Harare cueists triumph at Carling Black Label Nati...

Harare cueists triumph at Carling Black Label National Pool Championships

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

A display of precision and strategy culminated in a double victory for Harare Province this weekend, as Alice Chiota and Timothy Onida were crowned the new cue-ball national champions at the 2025 Carling Black Label National Pool Championships. The champions outclassed 74 other competitors in a fierce battle that saw the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Hall 2 transform into a hub of intense competition.

The prestigious tournament drew 148 players who had battled through provincial contests to reach the national finals. Ultimately, it was Harare's finest who stole the show, with both Chiota and Onida emerging victorious and bringing the coveted titles back to the capital.

For the newly crowned champions, this victory is more than a personal milestone; it's a testament to their dedication and a source of pride for their communities.

"I started playing in 2017 in this tournament, and I have just been coming close," Chiota said. "This time, I trained really hard for this, and I am grateful it paid off. Representing Chitungwiza and winning at this stage is an honour."

Onida, who hails from Epworth, shared a similar sentiment, highlighting the significance of his win for his community. "I wanted this, and you know, coming from a marginalised area like Epworth, this means a lot. I told myself that I was going to win this for my community. The competition was fierce but fair. Winning means everything. It is not just about the money, it is about respect."

In the women's division, Alice Chiota secured the top spot, followed by Christine Sengwe. The top four was rounded out by Michelle Dube, also from Harare, and Perpetual Nyamayaro of Mashonaland East.

The men's finals also saw a Harare champion with Timothy Onida taking the title. Tapiwa Musaona from Masvingo finished in second place, while Ronald Mutikani and Andile Ndlovu from the Midlands completed the top four.

The Carling Black Label National Pool Championships once again proved to be a powerful celebration of local talent, showcasing the growing passion for the sport across the nation.