Elsley ‘Masterful’ in Claiming First Title

The talented Rob Elsley has claimed his first National title, defeating a gallant Richard Peric 5-2 in an all-NSW Final of the 2021 Australian Masters Snooker Championship.

Full results can be accessed on the ABSC website at www.absc.com.au (tournament results).

The event was once again held over four days (29th April to 2nd May) at Mingara Recreation Club on the NSW Central Coast.  The popular venue, proudly referred to as the “Home of the Masters” by ABSC President Frank Dewens, has now successfully hosted the event for the past 13 consecutive years (allowing for last year’s cancellation due to Covid-19).   

This year’s Australian Masters Snooker marked the first Championship conducted by the ABSC since the Covid-enforced lockdown of 2020.  All concerned were pleased to finally have major events under way once again, including the players who provided a record number of 58 entries (9 inter-state) this year.  This was a fantastic response and is once again an impressive show of support for both the event and the venue.

The tables played superbly throughout, due in no small way to the excellent skills of table-fitter Danny Townsend.  Players engaged in some extremely competitive games and kept spectators thoroughly entertained throughout, with the high break prize going to Joe Minici with an 82.  But the cream eventually rose to the top, with the two very worthy Finalists both recording impressive victories along the way over highly respected players including Joe Minici, Glen Wilkinson, and Roger Farebrother.

The Final was a hard-fought affair with both players showing each other plenty of respect and were no doubt well-aware that one loose stroke could provide a frame-winning opportunity for their skilful opponent.  As a result, there were no significant breaks made and it was a war of attrition as each player sought to grind the other down in attempting to secure their first National title.  Richard Peric played admirably and showed true fighting qualities, but it was eventually Rob Elsley who gradually gained the upper hand to emerge a worthy winner.  Both Finalists now becomes eligible to represent Australia at the IBSF World Masters Snooker Championship later this year in Qatar (subject to international travel restrictions) and we wish them well in their endeavours.

Congratulations to all involved in making this year’s Masters a success, including Tournament Director Ross Wyard and the referees who officiated throughout the 4 days of the Championship, but especially to the Mingara directors, management, staff and members - whose support, assistance and fabulous facilities make this event possible.

Gary Knight

Tournament Organiser