In a gripping four-day showdown hosted by the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, 18 cueists battled across 175 matches in a celebration of precision, nerves, and pure sporting passion
By Amjad Qaimkhani
HOUSTON: In a nerve-wracking finale, Dr Faisal Anwar emerged victorious at the second Pakistan Pool Tournament held in Houston, Texas, defeating the seasoned cue master Amir Ali — affectionately known among peers as “Mamoo.”
The four-day event, organized by the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, brought together 18 players for contest that saw a total of 175 matches played. Dr Anwar’s performance under pressure earned him the top spot and a $1,000 prize, while Amir Ali secured second place and a $500 reward. Nasser Younus and Aqeel Ahmed Basheer secured third place, each were being rewarded $250.
Though the tournament was competitive, it was underpinned by a strong sense of community and camaraderie. The atmosphere was electric, with supporters cheering on the players, particularly in the intense final rounds. Community leaders and local dignitaries turned out in full force to support the event and the players.
The crowd included Siraj Narsi, President of the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston, along with Secretary General Syed Aamir Zaidi, Friends of Karachi President Arif Azeem, Fahim Akhund from the University of Karachi Alumni Association in Houston, PPP Houston’s Secretary General Amir Arsalan Malik, and social leaders like Parvez Sultan, Faisal Fareed, and Mr Hashmi of A-One Builders. Their presence added warmth and recognition to the occasion.
Senior journalists and media figures such as Afaq Farooqi, anchor Faisal Aziz Khan, Syed Shamim of Pakistan News, and journalists Amjad Qaimkhani and Jameel Siddiqui also marked their attendance at the closing ceremony, further highlighting the event’s significance in the local Pakistani diaspora.
The tournament owed much of its success to the tireless work of organisers Shakeel Khan, Imtiaz Ahsan, and Amjad Qaimkhani, who were applauded by players and guests alike. Their meticulous planning and commitment ensured that the event ran smoothly and left a lasting impression on all involved.
Other participating players included Syed Tahir Wafaqani, Fayyaz Khan, Yasir Waqar, Shahid Anwar, Danish Siddiqui, Muhammad Bilal, Ali Siddiqui, Imtiaz Chandio, Muneer Riffai, Masoor Sheikh, Asad Ghufran, Raheel Chandio and Sunny—each contributing to the tournament’s vibrant spirit. The prize ceremony concluded with a dinner held in honor of the players and guests.
However, more than just a sporting competition, the tournament served as a joyful celebration of community, cultural connection, and the unifying power of sport. As Dr Faisal raised his cue in triumph, the message was clear: in Houston’s vibrant Pakistani community, talent and togetherness walk hand in hand.
