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I started my own team at Invercargill darts. Consisted mainly of family Manuel Paenga, Steven Flint and friends John "Mad" Murdoch, Warren Parry ( now a solid player in International Competition, runner-up in the last World Cup), Zac Taua ( New Zealand Champion), Dave Templeton and Stu Borrie. We competed in many Open tournaments as individuals or in various pairs combinations. Most weeks coming away with some of the prize money or the inevitable set of glasses.
john "mad" murdoch and myself winning a pairs tournament in gore
Later I joined Southland Darts Association. There I got to play with players such as Barry Templeton ( who had transferred from IDA ), Dale Frampton (multiple New Zealand Open Champion), Ian Hogg, Waka Moses, Graham DeGarnham, Lindsay Drake, Iwi McDonald, Jill McDonald ( multiple New Zealand champ & World Cup singles winner), and Daryl Watson ( New Zealand team member).
In 1981 Viki and I traveled to Nelson to support our friends in the New Zealand team. There we had the privilege of watching the great Eric Bristow, marveling at the supreme arrogance of the man. Watching the players then socialising with them afterwards was an experience never to be forgotten.
The following year I persuaded Viki to play in the
eliminations for the New Zealand Champs in the Husband & Wife division. Much
to our surprise we qualified in our zone so made the long trek north to
Auckland. After 2 days of non stop travel with no sleep I was a wreck. In photos
I looked pissed but had never had a drink. We didn't get any further and Viki
retired from darts immediately afterwards
Makaewa Dart team with Taka Ryland (centre with cap) in Hastings
Biggest tournament win of this time was a Dominion Breweries Pub Challenge held in a variety of pubs over a 2 month period. The White House Hotel was packed to the rafters as Russell "Grover" Leonard and I picked up the winners cheque.
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