2017 was a great year for the UK Tour! Tom Cousins’ feat of winning three successive titles was fantastic to witness and it could be some time before it is equalled or bettered. The new format Premier League was very well received; with money riding on every game the focus was high and the standard was superb. An ultra consistent Adam Davis took the league title whilst Steve Petty was the man to watch at the final tour taking the inaugural Premier League Knockout. Phil Harrison also reminded everyone of his talent with a great performance taking down the last tour of the season. Amy Beauchamp also rounded off a great year following up her World Championship win by taking the Ladies Premier League.
But already thoughts are turning to a new Tour series. With 11 weeks to go before the first tournament the signs are 2018 could be even more memorable.
Organisers are delighted by the response of players wanting to sign up for a chance to win some of the £115,000 prize fund and can now announce a record number of entrants.
“The most pleasing aspect for next season is that 34 of the 40 players in the final rankings from the 2017 season have again entered for 2018,” said Tour administrator, George Harwood.
“This is the highest number ever achieved since the Tour began and includes most of the sport’s world class performers.
“This is tribute to the esteem in which the UK Tour is held among the players.
“Only a handful of unallocated places remain but anyone thinking of joining the Tour now need to be quick off the mark.”
Ben Flack will be joining the Premier League cast of stars after gaining top spot in the Challenge event.
Joining Ben, will be Rob Wharne who cemented his place with a second final appearance of the season at Tour 5 and ended up finishing 5th on the Tour rankings. Rob was runner-up at Tour Four and also reached the fifth Challenge event final, losing to Shane Thompson.
All other places in the Premier League will be announced before the end of November but as always will include the cream of English 8-Ball Pool.
John Roe, World Champion in 2012, returns to the Tour alongside previous European title holder, Ryan Shaw.
Scotland will be well represented again while most of the top players from 2014 World team champions, Morocco are heading to the UK once more.
If you want be part of the action get in touch with George Harwood via http://ukpooltour.com