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.
