Rina Walters crowned top lady of the table

Rina Walters was crowned the new ladies’ single champion of the Far North Pool Association after beating Lui Wihongi 2-0 in the final of the annual tournament last month.

Waters also defeated Nikki Murray, Jasmine Marino and Grace Price on the path to her title at Waipapakauri. Local 8-ball commentator Sharpshooter noted a best of three format was used in all games on the day, while the event attracted 16 of the best female cueists in the district, all showing some excellent potting ability when needed to nail the wins. On behalf of the organisers, Sharpshooter extended his thanks to the Waipap Tigers for hosting the event and providing lunch.

Turning his eye to the local Tuesday competition, it was noted nine out of the 13 teams have now moved within 10 points of the frontrunning Titans Blue after week 9 was completed last week. Reviewing proceedings, Sharpshooter noted it had become a very even competition this year: “A lot of improvement by some teams is putting the heat on the top sides week after week.”

A quick round-up of last week’s results saw Waipap Tigers 2 playing a lot better at home of late to earn a draw against the Herekino Razorbacks, and the Titans Black vs Waipap Maniacs match also ending as a draw.

Elsewhere, Waipap Gold at home played well to earn four points against KA Nek Mint 8-4 (6-2 after singles play); Awanui 8 Ball brought the KA Rebels back to earth with a 7-5 loss, although the latter side had already “exceeded their own expectations with four wins” this season so far; Titans Blue beat Herekino Boar Hunters 8-4 (6-2) in the Herekino; while Collard Hawks captain Tess Rihari led her team to an 11-1 home victory over Tigers 1 (7-1 singles).

Standings: Titans Blue 62, Renegades 60, Nek Minit 59, Titans Black 56, Waipap Maniacs 56, Awanui 56, Rebels 54, Razorbacks 53, Hawks 52, Tigers Two 40, Waipap Gold 34, Boarhunters 32 Tigers One 30.

Draw for tonight ( week 10): Tigers 1* v Boarhunters, Hawks* v Waipap Tigers 2, Nek Minit* v Maniacs, Renegades v Awanui*, Blue* v Rebels, Razorbacks* v Titans Black, bye: Waipap Gold, * indicates Sharpshooter’s picks as the night’s winners.