Clifford ‘keyed’ up to represent SA at pool champs in England
The former Port Shepstone High pupil had a life-changing bicycle accident which has left him confined to a wheelchair.
Clifford Keys (35) of Southport leaves this Sunday to represent South Africa at the World Eight Ball Pool Championships in Blackpool, England.
In May, the community was urged to help Clifford raise enough money to cover his travelling costs to Blackpool.
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Incredibly, the community pulled together and all the cash needed for the trip was raised.
Clifford’s mother, Allison, thanked the community, corporates, family and friends, as well as back-a-buddy crowdfunding for making Clifford’s dream come true.
Ryan Ringo, general manager of Umthunzi Hotel and Conference in Umtentweni, sponsored a two-night dinner, bed and breakfast for a family of four prize which was raffled. The winner of the fantastic prize was drawn at Nashua in Port Shepstone (where Clifford works) on Monday this week.
The lucky winner was Rochelle Els of Umtentweni.
Ryan, who received the Southern Natal Nomad of the Year trophy recently, said he felt he had to support local sport and Clifford’s father, Ryan, is a dedicated member of Southern Natal Nomads.
Allison said the support had been amazing. “A big thank you to everyone who donated, as every rand counted,” she added.
When asked how Clifford was feeling about his trip. He replied: “Nervously excited.”
The former Port Shepstone High pupil had a life-changing bicycle accident on April 8, 1998. The freak accident tragically left the 15-year-old wheelchair bound. Today, Clifford plays pool professionally, and has played in the South African champs for the past five years. He recently tied for second place at the SA Wheelchair 8 Ball Pool Championship held in Vereeniging.
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