Empower Snooker Invitational Wrap-Up: A Triumph for Women's Snooker in NSW
/Newcastle City Snooker Club, 29-30 June 2024
The inaugural Empower Snooker Invitational concluded with resounding success, marking a significant milestone for women's snooker in New South Wales. Hosted at the Newcastle City Snooker Club, the event aimed to boost female participation and elevate the profile of women's snooker across the state.
A total of 17 entrants from across NSW, including Forster, Tamworth, Illawarra, Sydney, and the Central Coast, gathered for this groundbreaking event. The participants enjoyed not only the competition but also the opportunity to connect with new friends and reunite with old ones. The handicap format was very well received, catering to players of all skill levels, ensuring a fun and inclusive atmosphere.
The camaraderie and enthusiasm of the women were the heart of the event. Their shared passion for snooker created a wonderful atmosphere, where everyone celebrated each other’s successes. This sense of community not only enhanced the enjoyment of the game but also reinforced the empowering message of the event, inspiring all participants to continue their involvement in the sport. The positive energy and encouragement among the women were truly infectious!
The tournament's round robin format included four groups, with each player competing in one frame against every group member. The top two from each group advanced to Sunday's knockout stage. The quarterfinals results were:
Kenny Chandra Boyd defeated Kerrie Spindler 2-1
Kathy Blunden defeated Sharon Benson 2-1
Jacqui Baird defeated Tanya Harrison 2-0
Rhonda Knight defeated Christine Firth 2-0
In the semifinals, Kenny Chandra Boyd overcame Kathy Blunden 2-0, while Jacqui Baird edged out Rhonda Knight 2-1.
The final showcased exceptional skill, with Kenny Chandra Boyd emerging victorious over Jacqui Baird with a 3-0 scoreline, though the match featured several very close frames. Kenny also achieved the tournament's highest break of 35 (and came close to surpassing it a couple of times).
This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of many. Special recognition goes to Jodie Wikeepa and Christine Firth for their unwavering support from planning to execution, and to Sharon Benson who played a huge part in securing the venue, handled media interactions with ease, and captured the event in photographs. A true team effort.
The committee at Newcastle City Snooker Club (Neil, Ben, Steve, Charlie, Gary, and others), along with co-sponsors Rippit Golf, The Snooker Shop, and MLEI Consulting Engineers played a pivotal role in the event's success. We’re extremely grateful for their efforts leading up to and during the event - securing local media interest, preparing the venue, managing volunteers – they certainly went over and above to ensure the event ran smoothly.
The club’s pristine conditions, with tables newly reclothed by Danny and Linda Townsend, provided an excellent playing environment.
Special thanks also go to referees Glen, Neil, John and a host of other volunteers for their tireless work throughout the weekend.
Jason from The Snooker Shop generously donated a superb 1066 Billiards cue (which was won by newcomer Ella Nash). Additionally, The Snooker Shop brought their showroom to the event, offering a range of top-quality products that added an extra touch of excitement and convenience for the participants.
Funding from the NSW Government played a crucial role in making the event accessible to more participants by lowering entry barriers - reduced entry & membership fees, relaxed dress codes as well as prizes and incentives for all participants, all of which were warmly received.
The event also incorporated a fundraising component, with a raffle raising over $400 for women in need, along with a car load of women's clothing - all to support Dress For Success!
The success of the Empower Snooker Invitational highlights the growing appetite for women's snooker. With numerous requests already received to host similar events in other regions, our commitment to expanding the women's game in NSW and beyond is stronger than ever. We look forward to bringing more events like this to women across the state in the future.
Congratulations to all participants, and especially to our champion, Kenny Chandra Boyd!
