Darts agus craic

It might not be everybody's idea of sport, but championship darts, with its smoke-filled halls and pints all round, has never suffered from lack of appeal. Remember those sweaty battles between Eric Bristow and Jocky Wilson? Anyway, there's sure to be something similar when the Irish Masters Darts Tournament, the first major international competition to be held here, takes place in Crosbit Cedars Hotel in Rosslare today and tomorrow. Over 60 of the top players in the world have entered, and with prize-money of £29,600 and world ranking points at stake there's plenty to throw for.

"The huge interest from overseas has been very encouraging," says Mick O'Donoghue, the tournament organiser. "It is our first year, but there is no reason why this event shouldn't grow and prosper."

Adding to the unique atmosphere will be the voice of darts himself, Sid Waddell, and, not surprisingly, Sky television have struck the deal for the broadcast rights. There are also plans by Fox Worldwide to package the sport of darts and the "craic agus ceol" of Ireland for international viewing.

Now that's a dangerous combination.