Cue stars to dig deep for fundraiser

FOLLOWING the very sad passing of local publican Tyler McConnell, Northern Ireland’s top cue sports players, including Mark Allen, Jordan Brown and Robbie McGuigan are coming together at Antrim Sports Club to help raise money for his partner Kirsty and her three young children Sophia, Reggie and Ronnie by staging a 24-hour tournament.

The event will take place from midday on Friday 28th November to midday on Saturday 29th November.

Tyler had a massive love for pool in Northern Ireland, starting with his own pub’s team in McConnells of Doagh, leading to multiple selections for Northern Ireland at European and Nation Cup tournaments.

He will be greatly missed by all friends from the pool scene from Northern Ireland and beyond.

Northern Ireland’s most decorated pool player Ronan McCarthy, alongside current Northern Ireland Champion Gary Clarke and new Ultimate Pool professional Rab McCullough , will be filling 18 of the 24 hours on the pool table taking on all challengers who can donate to play throughout the 24 hours.

The other six hours will be filled by friends of Tyler including Stephen Herron, Wayne Lewis, Johnny Mackay, Jeff Moore, Craig Laughlin and Gee Crawley who again, will take on all comers who donate to the fundraiser.

The snooker will be played by local professionals Robbie McGuigan, Jordan Brown and Mark Allen, who again, will take on all challengers throughout the 24hrs.

In the event that Jordan, Robbie or both qualify for the upcoming UK Championships, all 24 hours will be done by Mark.

Times slots of 15 minutes will be available to book for a minimum of £20 per slot.

There will also be a raffle, an auction and will have donation buckets on site throughout the day.

People can donate through PayPal at @markallen141 or contribute cash on the day.

Bank details will be added also in due course

There will also be a Big Break Challenge and 6 Red Shootout on the day to generate more funds, with a prize for winners of each event.

Anyone willing to donate a prize for the raffle or auction can get in touch with Kyle Kirkwood, Stephen Herron, Rab McCullough or Mark Allen.

Tyler’s partner Kirsty said: “Me and the kids love and miss Tyler and I will continue to be the best mummy for our three children. Thanks for everyone supporting us at this time.”