6 days ago
Waikato Man Represents New Zealand At Eight-Ball Pool World Championship
For one Waikato local, a lifetime of eight-ball pool at clubs, bars and chippy shops has culminated in representing New Zealand on the world stage – at 63 years old.
Danny Ward will be representing New Zealand at the IEPF World Championship in the over 60s division, held from 26 August in Ireland.
Ward said it was an amazing opportunity to represent New Zealand at the highest level of cue sports.
'I'm very excited to be representing New Zealand at the championships. I think it proves it's never too late to compete and do what you love.'
A competitive eight-ball pool player for more than four decades, Ward said he first fell in love with playing pool in an unusual place – his local chippy in Forest Lake.
'My journey with cue sports began in the early 70s when I first picked up a cue at the local fish and chip shop across from Fraser High School.
'That led to me getting a tabletop eight-ball pool table when I was just 13 years old, and that really created a lifelong passion for me.'
Ward first competed in 1985 in the Waikato C Grade Eight-Ball Championship, sweeping the competition and securing his first silverware. From there, Danny said he never looked back.
'It's been over 40 years of playing for me and I still want to compete and win.'
The electric feeling of competition gave way to more opportunities to represent Waikato and New Zealand.
When Ward isn't sinking pockets, he's branding them, at his day job as a sales representative at branding and custom merch creators The Brand Makers, who are also sponsoring him on his bid to bring home the silverware.
Ward said he was pleased the company's attitude towards supporting community sports and success made taking the time off such a breeze.
'My bosses have been very accommodating and were pleased to support me as I head to Ireland. They love any local success and always want to contribute to community sports.'
He said he's ready to compete and do the business, region and country proud.
'I've been practising hard for this, and I've never been more ready.'
