Anna Lynch

What motivated you to pursue a career in Billiards?

- I started playing at the Red Triangle Snooker Room. There were many billiards enthusiasts there, and I was encouraged to enter the State Women’s Billiards in the upcoming month. I managed to reach the final, and make the highest break, which motivated me to aspire to greater possibilities.

- Graeme Walters (TD for the Women’s State Billiards for over 20 years) very kindly took me to meet Dolly Lindrum, niece of the great Walter Lindrum. It was awe inspiring to actually play on Walter’s table, and spend some time with Dolly. This was a beautiful moment for me, and greatly influenced my onward journey. Dolly would often come and present the trophies at the State Title, and I am so thrilled that my beautiful friend Tam Lindrum, is continuing this tradition.

What age were you when you started playing Billiards?

- Quite a late starter, I was 25 years old! I had just completed my piano degree from the VCA - Melbourne University. I enjoyed refocusing my energy on something new.

How do you prepare yourself physically and mentally for upcoming Championships?

- I maintain a daily solo practice schedule, predominantly on red ball play, and top of the table. I employ various practice techniques used in my piano practice, and always visualise a positive end result.

- I also practice snooker drills, to help keep my potting sharp.

- Being prepared will fill you with positive confidence in your abilities, and repetitive practice will hold you in good stead when you’re faced with high pressure situations.

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How would you describe your playing style and approach to the game?

- I like to play with a fluent rhythm, and have a positive attacking style of play. I do love middle pocket hazards, and enjoy controlling the object ball, keeping it in the magic circle. Maintaining this control is imperative in the implementation of top of the table play.

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Who are some of your biggest inspirations or role models in your sport?

- My biggest inspiration is my lovely hubby - Rob Hall! (Endless amount of World Ranking Titles) Rob plays the
game more perfectly than anyone I’ve ever seen, and he greatly motivates me to aspire to greater heights. My practice emulates the way I see Rob prepare for events, and his expert advice and mastery of the game have definitely taken my abilities to a new level.

- Other people that have inspired me include Geet Sethi (former World Champion) His grace and etiquette around the table is lovely to watch.

- David Collins (Multiple National Titles) spent many hours coaching me in the early days. His insightful knowledge of the game really broadened my understanding.

- Ronnie O’Sullivan is completely natural in every way, my cueing and timing is always on point when I am watching him.

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- Roger Federer is also a wonderful inspiration. (I know, not cuesports!) His timing and technique is so naturally effortless, and his sportsmanship is something many of us should draw from.

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What do you think sets you apart from other players in your field?

- I actually love solo practice! Repetitive practice is imperative to achieve automation in any given process. Once your fine motor skills and thought processes become automatic, you can completely zone in on the task at hand. This frees you up to play with feel and intuition, and gives you the confidence to execute the necessary shot. This is very helpful in high pressure situations, as your memory draws upon those hours of practice for any situation that may arise.

- I have a keen attention to detail, a disciplined and dedicated approach to practice, and strive for perfection in everything I set my mind to.

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How do you handle the pressure and expectations that come with competing for a National or World Title?

- Perceived pressure is such a complex array of thought processes, and is really just a construct of your own
imagining. I try to set aside the pressure or expectations other people may have of me, and just focus on the task at hand.

- I enjoy performing under pressure, and understand the importance of keeping your mind calm & strong. You cannot allow a single negative thought into your mind as you are playing, as it will readily manifest itself if things don’t go your way.

- Before a match, I focus on being completely calm. I incorporate various deep breathing exercises & positive
visualisation.

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Can you share some of the key moments or experiences that have shaped your journey leading up to winning a World Title?

- I’ve had a few matches over the years, where I’ve managed to come from behind to claim victory, which gave me the confidence to know I could do it again under pressure.

- During a State Title early in my career, I was 27 points behind in the final, with just 3 minutes to go. I knew that I just needed a nice half ball to get back in. I managed to make a 32 unfinished break to take the title.

- During an Andrews/Atkins event (Victoria v Tasmania yearly team event). I was 3 nil down in my snooker match, and won the next 4 frames to take the match. I focused on containing my composure, and just taking 1 frame at a time. For me, this broke down the long task ahead, making it feel more achievable.

- These positive wins from a deficit have definitely given me a sense of calm & self belief whenever I find myself in similar situations - including the World Title.

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How do you stay motivated during times of adversity or setbacks?

- I always try and remain calm, to give myself the best chance of overcoming any given situation. When you are highly stressed, your breathing restricts & your nervous system seems to work against you. I find that this tightens up your cueing, and dampens your decision making process.

What advice would you give to aspiring players who hope to reach the level you have achieved?

- Maintain a disciplined and dedicated practice routine. Focus on your standard half ball shots, and achieving the desired position to facilitate your next shot.

- Watch the best players! These guys are at the top of their game, and you will not learn it better from anyone else. There is visual footage aplenty online. You will start to absorb various gameplay patterns, and gain a greater overall understanding of the game.

- Check out my husband’s website for clear instructional billiards videos. I have watched them numerous times, and continue to do so. They have helped me no end.

- https://www.robhallbilliards.com/

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How do you stay focused and maintain a positive mindset throughout the competition?

- I am quite naturally calm, and take a positive view on life. When performing or playing, I block everything else out, giving myself fully to the moment. I take faith in the hours of practice and preparation I have undertaken, and visualise a positive outcome.

Can you share any memorable or standout moments from your past tournaments or competitions?

- My toughest win to date was in the 2022 National Title, against the brilliant Jessica Woods. Jess played confidently, scoring at every opportunity, and kept me out of the game with excellent safety. By the halfway mark I was over 80 points behind. I had to draw upon everything I had to peg my way back, and managed to string some decent breaks together to maintain control of the game, winning by a comfortable margin.

Are there any rituals or superstitions you follow before or during your matches?

- None at all!

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What are your future ambitions and goals in the game of billiards?

- Since my return to the UK, I have been competing regularly on the main (Men’s Open) World Billiards Tour. I have managed to get through the qualifying stages at quite a few events, and aim to make a century at this level.

- I have made numerous century breaks in practice, but have not yet done so in competitive play.