The Cayman Islands national darts squad is set to make its mark on the regional stage as players prepare for two competitions in the Bahamas.
Action kicks off with the Championship Darts Latin America and Caribbean event running from 24-26 July, immediately followed by the biennial Caribbean Darts Championship taking place from 27 July to 2 Aug.
Two Cayman players, Chris Torrie and Randy Cruz, departed on 22 July to throw in the opening tournament while the remaining members of the national squad will travel on 25 July to join their teammates for the Caribbean Darts Championship.
Adding even more momentum to the sport, the Cayman Islands Darts Association has officially confirmed that the Cayman Islands will host the next Caribbean Darts Championship in 2028.
The journey to the Bahamas began months ago through a national squad selection process, starting with the men’s tryouts in February.
The full men’s team set to compete in the Bahamas features Hank Ebanks, Kruse Smith, Chris Torrie, Randy Cruz, Francis Zapanta, Janssen Driz, Kevin Hinton and Wayne Flanagan.
The women’s squad features Nathina Ebanks, Mercy Joy Robles and Melfe Driz. Guiding both squads from the sidelines is coach Lewis Melland.
Kruse Smith, a player and the president of the Cayman Islands Darts Association, expressed his excitement and goals for the upcoming events.
“I’m incredibly excited to lead Team Cayman at this year’s Caribbean Darts Championship. Our team has been working hard in preparation and real commitment from everyone [has been given]. My personal expectation is to give 100% every game and to support my teammates both on and off the court,” said Smith.
“For Team Cayman, our goal is to play with heart, represent our country with pride and make it as far as we can in the tournament. The energy in the squad is great, and we’re ready to give it our all,” he added.
Nathina Ebanks said, “Every time I step to the oche, I carry my passion, my preparation and my pride for my country.
“Representing the Cayman Islands is always an honour, and if my journey inspires even one woman to believe in herself, then every throw is worth it.”
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