By GABRIEL KATUHO
The Dart Federation of PNG has officially opened the five days of Champion of Champions National Dart Competition Today in Port Moresby.
The competition is hosted by the National Capital District Darts Association with the help of PNG Darts Federation, Trophy House for sponsoring the trophies and ‘Sports In’ as the host venue for the five-day sporting event.
A total of sixteen teams have registered and have started the competition today. The teams are;
- Team Mabosi – Northern Dart
- Team Penumbra – Kokopo District Dart
- Team 15 Cutters – Kimbe Dart
- Team K180 Falcons – NCD
- Team Weigh Inn Marlins – NCD
- Team Muni Heighs – POM
- Team Kalamix – Hagogohe Dart
- Team Bopom Chika – NCD
- Team Lapeo Bullets – Opo Malage
- Team Porolarch Arrows – POM
- Team Tioli – POM
- Team Pauka Vikings – Higaturu Dart
- Team Renbou – Arawa
- Team K180 Phoenix – NCDDA
- Team Darkmoon – POM Darts
- Team Hotel Kokopo – Kokopo District Darts
- Team Hotel Kokopo – Kokopo District Darts
During the opening ceremony NCD Darts Association president Anthony Kelep welcomed the participating teams and graced a funfilled five days of competition with an aim to not only win but to build connection and friendship.
The vice President of PNG Darts Federation Toa Kila while welcoming the Teams to the championship, acknowledged the sponsors and NCD Dart Association for taking the lead in organizing the event.
“It is a privilege to stand before you as the Vise President of PNG Darts Federation to welcome you all to the fifth Champion of Champions National Darts Tournament here in our Nation’s capital,” he said.
“Today mark not only just the start of another competition but it is the celebration of excellence, unity and a spirit of Darts in Papua New Guinea,” he stated.
Mr. Kila said the tournament brings together the very best of the provincial darts association, the champion of champions who have fought hard in their respective regions to have their place in the competition.
“Your presence is a testament to your commitment, discipline and love for the sport, your organizing committee, tournament director, technical team. Thank you for your tireless effort in putting this event together,” he stated.
He said this is a platform to showcase the emerging talents, foster sportsmanship and strengthen relationship across the darting community.
Mr. Kila encouraged the players to take the competition with confidence, throw the arrows with integrity, play with their heart and respect the fellow competitors.
“Always remember that behind every arrow thrown is the efforts of many. Your clubs, your associations, your executives, your presidents, your community and the people that have supported you,” he stated.
He also pledged the continued support towards the greater growth of darts at all levels in the country as the tournament aims to identify emerging talents on display.