The legacy of one of Bermuda’s most dedicated cue-sport ambassadors has been immortalised on the international pool stage.

Late Bermuda International Pool League cofounder Gary Bascome has been officially inducted into the 2026 Valley National 8-Ball League Association (VNEA) Hall of Fame in recognition of more than three decades of commitment to the sport and over fifty years as a player.

He is among a trio of players who have been honoured this year for their talent, good sportsmanship, longevity, hard work and for being an all round fine, well respected person in their respective area.

Richard Burton, the Bermuda International Pool League vice-president, described the honour bestowed upon his late colleague as a “proud moment” for the island.

“Bascome, representing Bermuda international pool, stood as a pillar of excellence, mentorship and sportsmanship,” he told The Royal Gazette. “His induction places him among an elite group of players and contributors whose influence has shaped the global VNEA community.

“For Bermuda, this honour is more than an individual achievement — it is a testament to the island’s longstanding presence and competitive strength on the world stage.

“Bascome’s induction shines a spotlight on what many in the local cue-sport community already know: Bermuda produces world class talent.

“Gary Bascome’s Hall of Fame recognition is a proud moment for Bermuda — a reminder of the talent nurtured here and the potential waiting to be unlocked with the right support. His legacy will continue to inspire players for generations to come.”

Bascome, regarded as one of the most beloved figures in the local pool community, passed away in January at the age of 76 from cancer.

Americans James Brothers and David Benning are the remaining 2026 VNEA Hall of Fame inductees.

Founded in 1979, the VNEA is a non-profit organisation established to promote the game of pool on coin-operated equipment and is comprised of men, women and junior players, coin machine operators and manufacturers.

The association’s membership presently boasts 100,000 men and women players based in the United States and several foreign countries that compete weekly in the league.

Despite being one of the smallest delegations, the island’s teams and individual players have enjoyed considerable success in the league to earn the admiration of their international peers.