The local pool and snooker communities are mourning the loss of one of their greatest ambassadors, Gary Bascome, who passed away recently at the of age 76.

During more than four decades of involvement in the sport, Bascome cofounded the Bermuda International Pool League and as a player achieved considerable success both locally and overseas.

Speaking on behalf of the Bermuda International Pool League, vice-president Richard Burton said that Bascome laid the foundation for generations of players, many of whom he mentored with his willingness to share his wealth of knowledge and expertise.

“We honour the life of Gary “Peter Lobby” Bascome, a true legend whose impact on the game of pool in Bermuda is immeasurable,“ Burton said.

“For more than four decades, Gary didn’t just compete, he set the standard.

“As the cofounder of the Bermuda International Pool League nearly 40 years ago, Gary helped build the very foundation on which generations of players now stand. His consistency was unmatched and he never finished outside the top five for 40 consecutive years. That achievement speaks to both his elite skill and unwavering dedication to the game.”

It was not only on the domestic scene, where Bascome excelled with his regular trips to the United States yielding success.

“Gary was also a proud ambassador for Bermuda on the international stage,” Burton said.

“He never missed a single trip to compete in the prestigious Valley National 8-Ball League Association Tournament in Las Vegas from the moment Bermuda began competing annually. His accomplishments there were historic, becoming the first local player to achieve a “Charlie” [trophy for finishing in top four positions], which he did twice, and later winning a skill competency competition, further cementing his legacy among the game’s best.

“At home, Gary’s excellence was just as evident. He won the local league with multiple teams, and on numerous occasions finished number one in the individual standings, proving that greatness followed him no matter the format or line-up of the game.

“Yet perhaps Gary’s greatest legacy lies beyond trophies and titles. He mentored directly or indirectly a very high percentage of the local league players, sharing his knowledge, discipline, and love for the game. His influence lives on in the confidence, sportsmanship and skill of those he guided.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Gary Bascome’s family, friends, and loved ones. May you find comfort in knowing that he leaves behind a legacy few ever achieve. Legends like Gary never truly leave us; they live on in the players they shaped, the leagues they built and the game they loved so deeply. Rest in peace, legend.”

The Bermuda Snooker Association also paid tribute to their late colleague.

“The Bermuda Snooker Association wishes to express its deepest sorrow at the passing of one of our most respected and long time players, Gary Bascome,” association president Steven Bremar said.

“For many years Gary was more than just a competitor on the table — he was a true ambassador of the game. His dedication, sportsmanship and love for snooker left a lasting impact on our association, and on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Through countless matches, tournaments and mentoring moments, he helped shape the spirit and values of our snooker community.

“Gary’s presence will be deeply missed. His passion for the sport, his humility in victory and his grace in defeat set an example for players of all generations. The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire current and future members of the Bermuda Snooker Association.

“On behalf of our executive committee, members and the wider snooker community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may his contributions to the game of snooker never be forgotten.”