Phil Taylor opens Oxford Darts Zone

(Posted: 20 Jan 2010)

15-time World Champion Phil Taylor wowed a cheering crowd of 250 darts enthusiasts with a series of exhibition games when he opened the new Darts Zone at Rileys Oxford.

Taylor has opened several Darts Zone for Rileys across the country and has had nothing but praise for the quality of the facilities.

Phil is proving a popular ambassador for Rileys, delighting members with his willingness to step up the oche and play with them.

Painter and decorator Dan Jones, 22, from Oxford said, “These Dart Zones are a really professional set up. It’s great to have somewhere to play that is well lit and with so much space.”

Landlord Paddy Fox, 35, donated his game to Danny Kirton, 14, from Oxford, who was over the moon at getting the chance to meet and play his idol Phil Taylor. 

Paddy, who runs The Original Sun pub, said, “Danny is the biggest darts fan I know. He has been through a rough time and deserved a break. What better way to put a smile on a young boy’s face than to give him the chance to play his idol.

Postman Paul Richardson, 46, from Oxford, said: “The lanes are clean and tidy. I really believe with places like Rileys, along with the smoking ban, darts will just become increasingly popular.

Super League player Aaron Stevens, 23, a warehouse worker from Oxford. He said: “It will be great to play in competitions here as the lighting makes a real difference to how well you can play. I’m really looking forward to coming here more regularly.

Policeman Ged McGowan, 29 drove down from Manchester to play The Power. Ged said: “I already have a Darts Zone in my local club in Chorlton. It has revolutionised darts in the area.

Local league player Dave Presley, 38, from Didcot. He said: “Rileys have got it spot on. The boards are nice, the lighting is great, and the staff are lovely. I hope to end up here in any competitions they may have.

The roof nearly came of the club when BDO darts ace Deta Hedman beat Taylor with a 13-dart finish!

She said: “These Darts Zones are great. They are encouraging so many people to take up darts. Maybe more women will start playing with such nice facilities available.”

Lorry driver Paul Oakley said: “There’s loads of space around the lanes which makes them brilliant for competitions.”

Check out more pictures from the night on the Rileys Oxford page, or watch Phil Taylor on the night, filmed by BBC Oxford.