The Paul Hunter classic 2016 gets underway next week from Thursday 25th to 28th August in Fúrth, Germany. This is the first year that this particular event becomes a ranking event, so the stakes are higher than previous years. The Paul Hunter classic 2016 has a total prize money fund of £125,000 with the winner receiving £25,000.
The Paul Hunter Classic was inspired following the loss of three time Masters champion Paul Hunter in 2006. Close to Nuremberg, the town of Fúrth has an ever growing population of dedicated snooker fans, some of which will be taking part in the tournament as amateurs. The venue (Stadthalle) is one of the best on the circuit, being described by many as homely. The Germans have taken a shine to snooker and most matches are at full spectator capacity.
Last years Paul Hunter classic winner was Ali Carter who will be looking to add to his trophy collection after just winning the World Open in China a few weeks ago. Defiantly one of the top men to beat this year, Carter has started this years season brilliantly and confidence will be at an all time high especially after a difficult couple of years for Carter. But with other top players such as Mark Selby, John Higgins, Neil Robertson, Judd Trump, Stuart Bingham etc to contend with, the world number 16 Carter has it all to do.
Following a disappointing world Open, the world number 1, Mark Selby has a lot to prove here to make up for a poor start to the season. With younger players such as Kyren Wilson and Anthony McGuill coming through to establish themselves as top pro’s, doing well over the next few tournaments could be the catalyst to propel them into the elite top 16 of the world.
