Young patrons are now allowed at nine billiard establishments in Hong Kong after the government relaxed age limits and other entry restrictions as part of an effort to promote the sport in the city.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said in a statement on Monday that nine billiard venues across the city had been approved to host children as young as eight years old.
The nine licensed venues approved by the authorities are Cyle Snooker, Golden Wheel Billiard, Kam Dao Snooker House, Ming’s Snooker, Police Sports and Recreation Club, South China Athletic Association – Billiards Section, Willie Snooker, World Snooker Club 147, and Youth Billiard Club (TST).
Youngsters are now allowed to stay in these establishments for longer, as the government shortened the restricted hours for young patrons from 8pm to 10am to 11pm to 7am. They are also allowed to show up in school uniforms.
The government relaxed entry restrictions under the Places of Amusement Regulation this year, in a bid to promote the sport in Hong Kong and expand access for young people. The authorities began accepting applications from licensed establishments in February for permission to open their doors to younger patrons.
The LCSD said on Monday that 32 establishments had applied and that it reviewed information and assessments by the police and the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office of the Department of Health on the applicants’ operational situations and surroundings.
It also took into account enforcement figures against smoking offences and the facilities and activities promoting billiards before granting permission to the nine venues.
Hong Kong has produced a number of world-renowned snooker players. The most recognisable is Marco Fu, who made a name for himself by winning the 2007 Grand Prix and the 2016 Scottish Open.
Ng On-yee, a three-time winner of the World Women’s Snooker Championship, is also a household name, as the public gave her the nickname “four-eyed queen of cue” in reference to her wearing glasses.
The city has also hosted the Hong Kong Masters periodically, featuring world-class snooker players. The latest event, held in 2022, saw Fu reach the final, only to be beaten by English player Ronnie O’Sullivan.
The 2025 World Grand Prix was held at the Kai Tak Arena in early March, just days after the venue was officially opened.
