Ray Reardon is a retired Welsh snooker player. He dominated the sport in the 1970s, winning six world championships in that decade. A genial figure, his dark widow's peak nonetheless earned him the nickname Dracula.
Born in the coalmining community of Tredegar in Wales, Reardon left school and became a miner when he was 14. It is rumoured that he used to wear gloves to protect his hands for snooker. Following an accident in which Reardon was buried for several hours, he quit mining and became a police officer. He played at an amateur level for many years, before finally turning professional in 1967.
When the world rankings were introduced in 1976, Reardon was the first number 1, retaining that position until 1980/81.
He retired in 1992, but maintains an active interest in the game. He has recently been advising Ronnie O'Sullivan.
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