Preston pool ace to play in World Amateur Masters at Blackpool

The World Eightball Pool Federation stages its World Championships and World Amateur Masters events at the Imperial Hotel over the coming days.

Barot is taking part in the World Amateur Masters having reached the last 32 last year and after previously playing in the team event there for India.

The 27-year-old, who lives in Avenham, is a well known figure on the Preston pool and snooker circuit.

He plays for the Central Lounge Reds in the Preston and District Pool League.

Barot told the Post: “I did well last year and reached the last 32 and was keen to give it another go.

“In previous years I had qualified for it by playing for the India team.

“But if you play in the team event, the tournament lasts for quite a few days whereas the individual event is just a two-day event.

“I became a dad last year so haven’t got the time to be away for so long in the team event.

“So I promised myself to enter the singles and do it for my son, try and go as far as I could in the tournament.

“He’s coming up nine months now and it would be wonderful if I can do well in the event and dedicate it to him.

“I don’t get as much time to practice now as I did before becoming a dad but the event is one I’m looking forward to.

“In the past I’d perhaps be able to practice three or four times a week but I get to play once a week now.”

Barot is sponsored by Cue 147, the snooker and pool hall based in Manchester Road, Preston.

And he is thankful of their support going into the Masters which starts on Friday.

“It’s a big tournament and it’s good to have a sponsor,” said Barot who works for Fulwood firm Zebra Technologies.

“I’m going there to enjoy it and all being well I can progress in it.

“In the first round I’m drawn against Kevin Malliah, who is from Mauritus.

“The tournament draws people from all over the world but I think I’m the only one from Preston.”

Last year, Josh Kane won the men’s Masters event, with Amy Beauchamp the ladies’ masters winner.

Dudley’s Mick Hill was the World Champion, Amy Beauchamp repeating her masters win in the World Championships.