| Pool team returns in baize of glory |
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| Tuesday, 09 September 2008 | |
 FROM Ballymun to Swaziland is quite a journey. But for five local lads it was worth every mile when they won the Under 23 World Pool Championship recently.Not only did the talented North Dubliners win the prestigious title in South Africa – they also managed to bring home no less than 19 trophies, won for various skilled categories at the championship, including setting a new ‘speed pool’ world record. Playing against the finest players in the world, David Carrie (19), Darren Feehan (21), Aaron Sheridan (20), Darren Cole (22) and Michael Nolan (18) all from Ballymun, excelled on the pool tables of Swaziland and returned home the proud owners of their well-earned awards. Darren Feehan, commenting on the extraordinary achievements on behalf of the team, said: “Five lads in Ballymun are on top of the world. “It took us 12 years to win and eventually the hard work paid off; it’s a relief that we have done it.” Displaying incredible talent, David and Michael took a shot at the ranking system and achieved first and second in the world, netting them a further two trophies and the 2008 world titles. Practicing at their small club in St Pappin’s Youth Centre and struggling for sponsorship, these dedicated young men made their way to South Africa through fundraising events and help from Ballymun Regional Youth Resource (BRYR). Club manager and president of the World Black Ball Association, Martin Kirwan, has contributed greatly to the progress of the club since he started it up in 1981. He told Dublin People Sport he was very proud of the lads and in particular, Darren Feehan. “He’s been with the club in Ballymun since he was eight-years-of-age,” said Mr Kirwan. “To see him now at 21 getting to the semi final of the individual event, and to be a part of the winning team for the Under 23s is testament to the commitment and talent that all these young men have, given the right opportunity.” Due to the regeneration in Ballymun, the club nearly ceased to exist as the local snooker hall closed, but Mr Kirwan relocated to St Pappin’s Youth Centre with the help of BRYR. “Plans for a new hall are almost finalised and funding is being sought to invest in the future success of the club,” he added. “Our success rate has been huge since it was set up. Kids from all over Ireland practice here, and we welcome new kids to come and play.” The Ballymun quintet were representing the Southern Ireland Pool Federation along with a separate Irish Men’s team of five players who performed well in reaching their semi-final where they lost out to Spain. |
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Developed by Kevin Flynn