World Number One Faces Financial Hurdles Ahead of Historic Snooker Championship

David Church, a talented snooker player from Norwich and the reigning world number one in his category, is facing a significant financial barrier that may prevent him from competing in the much-anticipated World Disability Snooker Championship in Thailand. Scheduled to take place on February 25, this event promises to showcase remarkable talent but also exposes the harsh realities that many athletes with disabilities face.

Church, 29, has managed to raise £1,100 so far towards his travel expenses, yet the costs associated with flights, accommodation, and transporting his cue case make it a daunting financial challenge. He remarked, "With it being in Thailand, the flights, accommodation, and extra luggage for my cue case means it's going to be a real struggle. All these things cost money, and I’ve done so much to get to world number one. It’s heartbreaking." This emotional plea underscores the critical need for greater sponsorship and media coverage for disabled sports.

The World Disability Billiards and Snooker (WDBS) organization, which manages the tournament, has emphasized its commitment to supporting players through significant funding initiatives. However, it remains clear that many participants are required to fund their own expenses. The entry fee for the tournament stands at £60, while competitors must arrange accommodation costing approximately £68 per night. In stark contrast to mainstream snooker events, where the prize money can reach several hundred thousand pounds, the winners of the World Disability Snooker Championship will receive a minimum prize of £1,000.

Church's journey to becoming world number one has not come without personal sacrifice. Born with Moebius syndrome, a rare condition affecting facial muscles and eye movement, he took up snooker at age 17 and has dedicated his life to the sport. He is keenly aware of the disparities in support between able-bodied and disabled athletes and is vocal about the urgent need for increased sponsorship opportunities.

"If I cannot raise enough to compete in Thailand, I will of course return donations ... or if people are happy to do so, I will use them for future events," he indicated on his fundraising page. This proactive approach exemplifies his determination to continue competing, especially with the arrival of his first child on the horizon.

Currently, most of the participants in this championship are funding their own expenses, as WDBS struggles to accommodate the growing number of competitors without substantial sponsorship support. The organization is working diligently to seek financial backing, with aspirations to eventually secure the status of being included in the Paralympics by 2032.

In conclusion, the case of David Church highlights the critical junction at which disability sports currently stand. His quest to compete at the World Disability Snooker Championship serves as a poignant reminder of the financial hurdles many athletes face. As the date approaches, the hope remains that community support and sponsorship will bridge the gap, allowing talented players like Church to shine on an international stage.