Ken do attitude

30 YEARS ON AND DOHERTY’S ENTHUSIASM IS AS STRONG AS EVER

FORMER Crucible King Ken Doherty is relishing the prospect of attempting to qualify for this year’s World Championship.

The 1997 world champion has to win a trio of tough qualifying matches to reach snooker’s biggest stage, with the curtain coming up in Sheffield on July 31.

And the 50-year-old reckons qualifying for the first time in six years would be extra special in his 30th year as a professional.

“There’s going to be a bit of nervous tension and apprehension because they are big matches for a lot of people,” admitted Doherty.

“But I’m really looking forward to it, it’s exciting times. For a time there we didn’t think we’d even have a World Championship, so it’s great it’s going ahead.

“It’s been a fantastic journey. If you’d said to me I’d still be playing after 30 years and still had the chance to play at the Crucible, well I’d have probably laughed at you.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of my journey – and it’s not over yet!”

Doherty beat seventime world champion

Stephen Hendry to win his world crown and has played in two other world finals.

And the popular Dubliner hopes his vast experience during an illustrious career could give him the edge in his qualifying quest.

“Experience does count for a lot, there’s no doubt about that,” added

Doherty. “But at the same time you come up against players who don’t have as many battle scars, so it can work both ways.

“I know what to expect, though. It’s my 30th year as a professional and I’ve got so many great memories from playing at the Crucible.

“Getting back to the Crucible would be amazing.

“Walking through the curtain into the arena is very special, the hairs on the back of your neck are standing up and you’ve got goosebumps. “You’re body is rushing with adrenalin.

“You’re nervous, but you’re excited at the same time.

“I’ll never forget the first time I played there in 1990, I played Steve Davis. It’s such a wonderful place.

“One thing’s for sure, if I do make it I’ll be planting a big kiss on the floor!”

Doherty kicks off his qualifying challenge against either Glasgow’s Fraser Patrick or Liverpool teenager Sean Maddocks on Friday evening.

The Ranelagh man is joined in qualifying by compatriot Fergal O’brien and emerging youngsters Ross Bulman and Aaron Hill.

Northern Ireland’s Jordan Brown and Gerard Greene are also in action at the qualifiers this week.

Antrim’s Mark Allen (inset) has already qualified for the main event because of his top 16 ranking status.