Recently, RAF Brize Norton Darts team began a 24-hour Dartathon, in order to raise money for charity and to raise awareness of the sport within the military.
The event kicked off with the first dart being thrown by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, playing against professional Darts player, Damon 'The Heat' Heta. At least two members of the team continuously played a game of darts over the 24-hour period.
The event was held in the newly purposed darts area in the Common Room, which was created to give the RAF Brize Norton Darts team somewhere to practice between fixtures. The Dartathon was completed with a final game between the Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O'Grady and the Station Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Peter Wilson.
Corporal Zara Warhurst, event organiser said:
"Today is the opening of the new darts area, we didn't have an allocated area to practice and would play in tea bars, but now because we have a Brize Norton Darts team, who are playing in the West Oxfordshire Winter League, we knew we needed somewhere to practice. We also play Station versus Station games. We are trying to get Darts recognised as a sport in the military, so this adds to the momentum. This space is available for everyone to use so if they have their own darts, they are welcome to come and play. If anyone would like to be part of the team please contact Warrant Officer Lee Fox, the team captain for more information."
Corporal Zara Warhurst
Event Organiser
Warrant Officer 2 Lee Fox, RAF Brize Norton Darts Team Captain said:
"The Dartathon has just begun with the Chief of the Air Staff throwing the first dart. The event has been held for two reasons, firstly, it's an opportunity to raise money for SSAFA, a charity we chose because the money that we raise comes back into camp and we are able to see the fruits of our labour. Last year the event raised £8500, which was used to create a music room. Secondly, to raise awareness of the team, as the darts team helps to get people talking and out of their rooms playing and there are direct links to good mental health and playing darts. Darts is an accommodating sport, if you are a sports person and you are injured, usually you can still play darts and keep that competitive edge."
Warrant Officer 2 Lee Fox
RAF Brize Norton Darts Team Captain
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