Scottish Darts Player to Represent Scotland at World Cup

Derek Maclean, who is based at the Service’s Ambulance Control Centre (ACC) in Inverness, will compete in the World Darts Federation World Cup, which is being held in Seoul, South Korea, between September 23 to 27.

At the World Cup, Scotland is being represented by a men’s team of four and a ladies’ team of four and both teams will travel together and support each other in all competitions.

“There are singles tournaments, doubles tournaments and a team event where you can win individual medals and team medals”, said Derek. “I’m looking forward to the experience and travelling to Asia and seeing the culture.”

Derek took up the sport as a young child after being inspired by his dad, Eric, a professional player in the 80s. He started playing competitively when he was 13.

He added: “My dad represented Scotland in the 80s so we were always playing darts as children. It has always just been a hobby but over the last couple of years I’ve dedicated more time and effort and am now seeing the rewards by gaining international recognition.

Derek, who joined SAS in 2008, said darts has taken off in popularity ever since English professional darts player Luke Littler, who became the youngest world champion in darts history earlier this year, arrived on the scene.

He added: “What he has done for darts globally is amazing and the amount of kids now playing in youth academies across Scotland is phenomenal.  Many households growing up would have had a dartboard in the house or in the shed, and it’s a great activity for groups to have some fun. Anyone can play, and for anyone looking to get involved in darts there are always teams looking for new players in leagues across Scotland.”