We Lose Jason Twist …

RIP Jason Twist …

Jason Twist, one of the most popular and successful English 8-ball pool players of all-time, has sadly passed away at the age of 55.

Twist, known as "Tornado" established an exceptional legacy in the realm of 8-ball pool with his remarkable career achievements. Born on October 29, 1968, in Leicester, England, he began playing pool at the age of 12 and set himself the bold ambition of becoming World Champion. By the time he was 18, he had already turned professional.

From 1989 to 2009, Jason proudly represented the EPA England National pool team and played a pivotal role in their numerous triumphs. Throughout this impressive span, he clinched an astonishing 12 world team titles, contributing significantly to a remarkable total of 16 world titles. Jason "Tornado" Twist's exceptional achievements firmly established him as one of the most accomplished and respected players in the realm of 8-ball pool.

Beyond his World Championship successes, he also secured three European titles (2000, 2003 and 2008), further solidifying his status as a dominant force in the sport.

With five WEPF world men's final appearances to his name, only Mick Hill has appeared in more throughout its prestigious history.

Furthermore, he displayed his mastery of the game by securing victory in the IPA World Professional Seniors (over 40) Championship, which followed the Blackball Rules. He achieved this feat not once, but twice, emerging as the champion in both 2015 and 2016.

Jason's love of the baize continued as he flourished on the seniors and masters (over 50s) scenes. He won three main event titles on the World Rules Seniors Pool Tour, performed well on the Ultimate Pool Seniors Mini Series, and qualified to play for the England Blackball Masters International side.

At the 2022 World Blackball Championships in Albi, France last autumn, he defeated teammate Martin Hazell in final to win the Masters individual title, and was a cog in the England machine that collected gold in the Masters team event.

Residing in Ilfracombe, a coastal town located in North Devon, England, is where he honed his skills and established his dominance in the world of 8-ball pool. He helped his county side Devon win the EPA English Intercounty Championship in 1999. On home soil on the north coast of Devon, playing in the Ilfracombe & District Pool League – only last season his team "Twisty's Tornados" won the top division.

On the table, Jason will be remembered for his no-nonsense, attacking approach, but also his supreme tactical nous, temperament, and bottle – all attributes that made him very entertaining to watch for fans and fellow players alike. Away from the competitive circuit, Jason too was sought-after on the exhibition scene where he also did charity work.

We have all been blessed by seeing many great players over the years and Jason was a real character on and off the table. The word legend is used too often but when it comes to the ‘Tornado’ it couldn’t be more accurate. There are many memories and stories that will be told but ultimately a true gentleman will be sorely missed by us all.

Barbara Taylor, EPA Chair