By Terence Tikiti
THE National Darts Association of Zimbabwe (NDAZ) held its National Darts Tournament last week at Honde Valley, in Manicaland Province, where 11 teams from all provinces participated.
Matabeleland South Province was well-represented by Gwanda Prison and Gwanda District Club, who demonstrated brilliance and dominance in their play.
The National Darts Tournament, known as the Champions of Champions, invited two teams from each province – that is the provincial overall winner and the second winner.
At Honde Valley, Gwanda Prison won at group stages and qualified to play in quarter finals, where they lost against Bulawayo Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) while Gwanda District Club lost at group stages. Therefore Bulawayo RBZ became the overall winner after playing against Bulawayo Wise-waters at the finals.
The Provincial chairperson for Matabeleland South Darts Association, Amiel Chauke, told Ilanga that it was a very good experience in Manicaland and that the games were very tough.
“It was a very good experience as we managed to travel with two teams to Honde Valley in Manicaland Province. The games were challenging. Unfortunately, Gwanda District Club lost at the early group stages, while Gwanda Prison won and qualified for quarter finals, where they lost against Bulawayo RBZ,” said Chauke.
He added that the team brought smiles to the mining town. “After facing hurdles, we managed to secure money for the tourney. Gwanda Prison won a prize of $300 while overall winners, Bulawayo RBZ went away with $600, followed by Bulawayo Wise-waters went with $500.
“We have vibrant darts teams in the province. We hope next year we are going to work very hard striving for the better and winning the National Darts trophy. What is only needed is commitment by our players during practice and friendly matches to expand our experience and skills. We want to express our sincere gratitude to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) and other sponsors for their unwavering support in this regard,” said Chauke.
Matabeleland South province has produced darts players that have gone beyond borders, among them, Oasis Sibanda, a former Gwanda High School student.
The infusion of introduction of indoor and outdoor games in the province has availed a number of opportunities to people in rural and urban areas.
