In the bustling town of Negombo, TukTuk Wine & Dine stands as more than just a restaurant; it’s a radiant social hub where food, entertainment, and community come together. Known for its wonderful cooking and welcoming atmosphere. Among the many events hosted here, the pool game tournaments of 2020 and 2021 shine as memorable highlights. These events not only gathered pool enthusiasts but also featured live music, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone. Let’s dive into the details of these exciting tournaments.
POOL ROOM: Negombo’s First Open Pool Tournament in 2020
In August 2020, TukTuk Wine & Dine in Negombo made history by hosting its first-ever open pool tournament in Negombo, named POOL ROOM. This three-day event, held on the 21st, 22nd, and 29th of August, was a landmark occasion for the local community and pool enthusiasts in Negombo. It was a time when the fellowship of competition met the joy of live music, creating an electric atmosphere that resonated with everyone who attended.
A Grand Kickoff with Live Music
The first day set a vibrant tone with a live performance by Sachintha Pulasthi, whose melodious tunes captivated the audience, while the pool table action was projected live on a screen, allowing spectators to closely follow the matches and cheer for their favorite players. The excitement continued on the second day with dynamic performances by Shiran Cristo and Shenuri Angela, whose soulful music added a unique charm to the tournament, transforming it into more than just a competition. The blend of skillful pool playing and mesmerizing live music created an unforgettable experience for attendees.
The grand finale on the third day was a spectacle in itself, featuring a special debut performance by Tropic Candy, a band that electrified the crowd with their energy and enthusiasm. This final day also was the culmination of intense pool matches, expertly refereed by Shevon Russell, a respected figure in the pool community in Negombo. The tournament offered attractive prizes, with the first prize being LKR 15,000 and a double room stay on bed and breakfast basis at Seahorse Negombo, the second prize a double room full board stay at Seahorse, and the third prize a dinner for two at TukTuk Wine & Dine.
With only 50 registration slots available at a fee of LKR 500, the event saw enthusiastic participation, further enhanced by the noble gesture of pledging twenty percent of the proceeds from the weekend sale to the Dogstar Foundation, a charity dedicated to feeding, sterilizing, and vaccinating dogs and cats in Sri Lanka. This charitable touch added a layer of community spirit to the event, making it a win-win for all involved.
The POOL ROOM event was a resounding success, combining competitive pool playing, live musical performances, and charitable contributions, setting a high standard for future events at TukTuk Wine & Dine. This memorable tournament showcased the restaurant as a versatile venue capable of hosting high-quality events that cater to diverse interests, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
TUKTUK POOL Knockout Challenge in 2021
Building on the success of the 2020 event, TukTuk Wine & Dine hosted another thrilling pool tournament on the 26th of February 2021. This event, known as the TUKTUK POOL Knockout Challenge, was a one-day spectacle that attracted pool enthusiasts and sports fans from across the region.
A Day of High Stakes
The TUKTUK POOL Knockout Challenge was a knockout tournament with 16 slots available for registration. The registration fee was LKR 600, and players had the opportunity to re-enter the tournament, adding an element of suspense and excitement. The winner of the tournament walked away with LKR 10,000, while the runner-up received LKR 5,000.
The event was graced by the presence of two famous Sri Lankan cricketers, Ajantha Mendis and Sachithra Senanayake. Their participation added a star-studded appeal to the tournament, as they played a few matches and interacted with the attendees. This celebrity appearance drew a larger crowd and heightened the excitement of the event.
Adding to the day’s excitement was a live performance by the band Emerald. Their energetic and engaging music kept the audience entertained throughout the event. The combination of intense pool matches, and captivating live music created a lively and vibrant atmosphere that everyone enjoyed.
Once again, the refereeing duties were handled by Shevon Russell, whose fair and impartial judgment ensured that the tournament ran smoothly. His expertise and experience added credibility to the event, making it a well-organized and professional competition.
A Legacy of Memorable Events
The pool tournaments held at TukTuk Wine & Dine in 2020 and 2021 were not just competitions but celebrations of community, talent, and entertainment. These events showcased the restaurant as a versatile venue capable of hosting high-quality events that cater to diverse interests. From live music performances by renowned artists to celebrity appearances and charitable contributions, these tournaments had it all.
TukTuk Wine & Dine in Negombo continues to be a premier destination for food, entertainment, and social gatherings in Sri Lanka. Whether you are a pool enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking for a great dining experience, this restaurant has something for everyone. The success of the POOL ROOM and TUKTUK POOL Knockout Challenge events is a testament to the establishment’s commitment to providing memorable experiences for its patrons.