The N.I. billiards fraternity were shocked to learn of the death of one of there former starlets, Maurice Gill, who sadly passed away recently. Maurice in fact had played in the West Classic, and was looking forward to playing in forthcoming events in the billiards calendar. Maurice was a top class cueist and a N.I. Snooker Champion on three occasions, also beaten finalist in the billiards event on a number of occasions. As a lifelong friend of Maurice, I and the N.I. Billiards Association, pass on our sincere regrets to his family circle.
A meeting between Northern Ireland, England and the Republic of Ireland is to be arranged shortly with a view to holding an event between the three countries. This will not in any way affect the present games between Northern Ireland and England and the Republic of Ireland and England, but hopefully will add another event to our billiards calendar.
Davy Elliot clinched the Windsor Classic by defeating his old rival Paddy Donnelly, by three games to one in the best of five (150 up) final, watched by a good crowd. Davy was in sparkling form, having runs of 66,51 unf; 44,56,96 and a brilliant 144 in the last game, Davy breaking down on a simple cannon when he looked as if he would run it out. Paddy was also in good form, putting together runs of 43,51,67,52unf and 86.
In the semi-finals Davy defeated Tony Buttimer 3-1, while Paddy had it all his own way in beating Eugene Rogan 3-0.
Davy took the top break prize for his effort of 144. Prizes were handed over by association secretary, Davy Pogue on behalf of the Windsor Club, who sponsored the event.
The action moved to the West Belfast Club, following a break to accommodate the Billiards International between Northern Ireland and England in Bangor, which again was a big success.
The quarter-finals which were played over 500 up, brought together two West Club players in Paddy Donnelly and Fra Ward. Paddy was in great form having runs of 130,110 and 105 in a runaway victory. Tony Buttimer edged out Eugene Rogan to set up a semi-final clash with Donnelly. Freddie Cahoon beat Jimmy McLaughlin in a tight match to move into the semi's against Davy Elliot, who easily overcame Paul Lindsey.
The two favourites, Donnelly and Elliot, were made to fight all the way against Buttimer and Cahoon before breaking clear in the final stretch. The final between the No.l and No.2 seeds, played over the longer 600 up game, was watched by a large crowd, as expected in this hotbed of billiard fanatics. Both players started slowly before Donnelly broke clear with runs of 104 and 61 and he lead 300-140 at the mid-way break. The game re-started with Davy having runs of 55,45 and 31 to get within striking distance of Paddy, but a timely 85 again put Paddy in the driving seat. A couple of 50's and 40's edged Donnelly towards another title, Davy replying with a couple of 40's and a 79. Donnelly secured the title wit a 33 unfinished break to win 600-443. Davy Pogue handed over cheques to West Club Chairman Eamon McGonagle, who presented the prizes on behalf of the West Club who had kindly sponsored the event. The night was completed by a cabaret, again sponsored by the host club. P. A. Morgan received a cheque from the N.I. Billiards Association towards the Referee's Association funds. Top break of the competition came from Paddy Donnelly with 130.