Joe Minici Does It Again

Joe Minici has continued his fine form over the last few years to take out his first ever NSW State Snooker Championship. Joe defeated the defending champion Glen Wilkinson 4-3 in a very close deciding frame. 

The tournament was held over the weekend of the 26th and 27th of May at Blacktown Workers Club. After a long run at Club Marconi, its was Blacktown Workers who took on the event for 2012. A big thank you to the Club and David Battensby and all his co-workers for their support in the event. And as usual to all the members who were more than happy to give up their social play for the weekend in order to watch some fine Snooker. There was 62 people present for the final which was a great result.

The event attracted 34 players but it was Joe Minici in the end who took out the title. Joe had a tough draw from the quarter finals onwards defeating an in form George Dennoui, an always hard to beat Shawn Budd and the Master Glen Wilkinson. 

In the final frame of the best of 7 match, Glen made a nice 24 break to go approximately 30 points in front. Joe took on a double which rewarded him with a nice 47 break to put the pressure back on Glen. After a few safety shots, Joe was back in and made a great 50 clearance to win the match.

The weekend was full of big breaks thanks to some nice conditions and skill off course. There were 4 century breaks made with the highest of 135 going to Shawn Budd in his quarter final match against Luke Hough. Other century breaks went to Glen Wilkinson (133), Joe Minici (109) and Hassan Kerde (105).

A special congratulations must go to Michael Sharp from Penrith who competed in the event under  difficult circumstances. His performance was fantastic as he defeated Andrew Parker, Terry Emmett and just lost 4-3 to Glen Wilkisnon in the quarter finals. Well done Michael.

During the weekend, the Association held a raffle which was coordinated by Hassan Kerde. This initiative raised $227 for the NSW Snooker and Billiards Association.

Thank you also to the help of Stuart Tait and Frank Galanos and all the official referees that assisted throughout the weekend. Qualified referees that participated were Stephen Brennan, Alex Anson, Bill Springett, Vic Sacco and Frank Galanos.

The full results of the tournament can be accessed via the link below. 

Kind Regards

Alex Render
Tournament Director