with annual membership fees set accordingly. Joining the EPRA In order to become a member of our Association prospective candidates have to complete a written and practical exam set by our Association.

We referee pool for a number of bodies: World Eightball Pool Federation European 8Ball Pool Federation Int. Professional Pool Players Association English Pool Association CIU Clubs for Young People

Why you might ask do we have an exam set so hard that only a handful of people ever pass. Our view is that we regard quality higher than quantity. Our referees are without doubt among the best in the refereeing world and they are the envy of the rest of the World.

A history of the EPRA In the late summer/early autumn of 1980 the Secretary of the English Pool Association (EPA) made it known to its member leagues that they needed qualified referees.

Our Association classes all referees in bands according to experience and accumulated knowledge both of the rules and events, the bands are S and A through to E. E grade referees are the ones who have passed a short multiple choice exam. D grade referees are the ones who have just passed the main exam and are learning the ropes or have sat the exam just to say "I am a qualified referee". The next three grades relate to varying levels of ability. The pinnacle of a referee’s ambition is to be classed as an A grade referee. At this level you could well find yourself being asked the referee at the World Championships or a whole host of other professional events.

The Secretary went on to say that they were looking to run competitions with entry fees and prize money, so qualified Referees would be essential. The Home Internationals were due to be held in the November, and the EPA was expected to supply the Referees. In order to fulfil this need, the EPA decreed that an examination was to be held at the Crest Hotel Coventry on 4th October 1980. The top four Referees would be invited to officiate at the Home Internationals. They, along with the others passing the examination, would form an Association of Referees.

All referees are constantly monitored to make sure they are at the top of the level to which they referee at, and to ensure that our Association's standards as a whole do no drop from the exceptionally high level we have set ourselves, be that level local league or the World Championships.

The examination took place with 33 candidates, 13 of these were successful, and each one received a letter of congratulations and a certificate of merit. From these 13, the English Pool Referees Association (EPRA) was formed.

To find out more about the EPRA please see out website www.epra8ball.org.uk

The first General Meeting of the EPRA was held in November 1981. As the EPA expanded its influence, it formed a structure throughout England which matches the EPA regional structure.

If you would like to ask any questions about the EPRA or about the playing rules of the World Eight Ball Association, please email rules@epra8ball.org.uk. A selection of your questions will be answered in the next issue of this magazine.

The EPRA decided to introduce a grading structure based upon experience and ability, 36


EVENT REPORT

I.P.A. QUALIFIERS AT THE EUROPEANS IN MALTA IPA qualifiers Carl Morris and Steve Thompson certainly made the most of their passage to the European Championships in Malta. And the duo flew the flag superbly for the IPA in the face of some top class opposition. Former world champion Carl Morris went all the way to the final before losing by a deciding frame to local hero Clayton Attard. T h e I PA’s o t h e r re p re s e n t a t i v e , S t e v e Thompson, reached the last 16 only to lose to former World Junior champion, Jordan Church - another prominent IPA player. At one stage, both players suggested there would be two qualifiers in the final which would have been some result. However, congratulations to both our entries. They did us proud and also enjoyed a relaxing week away from the table in the beautiful surrounds of St. Pauls Bay, staying at the 4-star Dolmen Hotel. Steve played against five different nationalities in his progress to the last 16, starting with a 65 win against Zach Taylor of Wales followed by a 6-2 defeat of Scotland’s Alan Scott. In the second round he faced a Tour opponent, Charly Verwaerde (France), but came out on top 6-4.

Steve then enjoyed a great 6-3 win against Chris Tabone of Malta who had been one of the title favourites.With a bit more good fortune he might have gone onto the quarters. However, Church (England), ranked 21 on the I.P.A. Tour, just took the deciding frame. Our other contender, Carl Morris, started with a 6-2 win against Stuart Campbell (Scotland) and then defeated Arnaud Viard of France 63. He removed Tony Kay (England) by 6-2- to earn a meeting with England skipper Lee Kendall. Carl came through 6-3 before taking out Clint Azzopardi of Malta in the quarters. As could be expected, the semi-finalists were top notch and Carl had no problems defeating Adam Davis by 7-2 before that thrilling defeat to Clayton Attard in the deciding frame. The atmosphere in the final was electric with a mass of home supporters giving great support to Clayton who played the game of his life. In a brilliant match either player could have taken the title but on this occasion, Carl had to accept second place.

STEVE THOMPSON Preliminary round: bt Zach Taylor (Wales) 6-5 Round One: bt Alan Scott (Scotland) 6-2 Round two: bt Charly Verwaerde (France) 6-4 Last 32: bt Chris Tabone (Malta) 6-3 Last 16: lost to Jordan Church (England) 5-6 CARL MORRIS Round One: Round two: Last 32: Last 16: Quarter-Finals: Semi-Finals: Final:

bt Stuart Campbell (Scotland) 6-2 bt Arnaud Viard (France) 6-3 bt Tony Kay (England) 6-2 bt Lee Kendall (England) 5-3 bt Clint Azzopardi (Malta) 7-3 bt Adam Davis (England) 7-2 Lost to Clayton Attard (Malta) 7-8 37

Steve Thompson - Malta Qualifier


CLUB OPEN 1 REPORT

COST-CUTTER!

Costello is clearly a bright prospect on and off the table. He is studying for his A/S levels with the probability of going to university to read history. He's certainly making history in the pool world.

FRANKIE SAYS SUCCESS Frank Costello claimed his first Club Open title at Blackpool but you suspect it won't be his last.

The 19th World 8-Ball Championships at Blackpool in June will see him defend his world junior crown.

Indeed, you suspect a new pool star has arrived on the baize in the shape of the 17-year-old A level student from London. And it may not be long before the talented teenager is winning Main Tour events.

And eligible until 2012, he could emulate Darren Matthew who won it three times in a row. "Winning the world title is probably my biggest achievement so far. I lost the previous year so I knew in the Club that I could go back and do the same thing rather than fall at the final hurdle again."

Before he reached his 17th birthday earlier this month (April), Costello had won the World and European Junior titles, reached his first Club Open final (losing to Craig Marsh) and then defeated former snooker professional, Richard King, 6-2 to claim a first ever Club success.

For the moment, Costello's goals are more modest. "I think I'm provisionally ranked inside the top 64 on the Tour," he says.

Not bad going for the youngster from Kennington who is also studying history, maths, biology and religious studies.

"I just want to try and stay there now for the rest of the season and make sure I am seeded next year."

"I lost to Craig Waddingham on the Main Tour and had to go straight back on to play my Club match," Costello told World Pool.

And it will be a major surprise, you feel, if he doesn't achieve that target.

"It wasn't easy and I nearly lost my head.

Club Open One Results:

"I played Ian Duffy in the last 32 and could easily have lost. The match went to a decider and fortunately I got through.

Last 32: Jimmy Carney bt Richard Swaffield 5-4, Jason Hill bt Lee Bannister 5-4, Marc Fleming bt Ben Clark 5-2, Robert Wharne w/o Nigel Craig, Andrew O'Hara btJoe Flaherty jnr 5-3, Adam Foyster bt Chris Wilkinson 5-2, Neil Kelley bt Gary Simmonds 5-4, Richard King bt Lakesh Badhan 5-2, Harry Irwin bt Ian McMullan 5-3, Chris Alexander bt Eric Dockerty 5-1, James Swayland bt Paul Dunkey 5-3, Michael Day bt David Preece 5-3, Philip Naylor bt Dave Hughes 5-2, Thomas Jones bt Nik Dodd 5-2, Jock Irvine bt Richard Marples 5-4, Frank Costello bt Ian Duffy 5-4.

"After that I just tried to do my best and ended up winning. "It was a good feeling because I lost to Craig in the final at Blackpool last year. So, to go back and win was pleasing." Costello was born to play pool. Dad Jerry Tickell is chairman of the Greater London County Pool Association and a more than capable player.

Last 16: Hill bt Carney 5-4, Fleming bt Wharne 5-4, O'Hara bt Foyster 5-0, King bt Kelley 5-3, Alexander bt Irwin 5-3, Day bt Swayland 5-2, Jones bt Naylor 52, Costello bt Irvine 5-3.

Young Frank has played the game most of his life but began to take it seriously about five years ago. It wasn't long before he was winning competitions and in the last two years has really started to blossom.

Quarter-finals: Fleming bt Hill 5-2, King bt O'Hara 5-1, Alexander bt Day 5-2, Costello bt Jones 5-3.

Semi-finals: King bt Fleming 5-4, Costello bt Alexander 5-3.

"I practice at JFK's Pool club near to where I live," he explained. "And really when that opened I was able to practice on the way home from school."

Final: Costello bt King 6-2.

38


Frank Costello Club 1 winner


WELCOME TO THE TOUR 2

HILL TOURING AGAIN AS 2011 SET TO BE BUMPER YEAR FOR POOL It doesn't seem he's ever been away but 2011 marks the return of the 'Machine' to the Strachan IPA Tour. Mick Hill, world champion and one of eight ball's all-time greats, is back in action. And he's keen to make up for lost time. Hill's comeback is a major shot in the arm to the IPA set-up as he only competed sparingly last season, despite his stunning world victory over Gareth Potts. It may take him some time to catch up with the Tour's ranking leaders but Hill's return will ensure it's even tougher to win a Tour than it's been for the past 12 months. There's still no Tour comeback in sight for Chris Melling but a number of other cuemen are back for 2011. Aberdeen based Richard Cradduck had to suspend his dues after a serious accident but happily least number of professionals leaving the Tour since it started.

40


Carl Morris 2011 European Championship Finalist With Tournament Director Vincent Degiorgio


THE PROFESSIONAL EVENTS

FIRST COUSINS REMOVED AND CUP OF WOE TOO FOR POTTS Those latter two games will be concluded this weekend and so too will be another meeting between Kevin Barton and Rob Chilton. They clashed in the last 16 of the Vauxhall Grand Prix where Barton edged through 8-7.

There will be new winners of two of this season's IPA professional events after surprise defeats for two defending champions. Certainly, Tom Cousins will regret not being able to mount a stiffer challenge in the Professional Cup. The Hereford based star was delighted by last year's success over Adam Davis in the final.

Potts will be looking for a longer stay in the Professional Cup than he managed in the Vauxhall Grand Prix. The former world champion opened up with an impressive 8-4 win over Marc Farnsworth but then came unstuck against Cousins, losing 8-5. Flack didn't fare any better in the Grand Prix than he had done in the Professional Cup, losing 8-7 to Adam Davis who has designs on the professional number one spot this year.

However, he failed to get beyond the last 32 stage of this year's competition; the early rounds played during Tour One at Blackpool. Cousins went down 8-0 to former European champion Oly Bale who is one of five players guaranteed their place in the quarter-finals to be played at Tour Four at the end of August.

Davis now plays Cousins in a repeat of last season's Professional Cup final. Indeed, the duo enjoyed several intriguing matches in 2010 and their VGP quarter-final should be no different.

Bale followed up by beating fellow Welshmen Ben Davies 8-5 and next meets 1998 world champion Carl Morris. Morris has certainly found his form in 2011 having reached the European Championship final in Malta. And here he enjoyed excellent wins over Warren Hodgson and Marc Farnsworth. Both matches ended 8-6.

Former world champion Phil Harrison is also through to the last eight. Knocked out of the Professional Cup by Clint I'Anson, he defeated Jez Graham 8-6 to earn a match-up against Barton.

Bristol's Ben Flack, like Cousins, is another of last season's champions. However, the reigning European Professional title holder crashed out 8-6 against Steven Kane.

Such is the competitive nature of the professional ranks that no player so far is guaranteed to be in both quarters. And that's why prolific Professional winner Ronan McCarthy is pleased to still be in contention.

The last 32 also brought defeat for reigning world champion Mick Hill. His demise to Adam Davis wasn't a major shock but the Stoke star's margin of victory-8-3-was a surprise. Davis next plays Lee Kendall or James Croxton while Gareth Potts takes on Ian Hubbard in the last 32.

McCarthy defeated Steven Kane 8-6 and Andy Jones 8-4. But he's now waiting for a log jam of matches to be completed before he knows whether he'll face Morray Dolan, Neil Toms or Lee Clough in the quarter-finals at the Golden Cue weekend in May. 42


THE PROFESSIONAL RESULTS PROFESSIONAL CUP RESULTS

VAUXHALL GRAND PRIX RESULTS

Last 32: Oly Bale bt Tom Cousins 8-0, Ben Davies bt Jordan Church 8-6, Carl Morris bt Warren Hodgson 8-6, Marc Farnsworth bt Derek Murphy 8-5, Neil Toms bt Ronan McCarthy 86, Steven Kane bt Ben Flack 8-6, Jason Twist bt Ben Swinnerton 8-2, Lee Clough bt Russell Burgess 8-3, Phil Harrison bt Wayne Smith 84, Clint I'Anson w/o Gareth Hibbott, Lee Kendall v James Croxton, to be played, Adam Davis bt Mick Hill 8-3, Rob Chilton bt Martin Hazell 8-5, Kevin Barton bt Neil Raybone 8-7, Keith Brewer bt Mark Thrussell 8-6, Ian Hubbard v Gareth Potts, to be played.

Last 32: Gareth Potts bt Marc Farnsworth 8-4, Tom Cousins bt Jason Twist 8-6, Ben Flack bt Brett Wild 8-5, Adam Davis bt Liam Farrell 8-4, Neil Raybone bt Ben Davies 8-5, James Pheely bt Andy MacDonald 8-4, Partab Singh bt Russell Burgess 8-7, Gareth Hibbott bt Ian Hubbard 8-2, Ronan McCarthy bt Steven Kane 8-6, Andy Jones bt Lee Kendall 8-6, Morray Dolan v Neil Toms, Lee Clough by Martin Hazell 8-3, Phil Harrison bt Wayne Smith 8-0, Jez Graham bt Keith Brewer 8-5, Kevin Barton bye, Rob Chilton bt Carl Morris 8-3. Last 16: Cousins bt Potts 8-5, Davis bt Flack 8-7, Raybone v Pheely, Singh v Hibbott, McCarthy bt Jones 8-4, Dolan/Toms v Clough, Phil Harrison bt Graham 8-6, Barton v Chilton.

Last 16: Bale bt Davies 8-5, Morris bt Farnsworth 8-6, Toms bt Kane 8-4, Twist bt Clough 8-7, I'Anson bt Harrison 8-7, Kendall or Croxton v Davis, Chilton v Barton, Brewer v Hubbard or Potts.

Quarter-finals: Cousins v Davis, Raybone/Pheely v Singh/Hibbott, McCarthy vDolan/Toms/Clough, Harrison v Barton

Quarter-finals: Bale v Morris, Toms v Twist, I’Anson v Kendall/Croxton/Davis, Chilton or Barton v Brewer/ Hubbard/Potts.

Tom Cousins in happier times receiving Professional Cup from I.P.A’s Russell Burgess 43


GREENBAIZE.COM It may take him some time to catch up with the Tour's ranking leaders but Hill's return will ensure it's even tougher to win a Tour than it's been for the past 12 months. There's still no Tour comeback in sight for Chris Melling but a number of other cuemen are back for 2011.

Aberdeen based Richard Cradduck had to suspend his dues after a serious accident but happily least number of professionals leaving the Tour since it started.

44

HILL TOURING AGAIN

AS 2011 SET TO BE BUMPER YEAR FOR POOL

It doesn't seem he's ever been away but 2011 marks the return of the 'Machine' to the Strachan IPA Tour. Mick Hill, world champion and one of eight ball's all-time greats, is back in action. And he's keen to make up for lost time.

Hill's comeback is a major shot in the arm to the IPA set-up as he only competed sparingly last season, despite his stunning world victory over Gareth Potts.

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WELCOME TO THE TOUR 2


PROFESSIONAL RANKINGS 2011 2010 2009 Name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53

1 4 3 2 20 7 8 6 10 9 5 12 13 11 14 15 25 16 19 18 29 34 21 17 26 23 24 27 28 30 33 36 37 31 32 38 35 39 40 22 New New New New New New New New New New New New New

Start

Gareth Potts (Stoke-on-Trent) 116 Adam Davis (Stoke-on-Trent) 102 Lee Clough (Blackpool) 98 Phil Harrison (Sutton Ely) 98 Tom Cousins (Hereford) 88 Marc Farnsworth (Houghton-Le-Spring) 82 Neil Raybone (Willenhall) 78 Rob Chilton (Dudley) 58 Ben Flack (Bristol) 64 Gareth Hibbott (Southport) 70 Ronan McCarthy (County Down) 58 Lee Kendall (Stoke-on-Trent) 52 Carl Morris (Stoke-On-Trent) 56 Ben Davies (Swansea) 56 Jason Twist (Ilfracombe) 52 Keith Brewer (Poole) 52 Neil Toms (Cheshunt) 52 Russell Burgess (Weston-super-Mare) 52 Jordan Church (Sittingbourne) 52 Kevin Barton (Leeds) 46 Wayne Smith (Nr. Welshpool) 42 James Croxton (Newcatle-u-Lyme) 46 Andy MacDonald (Liverpool) 46 Derek Murphy (Bristol) 44 Clint I'Anson (Chilwell) 38 Ian Hubbard (Queensborough) 42 Martin Hazell (Doncaster) 38 Liam Farrell (Coventry) 38 Steve Munro (Manchester) 36 Steven Kane (Halstead) 36 Jez Graham (Plymouth) 34 Mark Thrussell (Cheshunt) 34 Warren Hodgson (Wallasey) 32 Michael Peel (South Shields) 34 Partab Singh (Bristol) 28 Ben Swinnerton (Sutton Coldfield) 24 Nathan Bridges (Accrington) 20 Daryl Lovegrove (Weston-Super-Mare) 18 Andy Jones (Malvern) 12 Mick Hill (Dudley) 0 Oly Bale (Bridgewater) 0 Karl Sutton (Lowestoft) 0 Peter Mullaney (Norwich) 0 Ryan Craig (N.Ireland) 0 Antony Doble (Portishead) 0 John Roe (Peterborough) 0 Geoff Campbell (Cramlington) 0 Matthew Cooledge (Holland-On-Sea) 0 Jamie Graham (Leigham) 0 Craig Marsh (Swansea) 0 David McQuillan (Newtownbutler) 0 Jordan Shepherd (Ilford) 0 Steve Sears (Atherstone) 0

Vaux Tours GP

Prof Cup

UK Prof

Int. Euro. Masters Pro.

Prof Trophy

16 4 8 4 4 8 2 10 6 0 4 12 4 4 6 6 4 4 6 2 6 4 2 2 4 0 2 4 8 2 2 4 2 2 0 2 4 2 0 10 2 6 4 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

4 6 6 6 4 6 4 6 4 0 4 4 8 6 8 6 8 4 4 6 4 4 2 4 8 4 4 2 2 6 2 4 4 2 2 4 2 2 2 4 8 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

45

6 8 6 8 8 4 6 6 6 6 8 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 2 8 4 2 4 2 2 4 4 4 2 4 6 2 2 0 6 2 2 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 142 120 118 116 104 100 90 80 80 76 74 72 72 70 70 68 68 64 64 62 56 56 54 52 52 50 48 48 48 48 44 44 40 38 36 32 28 22 20 14 10 8 6 4 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 0


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2011 FINAL QUALIFIERS – VENUES

5 more events in Scotland to be announced shortly keep an eye on www.propool.co.uk for full details ???

Please tick the box on which you wish to play from.

WINNING PLAYER(S) WILL GO FORWARD FROM EACH VENUE TO PLAY AT THE WORLD FINALS IN BLACKPOOL PLAY FOR A SHARE OF THE £ 22,000 PRIZE FUND AND THE TITLE OF

WORLDat 8 BALL POOL CHAMPION the Grand Finals in Blackpool July 2011 Terms and conditions: (1). Over 18s only, excluding employees of this outlet, employees of the Sponosr; and anyone professionally connected with this competition and their immediate families. Restricted to UK residents only. (2). ENTRY FEE OF £20 PER PERSON. Ask bar staff for Entry Forms, (or from www.epa.org.uk). Complete the form and send with a cheque/postal order, made payable to the chosen venue. All entries to be sent to venue prior to the qualifier date. (3). Games will be played to World 8 Ball Pool Rules (see www.epa.org.uk ). (4). Play will commence at 11am on date given for each venue and the event will be completed on that day, with a minimum of 1 player from each venue, going to play at the World Finals in Blackpool, where they will compete on 25th June, then from 28th June to 1st July, and if they progress to the Semi-Final stages 4th to 5th July. Those who win the ‘Qualifiers’ will receive an information pack about the World Finals. (5). Only 20 venues, see ‘Entry Forms’ for venue details and date played. (6). Each venue requires a minimum of 16 players and a maximum of 32 players. One winner from 16-31 players will go through to the World Finals. In the event of 32 players entering, the final 2 players from each competition will progress to the World Finals. Limited to a maximum 32 players per venue. Winning players from the ‘Qualifier competition’ go forward to Blackpool and have B&B accommodation and entry fee to World Championships paid for. There is no cash alternative. (7). All players must agree to abide by the Rules and Regulations of the E.P.A. – Tournament Directors decisions will be final. (8). Winner details will be available at www.epa.org.uk within 7 days of each qualifying event. (9). The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend this competition due to circumstances outside its control. 46


World Eight-Ball

Pool Championships 2011 Promoter: English Pool Association, World Championship Pool Office, 20 South View, Bamford, Rochdale, Lancs. OL11 5HU. COMPETITON ENTRY FORM PLEASE COPY AND RETURN ALL OF THIS COMPLETED FORM, INCLUDING VENUE CHOSEN.

2011 World Championships National Qualifier NAME ...............................................................

SIGNATURE ............................................

(BLOCK CAPITALS)

ADDRESS ................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................... .............................................................................

COUNTY….........……………………....

E-MAIL ................................................................................................................................... POST CODE ...................................................

TEL. No. …………….................………

ENTRY FORMS RETURNED MUST HAVE A CHEQUE/POSTAL ORDER FOR £ 20 PAYABLE TO VENUE SEND IN THE COMPLETED FORM TO THE CHOSEN VENUE, RING VENUE FOR FURTHER DETAILS. NOTE THAT ONLY THE FIRST 32 PAID ENTRIES FOR EACH VENUE WILL BE ACCEPTED. SHOULD LESS THAN 16 PLAYERS APPLY AT A VENUE, THE COMPETITION WILL NOT RUN AND YOU WILL BE REFUNDED IN FULL

WORLD EIGHTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS – FINAL NATIONAL QUALIFIERS 2011


DIARY OF EVENTS INTERNATIONAL POOL TOUR - YEAR 2011 PROGRAMME OF EVENTS EVENT TITLE

VENUE

DATE

International Tour 1 Professional Cup

Imperial Hotel, Blackpool

4th - 6th February 4th - 6th February

International Tour 2

Hinckley Island Hotel

22nd - 25th April

BARCELO FESTIVAL OF POOL U.K. Professional Challenge Hinckley Island Hotel Barcelo Individual Open Hinckley Island Hotel Barcelo 3 Man Team Classic Hinckley Island Hotel

22nd - 23rd April 23rd - 24th April 24th - 25th April

International Tour 3 International Masters

Barcelo Daventry Hotel Barcelo Daventry Hotel

27th - 30th May 27th - 28th May

World Championships

Imperial Hotel, Blackpool

25th June To 5th July

World Masters.

Imperial Hotel, Blackpool

2nd - 3rd July

International Tour 4 European Professional

Hinckley Island Hotel Hinckley Island Hotel

26th - 29th August 26th - 27th August

International Tour 5 Professional Trophy

Barcelo Harrogate Hotel Barcelo Harrogate Hotel

30th September 30th - 2nd October

International Tour 6 Vauxhall Grand Prix

Barcelo Daventry Hotel Barcelo Daventry Hotel

28th/30th October 28th - 30th October

European Pool Club Finals

Oct. - Nov. 2011

PROVISIONAL DATES FOR FINALS OF PROFESSIONAL EVENTS (Subject to confirmation) Vauxhall Grand Prix Professional Cup Professional Challenge International Masters European Professional Professional Trophy

Vauxhall Holiday Park

48

May-11 Golden Cue Weekend End Aug. At Tour 4 End Sept. At Tour 5 Oct.-11 K.O. Cup At Vauxhall End Oct. At Tour 6 To Be Decided.


World Championship Pool Tables... and much more.

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