The late Robin Johnstone was a pool enthusiast who would willingly share his knowledge of the sport with others.
He was always keen for a two-day pool tournament to be played at his home-away-from-home at the Ashburton Club and MSA.
And this month, in his memory, it is set to happen.
The Robin Johnstone Open Singles pool tournament will see up to 96 players in action at the club on June 27 and 28.
Club pool section president Sue Wakefield said the tournament was the first of its kind at the club in a long time.
Robin, who passed away in March after a courageous cancer battle, was supportive of young players and women playing pool, she said.
As a result the tournament is open to anyone from a chartered club age 15 years and older, and members of the public are welcome as spectators.
Robin’s widow, Sue Johnstone said he always loved the time he spent at the MSA playing pool.
‘‘He enjoyed sharing his passion and knowledge with others and he made many life-long friends through his pool,” she said.
Playing pool has passed down the Johnstone family line with Robin taking up the sport through his dad.
He then shared his passion for the game with his daughters Erika and Caitlin.
They still occasionally played on his table although freely admit to not having their dad’s skills.
His family were honoured Robin was being remembered through a pool tournament.
‘‘Robin would have loved to have been part of the competition,” Johnstone said.
“We know he would be pleased to see a two-day tournament back in Ashburton.”
“Robin encouraged the young players in the club and was always willing to give others a hand with the game and help however he could.”
In his many years at the club, Robin served on the committee of the MSA and was instrumental in the club getting a fourth pool table on site.
He had a pool table set up at home and friends and family would gather to play and socialise.
The family have chosen a tournament trophy.
It will remain at the MSA, but the winner will get to take home a miniature version.
Section play will take place on June 27 with the knock-out rounds main and plate to be held on June 28.
Anyone keen to support the tournament, or enter, can contact the club via email at [email protected]
