Next weekend’s qualifier in Dublin will see the line up complete for the first of the “legends” rounds where things will really start to heat up. Only two matches to win then it’s a shot at the World title.
Dare to dream indeed!
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Saturday 25th and I thought I would nip over to Leeds to have a look at the event itself.
The Northern Snooker Centre is, in my opinion, the perfect venue for events like this. Lots of tables, clean and warm, good food and drink and pleasant staff. You really can’t ask for more.
The guys contesting the last 8 might well be 40+ but certainly haven’t lost their touch. They all looked to be enjoying the opportunity to bring out the bow ties and waistcoats, which in some cases look as though the buttons fastened a little easier in days gone by!
John Bagley ran out the winner and Joins Peter Lines in the qualifiers for Scunthorpe.
To have an event like this with plenty to play for, has attracted a lot of attention in the amateur snooker world. And just possibly could cause a bit of a stir later in the year at Ponds Forge.
Jason has done a fantastic job in putting this event on and I’m hoping it will be a regular on the senior amateur calendar.
Next stop Germany!
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As the draw for the World Seniors 2nd qualifier is announced, and we have time to reflect on the 1st, thoughts are turning to how this might just be the kind of publicity that amateur snooker needs. Could it be taken on board by the WPBSA? Will Snookerbacker take up the challenge to run something similar to include under 40s? If the prize(s) were to be pro tour card(s) then quite possibly.
In the 1st qualifying event Peter Lines threw down the gauntlet to tournament favourite Stephen Hendry with a faultless performance in the final. Breaks of 69, 70 and 139 left English Amateur Champion, Jamie Bodle, little more than a spectator.
I’m looking forward to the snooker this week and no, I don’t mean the Shootout!
