KEN DOHERTY wants to see top-level snooker to return to Ireland – and not just because it brings back memories of getting drinks for a boozed-up Alex Higgins.
The World Tour does not stage any ranking tournaments in Ireland these days but does go every autumn to Belfast for the Northern Ireland Open.
Ken Doherty admits he would like to have top-level snooker back in Ireland Credit: VCG via Getty Images
With its unique circular layout, Goffs Paddocks in County Kildare remains a firm favourite among seasoned racing professionals Credit: AFP via Getty Images
The Irish Masters, which first took place in 1975, was a popular destination for professional cueists until its demise in 2007.
, 56, was champion in 1998 by default when – who won the final 9-3 – was later disqualified after failing a drugs test having tested positive for cannabis.
Goffs Paddocks in County Kildare is a favourite place for the old pros due to its unique circular layout where all supporters get a great view of the table – it hosted the inaugural John Virgo Trophy in April.
Asked if he would like to see an event in his homeland, Doherty told SunSport: “Oh, without a doubt, yeah, that would be amazing;
“I’d love to see a tournament back in Goffs.
“I used to work in Goffs as a young kid, as a 14-year-old.
“I got a job there as an usher and had to look after the players – that gave me great inspiration, just to see them up close and meet them and watch the snooker up close.
“I used to see Alex Higgins and he would ask me to get him an orange juice.
“He’d say: ‘When I ask you for an orange juice that means a vodka and orange juice. And if I ask you for a vodka and orange juice that’s a double…’
Ken Doherty has won 23 professional career titles Credit: VCG via Getty Images
“So I’d love to see it happen there again. Goffs is a very, very special place, and I’d love to see a big tournament there.”
In his role as a director on the WPBSA Players Board, Doherty will now try to improve the mental health care for the playing group and ensure every potter gets full medical care for themselves and their families.
Earlier this month, the Darling of Dublin hung up his cue after a 36-year career and will not be involved in the professional set-up any more, though he will appear in exhibitions and on the seniors circuit.
He leaves behind a tremendous legacy, having won the Crucible crown in 1997 – his homecoming parade in Dublin was so well-received it stopped crime for hours – and also lost two in two other World Championship finals.
A six-time ranking tournament winner, Doherty made the final of the UK Championship on three occasions and was twice involved in the final of the Masters.
Doherty, a much in-demand snooker broadcaster, said: “I’ve been contemplating retirement for a while. I wasn’t getting any better. I wasn’t getting any results.
“I thought, I can’t play like I used to, so leave it to the other guys – and I’m better off at talking now than I am playing.
“I still love the game. I just wanted to continue to try and search for something, but at the end of the day it wasn’t there and I don’t have the game anymore.
“I’m done. But I’ve enjoyed my time, I’ve had a great time.
“Met some great people and been around the world and been to some wonderful places and made so many great friends.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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