PLAYERS who want to follow in the footsteps of Paul Amos to win a place on the professional circuit can begin their challenge following the launch of Phil Taylor's Darts Protege event.
Pubs from across the UK, including many sponsored by The Stonegate Pub Company, will be taking part in the competition, which is organised by Protege Events and takes place over 20 weeks, with players initially competing in one pub.
Darts-playing venues from as far north as Aberdeen down to many venues across the South East and the London area and across 15 counties in England, Scotland and Wales are participating in the 'pub-to-professional' competition.
"Participation in pub sports and games has always been central to the appeal of our pubs," said George Wright, Head of Marketing for the Stonegate Pub Company.
"Darts is a fantastic sport and whilst its appeal is growing globally its heart will always lie in the traditional British pub. Stonegate like to innovate and work with new partners and the opportunity with Protege events is a great fit - no darts players in the UK will be too far from a participating Stonegate pub!"
Orchid and Punch Taverns are also embracing the X Factor-type competition, with tens of their sites involved from the start.
The competition works by players attempting challenges set by Phil Taylor, the reigning and 16-time World Champion, over a five-month period in their local pub.
At the end of the season, the top four players from each pub are invited to Regional Finals before players then progress to the National Final, where Taylor will meet and mentor the top 16 players.
Last year's event was won by Paul Amos, who took victory in the final at Alexandra Palace and has since gone on to win a PDC Tour Card and qualify for the forthcoming Speedy Services UK Open.
For details of participating pubs or to sign up your pub, go to www.protege-events.com or contact Protégé Events on 0115 8224392.
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