WHIRLWIND' WHITE ANNOUNCES OMAGH DATE
Whirlwind' White announces Omagh date
Snooker star puts on special dates to aid Omagh Relief Fund
SNOOKER star, Jimmy White has broken off a "whirlwind" tour of the North to play two special exhibition games in aid of victims of the Omagh tragedy.
The player who is currently ranked 9th in the world will undertake two challenge matches against Derry cueman, Terry Murphy in Omagh Leisure Centre next Monday evening.
The exhibition and challenge fixture is the latest in a series of sporting events arranged in the wake of the atrocity, with all monies being donated to the Omagh Relief Fund.
This week, tour promoter Colin Maguire told the 'Herald' that, as a family man, Jimmy White had been deeply moved by the tragedy.
The 36-year-old player had originally considered Omagh as a possible venue during the short tour, but had ruled the date out in light of the tragedy.
However, when the opportunity arose to help boost the fund's coffers, the tour was hurriedly rescheduled to include Monday's matches.
"When Jimmy first heard news of the atrocity, he was totally outraged.
"As a family man and a father for the fifth time just s recently, the tragedy obviously hits home.
"But he felt that if some good comes out of his appearance in Omagh next Monday and the matches boost the fund, then he will obviously be pleased" added Mr Maguire.
The first of two shows begins at 4.30pm in the Minor Hall and is designed primarily for a younger audience. Both players will finish off the session by signing autographs for young fans.
The main event of the evening starts at 8pm, with White and Murphy demonstrating their skills on the green baize.
The 'Whirlwind' will then throw down the gauntlet to members of the audience to take part in a few challenge frames.
His opponent on the evening, Terry Murphy is currently the top professional in Northern Ireland and ranked 27th in the WPBSA ratings.
Having turned professional seven years ago, his best result this season was reaching the last 32 in the Embassy World Snooker Championships where he was beaten 10-5 by Peter Ebdon.
He is currently recovering from a broken ankle but has been given the all clear by doctors, and is using the tour to prepare himself for next month's Grand Prix.
As part of the tour, a professional snooker lighting system has been specially flown in and spectators are guaranteed excellent viewing facilities in the 550 seater hall.
Referee for the matches will be Conn Eagan, a member of the Northern Ireland Snooker Control Council.
A special programme is also being prepared for Monday evening's event and organisers have appealed to local traders and business people to contribute towards advertising pointing out that all proceeds will go towards the fund.
Jimmy White will also be offering his services free of charge in an effort to maximise the total amount donated.
A specially reduced entrance fee has been arranged for both performances with prices held to £6 for adults and £3 for children and OAPs.
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