ESTCOURT KZN: Determined darts player aims for the top
One of his aspirations is to make it into the strong A Division, which he describes as having very competitive players
Praveen Rampersadh has been rising through the ranks of the Umtshezi Darts Association and is intent on continuing this upward winning streak. Born and raised in Estcourt, the 47-year-old has always enjoyed playing darts and lists it as one of his hobbies, which also include fishing and watching movies.
Mr Rampersadh started playing darts in 1995 with friends and family.
“Being in the company of and playing with them made me realise how good I am at darts,” he said.
It was then that a decision to play competitively was made and he joined the Umtshezi Darts Association in 2014.
The club members, who have a family-like bond, welcomed him and also encouraged him to play his best games.
Being part of the association was an advantage for Mr Rampersadh and he tells us why.
“The benefits of being part of a club include learning more about the game of darts from other more-experienced darts players, as well as meeting new people and making new friends. Most of all, the best part is playing good, friendly and competitive darts.”
When recounting the highlights in his darts career, Mr Rampersadh says his very first win in 1995 at the Drakensberg Secondary School Open Tournament tops them all.
Another significant highlight was beating the club’s A Division legend, Rajen Goodoon, during a final at an open tournament.
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“Other memorable moments include starting at the bottom of the ranking and making it to first place in the B Division. My highest closing of 160 is also a good memory,” he adds.
One of his aspirations is to make it into the strong A Division, which he describes as having very competitive players.
Playing darts has also taught Mr Rampersadh self-discipline and boosted his self-confidence. His favourite format of the game is 501 and his idol is professional Dutch darts player Michael van Gerwen.
“He has the best charisma on stage, the fastest maths calculations, and the smoothest and most fluid throw I have ever seen on a darts player,” says Mr Rampersadh.
In closing, he says his dream for darts in Estcourt is to see it grow, with more people joining the club.
“I would like to one day see an Estcourt darts player represent us internationally,” he adds.
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