County darts trials attract 100 players
Preparations for this year's Westmeath County Team have begun in earnest with a huge attendance of 100 players across the first two trials this season with many players taking the opportunity enjoying the summer sunshine and good weather to get a head start on their ranking for the A/B teams which will represent the county in Q1 2027.
The Beech Tree, Streamstown was home to the kick of the WCD season as Ben Corcoran came out on top against Nick Sheldrick 3-2 in the final, Nick, from Doyne's in the North Westmeath Darts League is one of the new players that has popped up this season. Kaden Wilson and David Egan, two further debutants to the WCD season showed their promise for the months ahead gaining valuable ranking points by making semi-final appearances.
With such large numbers attending on the night, players were split into twelve groups of four and saw some unexpected results on the night as well known names such as Johnny Broughton, Damien Kelly and Willie Moran not getting through to earn ranking points. Anthony Blacoe, Aaron Gavin, Chris Connor and Sean Waters were the four quarter-finalists on the night.
The big attendances only continued for trial #2 which was held in Mullingar Shamrocks Clubhouse, as 52 players registered and attended on the night, meaning it was thirteen groups of four that players had to face. This trial saw the seasonal debuts of Cormac Foley, Ross Kelly, Ray Enright and Mark Corrigan to mention a few. What followed in the Last 16 stage was nothing short of a murderer's row of top class talent.
Kerrigan's player Sylvester Keane showed his ability by averaging 70 across his three knockout games while Anthony Blacoe overcame Killian Kelly, Cormac Foley and Damien Kelly to meet 'Silly' in the final. There was a strong run from Sean Waters to make the semi-final as well and Chris Connor continued his good start to the ranking season with another quarter-final appearance.
Anthony saw off Silly 3-0 in the Final, but with both players sitting at the #1 and #2 rankings they will be happy with the work put in as the 'Road to Killarney' continues in earnest.
Current Westmeath County Darts Rankings
#1 Anthony Blacoe, #2 Sylvester Keane/Sean Waters, #4 Ben Corcoran/Chris Connor, #6 Nick Sheldrick, #7-10 David Egan, Kaden Wilson, Padraig White and Damien Kelly.
50/50 Draw and Weekly Bonus Ball
Congratulations to Chris Connor and Willie Moran for getting the golden ticket on the night of the two trials and winning the 50/50 draw, while our weekly Bonus Ball has seen Allen Gilgan, Cormac Foley, Stuart Hayes and Andrew McCormack win in the last few weeks. Thanks is given to everyone who supports these ventures.
Trial #3 - Friday 10th July - Dan's Tavern, Athlone, N37 A8X4
The 'Road to Killarney' continues for all players this Friday night as Dan's Tavern in Athlone hosts the next trial of twelve. Players can register for the event by searching for 'Westmeath' on tv.dartconnect.com/events/dartconnect, or can find the direct link on the 'Westmeath County Darts' Facebook page. Alternatively contact Mark - 086 105 0099 or Keith 085 755 0046. Entry fee on the night is €10.