New format set for titles

A NEW format has been introduced for men to qualify for the Bank South Pacific National Snooker Titles from Sept 10-15 in Port Moresby.
Papua New Guinea Billiards and Snooker Association president John Chan said with the new format, the top-16 players in national men’s ranking would automatically qualify for the titles, which are also sponsored by The National.
“Those who are not will need to participate in a qualifier to be held from Aug 7-11,” Chan said.
“The top-24 in this event will qualify for the men’s national title.”
He said players in other provinces were encouraged to compete at the Titles.
“We have some talented players in other provinces and we’d like to see them take part,” Chan said.
“If their organisation is not affiliated, we will still allow them to compete.”
This was announced during a presentation by naming-rights sponsor BSP, which has been supporting PNG Billiards and Snooker Association for the last 18 straight years.
In presenting the K40,000 annual sponsorship, marketing and public relations head Gorethy Semi said BSP was pleased to be associated with the Men’s National Snooker Title over the past years.
Last year, the company started supporting the women’s titles as well.
“Apart from promoting the sport in a social setting, it is a well-organised event which we are happy to continue supporting on,” Semi said.
Chan said: “We are grateful that BSP has come on board to make it a national snooker event under one official (naming-rights) sponsor by supporting the women’s title as well since 2018.”
The women’s title cues off on Sept 4 and ends with the final on Sept 8.
The men’s title cues off a week later followed by a presentation dinner.
Nominations have now open with 40 players expected for the women’s and men’s titles.
Fees are K150 for women and K200 for men.
Top prize money for the men is K4,000 and women K2,500. Other prizes will also be awarded.
Chan also acknowledged platinum sponsors The National, Strickland Real Estate and SP Brewery, and gold sponsor DKS Automotive for their support towards the Titles.