Smith Claims Second at VNEA World Pool Championships
IslandStats.com
Bermuda's Jamel Smith has achieved a remarkable second-place finish in the 8-Ball Sportsman Division at the VNEA World Pool Championships in Las Vegas, a feat made even more extraordinary by his personal journey.
Smith, who only began playing pool in 2012, has since used the sport as a crucial part of his rehabilitation after a life-altering accident in June 2016, which left him with limited use of his left arm. His dedication and perseverance have clearly paid off on the world stage.
In a truly inspiring moment, Smith became only the second Bermudian to receive the coveted "Charlie Award," an honour he was unaware of until pointed out by his fellow Bermudian players. He competed through nine rounds in the race-to-three format, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure throughout the tournament.
Sharnelle Turini, President of the Bermuda International Pool League, expressed immense pride in Smith's accomplishment. "Jamel represents the hard work and commitment our dedicated players put into the league," Turini stated. "To be competitive on the World Stage is our goal and Jamel has put Bermuda and the BIPL on the map."
Reflecting on his incredible achievement, Smith himself admitted, "It hasn't completely sunk in as yet. I'm still in shock and haven't wrapped my mind around all of it. I'm so proud to be able to represent myself, the pool league and most importantly our country."
Smith also emphasized the vital role his family played in his journey, acknowledging their unwavering support. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of sport.
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
ISL Spring Tournament & Exhibition Match
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The Bermuda Snooker Association proudly hosted the International Snooker League (ISL) Spring 2025 Tournament last week at the Spanish Point Boat Club. Over 50 players and supporters from around the world gathered for a spirited celebration of competition, camaraderie, and the ISL’s rich history.
The ISL was born in 1972 when the late Connie Falkiewicz organized a challenge match between the New York Athletic Club and The Old Colony Club Bermuda. The following year, Falkiewicz met in London with World Champion Ray Reardon and Noel Miller-Cheevers, laying the foundation for what would become an enduring international league built on sport and friendship.
This year’s tournament honored that legacy and showcased the global reach of the ISL, with standout performances across multiple events:
Doubles Handicap Champions: Philip Grant (Ireland) & Nick Macos (Toronto) Runners-up: Douglas Laventure (NYAC) & Steaven Bremar (Bermuda) Team Event Champions: Ireland (Paul Sammin, Donal Boylan, Philip Grant) Runners-up: Bermuda Hurricanes (Steaven Bremar, Aaron Bean, Henryk Marszalek) Singles Handicap Champion: Christian Youngers (Ox Billiards, Seattle) Runner-up: Stephen Pavlick (Halifax) Mike Mitchell Cup Winner: Tyler Moniz (Bermuda) Runner-up: Kyle Williams (Bermuda) Kenny Shea Scratch Champion: Steaven Bremar (Bermuda) Runner-up: Christian Youngers (Ox Billiards, Seattle)
Capping off the week was a sold-out Exhibition Match, featuring Mark J. Williams, three-time World Champion and 2025 World Finalist (currently ranked World No. 3), alongside Lee Walker, former World Seniors Champion and professional coach. A true highlight for fans, the event provided a rare opportunity to witness snooker greatness up close. Attendees enjoyed a meet-and-greet, personalized memorabilia, and even the chance to play a live frame with Williams—an unforgettable experience.
The event was attended by his Excellency, the Govenor, Andrew Murdoch, Deputy Premier & Minister of Housing and Municipalities Zane DeSilva, and the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture & Sport Owen Darrell.
To cap it all, Williams compiled the 1st maximum 147 break ever made on Bermudian soil, against local enthusiast, Bo Bromby, only to end the night with an unprecedented 2nd maximum against Bermuda Snooker Association President and event organizer, Paul Fedden.
The Bermuda Snooker Association extends its sincere thanks to all players, the Spanish Point Boat Club, our supporters, and our major sponsors, Island Construction Services and Bermuda Tourism Authority, who made the event a resounding success. With such a strong international turnout and local enthusiasm, the future of snooker in Bermuda shines brighter than ever.
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
ISL Tournament Underway in Bermuda
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The International Snooker League (ISL) Tournament which comprises 5 individual competitions is underway at the Spanish Point Boat Club.
The Pot Luck Friendly Tournament got the tournament underway which was won by Caroline Purcell who defeated Dwight Murray in the final.
The Bermudian teams are, the Bermuda Triangles Paul Fedden - A (Captain), Tyler Moniz - B, and Kyle Wiliams - C, while the Bermuda Hurricanes Steven Bremar - A (Captain), Aaron Bean - B, and Henryk Marszalek - C.
Group A
Canada 7 wins and 3 matches to play Stephen’s Green Club Ireland 7 wins with 3 matches to play Bermuda Hurricanes 6 wins with 5 matches to play Ranch Men’s Club Calgary 5 wins with 3 matches to play Toronto 4 wins with 3 matches to play
Group B
Vancouver 7 wins with 7 matches to play NYAC 6 wins with 4 matches to play OX Billiards Seattle 6 wins no matches to play Bermuda Triangles 5 wins with 4 matches to play Halifax with 3 wins with 4 matches to play Ireland with 3 wins with 6 matches to play
Monday, May 19, 2025
Debutant Marszalek Storms to Bermuda Open Snooker Glory
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Henryk Marszalek, in a sensational debut performance, has clinched the prestigious Bermuda Open snooker title. The newcomer pulled off a clean sweep victory over seasoned campaigner John Orr in the best-of-seven frame final, played at WSC on Sunday, May 4th.
Marszalek, who was part of a successful snooker league team earlier last month, showed no signs of nerves as he romped to a dominant 4-0 win over former champion Orr. The frames were secured with scores of 59-12, 48-24, 52-11, and 60-26, leaving Orr with little opportunity to establish himself in the match.
This victory marks a remarkable achievement, making Marszalek the first debutant in the Bermuda Open to win the blue riband event in their maiden season in the league since Paul Fedden achieved the same feat back in 2017.
Dziak and Bailey Advance in Bermuda Open Doubles
Meanwhile, the Bermuda Open Doubles tournament is progressing, with a quarter-final clash taking place last Thursday, May 14th, at WWC. The pairing of Todd Dziak and Nadanja Bailey proved too strong for Stephen Tucker and Keith Smith, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory. The frames were won 57-24 and 52-22.
Dziak and Bailey now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face the formidable duo of Steven Bremar and Zane DeSilva. The winner of that semi-final will then be in contention for a potential final showdown against the experienced pairing of Paul Fedden and Tyler Moniz, with the date for the semi-final and final to be confirmed.
Keen Cup Final, Tony DeSilva Memorial Cup, and Bermuda Open Doubles Semi-Final all highlighted this week's Bermuda Snooker Round-Up.
RAA Snatch Keen Cup in Final Ball Thriller at Sandys
The Sandys Boat Club played host to a dramatic Keen Cup final that went right down to the wire, with RAA ultimately clinching victory in a nail-biting deciding frame against the home side.
Paul Fedden gave Sandys a flying start in the opening game, comfortably defeating Keino Zuill 74-41. RAA captain Kenya Trott came agonisingly close to levelling the tie in the second frame against Peter Bromby, but narrowly missed out on the final black ball, losing 54-48.
RAA responded in the third game, with Arron Bean pulling one back for his team, defeating Richie Beale 66-34. The comeback continued in the fourth frame, as Kyle Williams equalised for RAA in an epic tactical battle against Martin Siese. The tension was palpable as Williams clinched the frame on the final black ball, winning 59-54 and levelling the overall score at 2-2.
With the Keen Cup hanging in the balance, a tie-break was drawn, pitting Williams against Siese once again for all the glory. Siese started strongly, racking up a 26-point lead without reply. However, the frame then descended into another captivating tactical affair, with Williams showing immense resilience. He hung on, clawing back the deficit point by point, and in a stunning repeat of their earlier encounter, snatched victory from Siese on the final black ball, winning 62-58 and securing the Keen Cup for RAA in the most dramatic fashion.
Dziak Stuns Garrod with DeSilva Cup Whitewash
Meanwhile, there was a major shock at Watford Sports Club as Todd Dziak pulled off the biggest win of his snooker career, whitewashing Matt Garrod 4-0 to claim the prestigious Tony DeSilva Memorial Cup.
Dziak was in inspired form, winning the frames 49-31, 57-15, 60-21, and 66-41, leaving Garrod with no answer on the night.
Fedden & Moniz Book Bermuda Open Doubles Final Spot
Elsewhere, Paul Fedden continued his strong showing on the table, this time partnering with Tyler Moniz to secure their place in the final of the Bermuda Open Doubles.
Playing at the Spanish Point Boat Club, Fedden and Moniz defeated Alan Smith & Fred Richardson 2-0, winning their semi-final clash 56-39 and 63-49.
Their opponents in the final are yet to be determined, promising another exciting chapter in Bermuda's Snooker scene.
