Biography

May 12, 1977 · Glasgow, Scotland, UK

I started as a junior at a time when the likes of John Higgins was just about to turn professional. My trips to the Master's in Glasgow , Kirkaldy and Stirling gave me the experience as an Amateur to have what it takes to compete in what at that time was a very competitive Junior and Amateur Circuit. I won most of the Junior and Amateur titles culminating in the Scottish National Title, which gave me my automatic pro ticket. That same year I won the Pontin's under 19 title in Hemsby for the second time and the began on the long qualifying road in Blackpool.

I have played at the Crucible, The World Championship venue 15 times so far.My highest ranking was No 2. I fell out of the top 16 a few years ago but was one of the few players to have done that and got straight back in again.

My first TV match was against Ronnie O'Sullivan and although I lost 5-3 I played quite well. I had a real good chance to make it 4-4 but blew it but it was a great experience and one that I knew I could handle once my ranking improved.