By Philippa Stevenson
HAMILTON - Bryan Villers couldn't be happier with the success of a billiards tournament begun in Hamilton three years ago.
At the weekend, the 74-year-old Hamilton Cosmopolitan Club member continued his dominance of the North Island over-60s championship by winning it for the third year in a row.
He is
delighted, too, that the contest has drawn other older players back to the game, and is helping to generate a following among younger people.
Mr Villers said he developed a love of billiards - and his skill with a cue - as a youngster in Taranaki.
"It's said to be the sign of a dissolute youth, but I came to it after the Depression, when I'd earn a few bob cleaning [billiard] tables in Stratford," he said.
The style of billiards played in last week's contest means games can last between one and two hours and Mr Villers, who suffered a heart attack last year, found the going "really tough."
He said he was given a real run for the $350 prizemoney by another Hamilton player, Chris Anderson, but was pleased his break of 95 points was also the competition's best.
Mr Villers said he hoped to defend his title next year and until then would continue to play a couple of times a week and coach others to promote interest in the ancient sport.
