Mixed emotions for Heyball player Jason Theron as he returns with silver medal from Chengdu World Games

JOHANNESBURG – Team SA leaves the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, with three silver medals, one of which belongs to Heyball Pool player Jason Theron. The other two medals were earned by canoeist Hamish Lovemore.

“I have a bit of mixed emotions, being so close to winning gold for my country. I’m obviously disappointed with that, but at the same time, I’m super proud to win the silver medal for my country. Overall, I think I played really solid, with a few mistakes that cost me; other than that, I’m very happy,” said Theron.

This year’s edition of The World Games was held from August 7 to 17, featuring 110 countries and around 5,000 athletes, with Team SA sending 22 athletes across 10 sporting codes.

READ: Heyball Pool player Jason Theron wins SA’s 3rd medal at the World Games

In an interview with Eyewitness News, Theron commented, “I definitely need to work on my focus more when I'm playing, as my mind tends to drift at times, so I will work on that back home.” 

The 42-year-old was impressive throughout the tournament, notably defeating China’s Tang Chunxiao, who later won bronze. Theron reflected, “I think the most important lesson I've learned is to believe in yourself, put in the work, and it will pay off in the long run. Also, physical and mental fitness are a big part of the game. Matches in China are long races, and you have to be prepared for that.”

Heyball pool, a newer variation of billiards, has been gaining traction in China and made its debut at the World Games this year. Theron shared his journey: “I started playing Heyball in 2016. My friend David Anderson told me about it after he went to China for a tournament and said it's the best game to play. I tried it, won a qualifier in Pretoria, and then went to China and experienced it for the first time. From there, there was no looking back.”

Billiard sports encompass games like Pool, Snooker, Blackball, and Heyball — all played on felt-covered tables using cue sticks to strike balls, focusing heavily on strategy and accuracy. 

Theron emphasised, “It’s crucial to be strong-minded and very focused during a match, which is something I need to work on. Before a match, I usually listen to music while playing some online chess to help concentrate.”

Theron also participated in the inaugural Commonwealth Billiards Championship in Mauritius in July, where South Africa secured five medals across various cue disciplines, with Theron winning a bronze in Heyball.

“There are many tournaments coming up for the rest of the year across the globe, and I’d love to win an international tournament,” said Theron.