Masako Katsura is the first lady of billiards, a world tour champion, and a commentator on international playing events. She founded the Japan Billiard Federation in 1981, and a year later, she won her first world title. Katsura is also an avid amateur photographer and has documented her life as the first lady of billiards in a photo book, which was published in 2010. In this excerpt from that book, Katsura tells the story of how she became involved in the billiards world and reflected on its importance in her life.
What is the First Lady of Billiards?
Masako Katsura is the first lady of billiards. She is the founder and head of the Japan Billiards and Snooker Association, one of the oldest national associations in the world devoted to billiards and snooker. Mrs. Katsura assists the International Billiard Federation (IBF) with grassroots development programs.
Katsura was born in Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, in 1951. Her father was a doctor, and her mother was a homemaker. Initially interested in medicine, Katsura pursued a degree in biochemistry at Waseda University before becoming involved in billiards at university gyms. In 1976, she founded Japan Billiards & Snooker Association (JBSA). JBSA oversees competitive and non-competitive player organizations throughout Japan, promoting the sport and providing educational opportunities for members.
In addition to her work with JBSA, Mrs. Katsura advises IBF on grassroots development programs to increase participation in international competitions for amateur players worldwide. Through her work with IBF, Mrs. Katsura has helped raise awareness and appreciation for billiards and snooker worldwide while also advocating for their inclusion as part of physical education curriculums in local communities throughout Japan and abroad.
How did Masako Katsura become First Lady of Billiards?
Masako Katsura journey from billiards player to the first lady of the game began in 1966 when she was invited to play in a tournament in Thailand. She quickly became one of the best players in the world and twice won the World Professional Billiards Championship. In 1987, Katsura was appointed Japan’s Minister for Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, a position she held until 2001. As First Lady of Billiards, Katsura has promoted the game internationally, hosting tournaments and working to grow the sport domestically. Her leadership has helped make billiards one of Japan’s most popular sports and added an important layer to her country’s cultural fabric.
What are the responsibilities of a First Lady of Billiards?
The First Lady of Billiards plays an important role in the world of pool. So the First Lady oversees the organization and promotion of tournaments and events, assists with publicity, coordinates fundraising efforts, and represents the sport to officials and the public. In addition to these duties, she supports her husband, helping him run their household and manage their busy travel schedule.
While some critics argue that a First Lady of Billiards does not need a formal education or professional experience to fulfill her responsibilities, others maintain that a strong background in both will be beneficial. Mrs. Katsura has held several positions within the Japanese pool association over the years, so she has gained valuable insight and knowledge about promoting and running tournaments successfully. She works closely with her husband to ensure that all aspects of their life as a first couple are coordinated smoothly and professionally.
What does Masako Katsura do to keep up with her duties as First Lady of Billiards?
Masako Katsura is an active and vivacious First Lady of Billiards. Her duties include:
- Representing her country at international events.
- Attending official functions.
- Promoting the sport of billiards within Japan.
To keep up with her many obligations, Masako relies on a team of advisors and assistants who help organize her schedule and assist her with various tasks.
Masako is originally from Kyoto, Japan. She studied economics at Waseda University before marrying Shigeaki Katsura in 1991. The couple has two children: a daughter, Yuka, and a son, Shinji.
In 2006, Masako was elected First Lady of Billiards by the World Professional Billiard Association (WPBA). At the time of her election, she was the youngest First Lady in history. Under her leadership, the WPBA has launched numerous initiatives to promote the sport of billiards around the world. But these efforts have included hosting competitions in Japan and abroad and spearheading programs encouraging youth and women participation in billiards.
Masako has brought honor and prestige to her country through her work as First Lady of Billiards. She has also worked tirelessly to promote the sport of billiards among all individuals throughout Japanese society. She is dedicated to fulfilling her responsibilities as first lady and positively impacting Japanese society as a whole through her work in billiards.
What do people think of Masako Katsura as First Lady of Billiards?
Masako Katsura, the first lady of billiards, has quickly become a well-loved figure within the community. She is also passionate about her work and takes great pride in promoting the game of billiards. She has also involved with the sport for many years and has worked tirelessly to promote it domestically and internationally.
But many people in the billiards community admire Masako for her dedication and passion for the game. They appreciate everything she does to help promote the sport and make it more accessible to everyone. She is a tremendously positive role model for aspiring athletes. Her example shows that anything is possible if you put your heart into it.
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