International Cuestars
TWO Cuestars youngsters have has been called up for the England under-16 side for the Home Internationals next month.
Chandler’s Ford Snooker Club players Jordan Winbourne, 14, (pictured left) and Marchwood’s Shane Castle, 12, will travel to Pontin’s in Prestatyn, North Wales, on September 10.
Clive Brown, chairman of the English Association of Snooker & Billiards (EASB), has kept a close eye on the pair for the past couple of years.
He said: “For two players of such a young age to be selected to play in an under-16s team for their country is a unique achievement.
“And that both players play at the same club is testament to the quality of coaching and encouragement they receive at the club.
“I’m sure they will both play their part to help retain the under-16s trophy.”
Castle earns his third England cap after finishing a remarkable 28th on the EASB Premier Junior Tour.
Winbourne qualified for his second England cap by winning the EASB Regional Junior Tour (Zone 2). He will join Castle on the EASB Premier Junior Tour this coming season.
Winbourne’s dad, Chris, revealed that he can’t prise his son away from the practice table.
“I tried to get him to have a two-week break recently,” he said. “But he couldn’t keep himself away. I’m delighted for him; he loves his snooker. I’m pleased he’s getting the rewards that his dedication deserves.
“And if it means another 500-mile-plus round trip and another week at Pontin’s, then so be it.”
Picture by Kevin Legg