mcleod ready for masters debut

Rory McLeod - will compete at Wembley.

Rory McLeod is delighted to have secured his spot in the Masters after beating Andrew Higginson 6-1 in the final of the qualifying tournament.

The world number 39 won the first professional title of his 18-year career at Pontin's in Prestatyn and he is delighted with his work this week.

"It's been a long time coming. I've won loads of pro-am events but this one is more prestigious and it's great to be able to take home a trophy," said McLeod.

"I wanted to win this all week, I just had to keep calm. I've done the job now so I'm happy."

Next up for the 38-year-old is a clash against either Mark King or Mark Williams when he makes his Masters debut at Wembley Arena in January and he can't wait.

"The Masters is such a big tournament, I went to Wembley to see Paul Hunter win it in 2001 and it was a great atmosphere. Only the big boys play there and after the Crucible it's the next venue you want to get to."

McLeod became the first black player to compete at the World Snooker Championship last April, and he is now set to mark an equivalent milestone at Wembley.

Asked if he considers himself an inspiration to black people aiming to succeed in snooker, McLeod added; "I've shown that you can do whatever you want if you put your mind to it. There will be a lot of people watching me and hopefully they will give snooker a go."