The Snooker Shoot Out returns to Blackpool this week, a venue steeped in memories for players and fans alike. It’s a tournament unlike any other, a whirlwind of speed and noise that stands in stark contrast to the typically serene world of professional snooker.
Forget hushed reverence; the Shoot Out is a raucous affair. Matches are played over a single frame, with a relentless ten-minute time limit and a shot clock ticking down. The crowd isn’t just permitted to be vocal – they’re encouraged, creating an atmosphere that’s more akin to a rock concert than a sporting event.
Former professional Anthony Hamilton vividly remembers the intensity. Players are close enough to hear every shout, every chant, every…insult. He recalls one particularly memorable day in 2012 at the Blackpool Tower, a day that began with a disastrous commute.
Hamilton, against his usual routine, decided to travel on the day of the match. A short drive quickly turned into a nightmare when he was pulled over by police – and discovered he had no insurance. His car was impounded, leaving him and a friend stranded on the M1 hard shoulder.
A frantic race against time ensued. Taxis, trains, and more taxis were needed to reach Blackpool with mere minutes to spare before his match against Jimmy White. He was still changing in the taxi as he walked into the venue, sweating and stressed.
Then, as he broke off in the frame, a voice from the crowd cut through the tension: “You fat ct!” Hamilton, already reeling from the day’s events, could only shake his head. It wasn’t exactly the welcome he’d hoped for.
Despite the chaotic start, Hamilton won that frame against Jimmy White and enjoyed success in the Shoot Out throughout his career, reaching two quarter-finals. He describes the experience as a “love-hate” relationship, acknowledging the unique adrenaline rush it provides.
“The amount of adrenaline you’ve got running through your body during that frame is more than you’ve ever experienced as a snooker player,” he explained. “It’s absolutely mad.” The tournament demands a level of composure few other events require.
This year’s event promises more of the same high-octane drama. The 2025 Shoot Out gets underway, culminating in a final on Saturday night, all under the bright lights of Blackpool. It’s a test of skill, nerve, and the ability to thrive in utter chaos.
The opening round on Wednesday features intriguing matchups, including Ethan Llewellyn versus Yao Pengcheng and Shaun Murphy against Patrick Whelan. Thursday’s schedule boasts equally compelling contests, with Wu Yize facing Marco Fu and Oliver Brown taking on the legendary Jimmy White.
Friday and Saturday will see the competition intensify as players battle through the rounds, aiming for the coveted Shoot Out title. The tournament is a spectacle, a thrilling departure from the traditional game, and a true test of a player’s ability to perform under pressure.
Players will undoubtedly be hoping to emulate Shaun Murphy’s incredible feat from 2023 – the first and only maximum 147 break in Shoot Out history. Can anyone recreate that magic in Blackpool this year?
