The World English Pool Championships are the pinnacle of success for professional English pool players. Featuring a rich history of exceptional talent, nail-biting matches, and unforgettable moments, the championships have been the stage where legends are born and the finest pool players in the world have been crowned.
This article will take you through the illustrious past and present of this prestigious tournament.
The World English Pool Championships were first held in the late 1970s, organized by the World Eightball Pool Federation.
It has since become the most coveted title in the world of English pool, attracting top-tier players from all corners of the globe. The championships are held annually, featuring singles, doubles, and team events.
Format of the Championships
The World English Pool Championships is played in the English style of 8-ball pool, on a smaller table (7ft x 4ft) with pockets just larger than the balls, and features two sets (red and yellow) of seven colored balls. The tournament typically consists of straight knockout rounds with the final being first to 11.
The current rules are played to International 8 ball pool rules.
Memorable Champions: A Look Back
Over the years, the championships have seen some exceptional talent. Here are some notable champions:
- Mick Hill (England): Often regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Hill has won the World English Pool Championships multiple times, a testament to his skill and consistency.
- Phil Harrison (England): Another English stalwart, Harrison’s masterful cue control and strategic play have earned him several championship titles.
- Gareth Potts (England): Potts, a young powerhouse in the pool world, has also been a multiple-time world champion, impressing audiences with his dynamic play.
The Women’s World English Pool Championships
In parallel with the men’s tournament, the Women’s World English Pool Championships have been showcasing the best female pool talent since the 1990s. Emma Cunningham, Sue Thompson, and Lisa Quick are just a few of the multiple-time champions who have left their mark on the women’s game.
The Impact of the World English Pool Championships
The World English Pool Championships have significantly influenced the sport, elevating its global profile and inspiring a new generation of players. These championships provide an opportunity for players to compete at the highest level, fostering the growth and development of English pool worldwide.
The Future of the Championships
With the increasing global popularity of English pool, the World Championships are set to continue attracting top talent and producing thrilling pool action. The WEPF has now entered into a partnership with Ultimate Pool. The biggest pool tour in the UK. As the sport evolves, so too will the Championships, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the global pool scene.
Conclusion
The World English Pool Championships encapsulate the allure of English pool, highlighting the skill, strategy, and sheer thrill that the game can provide. As we look forward to future championships, we also look back at the past champions with respect and admiration, acknowledging their contributions to this wonderful sport.
Past World Champions: As recognized by the WEPF. (World Eightball Pool Federation)
| Year | Location | Referee | Winner | Runner Up | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | Manchester | Mike Perkins | Kevin Wright | Nigel Davis | 9-5 |
| 1994 | Manchester | Ted Tait | Rob McKenna | Greg Farren | 9-3 |
| 1995 | Chorley | Marshall Morter | Daz Ward | Jason Twist | 11-8 |
| 1996 | Manchester | Marshall Morter | Greg Farren | Tony Holgate | 11-10 |
| 1997 | Manchester | Marshall Morter | Rob McKenna | Lee Kendall | 11-9 |
| 1998 | Blackpool | Marshall Morter | Carl Morris | Keith Brewer | 11-5 |
| 1999 | Blackpool | Jason Davies | Quinten Hann | Terry Hunt | 11-4 |
| 2000 | Blackpool | Jason Davies | Jason Twist | Carl Morris | 11-10 |
| 2001 | Blackpool | Mel Harley | Chris Melling | Rob McKenna | 11-10 |
| 2002 | Blackpool | Mel Harley | Jason Twist | Yannick Beaufils | 11-9 |
| 2003 | Blackpool | Mel Harley | Chris Melling | Jason Twist | 11-7 |
| 2004 | Blackpool | Shaun Baker | Mick Hill | Darren Appleton | 11-9 |
| 2005 | Blackpool | Shaun Baker | Gareth Potts | Chris Melling | 11-7 |
| 2006 | Blackpool | Jason Davies | Mark Selby | Darren Appleton | 11-7 |
| 2007 | Blackpool | Mel Harley | Gareth Potts | Mick Hill | 11-5 |
| 2008 | Blackpool | Kevin Armitage | Gareth Potts | Jason Twist | 11-4 |
| 2009 | Blackpool | Phil Turner | Phil Harrison | Mick Hill | 11-7 |
| 2010 | Blackpool | Mel Harley | Mick Hill | Gareth Potts | 11-8 |
| 2011 | Blackpool | John H. Hope | Adam Davis | Phil Harrison | 11-9 |
| 2012 | Blackpool | Richard Rhodes | John Roe | Lee Kendall | 11-7 |
| 2013 | Blackpool | Richard Rhodes | Tom Cousins | Craig Waddingham | 11-10 |
| 2014 | Blackpool | Peter Arundale | Tom Cousins | Giuseppe d’Imperio | 11-7 |
| 2015 | Blackpool | John H. Hope | Mick Hill | Nigel Clarke | 11-5 |
| 2016 | Blackpool | Sacha Gauci | Shaun Chipperfield | Karl Sutton | 11-4 |
| 2017 | Blackpool | George Bradbury | Mick Hill | Phil Harrison | 11-6 |
| 2018 | Blackpool | George Bradbury | Mick Hill | Phil Harrison | 11-8 |
| 2019 | Blackpool (Imperial) | Matt Ward | Mick Hill | Dom Cooney | 11-6 |
| 2022 | Killarney (Ireland) | N/A | Ronan McCarthy | Chris Day | 11-6 |
