DARTS: Aubrey^s new target after BDO win
Teenager Chris Aubrey says he would "love to go all the way" in darts after he scooped his biggest title to date.
The 17-year-old Swindon thrower bagged the youth singles title at the BDO International Open, prompting talk of a move onto the bigger stage.
Aubrey sealed a 3-0 win over Gwent’s Nick Kenny in the final at Brean Sands, Pontin’s, having also beaten defending champion Santino Broer on the way.
And the youngster admitted of the championship win: "It’s a big one.
"I’ve been at quite a high level with football and cricket but I’d love to go all the way with the darts - even getting started and becoming a well-known name on the BDO (circuit).
"I enjoy it which is the main part of it. You’ve got to put the hours in, it’s not just going to come, you’ve got to practice."
Aubrey is a multi-talented sportsman having played at a high level in cricket and football, but has been described as a darts "natural" by Wiltshire captain Mark Thomson.
"If I was in his shoes I’d pick the darts," said Thomson.
"When he’s ready to make a living out of darts it will be a good living."
The singles title at Pontin’s was Aubrey’s third triumph this season, and sees him qualify for the Winmau World Masters at Bridlington, leaving Thomson to wonder why his protégé was ignored for selection for the Europe Cup Youth, due to be held in Holland at the beginning of July.
"The gutting bit is he just missed out on a place to play in Holland next month, which really we feel is an injustice to Chris, because of the way he’s played all season," said Thomson.
"His averages are higher than some of those who have been picked. It’s his third win this year and he still doesn’t get any recognition for it."
Aubrey started playing darts regularly two years ago and has the highest average for Wiltshire under 18s this season.
The teenager has also qualified for the BDO World Cup at Lakeside after he made it through with hastily-arranged pairs partner Mark Scully at the county play-offs.
Story By: Swindon Advertiser