Bangalore: The 2014 SEAWAYS - IBSF World Snooker Championships was flagged off in Bengaluru city by Abhayachandra Jain, Minister of State for Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fisheries, Government of Karnataka here on Tuesday.

The championship is being organized by India in the host city Bengaluru. The other dignitaries present during the opening ceremony were, K. Govind Raj, President, Karnataka Olympic Association; Jim Leacy, IBSF President, Capt. PVK Mohan, President, Billiards and Snooker Federation of India; Ramakanth A. Bijapur, General Manager, Bank of Baroda, State Head, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana; and the Tournament Director, S. Balasubramanian (Secretary BSFI).

On the occasion, Capt. PVK Mohan welcomed all the players, referees and delegates from over 50 countries around the world. He informed that India has become the hub of cue sports and hosted 14 International Championships in last 8 years. The players from India are also performing brilliant and Indian star player, Pankaj Advani, has already won 4 World titles this year (6Reds, Team Billiards, Point Format Billiards and Timed Format Billiards).

The President of IBSF, Jim Leacy also welcomed all those participating in the championship and hoped that all players and official will also enjoy their stay in Bengaluru. He mentioned that having past experiences of hosting championships in India, it's completely concern free that how the championship will do. India has done always best. He also congratulated team of BSFI for their efforts and work done for the championship. On behalf of IBSF he also thanked Indian and State Government people, and sponsors of the championship.



Later, the Jain played the a first shot on snooker table to announce championship open.


The championship has three categories i.e. Men, Women and Masters. Total 225 players (112 Men, 41 Women, and 72 Masters) are contesting for the titles.

The matches will start tomorrow morning at 1000 Hours for five sessions throughout the day. Group stage matches will complete on 25th November and followed by knockout stage with finals on 29th.

Join us on the website for results and live scoring, and on twitter/facebook for feeds and announcements. Ofcourse those are in Bengaluru, please visit Sri Kanteerva Indoor Stadium to witness exciting snooker matches.