New from the editor’s chair
Myself and Albert Hanson were brought into the
Association activities by Malcolm Lax, I’m not certain
what we’ve done wrong to warrant it, but that’s another story.
Like Albert I want to say a big thanks to Malcolm for his
efforts and devotion to the EABA since, and prior to, it’s
inception. You had to be closely involved to appreciate his
immense contribution to one of the great loves of his life. The
Committee has some difficulty in finding a successor to replace
Malcolmany volunteers out there?
Already looking forward to the next publication of the
ABPwe will put together a major feature on Walter
Lindrum who’s birth centenary is being celebrated shortly. In
addition to reporting on the Centenary Celebration tournament
(World Open) we will look at the history and achievements of
the man. Did any of you meet him? Have you any stories you
could relate of him? Please forward any information to Albert
direct.
Good luck to Peter Shelley (Masters Champion) & Paul
Bennett (English Amateur) who are competing in the
Lindrum event. They are paying their own way in line with our
policy of not funding competitors in pro-am events. Paul 1
know has received financial support from the Teesside Clubs
and public to aid his costs
Anew season on the horizon, will the Teessiders again
dominate the championship scene or will others join Neal
Rewhorn & Matthew Sutton in wresting titles from that regions
grasp?
The Team Championship reverts to it’s former County
nomination basis with a maximum two entrants per County
allowed, we are aware that some County Associations no
longer exist (Teesside for example) so credited nomination will
be allowed from those regions.
Entry forms will be distributed from September 1st for all the
Associations tournaments with a closing date of 10th October,
please support them and all the other activities available.
Now that peace has returned to the pro ranks I hope for a
prolonged period of stability with Rex Williams steering
the WPBSA forward. He still has major problems to face with
the impending loss of tobacco sponsors. Their problems
emanate into the pro billiards problems, which is why I raise
the concern. Peter Gilchrist and Mike Russell appear to be
working hard to run the pro side and look to co-ordinate with
ourselves to promote the game for all our benefits.
Will the WPBSA float the Billiard Committee as an independent
association? If it happens would it be in our interests to merge
with the pro’s to form a new billiards association? Do we want
closer links with the pro’s? Do they want closer links with us?
Am I rambling away with no purposeful intent and nothing
will change anyway? Let’s wait and see.
Good luck to all competitors in the season to come.