Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Sports Correspondent
EXCITING pool player, Allen Changadzo, affectionately known in local pool circles as “The Headmaster,” produced a masterclass performance to emerge champion of the Mutare Carling Black Label Pool Tournament held at Dangamvura Tavern last Saturday.
The tournament attracted some of the province’s finest cueists, with players battling throughout the day in a highly competitive atmosphere that kept spectators entertained from start to finish.
In the end, it was Changadzo who held his nerve when it mattered most, overcoming Ronald Matimati in a nail-biting final to lift the coveted title.
The victory capped a memorable day for Changadzo, who displayed consistency, composure and remarkable shot-making throughout the competition.
His path to glory was far from easy, having faced several strong opponents along the way.
One of the biggest talking points of the tournament came in the last 32 when crowd favourite and highly talented, Nyasha Chitiyo, suffered a shock exit at the hands of Changadzo.
Many had tipped Chitiyo to go deep into the competition, but “The Headmaster” showed why he is regarded as one of the most formidable players in the region, producing a disciplined performance to eliminate the popular cueist.
Behind the top two finishers, Trust Mwakudza secured third place, while Johanne Mundihwo settled for fourth position after also enjoying impressive runs in the tournament.
The women’s category was equally competitive, with Sylvia Jimu emerging as champion after a series of outstanding performances.
Agnes Chigwanda finished as runner-up, while Jamillah Muponda and Sharon Mutsetse claimed third and fourth positions respectively.
The top two finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories earned the right to represent Manicaland Province at the Carling Black Label national finals scheduled for Masvingo next month.
The quartet will now carry the province’s hopes as they prepare to face the country’s best players in what promises to be a fiercely contested championship.
Despite the intense competition, the tournament was played in a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Organisers reported no incidents throughout the event, with players and supporters enjoying a calm, exciting and happiness-filled Saturday in Dangamvura.
Tournament statistics, however, revealed a significant gap between registrations and actual participation.
A total of 271 players registered online, comprising 239 men and 32 women. Of those, only 94 competitors eventually took part on the day.
In the men’s category, 80 of the 239 registered players participated, representing a turnout of 33 percent.
The women category recorded a slightly better participation rate, with 14 of the 32 registered players taking part, translating to 44 percent. Overall, the tournament achieved a participation rate of 34 percent.
Speaking after his triumph, Changadzo expressed delight at winning the provincial title and securing qualification for the national finals.
“I am very happy to have won this tournament. The competition was tough and every match required total concentration. Qualifying for the national finals is a great achievement, but the work starts now because we know the competition will be even tougher in Masvingo. I will continue practising and improving my game,” said Changadzo.
Runner-up, Matimati, also welcomed the opportunity to represent Manicaland on the national stage.
“Reaching the final and qualifying for the nationals is something I am proud of. Although I wanted to win, I am happy to have made it this far. We will continue training because the national finals will bring together the best players from across the country,” he said.
