Story by Mthokozisi Dube
BULAWAYO – THE sport of pool is experiencing a resurgence in Bulawayo, following renewed sponsorship that is set to energise the local competitive scene.
Staging monthly pool tournaments has long been the immediate target for the Bulawayo Pool Association, but lack of resources has left the local association to rely on the annual Queens tournament and the Carling Black Label.
This has seen pool players enduring a long layoff which has in turn affected their competition levels.
That is now a thing of the past after the Bulawayo Pool Association managed to lure back long-time sponsor, Mayez to the sport.
“We are pleased that corporate sponsors are recognising the value of our sport. With several districts actively participating in the local league, we are confident that pool will continue to grow in the city,” the Association’s spokesperson, Ozzy Dziko said.
Mayez Tournament organiser, Mr Archie Scholtz, echoed the sentiment and called on other corporate entities to come on board.
“We are happy to partner with the Bulawayo Pool Association in its mission to nurture talent and develop the sport. This time, we are back with renewed energy, and we believe our involvement will go a long way in improving the sport,” he said.
Bulawayo has historically been a stronghold of pool talent in Zimbabwe, producing national champions such as Lindani Gumpo, who has also made his mark on the regional scene.
Notably, pool has been making strides in shedding its traditional association with beer halls, with organisers now opting for more family-friendly venues, further contributing to the sport’s growing popularity.
