Geelong to host world pool championships

GEELONG has added another international event to its growing sporting calendar, with The Arena to host the Blackball World Pool Championships in November 2020.

In an Australian first, the world championships will see more than 500 leading pool players from 20 different countries competing in Geelong, showcasing their skills and the region to a worldwide live streaming audience.

Although qualification for the event is still to take place, the field is likely to include world champions and title holders from major competitions.

Players will compete across eight different sections: Men’s, Ladies’, Seniors’, Masters’, Under 23, Under 15, Under 18 and wheelchair.

Securing this event means Geelong will host international level competition in six different sports between now and the end of 2020: pool, golf, table tennis, sailing, cricket and cycling.

“Geelong is rapt to have secured this tournament, adding another world class event to our calendar and further growing our reputation as a host destination,” City of Greater Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said.

“It builds on the great tapestry of eclectic and entertaining sporting events we’re able to deliver.

“Pool is a sport that almost everyone plays occasionally, but very few people master. It will be exciting to witness the skill and concentration of the world’s best players up close.”