Arrangements are now in place for the IBSF World Billiard Championship to be held in the Republic of Ireland at The Ivy Rooms, Carlow, with play taking place between Tuesday 17th - 26th August 1999. There will be an opening ceremony at the venue on Monday 16th August.
It is understood that the WBA have imposed a ban on the entry of their members, which ensures the absence of reigning IBSF Champion, Robby Foldvari. However, it is understood that No.21 ranked Eugene Hughes may ignore this ban and risk disciplinary action from the WBA in order to compete under the Republic of Ireland banner. At the time of writing this remains unconfirmed, as no entries for the Republic have been declared. The WBA ban does not effect professional snooker players, who be allowed to enter providing they are nominated by their National Association.
Also unconfirmed at this time are the entries for Malta and Sri Lanka, although the latter have stated their intention to send two unnamed representatives. Last year they were represented by K. H. Sirisoma who put up some excellent performances before being overpowered by Robby Foldvari in the quarter-finals.
England´s strong squad of 15 players will include the top eight in the national rankings. These will be supplemented by the current CIU Champion Tony McKinder, and veteran campaigner Alf Nolan. Amongst the leading contenders will be current English Champion, Lee Lagan, 1997 CIU Champion Darren Kell, English No.1 Paul Bennett, and Stephen Crosland, current English No.2 and Grand Masters Champion. This is expected to be one of Paul Bennett´s last appearances as an amateur, as it is understood that arrangements are in place for him to take up membership of the WBA, joining the professional tour when it starts in England in November.
Three players are expected to travel from New Zealand including No.1 ranked Wayne Carey and 1998 National Champion, Derek Gibb. Having taken early retirement from his job with IBM, Gibb is intending to spend an extended period in England following the Championships, giving the prospect that he may make an appearance on the English circuit next season.
Wales have so far nominated just one representative in Joe Bird, and in a surprise move, two entries have been received from Austria—a nation perhaps better known for its expertise at carom play. It is certain that Clemens Kunkel and Franz Mészáros will be watched with interest. The Thai snooker star Praprut Chaithanasakun is also an extremely talented billiard player and will start as one of the favourites for the event. He will be accompanied on the trip to Ireland by the lesser known Udon Khaimuk.
The Australians are sending their national champion, David Collins, supported by Joe Minici, Joe Millen and Neil Croft, all of whom performed well in last year´s championship, and can be expected to feature again this year.
Problems with the recognition of the Northern Ireland Association leave their players wondering if they will be allowed to compete. With the closing date for entries already past, it is rumoured that the Irish will be allowed in, but this remains unconfirmed.
It is anticipated that 40 players will compete in eight groups of five, to find the last 16 for the knock-out stages.