MANDURAH pool shark Steve Hale is taking his talents to an international level as he is set to represent Australia at the World Masters Eightball Championships in Blackpool next month.
The 54-year-old Peel Pool Association player has been playing since he was 16, but this will be his first appearance at a national competition.
Hale said he expected strong showings from all Australian teams at the tournament.
“We’re fielding some strong sides across all grades,” he said.
“Hopefully we can go over and get a win.”
Hale said he began playing Pool when his parents bought him his first table.
“My folks decided to skip their holiday one year and bought a pool table instead,” he said.
“I fell in love with how unique the game is, and I’ve loved it ever since.”
In his time at the Peel Pool Association, Hale has won has won the northern suburbs singles championship, the WA A-grade singles championship, WA state singles title and two state masters team championships.
He is also the captain of the association’s division one team.
Hale said the club provided the perfect basis for both youngsters and veterans to train and improve their skills.
“Everyone at the association is great to play with, and the oldies are spectacular mentors,” he said.
“It’s a great place to just get together and enjoy a game that everyone loves to play.”
Hale joked that his ability came in handy when playing at pubs.
“I’ve managed to school a few young blokes in my time,” he laughed.
“But mainly I like to help the young kids who are trying out for the first time or who just want some pointers.”
Hale had to raise his own funds for the trip and thanked a number of local businesses, including West Coast Billiards Mandurah, who helped him achieve his goal.
“The community has really gotten behind me, and there are many people who pitched in to make my trip to the world championships possible,” he said.
