Thirty-two players are competing in the Southern Billiards and Snooker Association of Fiji Open tournament, currently taking place at the historic Merchants Club in Suva. The tournament kicked off yesterday and is set to culminate with the finals tomorrow.
This year’s event has attracted considerable attention, showcasing a unique blend of emerging talents and experienced players. David Ratnam, President of the SBSAF, shared his excitement about the diverse lineup, highlighting the thrilling contrast between the fresh skills of younger competitors and the strategic precision of veteran players. Ratnam underscored that the tournament is a vital platform for the sport’s development, bringing benefits to spectators and players alike.
The tournament format includes a full set of 15 reds and implements the “3 Foul and Miss” rule, aimed at maintaining high standards of play. Competitors are vying for a prize pool that includes $400 for the winner, $200 for the runner-up, and additional cash prizes for the semi-finalists and quarter-finalists.
The Southern Billiards & Snooker Association of Fiji extends its gratitude to title sponsor Divine Contractors Pte Ltd for their generous support. Their dedication to the local sporting community has been instrumental in creating this substantial prize pool and has elevated the competition’s overall standard for all participants. This sustained support exemplifies the crucial role community engagement plays in promoting excellence in sports.
The tournament not only serves as a thrilling spectacle for fans but also fosters a nurturing environment for the next generation of billiards and snooker players, thus ensuring the continued growth and popularity of the sport in Fiji.