Jamie Jones Chases Crucible Glory While Juggling Beer Barrels and Breaks
Jamie Jones is no stranger to pressure on the snooker table, but this year’s World Championship qualifiers come with a unique twist—balancing century breaks with beer barrels.
The world number 60, who famously reached the Crucible quarter-finals on his debut in 2012, is back in the hunt for a spot at snooker’s most iconic venue. But away from the baize, the 37-year-old is navigating a new chapter in life after stepping into the hospitality business. Alongside a friend, Jones recently took over the 1021 Bar and Bistro in his hometown of Neath, and admits it initially disrupted his snooker rhythm.
“I’m at a bit of a crossroads in my life,” Jones told Metro. “I’m really happy off the table doing this other work, but before Christmas I wasn’t practicing enough and the game found me out. After that, I’ve really knuckled down. You’ve got to put the hours in.”
Despite the early struggle, Jones has now found a better balance between his cue and his commitment to the bar. The business has a sporting connection, too—it was previously run by former Welsh rugby international Paul James, who left to pursue coaching.
“It’s cool doing something I never thought I’d do,” Jones said. “People ask me how many barrels of beer we need—I don’t know! Luckily my mate and his wife have run a pub before, so they guide me.”
Jones has returned to form, both on and off the table. With memorable Crucible wins over Shaun Murphy and Stephen Maguire under his belt, he remains a dangerous player in qualifying. More importantly, he’s in a stronger headspace now than earlier this season, when he struggled with anxiety.
“I weirdly don’t feel as much pressure at this event,” he reflected. “It’s tough, but I know I’ll miss it one day.”
With two more qualifying matches to win, Jones is embracing both the pressure of snooker and the unpredictability of life behind the bar—living proof that balance, though difficult, can be found between passion and purpose.
