In a groundbreaking moment for competitive pool, two transgender players faced off in the semi-finals of the Ultimate Pool Mini Series women’s tournament this past weekend. The match between Harriet Haynes and Lucy Smith marked a peculiar milestone in the sport’s history, sparking discussions about inclusivity and fairness in women’s competitions.
Haynes emerged victorious from the semi-final bout, winning 5 frames to 3 against Smith. The intense match showcased the high level of skill and competition in the tournament, which began with 64 entrants vying for the championship title.
The final saw Haynes go head-to-head with Welsh player Kirsty-Lee Davies in a nail-biting contest. Despite initially holding a commanding lead of 5 frames to 2, Haynes faced a remarkable comeback from Davies. In a display of extraordinary determination, Davies clinched four consecutive frames to secure the championship, leaving spectators in awe of her performance.
The tournament has reignited debates surrounding transgender participation in women’s sports. Lynne Pinches, a professional pool player who had previously declined to compete against Haynes in a different event, described the semi-final as an “absolute embarrassment” for the sport. Meanwhile, round-the-world sailor Tracy Edwards criticized the Ultimate Pool Group for allowing the situation to occur as per reduxx.
Currently, the English Pool Association and World Eightball Pool Federation, which govern the Ultimate Pool Group, permit transgender athletes to compete without restrictions. However, the organizations have been reviewing their policies since December 2023.
The Women’s Rights Network applauded Davies for her victory while expressing concerns about prize money distribution. Both Haynes and Smith will receive monetary awards for their semi-final and final placements, respectively.
This event follows a series of policy changes and protests within the pool community. In August 2023, the World Eightball Pool Federation initially announced that only players “born female” would be allowed to compete in women’s events. However, this decision was reversed in October, with new guidelines requiring entrants to identify as female for a minimum of four years and provide proof of lowered testosterone levels.
