The late John Shortt had a 40 year association with the Catholic Men’s & Women’s Society Hall in Fermoy – a premises that’s home to Fermoy Snooker Club. A talented exponent of the game, John was a fun-loving individual whose friendship and comraderie is sadly missed.
As a way of honouring their former member, Fermoy Snooker Club hosted the innaugural John Shortt Perpetual Shield competition last weekend. The tournament proved to be a great success with the club’s top seeded players Robbie Donovan and former youth champion Daithi Whelan, battling it out for the coveted shield in addition to some attractive pieces of crystal.
After an epic tussle, Daithi, who has world championship experience, came out on top. In typical snooker fashion, Robbie was gracious in defeat.
Prior to the presentation of prizes, a display cabinet made by current member Alan Cleary, was unveiled by two of John’s closest sporting friends, John O’Brien and Brendan Kavanagh . Also in attendance was John’s partner, Helen Curran. Helen said she greatly appreciated both gestures and went on thank everyone associated with both events. The cabinet houses John’s favourite snooker cue.
In his remarks, recently elected chairman of Fermoy Snooker Club David Joyce, said John Shortt had made a huge contribution to snooker during his lifetime and it was entirely fitting that he be honoured.
