Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE ZIMBABWE International Trade Fair Hall (ZITF) Hall One went electric last Saturday night as pool lovers from across the country packed the venue, cue sticks in hand, all chasing the ultimate prize: the black ball.
In a spectacular showdown that saw 148 competitors — 74 men and 74 women — battle it out from mid-morning into the night, it was Harare’s Timothy Onida and Alice Chiota who emerged triumphant, claiming the 2025 Carling Black Label Pool national titles.
Both players dominated their finals, cruising to identical 5-1 victories, proving they had the skill, nerves, and strategy to reign supreme.
The rewards matched the glory. Each walked away with US$2 500 and a state-of-the-art pool table, while runners-up took home US$1 500. Third and fourth places collected US$1 000 and US$500, ensuring every top player left with something to show for their efforts.
For Chiota (40), this was sweet redemption. Two years ago she finished first runner-up. “It’s really pleasing to be crowned a champion,” she beamed.
“It all came through hard work. This game needs a lot of practice and I’m happy with the prize which I think will change my life.”
Onida was equally determined. “I wanted to win and I had already told myself before leaving home that I was going to win,” he said, grinning after his victory.
The event showcased not only individual brilliance but also the growth of pool in Zimbabwe. Once seen as a bar-room pastime, the sport is now gaining traction in clubs, recreational facilities, and competitions across the country, transforming lives in the process.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya praised the rising professionalism in Zimbabwean pool.
She emphasised the need for more conducive venues, saying the sport could be a lifeline for youths struggling with social challenges. “We have a crisis of drug abuse among youths, but I am confident sports like pool will go a long way in taking these youths off the streets.
Pool is now being played at a professional level, and many people are making a living out of it,” she said.
Jesaya added that schools and other community facilities could host tournaments, providing structured platforms for young talent to flourish. Corporates, too, are showing interest, beginning to back the sport financially, a development that could secure its future.
With champions like Onida and Chiota setting the bar, Zimbabwean pool is not just surviving — it’s thriving.
The country is witnessing a transformation where skill, dedication, and opportunity meet, proving that pool is more than a game; it’s a pathway to pride, professionalism, and possibility.
B-Metro applauds the winners and celebrates the rise of pool as a sport that is changing lives.
