This year a round robin format was trialed for the A Grade Billiards Open (Presidents Shield – Billiards).
The competition was played one morning on a weekend and provided the opportunity for all participants to play each other.
All participants enjoyed the morning playing 30-minute matches and the interactive format was embraced as an approach recommended for future competitions.
It was great to see some of the club’s best Billiards players together tussling it out.
Peter Gilks, one of the long-term advocates for the playing of Billiards is still challenging on the day. Although unfortunately, Peter Gilks had some physical injuries that meant he struggled to achieve his expectations this year. Errol Aristodemou also wasn’t in prime physical condition. This left the young bucks to rise to the top of the draw. Conrad Grabish went through undefeated from the group stage, again proving if you hit it hard enough there are lots of pockets on the table!
The final showdown was a 60-minute match between Conrad Grabish and Ryan Cairney. Ryan has a strong history of grappling in the hard moments and ultimately defeated Conrad in the final match.
Congratulations to Ryan backing up from winning the Mike Naray Memorial Handicap Billiards in late 2024 and carrying form through to 2025. The runner up, Conrad was an excellent opponent who played in the true spirit of fun and competition.
Thanks to all competitors for embracing the new format, showing great sportsmanship and comradery.