At nearly 60, former snooker professional Nick Pearce is rekindling his passion for the sport that shaped much of his life. The Cheltenham native was a familiar name on the main professional tour from 1992 to 2003, reaching a career-high ranking of 57 and making a memorable semi-final appearance at the 1996 International Open.
Pearce’s journey in snooker began early, with highlights including a British junior championship final and an appearance on Junior Pot Black in 1983, where he faced off against seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry. Beyond the green baize, Pearce has lived a varied life, including stints as a fashion model and an actor with roles in shows like Doctor Who.
Throughout his career, Pearce recorded notable victories, including a win over Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Grand Prix. However, a decline in form and a back injury eventually saw him lose his place on the professional tour. Alongside his late father John, he managed Gloucester’s Westgate Snooker Club—a nurturing ground for rising stars such as Robert Milkins and Jack Lisowski—until its closure in 2008.
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Following a long hiatus from competitive play, the passing of his parents inspired Pearce to reconnect with snooker. Sorting through their belongings, he discovered old trophies and clippings that reignited his ambition. Just nine months later, he clinched the English Over-55s title in 2024. A lack of local playing facilities forced another break—until an unexpected call from an old friend changed everything. Andy Dix offered to build Pearce a snooker room in his home just around the corner from Pearce’s house, enabling him to resume regular practice.
Since the room’s completion in May, Pearce has reclaimed the English Over-55s crown and devotes five hours a day to practice, also coaching Dix, who recently achieved his first century break. “Andy’s gesture has been incredible. It’s the first time since Westgate closed that I’ve had a proper place to play,” Pearce shares. “Even after 50 years, I’m still learning and improving.”
Pearce’s recent successes have opened new doors: he will captain England in the Home Internationals in Leeds this August and will compete in the inaugural European Over-55s Championship in Sofia, Bulgaria, this September. To help fund these pursuits, Pearce has launched a GoFundMe page, acknowledging the financial challenges of competing at this level while being a carer for his teenage son.
“This championship is a bucket list opportunity,” he says. “The costs are high, but my enthusiasm for competition is stronger than ever. With sponsorship, I hope to continue playing in seniors and amateur events, but it’s a challenge.”
Looking ahead, Pearce even entertains the idea of attempting a comeback to the professional tour through Q School. “If I keep improving, who knows? Returning to the pro circuit at 60 would be bonkers—but I’ve always backed myself and worked hard.”
With renewed passion and determination, Nick Pearce is proving that age is no barrier to chasing your dreams on the snooker table.