40 to battle for snooker title

 FORTY women have been confirmed to take part in the 2015 Papua New Guinea Women’s National Snooker titles, which cues off tomorrow.

PNG Billiards and Snooker Association secretary Jonathan Cavanagh said as of the closing date on May 22, the 40 female players — all from Port Moresby — confirmed their participation in the week-long tournament. 

Eight-time champion, Geua John, returns to defend the title but is expected to find the tournament more challenging with a wider pool of talent on show.  “We have seen an increase of numbers — especially from pool players — showing an interest in competing on the big table, which is sign that women’s snooker is growing,” Cavangah said.

The final numerical entry is an increase of eight from last year with. 

The tournament has been sponsored by National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), who gave K20,000 and will be held concurrently at three venues — the Dragon’s Den, Aviat Club and Lamana Cue Club.  There are several awards which will be given out to the players. 

The overall winner pockets K1500 and a trophy, while the runner-up gets K800 and a trophy. 

Losing semi-finalists get K500, the quarter-finalists will walk away with K300 and those who made the final 16 get K200 for their effort in making the cut.

Cavanagh said the top seeded player gets K200 and the plate winner takes home K250 and a trophy while the runner-up picks up K150.