Pool: Perfect 10 for Runcorn’s world champion Sue Thompson

Jul 15 2010 by David Bergin, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

SUE Thompson set herself a fresh challenge after becoming Foster’s World Eight-Ball Pool ladies singles champion for a 10th time.

The Runcorn-born Scottish international defeated Northern Ireland rival Emma Cunningham 8-4 in the final at Blackpool’s Imperial Hotel.

It was her fifth win in six finals against the number two seed from Newry.

To put Thompson’s achievement into perspective, Gareth Potts, the most prolific men’s champion, has ‘only’ lifted his trophy on three occasions.

But left-hander Thompson, 40, isn’t satisfied with her record-breaking haul.

“I will keep going while I have got my ability,” she said after reaching double figures.

“I wouldn’t be one of those players who keeps coming and getting knocked out in the first and second rounds. When I do decide to go, I’d like to be world champion when I leave.

“I am only 40 and if Phil Taylor can keep going, I am sure I can keep going. He’s got 15 world titles so that would be a good total to get.

“Hopefully, I can. When I realise I’m not at the top, that’s the time to stop.”

Thompson began her campaign by whitewashing Emma’s older sister, Mary, 6-0.

She ended it by staying calm as Cunningham junior came from 7-2 down to 7-4.

“This win is one of my most pleasing,” explained Thompson after collecting a cheque for £2,000.

“I wasn’t at my best throughout the championship and I had to dig in. I have also been a bit under the weather and that doesn’t help prepare you for a world championship.

“It gets harder every year but I keep going.”

Thompson dedicated her latest success to friend and sponsor Harry Moffatt who died after last year’s tournament.

“We’d known each other for 14 years and he was a very dear friend.”

Thompson also paid tribute to her vanquished opponent.

“Emma is a great player. You don’t get to six world finals without being very good and I am sure she will have her day.”

And she joked: “Perhaps she needs to put on a bit more weight so she can develop her break.”