In one of the most significant developments for many years in the world of darts, the PDC is to launch a Youth Tour in 2011 – sponsored by Unicorn Darts.
The move will see youngsters of all ages given the chance to showcase their talents.
The brand new PDC Unicorn Youth Tour will comprise of 15 events – each with £2,000 prize money – to be played on Pro Tour weekends, starting in Derby on Saturday February 19.
The landmark announcement was made by PDC Chairman Barry Hearn before the World Championship semi-finals at the Alexandra Palace.
Unicorn Managing Director Edward Lowy said: “With the PDC as the gatekeepers of professional darts, we are delighted to join forces in the Unicorn PDC Youth Tour to open the door of opportunity for the darting stars of tomorrow.”
He added: “It is without doubt the most exciting darts initiative that I have been involved with in recent times. Come on guys ‘n’ gals – Game On!”
PDC Director Rod Harrington has been a major player in the development of the new tour, which will be open to all players between the ages of 14 and 21.
“We realised that there was a void between the players in youth academies around the country and then stepping onto the pro circuit on the PDC Pro Tour.”
“This brand new PDC Unicorn Youth Tour will be the perfect stepping stone, not only in their playing careers, but it will also give the stars of the future the valuable experience of playing in a professional environment.”
In addition, Unicorn will continue to back the PDC World Youth Championship with £30,000 prize money on offer…..and the Youth Tour will also give youngsters the chance to win tour cards on the PDC Pro Tour in 2012!
The first ever PDC Unicorn Under 21 World Championship Final will take place on Monday night at the Ally Pally, when team Unicorn’s Arron Monk will face Holland’s Michael van Gerwen over 11 legs for a winner’s cheque of £10,000.
• Barry Hearn also revealed that gate receipts for both the World Championship and the 2011 Premier League have gone through the £1 million barrier!
By STUART PYKE at the Alexandra Palace
Photo courtesy Lawrence Lustig