The world of darts is abuzz with excitement as the inaugural Simon Whitlock Trophy darts competition is set to take place at Geelong Greyhound Racing Club.

Over three exciting days in April, players from across the country will compete in a thrilling darts competition that pays tribute to one of the great legends of the game.

Simon ‘The Wizard’ Whitlock is a name synonymous with darting excellence. With a remarkable career spanning two decades, Mr Whitlock has won numerous championships including the World Cup, and has been a finalist in the PDC World Championships.

Dartplayers Australia National Tournament Director Wayne Weening said the tournament was a great opportunity to celebrate one of Australia’s greatest players.

“Simon has been a trailblazer in the world of darts for over 20 years,” he said. “Sometimes in this country we can forget about our champions especially when they retire. Simon is still very much a champion of the sport, and this is a great opportunity to honour him in a competitive national tournament.”

The competition includes a tournament on Friday afternoon and two tournaments on both the Saturday and Sunday. Played over a best of nine legs knockout format, the player with the most ranking points at the end of the weekend’s events will take home the trophy and prize money. The events are part of the Winmau DPA Pro Tour and carry DPA Order of Merit points.

Mr Weening said that when Dartplayers Australia was looking for a suitable venue to present the inaugural competition, Geelong Greyhound Racing Club (GGRC) was the perfect choice.

“When we first started talking about the Whitlock Trophy, the GGRC was immediately onboard,” said Mr Weening. “The GGRC is much more versatile than greyhound racing and we hope this event is a great success so we can return next year.”

GGRC Manager Ray Bartolo said it was a great opportunity to showcase the club to 70-plus dart players and respective patrons.

“It is a real coup for our club to be hosting a national darts competition," Mr Bartolo said.

“We are looking forward to witnessing the extraordinary skill, precision and sportsmanship from some of our country’s finest players.”

The Simon Whitlock Trophy starts on Friday, April 28 and runs through to Sunday,  April 30. Entry is open to all amateur and professional dart players. Cost of entry is $27.50 and participants can register at https://www.dartplayersaustralia.com/.

For more information, updates, and ticket sales visit https://www.dartplayersaustralia.com/