Carlow man steers team to Euro darts title

“AN absolute whirlwind” is how Carlow man Paddy Cullen described the aftermath of his involvement with the Ireland boys’ team which won gold at the recent World Darts Federation (WDF) European Youth Cup in Riga, Latvia.

Paddy, who is chair of the Carlow Youth Darts Academy, as well as youth officer with the Irish National Darts organisation, told The Nationalist that the boys’ team, comprised of Aidan O’Hara from Tipperary, Dublin’s Seán McKeon, Callum Coade of Cork and Shane Porter from Donegal, met strong opposition in the last 18, defeating Wales in the semi-final before going on to the beat the Netherlands 9-7 in the final. 

Carlow’s Rebecca Allen and Eanna Byrne from Tipperary also took part in the international event.

Paddy said: “My phone hasn’t stopped ringing. We had a big reception at the airport. I’m very grateful to the Carlow and Irish darts communities for their support and the opportunities they have given me to coach the kids – it’s been brilliant.” The youths will now gear up for the World Cup in South Korea next year. Coaching takes place every Wednesday evening at Palatine House and Paddy can be contacted on 085 7851924 for anyone who is interested.