The Gozo Billiards & Snooker Club within the Leone Band Club is organising a 24-hour snooker, billiards and pool marathon in aid of the Puttinu Cares children’s cancer foundation, on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 April, at the Aurora Opera House in Victoria.

29 April is a special date for the Leone Philharmonic Society as it falls on the 55th anniversary when it donated the Santa Marija statue to the Gozo Cathedral where it is now venerated. Thus, the Society will be organising an open-day comprising of various activities and events for all the family.

The marathon kicks of on Friday 29 April at 5pm and runs uninterruptedly until 5pm of Saturday 30. The closing ceremony includes the trophy presentations.

Top officials from the Leone Philharmonic Society, Puttinu Cares Foundation and other distinguished guests will be in attendance. The marathon will be played on six tables, including two professional ones, each of which is over 100 years old.

Subscriptions for this marathon are already open. Interested players are asked to contact Mario Apap, the Leone Band Club bar, or to call 21565835 any time of the day. Over 50 players have already confirmed their participation. Yet, the club is encouraging all billiards lovers who do not normally take part in annual competitions, to have a try and help out. Participation is against a minimal payment of €5, but players and supporters are encouraged to come up with their free donations in support of this noble cause.

This year, the Gozo Billiards & Snooker Club is adding weight to this initiative by including an educational value for children.

Since the philanthropic cause involves a foundation who works with children, the club is encouraging children themselves to participate and help with their meaningful donations.

Thus, on Saturday 30 April, between 10am and 12pm, the senior players will offer billiards demonstrations and teaching sessions to children. Children’s participation is free of charge.

However it is recommended that they enrol themselves until Friday evening as medals will then be distributed at the closing ceremony.

Further information may be obtained from www.leone.org.mt, or www.gozosnooker.com.