Following a record level of entries to 2016 Q School, World Snooker has decided to increase the number of tour cards available from eight to 12.
A total of 182 players have entered Q School, which runs from May 11 to 22 at the Meadowside Leisure Centre in Burton.
The players who qualify from Q School will be handed a two-year card to play on the World Snooker Tour in 2016/17 and 2017/18, competing for millions of pounds of prize money against the best players, all around the globe.
And World Snooker has decided that given the high number of entries, an extra four tour cards will be awarded. The four semi-finalists in each of the two Q School events will all earn tour cards, as well as the next best four players on the Order of Merit.
Jason Devaney, Greg Casey and Joe Delaney are among the Irishmen hoping to avail of the additional tickets.
World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: “I was delighted to see record entries for Q School this year with players coming from as far afield as China, India, Israel, Pakistan and the USA. It shows how many players there are on the amateur scene who want to earn a place on the professional tour. The opportunities for players on the pro circuit have never been better than they are now, as our sport grows around the world and the number of events and level of prize money goes up year after year.
“Our decision to increase the number of tour cards available to 12 is a tremendous incentive for all 182 players to practise as hard as they can and be ready for the challenge, because every match will count and there is a huge potential reward.”
Entry for fans to watch Q School will be free and they are encouraged to come and watch. There is no need for fans to book, they can come along on the day and watch high quality snooker.
The draws and formats are available on www.worldsnooker.com
