11:06:00

SIBU: Sibu Executive 3 Snooker Centre will stage its inaugural Novice In-House snooker tournament at its Medal Mall here on Sept 30.

Event organiser Mark Yeo said the aim was to promote and upgrade the standard of play among the young.

"This is a good opportunity for the local snooker enthusiasts to showcase their skills and to show to the rest of the players where they stand," he added.

Yeo, who is also Sibu Division Billiards and Snooker Association (SDBSA) deputy president, said listed players are not allowed to take part.

The championship will be played on a round robin system and players who garnered the most points will be the eventual winner.

The champion will receive RM400 cash pize, second place RM200 and RM100 for third and fourth.

The player potting the highest break of 30 points will also get a RM100 incentive.

Organisers are targeting at least 16 novice players to take part in the tournament.

Entry is free of charge.

Yeo had been instrumental in promoting the development of snooker here and the idea to stage the in-house championship was mooted several months ago.

SDBSA, he said, is working hard to boost the morale of players which had hit a low patch in recent years.

Yeo said they were trying to organise major tournaments to attract more players, hence revitalising the popularity of the game.

"This is not easy, especially when our association is facing a series cash flow problem. Hopefully, snooker enthusiasts will chip in and lend us their support to make the game attractive," he continued.

Yeo also called for support from the snooker association, especially Sarawak Billiards Snooker and Sports Federation (SBSSF), to render assistance.

Further details can be obtained from Yeo at tel no. 0198867133.