The School Years

Precise details of the early tournaments, including the dates are unfortunately lost in time. While the format and structure was laid out, no record of averages or even match scores have been kept. What we do know is that that first event, which probably took place some time in late 1991 featured seven players (Dampier, Fisher, Forbes, King, McDougal, Pugh, Snelders, Williamson) and saw a round robin stage followed by the top 4 playing in semi-finals. Even these details are sketchy, and while the author believes this to be true, there is the faint recollection of a straight knock-out format swirling around in the hazy memories. What is certain is that it was a Wednesday afternoon; much needed sustenance was supplied by the now burnt-down Papa's fish & chip shop on the London Road and that the trophy and various cash prizes (in these days an entrance fee was divided up to provide prizes for 1st, 2nd and top checkout) were presented to the victor by Mrs Lorna Pugh - and very chuffed to have the honour she was too. This first landmark event was won by Matthew King, as he defeated the unseeded Ted Snelders in the final. The two would meet again.

Two more tournaments followed in this era, which for sake of simplicity we can call "The School Years". The first in 199 was an ambitious event for the organiser. Twelve players were invited to join the original seven, and they included: Richard "The Endorser" Dunmall; Martin "Miniature Arrows" Manser; Tom "The Unknown Archer" Sussmiss; Rod Martin and Tommy Sowerby. Two groups of six embarked on a round-robin stage, with group 2 playing matches in the garage. The highlight of the group stage was when those playing on board 1 heard a loud cheer from the second stage, and looked out the window to see the garage doors flung open and the six players emerge in a conga, as they celebrated Scott Williamson's 180. Further details of who qualified for the knock-out stage, and who beat who are again unfortunately lost, but in a satisfying legitimising of the first event, saw the same two players reach the final, but this time Snelders, now deservedly seeded #2, gain revenge for his previous defeat. Two tournaments, two finalists, two winners.

It is at this point that the author's vague recollection of a straight knockout format takes on a bit more resonance. It could be that Paul Adam joined the original seven and gave the event a nice symmetry. What is certain, is that Mickey "Mr Darts" Fisher played impeccably smooth darts and made his way to a first final, where he faced the now omnipresent King. King though demonstrated why he was the #1 seed by regaining the trophy. It would be nearly eight years before he had to put it on the line again.