Boylesports deal hits the bullseye

Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker, Boylesports.com, has signed with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) as the official bookmaker for the 2009 Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts. The deal is worth €100,000 over the first two years.

As part of the deal, Boylesports will run betting units at league venues and have branding on all eight players taking part in the league, which got underway at Liverpool’s Echo Arena last Thursday.

‘‘We’ve seen interest in our darts product increase dramatically over the last year, due in no small part to the success of the Premier League Darts and World Darts Championship," said Mark Nunan, head of marketing for Boylesports. com. ‘‘We’re looking forward to offering some great betting value and choice to the growing number of darts fans in the coming year."

PDC director Eddie Hearn said: ‘‘We are delighted to welcome Boylesports.com to the ever expanding world of darts. With audiences both on and off air hitting extraordinary numbers, we look forward to a long and successful relationship." Phil Taylor is aiming for his fifth consecutive Premier League title in the 15-week competition and opened with a win against second favourite Raymond van Barneveld last Thursday night. They are joined by James Wade, John Part, Terry Jenkins and Mervyn King, as well as wildcard entries Jelle Klaasen and Wayne Mardle.

Story By: Linda Maher