World Darts Championship stars triumph at Rochdale Classic tournament

Rochdale Classic Darts at Sudden Social Club

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Rising PDC darts star Ross Smith stormed to victory at the Rochdale Classic at Sudden Social Club.

The 24-year-old ace, currently ranked 74th in the PDC Order of Merit, beat a field of 124 players to scoop the £400 top prize.

Organiser Mark Airey, who launched the event after the success of the Rochdale Open in October 2012, was pleased with the large turnout for the £800 tournament.

“It went really well,” he said. “We want to cater for everybody from pub players right up to the top players around.

“We had quite a few big name players from both sides of the divide which is good to see.

“The reason we have the five-pound entry fee is to keep it affordable for everyone, while still being able to offer a prize fund which will attract big-name players too.”

Smith – who plays on both the PDC’s Pro Tour and Challenge Tour – beat fellow PDC player, and 2013 World Championship qualifier, Peter Hudson six-five in a tense finale.

John Bowles, who reached the last 32 at the Alexandra Palace in December, and Robbie Green, a quarter-finalist in the 2013 BDO World Championship at the Lakeside Country Club also entered.

Mark – who has already started planning for the second Rochdale Open in October – said the key to its success is its appeal to all level of darts players.

“The key is to give it something that appeals to everyone so it is a no-brainer to take part,” Mark explained.

“It’s a day out and a game of darts and the chance to maybe play a big-name player. If not, then the pub is very good for drinks and food prices.

“You have to make it so it sells itself without much marketing.

“It started out of frustration from my own point of view as there’s not a lot going on in terms of affordable open tournaments but there’s clearly a market there.”

The Rochdale Open, due to take place in October, will have a guaranteed £1,000 prize pot.