Looking back on 2011

Looking back on 2011, I can only conclude that it has been a successful year for me. Winning the European and World title, made this year great. Looking back on 2011

For quite some time I was on the lookout for my third World title. Because the competition increases every year and outsiders show up every tournament, I sometimes get the feeling of 'will I succeed to take this title?'

But I know very well that it takes only one weekend to strike. When I fall out of the World Cup tournament early, I often think 'another year gone by empty handed'. I'm not the youngest in the player field and the time to shine slowly decreases. I am one of the older people in the circuit now.

On the other hand, being great at billiards also takes a lot of experience. I did have some disappointing moments this season, like in the World Cup cycle, where I couldn't convince. I did play some nice games, but only the first place counts of course. Not even a spot in one of the five finals was in it for me. That does motivate me to give more of myself next year.

Other highlights were the Dutch competition where my team Van Dongen en de Roo once more won the doubles and what I am most proud of is me breaking the competition record of 2.066 that was on my name since last year after 21 games (I missed one!). I most certainly did not expect to break my one year old record to 2.128, also in 21 games. That did me so good. For many years, I finished between 1.900 and 2.000 and I had a hard time t get to the 2.000 line. Eventually in 2010 and 2011 I succeeded. I do have to say that it was most of all an inner triumph. This is not to compare to a great title, but did get a nice spot in my instinctively achievements. Somewhat dependable on these top accomplishments, the new match table Gabriels Kronos got a beautiful place in my billiard world. Might be the most outstanding and most fun change of 2011?

Sports greetings and I wish you all a great and sportive 2012,

Dick Jaspers