McNamara hopes to spring a Shanghai surprise in exclusive contest
DAVID McNAMARA, a multi-talented sportsman from Runcorn, has been invited to an exclusive world pool event in China next month.
The 22-year-old, who is also the vice-captain of Runcorn Cricket Club, received a personal invitation to the event which will take place in Shanghai on March 16.
McNamara was recently crowned the World U23s champion in October 2016 and also claimed the national title during a hugely-impressive season.
The local scaffolder will be competing against some of the biggest names in pool and snooker from around the world. Only 20 people have been invited from the UK and he will line-up alongside current and former world champions such as Mark Selby, Neil Robinson and Shaun Murphy.
“There will be 16 professional snooker players there and Ronnie O’Sullivan may even make an appearance which will just be amazing,” said McNamara.
“Only 20 people will participate from the UK and there will also be nine professional ball players including Earl Strickland, as well as the top 32 Chinese players.
“I just can’t wait to get over there and test myself.”
As well as an opportunity to test himself against some of the best in the game, McNamara is excited at the prospect of returning home with a huge cash prize.
As an amateur player, McNamara can benefit hugely from financial support and he currently relies on sponsorship to be able to compete in these ● types of events. If he was to win the competition, he could receive a sum of up to £100,000 which would mean he could become a full-time professional.
“It’s a massive opportunity for me to go out there and play against the best of the best in the world so I’m really looking forward to it,” said McNamara.
“Hopefully I can bring back the first prize which is a huge amount of money as it is between £75,000 and £100,000.
“It would be a huge help for me and could really push on my career. I’m looking for some more sponsorship for the event as I’ve had some great support in the past and the Runcorn Conservative club and FGH Air Breaks have been so good to me.
“I’m forever thankful for their support as I wouldn’t be able to compete at all of these competitions without their backing and financial aid.”
McNamara is pleased his hard work has been acknowledged but he has plenty to look forward to following the event in China too.
He added: “I have the pro pool tour, the national finals and of course this event all within four weeks so it’s a really exciting time for me.
“Hopefully I can retain my world and national titles and a win a few more key events on the pro tour this season.”