When in Rome, do as the Romans do – and when in Arbroath, do as Ronnie O’Sullivan does.
The Rocket was invited to the Angus town to play at Shotz Snooker Hall on May 13 and 14 2006.
O’Sullivan’s achievements have deservedly become the stuff of legend.
Shotz owners Marc and Ryan Fleming spent a year trying to convince him to come.
There was unprecedented ticket demand to watch the game’s greatest player knocking reds and blacks into pockets at a rate of knots.
Ryan said: “He has semi-retired numerous times and has been getting closer and closer to hanging his cue up for good, which makes this an opportunity not to be taken for granted.
“We have had interest for tickets from across Britain, and even some in mainland Europe, which highlights just how lucky we are to have him here at this stage of his career.
“Despite that interest, we have tried to keep this event as local to Tayside as we can.
“After all, the local community is what keeps our doors open, so this is our chance to give them something back – an event they can remember forever.”
O’Sullivan was staying at the Townhouse
The snooker icon checked in to the Townhouse Hotel, was served Arbroath Smokies before his exhibition games and the match was made.
I rubbed shoulders with O’Sullivan before the exhibition.
It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to meet the supporters in Scotland, he informed me.
“I enjoy performing at exhibits.
“It’s distinct from competitions as it allows me to experiment a little bit.”
I adore smokies. I arrived in Arbroath around 5:00 p.m. and have already had two.
Ronnie Sullivan
“I’m having fun so far, but I won’t have much opportunity to tour the town while I’m here.
“It should be a good weekend—I just arrived this afternoon and I’ve already had some smokeies.
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