15^th November 2008
Snooker's answer to 20/20 cricket is a six red and six colour format. This was put to the test at the first Redruth Bronze Waistcoat event of the season and it proved a resounding success. It produced quality snooker with no less than six black ball games during the tournament. The event was won by 14 year old Jake Stewart, who it has to be said usually romps away to victory in these tournaments. However the new 6+6 format made him work hard all the way to victory. In the final Stewart had to play with a borrowed cue as his tip came off in a previous match. This didn't seem to hinder Stewart as he took a 1-0 lead against Alex Wills, Wills drew level at with a 22 break before Stewart clinched the third and deciding frame with some clinical potting to win 2-1 and take the first Bronze of the season.

Stewart also didn't have it all his own way in the semi final where 11 year old Brett Broad took a well earned 1-0 lead before losing the next two frames. Stewart aided with a 38 break to go through to the final. In the other semi final group B winner Carl Mitchell lost 2-1 to Alex Wills after taking the first frame to lead 1-0.

The group stages saw Stewart comfortably win group A with breaks of 21 & 24 the second qualifier being Wills. Mitchell came good to win group B with Broad in second place.

All rounds were best of three and the standard was noticeably better than previous tournament and all the lads thoroughly enjoyed the new format. The next Redruth Bronze Waistcoat tournament will be at Redruth Royal British Legion on Sunday 30th November, 10.30am start. Tournament organiser and WEBSF area coach Paul Broad reported "I was pleased with the overall high standard of play which produced several close finishes. I feel that there is a definite niche in for 6 reds snooker, especially for the under 16 players and beginners". For details contact Paul Broad 07756 958356 or log on to www.websf.co.uk

Report by Paul Broad WEBSF Area Coach, Cornwall