Videos - click to view

Loading...
Loading...

Monday, July 31, 2006

Dartoids World: # 269 08/01/2006

Dartoids World: "Wimmenfolk, Rumpelmint and DARTS in the Ozarks
# 269 08/01/2006

I don’t know ‘bout ya’ll but when I think of the Ozarks what pops into my noggin is hooters, and I done don’t mean that place with the chicken wings. No siree, Bob.



What I mean is Hooterville. Don’t nobody know fer shore where that is ‘xactly ‘cept “it’s sumpin’ like 300 miles from Chicago, ‘round ‘bout Crabwell Corners, Stankwell Falls and Bugtussle.” But everybody knows how the town got its name. There’s lots of evidence.



Back in the ‘60s lots of well endowed wimmenfolk lived near these parts. Must be sumpin’ in the squirrel soup. Fer example, Elly May Clampett from the Beverly Hillbillies growed up in the holler here. So did Billy Jo, Bobbie Jo and Betty Jo from Petticoat Junction. Even the diamond-clad Lisa from Green Acres settled here fer a spell.



Prob’ly Hooterville is near where I’ve just been, ‘least that would be my guess, judgin’ from the current evidence. That would be Tessa Marshall and Heather Hunt and iffen you don’t get what I’m talkin’ ‘bout you best be a-fixing to get your tail to next year’s Chuck and Sticks’ Chicken COOP Open. It’s a mighty fine shindig. "

Blackpool Today: Darts - I'll be back for title No 9 says Taylor...

Sport News: Darts - Blackpool Today: "I'll be back for title No 9 says Taylor
MISSION accomplished – but it's not over yet!
That was the proud boast of Phil Taylor, who captured his eighth Stan James World Matchplay darts title at Blackpool's Winter Gardens.
He survived an unexpected scare to come back to beat the hitherto unheralded James Wade by 18-11 after falling behind early 8-5 thus picking up the prize for the eighth time.

Taylor said: 'At the beginning of the year, I made it my goal to win the Blackpool tournament again, and I am delighted to have done it.'
And Taylor, ever the perfectionist, stated his avowed intention to come back next year and repeat the feat, though he knows it won't be easy as the standard is getting better all the time in the sport.

'James is a cracking player, so is Andy Hamilton, while Dennis Priestley is also on his way back.

'Darts is massive and getting bigger and I don't even look at the first round draws when they come out anymore because every match, even in round one, is like a final.'"

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Yahoo! TV listings for WSoD through August 8, 2006

Yahoo! TV listings for WSoD through August 8, 2006:
"• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 11:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 12:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 11:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Aug 01 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Wed Aug 02 10:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Wed Aug 02 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Wed Aug 02 05:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Aug 07 11:30pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Aug 08 04:00pm PDT"

DenverPost.com - World Series of Darts

DenverPost.com - World Series of Darts: "By the way, before I forget, if you TiVo'd the World Series of Darts, you need to quit reading this column and start reassessing your life. ...

Catch Jim Armstrong from 6-9 a.m. during 'The Press Box' on ESPN 560 AM. He can be reached at 303-820-5452 or jmarmstrong @ denverpost "dot" com."

I will get started reassessing if you will take another look at the sport of darts and some of it's participants. It's easy to walk into a bar and see some guys having a beer throwing darts at a board and think; "Why would anyone want to watch that on TV?" I would suggest that you take a look at an article written by WSoD qualifier Dave DePriest titled: "Why Televise Darts?" http://www.davedepriest.com/world_series_of_darts.htm

It seems that many articles that I noticed have taken a negative view of the sport and having it broadcast. However I would like to pose the question; Is it a bad thing to televise some of the most accomplished individuals in the world displaying their skills at an internationally recognized sport?

Saturday, July 29, 2006

SEWA-darts.com & Dartplayer.net - Cricket Count Up

SEWA-darts.com & Dartplayer.net - Cricket Count Up: " Cricket Count Up

Practice RoutinesErik writes 'Thanks to CraigB from dartplayer.net I've been playing a new practice game lately called ‘Cricket Count Up’. It has helped my consistency in cricket, so I thought I would share this:"

Bull's Eye News- Feature: Captain Fred's Dart Chart

Bull's Eye News- Feature: Captain Fred's Dart Chart: "Captain Fred's Dart Chart
By Captain Fred Everson
When I was in high school, I remember hating football practice. Would that Keyport High had a dart team. For me, practicing my dart game is therapy. It takes my mind off bothersome stuff and allows me to relax with something I really enjoy – throwing darts. On the days when I hit well, it is pure bliss, but even when I don't play well against myself, it is still a wonderful distraction from life's little pains.

To practice with purpose, I made up a little routine described in a previous issue of Bull's-Eye News. I have since developed a chart that helps keep track of how I throw. In brief, here's how it works.

To use this chart, you need a practice round with a numerical value. You can make up one of your own, or you can use mine. Here's how my routine works. I throw three darts each at 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and the bull for a warm up. Then I repeat the round for score, counting hits on each number, with a triple counting three hits, a double counting two, and a single one. I don't count any slop in my practice round and I keep a running tally in my head, and then log the total on my chart. After five days, a chart might look like the one illustrated below."

This sounds a lot like Cricket Count Up:
SEWA-darts.com - Cricket Count Up: " Cricket Count Up

Practice Routines: Erik writes 'Thanks to CraigB from dartplayer.net I've been playing a new practice game lately called "Cricket Count Up". It has helped my consistency in cricket, so I thought I would share this:"

Who would have guessed? VN Boards - World Series of Darts

I never expected to see a positive post about the WSoD on a forum like this!

VN Boards - World Series of Darts: "Date Posted: 7/21 7:31am Subject: RE: World Series of Darts
I am on a dart league..it's a blast. I'm sorta bummed out tho..the bar has been sold..and the new owners are not going to continue it."

RTÉ.ie Sport - Phil Taylor wins matchplay title

RTÉ.ie Sport - Phil Taylor wins matchplay title: "Phil Taylor tonight claimed his eighth Stan James World Matchplay title with an impressive victory over rising star James Wade in Blackpool.

'The Power', beaten by Dutch superstar Raymond van Barneveld in the last two majors, showed his class in the latter stages to secure an 18-11 victory at the Winter Gardens."

newsobserver.com | Dart league keeps participants sharp

newsobserver.com | Dart league keeps participants sharp:
"RALEIGH - It's a pleasant way to spend time hanging out in a bar.

Just make sure you don't have one too many when meeting up with the Raleigh Dart League.

'You've got a steel object in your hand; you're not going to go out and get drunk,' said Julie Payne, a player in charge of the league's membership.

The Raleigh Dart League, which has more than 400 members, offers a chance for players of all ages and skill levels to throw back a few while tossing some darts. The league has 52 teams -- with names such as the Elementary School Bullies, the Grateful Darts and Menace to Sobriety -- with six to 10 players each that rotate among several bars in Wake County."

Friday, July 28, 2006

So where is all the positive press on darts on ESPN?

Making deals, taking the easy way out, and elementary school games on ESPN. at 850 & 620 THE BLOG: "I saw the promo for the World Series of Darts. Is it just me, or did everyone featured look as though they’d just consumed 11 pounds of italian sausage? One guy was referred to as the greatest darter in the history of darts.

Are you kidding?

I think ESPN needs a reality check. I’m begging you people to stop watching darts, and poker, and dominos, and trick shot billiards, and paint ball, and polo, and the great outdoor games (unless we’ve got two guys fighting with chain saws), and the hot dog eating contest.

Please, every time one of you people can’t reach the remote to watch the news or the learning channel or even the weather channel, ESPN comes up with another inactive piece of crap to dull our minds.

Coming this fall…….Friday Night Paper Football!!!!

This week, the Raleigh Reams take on the Wichita Wide Ruled in a battle that will decide first place in the division!"

2006 Holsten Premiere League on OLN - darts on TV

PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS is on OLN!
I've always respected the Outdoor Life Network as they were the first to broadcast the Tour de France live in the USA! They have always been really focused on niche viewing audiences, but Darts is a step outside of their usual box, and I'm happy that they are taking that step.



Saturday, August 05, 2006
10:00PM - 11:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night One - Blackburn
The 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts got off to a flying start at King George's Hall in Blackburn, with Raymond van Barneveld making a superb PDC debut.

Monday, August 07, 2006
6:00PM - 7:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night One - Blackburn
The 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts got off to a flying start at King George's Hall in Blackburn, with Raymond van Barneveld making a superb PDC debut.

Saturday, August 12, 2006
10:00PM - 11:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Two - Sunderland
The second night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from Sunderland's Seaburn Leisure Centre.

Sunday, August 13, 2006
3:00PM - 4:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Two - Sunderland
The second night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from Sunderland's Seaburn Leisure Centre.

Monday, August 14, 2006
6:00PM - 7:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Two - Sunderland
The second night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from Sunderland's Seaburn Leisure Centre.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006
12:00AM - 1:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Two - Sunderland
The second night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from Sunderland's Seaburn Leisure Centre.

Saturday, August 19, 2006
11:00PM - 12:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Three - Aberdeen
The third night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from the Aberdeen AECC.

Sunday, August 20, 2006
2:00AM - 3:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Three - Aberdeen
The third night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from the Aberdeen AECC.

Monday, August 21, 2006
5:00PM - 6:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Three - Aberdeen
The third night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from the Aberdeen AECC.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006
12:00AM - 1:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Three - Aberdeen
The third night of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts from the Aberdeen AECC.

Saturday, August 26, 2006
11:00PM - 12:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Four - Wolverhampton
Night four of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts, which saw Phil Taylor continue his unbeaten run at the Wolverhampton Civic.

Sunday, August 27, 2006
2:00AM - 3:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Four - Wolverhampton
Night four of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts, which saw Phil Taylor continue his unbeaten run at the Wolverhampton Civic.

Monday, August 28, 2006
7:00PM - 8:00PM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Four - Wolverhampton
Night four of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts, which saw Phil Taylor continue his unbeaten run at the Wolverhampton Civic.

Tuesday, August 29, 2006
12:00AM - 1:00AM PREMIERE LEAGUE DARTS
Night Four - Wolverhampton
Night four of the 2006 Holsten Premier League Darts, which saw Phil Taylor continue his unbeaten run at the Wolverhampton Civic.

World Series of Darts on TV thru Aug. 8th

Yahoo! TV listings - World Series of Darts on TV thru Aug. 8th:
"• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Fri Jul 28 12:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Sat Jul 29 12:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Sat Jul 29 01:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Sun Jul 30 12:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Sun Jul 30 01:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 11:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 12:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 31 11:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Aug 01 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Wed Aug 02 10:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Wed Aug 02 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Wed Aug 02 05:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Aug 07 11:30pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Aug 08 04:00pm PDT"

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

BBC SPORT: Priestley sets up Taylor showdown

: "Priestley sets up Taylor showdown

Taylor beat Priestley in last year's World Matchplay
Former world champion Dennis Priestley beat Alex Roy 13-8 to set up a showdown with Phil Taylor in the World Matchplay quarter-finals in Blackpool.

The 56-year-old edged 3-2 ahead at the first break and took a six-leg lead but missed several doubles for victory as Roy cut his deficit to four.

Priestley eventually nailed double 10 to clinch his victory."

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

BBC SPORT - Darts: Taylor races to victory over Part

Taylor races to victory over Part
Taylor had a three-dart average of 98.57 in his win over Part
Phil Taylor made short work of John Part in the second round of the Stan James World Matchplay on Tuesday.

The 13-time world champion lost to Canadian Part in the quarter-finals of this event last year but got his revenge with an emphatic 13-2 victory.

Taylor also registered the highest checkout of the tournament so far when he took out 160 in the seventh leg."

In the previous game Andy Hamilton claimed another major scalp with a win....

In the previous game Andy Hamilton claimed another major scalp with a win over fellow Stoke player Adrian Lewis.

Hamilton overcame Dutch superstar Van Barneveld in the qualifying competition before crushing Peter Manley 10-2 in the opening round at the Winter Gardens.

And he was too strong for Lewis in a pulsating contest played in humid conditions, closing out a 15-13 success to clinch his place in the last eight."

Dave DePriest - Why Televise Darts?

Dave DePriest WSoD Qualifier - Why Televise Darts?

" Why Televise Darts?

Isn’t Darts a game that you play in the pub while tossing back a few cold ones? Who watches Darts on TV anyway? ESPN has gone crazy!! What is next the world series of marbles? Questions like these have been floating around the Internet by confused Americans lately. Not a lot of information has been given to the public and they aren’t very aware of Darts as a sport. But that’s all about to change, in deed, it has begun.

Allow me to present some facts and figures about the sport " Click this link to read the full article....

Monday, July 24, 2006

Advocate: Magnificent display by Barbados' darts team challenges USA & Canada

Advocate - Magnificent display by Barbados' darts team challenges USA & Canada : "In the ladies knock-out singles Michelle Stephens from Barbados defeated the dangerous Nanette Brooks from Trinidad in the semi-final to earn a place in the final against the formidable Stacy Bromberg from Las Vegas. Throughout the entire tournament Bromberg had lost only one singles match in the team competition Maureen Shepherd of Barbados in the team final."

MyWestTexas.com - Darts fascination brings tourney to Midland

MyWestTexas.com - Darts fascination brings tourney to Midland:
Bob Campbell
Staff Writer
Midland Reporter-Telegram
07/22/2006


Whether a sport or just a game, dart throwing has gained enough popularity in the Tall City to develop regionally competitive players and a July 28-30 tournament with teams from Lubbock, San Angelo, Abilene and Midland.

It has its own parlance with 'putting him out,' 'flights,' 'the oche,' 'a leg,' 'doubling out' and 'Ton 80' being key terms.

The Permian Basin Dart Association 'Dust Bowl' event will match 12 men and six women from each city in complex '501' and 'Cricket' games on 21 boards at the new Midland Dart Center at Cactus Lanes Bowling Center."

Woods deserves a loud cheer, but we need to remain silent - baltimoresun.com

Woods deserves a loud cheer, but we need to remain silent - baltimoresun.com: "It's hard to be humble, but we're not doing quite so well in the World Series of Darts, which aired on ESPN2 yesterday afternoon. Only one American was still alive going into the quarterfinals of the event, which should give a big boost to British self-esteem.

Yes, ESPN is televising darts, and I've got no problem with that. It's certainly more of a sporting event than the World Series of Poker or the National Spelling Bee. You try hitting a half-inch circle from 8 feet after six pints of Guinness.

peter.schmuck@baltsun.com"

The Grounds Crew: WSoD qualifiers post a great reply!

Yet another negative article about the World Series of Darts, but do not dispair as one of the WSoD qualifiers post a great reply!

The Grounds Crew: Come on Baby Light My Baseball | BonitaNews.com: "Come on Baby Light My Baseball

By Ryan McAfee

JULY 21, 2006 (Posted at: 2:26 p.m.)

Have you ever been sitting around in a bar or at home, playing darts, poker, foosball, or any other parlor game in general and thought 'gee, I should totally be on television playing this for money.' No. That's because most of us realize that these games should only be played among a group of friends, and the only money involved should be a bet against your friend that if you beat them, they need to do something, i.e. let you punch them and give you a dollar. At least in poker you are gambling, so money should be involved.

The only thing worse than these 'athletes' getting paid to play darts is their lung capacity. It seems like every player could be a stand-in for Louie Anderson, except if Louie Anderson had stupid facial hair. Come on, these guys actually make professional bowlers look like body-builders (thanks PJ). I’m not saying that these games don’t take talent, because they do, but they shouldn’t have professionally sanctioned events for money. At best the winner of a bar tournament should get a gift certificate to the bar at which they are playing darts so they can buy beer."

The Reply:
"Posted by DoubleTrouble at 8:16 a.m. on July 24, 2006

I actually played in the World Series of Darts. Unfortunately, most people in the US have very little concept of darts outside a pub game context. But to give you an idea of why ESPN would want to televise a tournament like this I'll give you some numbers.

According the National Sporting Good Association report year 2000. Darts was the 18th most popular sport in America with 17.4 million people playing on an annual basis. Darts was ranked higher in participation then, baseball, soccer, football, tennis, skiing, kickboxing, snowboarding, skating sports, and martial arts.

American Dart Organization

American Dart Organization: "US TEAM WINS 3rd STRAIGHT AMERICA'S CUP
Congratulations to the team and the Captain, Ray Carver.

Scott Wollaston won the Men's Singles
John Kuczynski 3rd Men's Singles
Stacy Bromberg won the Ladies Singles
Sherri Benton -High Checkout Ladies (132)
Scott Wollaston -Low Dart Game (11)
Stacy Bromberg -Low Dart Game (14)
John Kuczynski -Most 180's (12)
Stacy Bromberg -Most 180's (7)"

MyWestTexas.com - Darts fascination brings tourney to Midland

MyWestTexas.com - Darts fascination brings tourney to Midland: "'My best friends are all in darts and I enjoy them and relax,' said Pearce. 'It's a lot of fun. I've been playing for 11 years and my 8-year-old daughter is getting good. This is an inexpensive hobby and with ESPN televising it, it's definitely becoming a sport.'

Yates attended the May 19-21 World Series of Darts at Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Conn., and took part in 'Midnight Madness' play. The $175,000 Las Vegas Desert Classic took place June 26-July 2."

Darts championship - Caribbean Cup

Darts championship - Caribbean Cup:
"Darts championship
Friday, 21 July 2006
Maureen Shepherd, one of the best women darts players in the Caribbean over the last ten years, finally achieved the coveted title of Ladies Singles Champion at the Caribbean Cup.

Shepherd defeated her compatriot Michelle Stephens by two games to one at the Sherbourne Conference Centre last evening to take away the regional title sponsored by Digicel.

It looked as though Shepherd was going to overwhelm her opponent because in the first game of the three, Shepherd powered ahead with scores of 140 and then 100 to leave herself with ample time to check out without Stephens getting close to a finish. "

Planet Darts: "DENNIS PRIESTLEY 10-7 ALAN TABERN

Stan James World Matchplay: "DENNIS PRIESTLEY 10-7 ALAN TABERN

DENNIS PRIESTLEY overcame a stubborn challenge from Alan Tabern to move into round two of the Stan James World Matchplay with a 10-7 win.

The Yorkshireman cruised into a 7-2 lead against an opponent making his Blackpool debut.

But the rising star from St Helens hit back to win five of the next seven legs and put himself back to within touching distance before Priestley completed the win.

Priestley opened up an early 3-0 lead, punishing some sloppy play from Tabern in the second leg and taking the third despite a maximum from his opponent."

Sunday, July 23, 2006

CANOE -- SLAM! Sports - Other Sports - Part advances to second round

CANOE -- SLAM! Sports - Other Sports - Part advances to second round: "Part advances to second round


BLACKPOOL, England (CP) - John Part of Oshawa, Ont., moved into the second round of the 2006 Stan James World Matchplay darts tournament Sunday, along with Alex Roy and Dennis Priestley.

Part, fresh from his win three weeks ago in the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic, produced a solid start to his challenge with a 10-2 win over local favourite Wes Newton."

More Negative comments about WSoD on ESPN

This newspaper seems dead set against the idea of the World Series of Darts on TV!
I found the link to it on; PhillyDarts.com
PhillyDarts.com View topic - Well, did you see the first show? What did you think?: "Heres some feed back from The HeraldToday.com:
www.bradenton.com
I'm not saying ESPN is getting desperate for programming, but do we really need to see the World Series of Darts? What's next, the Apopka Elementary School Marbles Championship? ( this was written by Mike Bianchi ) mbianchi@orlandosentinel

Send him your comments "


When I went to check the source/link I found this article as well:
MOST RIDICULOUS PROGRAMS ON ESPN

The World Series of Poker has drawn a large following over the years. Unfortunately, the network has jumped the shark with these offerings. Hey, come to think of it, jumping a shark would be far more interesting than anything on this list:

5 Paintball championships. A fair amount of athleticism is required for this game, given it requires good hand-eye coordination. But this is something we want to play, not watch. Question: How do they clean the camera lens?

4 World Series of Darts. A bar game we'd only find interesting if we were sitting in the bar, with plenty of beer to drink.

3 Obstacle course challenge. Think Nickelodeon Double Dare challenge but without the green slime.

2 Dominoes tournament. Duller than dirt. Competitors take this game seriously, but I think ESPN's deal with the International Domino Federation through 2011 was a bit premature.

1 Hot dog eating contest. Not only must-not-see TV, but totally disgusting. We know Americans like to eat, but we don't need competitive eaters making SportsCenter's Top 10 highlights.
Grace Agostin, Herald Staff

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Planet Darts: Bobby Bourn Memorial Trophy - PDPA Players Championship

Planet Darts:Bobby Bourn Memorial Trophy - PDPA Players Championship:
"Quarter-Finals
Roland Scholten 3-2 Colin Lloyd
Colin Osborne 3-2 Adrian Lewis
Phil Taylor 3-1 Dennis Priestley
Andy Jenkins 3-2 Colin Monk
Losers £600, 10 ranking points

Semi-Finals
Roland Scholten 3-2 Colin Osborne
Phil Taylor 3-0 Andy Jenkins
Losers £1,250, 12 ranking points

Final
Phil Taylor 3-1 Roland Scholten
Winner £5,000, 20 ranking points
Runner-up £2,500, 16 ranking points"

The Cumberland News: Cumbria's Gold Cup

The Cumberland News: Cumbria's Gold Cup: "Paul McGimpsey and Pecker Woods got to the last pair in the premier doubles event of the year with a stunning victory over the Cambridgeshire international partnership of Martin Adams and Shaun Greatbatch. Our guys saw them off with an excellent 4-1 win to get to the final where they faced the Shropshire pair of Andrew Roberts with England's man of the tournament in the recent home internationals Steve Farmer. The Shropshire duo won the title with a 4-1 scoreline and I am extremely grateful to Michelle Jackson for having sent me a text to tell me so because when I looked at the internet it was giving the win to Pecker and Gimp by the same score! "

Friday, July 21, 2006

Sport News - Blackpool Today: : "Matchplay for Fleetwood darts ace

"Matchplay for Fleetwood darts ace
FLEETWOOD darts ace Wes Newton is looking to put three years of hurt behind him when he makes his debut in the Stan James World Matchplay at Blackpool's Winter Gardens on Sunday.
The 28-year-old never managed to qualify for the event after joining the Professional Darts Corporation circuit and was so disappointed that he couldn't bring himself to attend as a spectator.
But Newton's rise to 21st in the world rankings has earned him an automatic place in this year's £150,000 tournament and a first-round match in front of his home crowd against John Part on the opening evening.
Newton said: 'I've been going to the Winter Gardens since the tournament began but I've not been for the past few years because it hurt too much to watch and not be involved.'"

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Sport - Dearne Today: : "PRIESTLEY AIMS FOR ELITE STATUS

"PRIESTLEY AIMS FOR ELITE STATUS
by Chris Brammer
MEXBOROUGH'S Dennis Priestley hopes a good performance at the forthcoming Stan James World Matchplay tournament will elevate him into darts' elite.
Priestley of Church Street, takes on qualifier Alan Tabern, ranked 69th in the world, in a best of 19 legs first-round match in Blackpool on Sunday.
Said Priestley: 'I am throwing alright at the moment. It is all about being able to score doubles, score points and being to put both games together, if I can do that, then I am a game for anybody.
'I am aiming to get a bit higher in the rankings so we can have a Mexborough representative in the Premier League which is chosen after the Grand Prix has finished, so I am looking for a good performance there and also in Ireland (Ireland Open).'
The Premier League consists of seven of the world's top players who play each other twice in a unique league format, over 12 legs."

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Las Vegas SUN: Stacy Bromberg

Las Vegas SUN: Top of the barrel: "The country's top female darts thrower marvels about flying over Ayer's Rock in the middle of Australia en route to a tournament as Marvin Gaye serenades the smoky lounge with 'What's Goin' On?'

Four hours after a weekly recreational league started, CD's Lounge has nearly emptied. Bromberg sits on a barstool for more than five minutes for the first time all night.

The music stops.

She revealed how a tumor - larger than an orange, smaller than a grapefruit - in the middle of her back makes sleeping difficult. Flying in an airplane is rarely comfortable. On a scale of 1 to 10, the pain she usually feels is a 5.

'Some days, it's 11,' she says. 'Doctors say there's one chance in 10,000 that it's not benign. I'll take those odds.'"

Dave DePriest - World Series of Darts Episode #1 Recap

Dave DePriest who was one of the qualifiers for the WSoD has taken time to write a recap of the first episode. Regardless of weather you have seen Episode #1 or not, I'm sure you will find this an enjoyable read!

World Series of Darts - Episode #1
Broadcast July 18, 2006 on ESPN 7pm EDT

The show opened to a brief introduction of the International and American players. Next the announcers introduced themselves and brought the audience up to speed regarding the tournament. $100,000.00 to an international winner but ONE MILLION DOLLARS if an American can pull off the upset. The full recap is at the link below:

World Series of Darts Episode Recap



Also see WSoD pics at:
http://www.davedepriest.com/

Not everyone loves darts on TV


I did enjoy the broadcast today, because it's not often that you get to see that many USA dart players at once on TV, and some of the USA qualifiers were very impressive. I also thought that the commentator did a good job explaining the game during the broadcast.

There were some things that I didn't care for during the broadcast, but I wait for another day to deal with those. However it seems that not everyone agrees with me....


Poker, dominoes, darts: sad commentary on the TV sporting public:

By Tom Reed

Akron Beacon Journal

(MCT)

ESPN dedicated a two-hour block of programming Tuesday night to the World Series of Darts and World Series of Poker.

It begs one question: How long must viewers wait for the World Series of Twister?

Picture Stuart Scott twirling the spinner and breathlessly barking out: Left hand, red. Right foot, blue. Imagine Chris Berman calling the action: 'Look at Eugene Pennypacker, a daredevil of dexterity, as he reaches with both hands over his opponent and arches his back, back, back.'

At least with Twister someone would have the potential to pop a hamstring. You could watch hours of poker and darts and not see a competitor break as much as a sweat.

Poker. Darts. Dominoes. What has our sports nation allowed itself to become?"

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

The Times-Tribune - Players shoot for $1M

The Times-Tribune - Players shoot for $1M: "Kuczynski, a 32-year-old Hazleton Area graduate who runs a garbage hauling business, and Watkins, a 51-year-old maintenance technician from Schuylkill Haven, were two of 16 Americans in the inaugural World Series of Darts in May at the Mohegan Sun casino in Connecticut.

ESPN sliced the competition into eight slickly produced episodes, the first of which premieres tonight at 7.

Is darts the next poker?

Kuczynski can’t see why not.

“From what I’ve seen, there’s going to be a lot of emphasis on the characters,” he said. “It’s not just darts. It’s the people behind it. I think ESPN did a good job of getting that across with poker."

PJStar.com - Journal Star News

From the: "This is no way to get started in the Sport of Darts" files...

PJStar.com - Journal Star News:
"Eureka men charged in East Peoria burglary

PEKIN - Two Eureka men face burglary-related charges after allegedly stealing items from Shopko in East Peoria earlier this month.

Jeffrey W. Zehr, 21, of rural Eureka allegedly stole darts, and Brian J. Banwart, 19, of 103 Dennis Drive allegedly stole two radar detectors on July 12. The duo removed the items from the packaging and left the store, 105 N. Main St. They were picked up a short while later, court records stated.

Both were charged with burglary, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison, and retail theft greater than $150, a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison."

Monday, July 17, 2006

Planet Darts : Scholten & Hearn Are 'Catch Of The Day!'

Planet Darts: "Scholten & Hearn Are 'Catch Of The Day!'

FISHING fans can catch Dutch darts star Roland Scholten and PDC Chairman Barry Hearn on a new series of podcasts with Discovery Real Time.

The duo joined fishing expert and Discovery Real Time presenter Matt Hayes during the five-part series, which is entitled 'Essential Fishing Skills' and now available for download."

Planet Darts: Australian Grand Prix

Planet Darts: "Australian Grand Prix - Warilla
Final
Barry Jouannet 6-5 Anthony Fleet
Winner $1,000, 10 AGP ranking points
Runner-Up $500, 8 AGP ranking points

Semi-Finals
Barry Jouannet 5-3 Paul Cotton
Anthony Fleet 5-1 Dave Fitzpatrick
Losers $250, 6 AGP ranking points

Quarter-Finals
Dave Fitzpatrick def Pete Corcoran
Barry Jouannet def Jamie Cotton
Paul Cotton def Stuart Everson
Anthony Fleet def Rob Denny
Losers $100, 4 AGP ranking points

Last 16 Losers
Brian Roach, Russell Stewart, Pat Duke, Dave McKay, Phil Heath, Kevin Luland, Rod Crawford, John Clarke
2 AGP ranking points"

International Dart Players Association.

International Dart Players Association.: "wolfie and cubs
Written by Robert Holmes BDO
Monday, 17 July 2006



Two down one to go! Martin Adams learns that a ‘treble’ of wolves can be a handful at feeding time!!


England Captain MARTIN ADAMS is enjoying living up to his ‘Wolfie’ nickname and love of wolves by helping to welcome three new cubs to the UK Wolf Conservation Trust (UKWCT).



The cute threesome are being cared for around the clock by volunteers from the Trust, who hand-feed them every four hours, and Martin was only too pleased to help out on a recent visit to the Berkshire based Conservation Trust at Butlers Farm, Beenham, Reading.



Not surprisingly, the latest arrivals at the UK Wolf Conservation Trust (UKWCT) are attracting a lot of attention, and Martin was only too pleased to assist with the feeding while once again continuing his close relationship with ‘Duma’, a mature wolf who he adopted some four years ago when he first visited the Trust Centre.



“During the 2002 Lakeside World Professional Darts



Championships I was invited to the UKWCT for the first time and actually filmed with the wolves for television”, says Martin..”Not only was it an exciting experience, but I found I had an affinity with the wolves – especially Duma, who I have since had the privilege of ‘bonding’ with as we walk together at the centre.



“The UKWCT is doing a wonderful job in dispelling the myths and misconceptions surrounding wolves through visits to schools and country shows, and I am delighted to welcome these new cubs into the Trust ‘family’.”"

Couples Charity Night For Codie & Dart Tourney (from This Is Essex)

Couples Charity Night For Codie (from This Is Essex):
"Couple's charity night for Codie
By Beverley Rouse
A grieving couple who endured the trauma of watching their baby die are embarking on a fundraising venture as a thankyou to the hospital that cared for him.

Doctors told Lynn Brand her baby would not live for more than 'five minutes' because her waters had broken 21 weeks into the pregnancy and his lungs would not be fully developed.

It was recommended she have a termination.

But two days before the operation was due to take place, Mrs Brand, of Eastern Avenue, South-end, went into labour and Codie was born, 16 weeks early.
continued...

The tiny boy - who weighed only one kilo - had a perforated bowel and needed a colostomy bag.

His kidneys stopped working and both his lungs eventually collapsed.

The little boy, who was also born with Down's syndrome, had little oxygen getting to his brain and Mrs Brand took the heartbreaking decision to tell doctors to stop trying to keep him alive.

'He wouldn't have had any quality of life, so it was best for him,' she said.

Mrs Brand and her husband Alan, who works for Southend Council, have three other children Mitchell, 14, Connor, ten and Leia, eight who have helped them to cope with their grief.

Now she hopes to help other sick babies by raising money for Chelsea and Westminster Hospital's neonatal intensive care, where Codie spent the nine weeks and four days of his life.

She has organised at a charity night later this month at the American Pool Shack, London Road, Southend.

The fundraiser will include a raffle, darts tournament, auction of male slaves to carry out household jobs and the chance to pull a wax strip off a hairy man.

The event starts at 7pm on Saturday, July 29, and entry is free.

All are welcome, including children."

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Updated WSoD Listings - thru July 27 of '06

Yahoo TV listings for World Series of Darts
" • World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Jul 18 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Wed Jul 19 01:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Thu Jul 20 07:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Fri Jul 21 12:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Fri Jul 21 02:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Fri Jul 21 11:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Sat Jul 22 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Sat Jul 22 09:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Sun Jul 23 12:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 24 01:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN2, Mon Jul 24 10:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Tue Jul 25 04:00pm PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Thu Jul 27 10:00am PDT
• World Series of Darts
ESPN, Thu Jul 27 11:00am PDT"

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Las Vegas SUN: The finer points of darts

Las Vegas SUN: The finer points of darts: "The finer points of darts
Taylor comes a long way from $150 a week to the power to buy a Bentley

By Rob Miech
Las Vegas Sun

When Phil Taylor first entered dart tournaments, upgrading the cutlery or bedsheets served as incentive. Advance another round, and maybe he could afford to take the family on a little holiday.

After faring well in a 1988 open, he bought a new $750 shower.

'You'd turn it on and, 'Pfffffffffft!' ' said the 45-year-old Taylor, with darting hand movements. 'It was like heaven.'

Now, a spacious new home or new Audi A8 don't compare to the excitement level of when, not so long ago, he would surprise his wife, Yvonne, with a new set of dish towels."

Dave DePriest World Series of Darts Qualifier

As you all know the World Series of Darts has already taken place, but the event has yet to be broadcast. ESPN will be broadcasting the event in one hour episodes starting the 18th of July! If you want some interesting accounts by one of the qualifiers the following articles are a MUST READ!

Dave DePriest World Series of Darts Qualifier: "The Journey
What a wild and exciting few months since I hit that final double 8 to gain a spot on stage at the Mohegan. As an exclusive, Id like to share with you the journey from my eyes. So here is the tale of how an ordinary family man, and casual darter, finds himself under the bright lights on the big stage"

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Dart-throwing Killians receive Littell Award

Dart-throwing Killians receive Littell Award:

Olympian/CANUSA games
THE FLINT JOURNAL FIRST EDITION
Saturday, July 08, 2006
By Bill Khan


"As long as the Killian family of Thetford Township remains active, Flint's darts team for the CANUSA Games is in no danger of running low on numbers.

The Killians annually provide six members of the team by themselves, helping to ensure Flint not only has the numbers to compete with the team from Hamilton, Ontario, but some quality, as well.

They do more to promote the sport than simply compete, which is why the Killian family is this year's recipient of the James A. Littell Award. The award is given each year to the family that demonstrates outstanding participation in the Flint Olympian or CANUSA Games.

.....

Darts have been part of the CANUSA Games official lineup since 1989. While the sport tends to be more popular in Canada, Hamilton's lead in the series is only 9-8. The host city has won the sport 13 times in those 17 years, which bodes well for Flint, because the games will be held here Aug. 4 and 5.

"It's a little bit bigger in Canada, but it's really picking up here," Kevin Killian said."

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

The Swazi Observer - Darts

The Swazi Observer: "Railway All night long champs
By Nathi Zubuko

DARTS - RAILWAY took home E600 after winning the "All Night Long" darts tournament held at Kai Kai Motel over the weekend.

The tournament, sponsored to a tune of E1 500, started on Saturday night and finished on Sunday morning. Illovo A pocketed E400 after finishing on second spot. Semi-finalists Simunye and Kilowatts got E200 each while the pair of Illovo B and Avocado were presented with a consolation prize of E100 each.

Swaziland National Darts Association (SNDA) Secretary Timothy Dladla congratulated the winners and thanked all the teams for their co-operation."

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

AUSTRALIAN GRAND MASTERS 2006

AUSTRALIAN GRAND MASTERS 2006
"Monday 3rd July 2006

AUSTRALIAN GRAND MASTERS 2006

Here are the top 8 positions for the Australian Grand Masters 2006.


Simon Whitlock Australia

Joe Comito Australia

Robert Grant New Zealand

Mick Mullaney Australia

Steve Duke Snr. Australia

Shane Tichowitsch Australia

Brian Sørensen Denmark

Peter Hunt New Zealand

1

2

3

3

5

5

5

5

Natalie Carter Australia

Jannette Jonathan New Zealand

Louise Ball Australia

Bubs Sylva Australia

Carol Forwood Australia

Peta Whitlock Australia

Joanne hadley Australia

Dot McLeod Australia

"

VCDA Coverage: Ventura County Star: Other Sports - Darts!

My Darts League gets some local news coverage!: "The Ventura County Dart Association is on a slight rebound with about 60 members, but is working to increase its numbers this summer with the introduction of a singles league and a possible youth darts program in future months.

'We have the potential of having more members, the problem is people simply don't want to commit to it every week,' VCDA president Diana Needham said. 'They have so many other things going on in their lives, and we have long seasons. Full article link!

This newspaper site is free, but requires registration. Contact me if you want to read the article but do not want to register.

darttournaments: Desert Classic Pics

darttournaments - Desert Classic Pics:
"For those of you that weren't at the Desert Classic,
... some pictures at the SNDA's photosite.
http://snda.photosite.com/DessertClassicV/
Also from the Make a Wish Charity Shoot.
http://snda.photosite.com/MakeaWish/

We had a blast this year!
Thanks, to all who participated!
Cheryl"

Monday, July 03, 2006

Planet Darts: PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic V - Round up

Part narrowly failed to make it a double when he went down to Peter Manley in the final of the Mens Cricket tournament which was staged following the final.

THE Women's Singles Final saw Tricia Wright defeat America's Marilyn Popp 6-1 to take the title for the first time.

America's Stacey Bromberg won the Womens Cricket event, defeating Crissy Manley in the final.

Planet Darts - Davis & Kuczynski To Take On The World

"Davis & Kuczynski To Take On The World

AMERICANS Bill Davis and John Kuczynski will compete at the 2007 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

Kuczynski, who reached the third round of the 2006 tournament at the Circus Tavern, was the furthest American at the World Series of Darts in May.
"

Saturday, July 01, 2006

John Part v Raymond van Barneveld: PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic

My pick is John Part to win! He will be in for a tough match!

PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic
Semi-Finals


JOHN PART 4-2 WES NEWTON
(2-3, 1-3, 3-1, 3-0, 3-1, 3-1)

RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD 4-3 PHIL TAYLOR
(2-3, 0-3, 3-2, 3-2, 1-3, 3-1, 3-2)
Best of seven sets, five legs per set

Final
John Part v Raymond van Barneveld
Best of 11 sets, five legs per set


Planet Darts: Las Vegas Desert Classic

Planet Darts | TV Tournaments | PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic | Las Vegas Desert Classic: "PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic
Quarter-Final Results
Terry Jenkins 2-3 John Part
Andy Hamilton 1-3 Raymond van Barneveld
Phil Taylor 3-0 Dennis Priestley
Chris Mason 2-3 Wes Newton
Best of five sets, five legs per set

My picks for today in red
Semi-Final Draw & Order of Play
Wes Newton v John Part
Phil Taylor v Raymond van Barneveld
Best of seven sets, five legs per set"

CANOE -- SLAM! Sports - Darts- Canadian Part reaches semifinal at Las Vegas Desert Classic darts contest

John Part reaches semifinal at Las Vegas Desert Classic darts contest: "Canadian Part reaches semifinal at Las Vegas Desert Classic V

LAS VEGAS (CP) - John Part of Oshawa, Ont., took a 3-2 win over Terry Jenkins to reach the semifinal of Las Vegas Desert Classic for the fourth straight year Friday.

Part won in five sets, 2-3, 3-1, 1-3, 3-2, 3-1.

'There were a couple of battles out there,' Part said. 'I was battling myself on the doubles and also battling Terry, who's a hot player."

search this site or the web...

Google