SNOOKER

The annual Clubs NZ South Island Snooker Pairs tournament was, once again, a most enjoyable occasion for our section member’s. This year, the event was held in Gore and, although the weather was somewhat chilly outdoors, the reception was warm and the competition hot.

Waimea’s No.1 team was Nathan Geddes and Ray Denby, who were successful in winning the flight event in 2014, and this year they performed at an even higher level to reach the semi-final of the championship itself.

On the way they accounted for several previous winners and gained an appreciative audience as their skillful play became the talk of the snooker room.

In the semi, they met a pair from Oamaru who were the eventual championship winners and included an English snooker professional coach who was the dominant individual player at the tournament.

Even though beaten at this stage, our boys received generous praise from the victor during the presentation ceremony. Well done, guys.

From left: Richard Griffith, Ray Denby, Mark Friend, Kerry Laing, Shane Geddes, Nobby Yorwarth, Nathan Geddes, Alan Rameka, Ray Weavers, Kevin Whitlow, Colin Bowden and Barry Weavers. The other character ‘Ferreted’ its way into the picture, but was not an official member of the team!

Another Waimea pairing which caused some upsets was that of Mark Friend and Shane Geddes. Seeded at 23rd due to them not having played together at any previous event, these two proceeded to knock off several of the top sides in their section before falling to the 10-time champion pair from Dunedin in the quarter-finals.

Our other four teams all had their moments of success, mixed with tight games which went in the favour of their opposition. Without exception, a thoroughly enjoyable time was had by the Waimea players and a good representation at next year’s tournament at the Woolston Club in Christchurch is assured.

The Snooker section at Club Waimea was formed in 1992 and has established itself as a major player in the sport in the Top of the South. While some members are focused on serious competition, both locally and throughout the country, many others are merely social players who enjoy the companionship of like-minded enthusiasts.

Newcomers are most welcome to join in with our activities,

Contact Nathan Geddes 027 359 2966