Jamel “Mouse” Smith is still pinching himself to make sure he is not dreaming after finishing second in his division at the 45th Valley National 8-Ball League Association World Pool Championships in Las Vegas.

Of 29 Bermudians at the nine-day tournament, the 51-year-old was the only one to receive the coveted “Charlie” for his exploits in the 8-ball sportsman division. He won nine of his 12 matches and lost out on the top position to Canadian Stephane Lacombe.

According to Sharnelle Turini, the president of the Bermuda International Pool League, Smith was not even aware that he made it that far in the tournament until it was pointed out to him by his team-mates.

“It hasn’t completely sunk in as yet, I’m still in shock and haven’t wrapped my mind around all of it,” Smith said.

“I'm so proud to be able to represent myself, the pool league and most importantly our country.”

Smith’s achievement is all the more remarkable given he only took up pool in 2012 and nine years ago he was involved in an accident which left him with limited use of his left hand, with the sport playing a huge part in his rehabilitation.

Sharnelle Turini expressed her joy in Smith’s success, something she attributed to his commitment to improving in the sport.

“We are extremely proud of his accomplishment,” she said.

“Jamel represents the hard work and commitment our dedicated players put into the league. To be competitive on the world stage is our goal, and Jamel has put Bermuda and the BIPL on the map.

“The support from his family has been crucial in his journey. He has been able to achieve this through that support.”