KARACHI: Ali Asghar Valika, the doyen of country’s snooker, has thanked Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Federation (PBSF), for awarding him a gold medal in recognition to his services for the promotion of game in the region in general and in the country in particular.

The 65-year-old ailing Valika was taken by surprise when PBSF chief Alamgir Shaikh went up to him to present the award amid emotional scenes and ovation.

Valika was elevated to the post of chairman PBSF after serving in office as president for nearly two decades before making room for the incumbent president in 2008.

Valika also held the position of senior vice-president of Asian Billiards and Snooker Federation (ACBS).

Speaking on the occasion, Valika complimented PBSF for going another mile by staging the 14-nation spectacular event in difficult times.

He also thanked the IBSF president Jim Leacy, the ACBS secretary Mubarak, other delegates and cueists for coming to Pakistan.

Congratulating Saleh Mohammad, he said it was the cueist’s vast experience that helped him win the laurels.

Valika said Pakistan will now bid to host the Asian 6-Redball and Asian team event in the future.