There were surprise winners at the Comox Legion’s 2011 Men’s Open darts tournament, but the titles were well-earned.
Twelve pairs toed the line on Sunday, March 13 (maybe a lucky number for some) to play a round-robin format with the top eight advancing to the cursed best-of-three knockout round.
Securing the final spot in the round robin section, David Merkley and Gerard Slaunwhite advanced as winners over Art Forbes and John Broccolo. In third spot were Terry Jackson and Bud Englund, with Daniel Leaman and Jamie Dith getting the fourth place.
From the singles event a new reckoning emerged. Twenty-one players participated in a single game round robin split into two sheets (10 and 11), with the top eight from both sheets advancing to the best-of-three knock out.
In an exciting best-of-five final, Gerard Slaunwhite (referred to as “the rookie” in the 2010 event) eked by Bill Durant 3-2; jubilation on Slaunwhite’s account, could be heard back at CFB Comox.
The knockout rounds can change a hard- fought-for position getting of the sheets, only to be eliminated early (as in many sporting events). Slaunwhite came from fifth spot of his sheet to get to the final. Third place went to Ernie Linden with Art Forbes securing fourth spot.
“Thanks to Pat and Rod Verchere for catering the lunches, and to the crew that turned up early on Sunday to set the venue up,” an event spokesperson said.
Next up at the Comox Legion are the BC/Yukon Provincial Darts Championships on March 26-27. In April it will be the fifth annual Memorial Tournament. For more information on this e-mail willington@shaw.ca or call 250-339-9592.
– Comox Legion
