By Syed Khalid Mahmood
(Pakistan News & Features Services)
The venerated personality of Ali Asghar Valika, who spearheaded the revival of snooker and other cue sports in Pakistan, breathed his last after a protracted illness on October 10. He was 78.
Asghar Valika became associated with the Pakistan Billiards & Snooker Association (PBSA) in 1986 and he was elected unopposed as its President in 1988. He continued to lead the body for five successive terms of four years before quitting office in 2008.
During his era, Pakistan’s cueists earned laurels at global as well as continental levels.
He was the motivational force behind hosting the Asian Snooker Championship in 1991 and the World Snooker Championship in 1993 which brought to light his outstanding organizational capabilities.
Subsequently, he was elected as the President of the Asian Confederation of Billiards Sports (ACBS) for two successive terms during which his initiatives for the promotion of cue sports were widely lauded. He also served as Vice President of the International Billiards & Snooker Federation (IBSF).
The Karachi Club remained second home for him for a long time and he mobilized his resources in revitalizing the club and making it known as the hub of sporting activities.
2 comments
Ali Asghar Valika’s lifelong commitment not only revived snooker at the national level but also placed Pakistan on the global map of cue sports. His leadership, passion, and contributions will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Muhammad Nazakat Ali
Another legend of Pakistan left. Big loss for snookers lovers. Allah pak maghfarat fermaen. Ameen
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