Cueing up for sporting spirit
There is no doubt about it, men love to get together around the pool table and solve the world’s problems over a drink or two at their favourite watering hole. And no doubt a glass will be raised to mark International Men’s Day which will be celebrated on 19 November.
At Amber by Living Gems, playing pool has enjoyed increasing popularity, according to enthusiastic resident player David Skinner, who has been attending the two-hour Monday sessions since first moving into the over-50s lifestyle resort in March.
“While we are waiting for our brand-new Country Club to be completed, more than 20 men from the resort have been getting together from 10am to noon each Monday at the local Logan Village pub which is only about an 800-metre walk from where we live,” said David.
Although David didn’t start the group, an honour that goes to fellow resident Richard Davies, he is a keen organiser of resort outings and events and says it was great to get out and mix with other like-minded men.
“Mateship matters! Playing pool allows us all to do something we all enjoy while also having a relaxed chat and getting to know our neighbours,” he said.
The activity often brings out the sporting spirit in players.
“I must admit there’s a bit of rivalry. Larry Clifford and I often play for a schooner, just as a bit of fun, and when the guys who have their own cues turn up, we always say – “here come the professionals”. But it’s all in fun and we have a fabulous time. The hotel also puts on free nibblies for us, making for a great day out.”
Pool players range from beginners to the widely experienced, which suits David down to the ground because, although he owned a pool table for many years, he hardly played.
“Many years ago, I thought it would be great to have a pool table, so I bought one for our old home on the Gold Coast. But, in the end, the novelty wore off and I hardly used it. Since moving into Amber by Living Gems my interest has been reignited, and I am loving it again,” said the retired Queensland Rail team leader.
We asked David what makes it so attractive to the rising number of people joining the pool group.
“It’s something that is different and fun, and as an added bonus it gives us all a chance to get out, mingle and chat with neighbours and friends. We can’t wait for our new Country Club to be completed so the pool tables will be just around the corner from us all. Women are welcome to join in too.”
