Darts: On the oche as Advertiser trophy returns

Oct 29 2008 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

THE Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser Darts Trophy is back!

After a 14-year absence, the most coveted piece of silverware in Lanarkshire darts will return to the oche on Sunday, November 16.

In association with Raymond Logan Mortgage & Property Services, the event is back with a bang with prize money totalling £1000, of which the winner is guaranteed £500.

A trophy will be presented to the competition runner-up with further accolades on offer to the players who throw the best leg and biggest checkout.

Among the competitors who have already registered for the event are former world championship finalist Mike Gregory, Mick Veitch and Ross “The Boss” Montgomery.

Promoter Gordon Hunter said: “It is fantastic to get this great tournament back on the circuit after a long period of time.

“Thanks must go to the directors at Raymond Logan Mortgage & Property Services and the Advertiser for their backing.

“We would also like to thank Joe Cumming and his staff at the Airdrie Workmen’s Club for supporting what is a great event for the darts community.”

Advertiser editor, John Murdoch, added: “We’re delighted to offer our support to a competition that will produce some entertaining darts.”

For players wishing to enter, places can be booked at the Workmen’s in Airdrie for £3 or for £4.50 on the day of the competition which starts at 1pm. Registration has to be completed by 12.30pm.

More information is available by contacting Gordon on 07841 269108.

Meanwhile, Fourways picked up their first piece of silverware of the new season when they retained the Airdrie and District Dart League Shield last Monday night.

Although the final was a nail-biting affair, it was far from a classic with much better darts played in the preliminary matches earlier in the evening.

In the top half of the draw, Clarkston were too strong for a subdued Whiskey Joe’s team and ran out 6-3 winners with Fourways whitewashing The Stables.

Workmens B grinded out a 6-2 victory over the Swan Inn to set up a semi-final clash with the Forge who beat the Clansman 6-3.

Derek Cunningham added to his 15-dart win with a 17-dart success to help Fourways to a 6-2 victory against Clarkston.

The other semi-final was a cracker with the Forge and Workmens B level following the singles tournament.

After the first two doubles’ matches were drawn, a tie-breaker was needed to decide Fourways’ opponents in the final.

And despite a late rally from Norrie Hart and Cammy Reynolds, Forge duo Jimmy Hughes and Archie Grant were always in control and clinched the win.

The final was tied at 3-3 when Grant put the Forge ahead but the experienced Geordie Stallard levelled the match at the interval.

There was little between the teams in the doubles but Fourways just had the edge with Shug Rice and Mick Burke doing enough to guide their side to victory.

TOP TROPHIES: promoter Gordon Hunter alongside the Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser darts trophies supported by Raymond Logan Mortgage & Property Services.

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