2nd June saw the first Peterson Darts Open at Smokey O'Connors Morecambe. A competition done to help raise monies for our local St Johns Hospice. This competition was dedicated to two dearly loved and missed people Carol McGoldrick and Michael Ward.
After months of gathering raffle and tombola prizes, weeks of advertising online, in the local newspaper and radio the day soon came round. An extra early start getting the venue and stalls all ready before all the darters started to arrive.
Paul Pez Perry had already set off the fundraising by overseeing the lottery bonus balls for signed PDC memorabilia. The rest of the day involved not only playing for me, but selling more raffle tickets and manning the bottle bag tombola stall along with close friends and family.
First round saw me draw my youngest daughter, a keen upcoming darter in her own right. We had an excellent game which led to 180's a piece. My daughters very first 180 was a game stopping event when, overcome with emotion she screamed with joy. I was a very proud mum but I had to play to win & win I did.
I got through each round without dropping a leg. To eventually be crowned ladies winner. Winning honours were shared with Kev Garcia. Kev had to play his best darts to take out PDC's own Michael Smith.
above: Camilla Bainbridge & Paul Pez Perry
above: Peterson Mens winner Kev Garcia
The guaranteed £1200 prize fund drew some top players but not as many people as expected. Regardless of this the darts were played in great spirits all day with many people reaching into their pockets for the charity. Early indications show we will have raised over £2500!
A fond memory I will always take away from this event was seeing Michael Smith practising and playing blind pairs darts with his 4 yr old son. For such a young boy his reach and accuracy was amazing! One to watch in the future I'm sure!.
Such an emotional and tiring day but all for such an amazing cause and with so many amazing people.