Much-needed boost for UAE

The five-member UAE national squad for the world nine-ball billiards championship, starting in Cardiff in the first week of July, are hopeful of a strong showing on the international stage.

"We will strive hard to fulfill the expectations of the UAE people," said Ali Abdul Kareem, the UAE team captain for the Cardiff tournament, a press conference held to announce the team's sponsorship by Al Yamahi Group.

The UAE team consists of Ali Abdul Kareem, Ali Saeed, Abdullah Salman, Saeed Al Mutawa'a and Hani Al Khoory. The event, in its 15th year, is expected to attract over 5,000 billiards players from all over the world.

The five players, along with an equal number of officials, will leave for Wales on July 3. The tournament will run from July 5-20.

"We are pleased to sponsor this team of UAE national billiards players at such an important competition," said Ali Khamis Al Yamahi, chairman of the Al Yamahi Group.

"It's a great opportunity for our players to make contact and learn from other top-class players," added Ahmed Ibrahim, the Director of Fujairah Billiards Centre and General Supervisor of the team.

The five-member UAE team has already started a 10-day training camp at the Millennium Avenue in Deira, till their departure on July 3.

US player Earl Strickland holds the distinction of winning the title in its inaugural year in 1990 and as also starting as the defending champion this year.

"The championship will be broadcasted live by more than 15 sports channels with a viewership of more than one billion people worldwide.

"The championship has an estimated prize money of £2 million," disclosed Ibrahim. "It's a great honour to be representing the UAE and the Arab world at this competition," noted team captain, Ali Abdul Kareem.