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 our 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.
Alongside the competitors, the championships are expected to draw a large crowd
of family, friends and spectators – providing a significant boost for the local
economy.
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.
The City of Greater Geelong is proud to support these events via Geelong Major
Events funding.
Collectively, Geelong Major Events contribute around $65 million to the local
economy each year.
Mayor Bruce Harwood:
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. 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.
Councillor Ron Nelson,
Chair, Tourism and Events portfolio:
We look forward to welcoming
the world’s best pool players, their friends, families and spectators to
Geelong in November 2020. This influx of visitors will be tremendous for our local
businesses.I’m sure the competitors will enjoy their stay in Geelong and that they’ll put
on a great show in front of our enthusiastic local crowds.
Mark Cottingham, President,
Blackball International:
Blackball International is
very excited to be bringing the 2020 World Championships to Geelong. This will
be the first ever 8 Ball World Championships to be held in Australia and our worldwide
pool community are already excited to be attending this pioneering event.As organisers we feel that it
is not only important to ensure we produce an outstanding world class
tournament but also to showcase both Geelong and Australia to the many visitors
we will welcome from around the world.
