‘Reed’s Road to Worlds’ – local pool hall holds tournament to send Merrill teen to world championship

MERRILL, Iowa (KTIV) – An Iowa teenager will make a trip across the globe to compete in a global championship in New Zealand.

Sixteen-year-old junior pro, Reed Larson of Merrill, Iowa says he began his journey in pool during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“During COVID really wasn’t much to do, so I went into pool halls just to play on the arcade games but ended up just playing for fun,” said Larson.

After just three years of playing the sport, he will represent the United States of America at the Predator Billiards World Junior Championships in Hamilton, New Zealand.

“I’m excited to represent the USA, and Iowa, where I’m from, and hopefully do great up there,” said Larson.

Larson and eleven competitors will make the trip to compete in the championships which will take place between Thursday, September 5 through Sunday, September 8.

To make the trip a reality, Slumbum’s Pool Hall, located in Merrell, hosted a Scotch Doubles Tournament as a fundraiser on Saturday, August 17 at noon. The fundraising tournament also included a pancake breakfast and a silent auction.

“Everybody that came out to give donations and people that have called said, ‘Hey, can we help out? Reed’s a great kid.” said Larson

Larsen also gave a message to KTIV for those who are looking to get into the sport of pool:

“I say just start off by having fun like with anything else and just don’t get too upset with yourself. I mean that’s really it, it’s a mental game and something you got to watch out for.”

You can stay up to date on Reed’s journey to the Junior World Championships by following the player’s Facebook group.

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