Darts row over national titles

 THE National Darts Championship is in doubt as affiliated associations fight over hosting rights.

The Madang Darts Association was snubbed by the national darts federation, which gave the Madang Urban Darts Association the right to host the tournament. 

The national body’s decision was disputed by major centres, which claimed the Madang Urban Darts Association was not recognised by the Madang Sports Office and was not affiliated to the national body.

The disputing centres are Port Moresby Darts, NCD Darts, Lae Aviat Corporate Darts, Lahi Darts, Bulolo Darts, Alotau Darts, Lorengau Darts, Tabubil Gazebo and Simbu Darts

The national championship is scheduled for Madang from September 9-17. 

The disputing associations claim the hosting of the national tournament was improperly awarded because it was done during the PNG Games in Rabaul last year. 

They said at the time the Madang Urban Dartds Association was non-existent and was the right was awarded to the Niugini Klab, which was not a darts association but a business entity.

They said MUDA was not an affiliated member of the national federation. 

“It must be clearly noted that the governing body of sports in the province, the Madang Provincial Sports office recognises MDA as the dart body,” they said.

They said other darts associations in the country not unaware of the dispute should contact Robin at the Madang Provincial Sports office on 422 2237 or MDA on 73 424 724, 710 49 511 or 766 49 820 to get details.