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Supporting Larne Darts Star Craig Murtagh as He Prepares for the 2024 JDC World Championships in Gibraltar
24th September 2024
The sponsorship will help Craig compete in the 2024 JDC World Championships and World Cup, taking place in Gibraltar from November 25th to 29th.
Seventeen-year-old Craig’s journey into darts began four years ago when he became captivated by watching darts on TV and in particular after he went with his dad to watch Michael van Gerwen, the world-renowned Dutch darts champion, win in the World Grand Prix in 2018. Inspired by van Gerwen's prowess, Craig decided to try his hand at the sport and received a dartboard for Christmas.
He soon joined the Carrickfergus Junior Darts Academy and the Junior Darts Corporation (JDC) based in England. Through the JDC, Craig diligently submitted weekly scores and routines, quickly rising through the ranks to reach the top grade.
His dedication and hard work have led him to become the No. 1 ranked youth darts player in Northern Ireland. This year, Craig not only qualified for the championships but was also appointed captain of Team A, leading a talented group of players representing Northern Ireland on the international stage.
“I’m beyond excited to represent Northern Ireland and compete in Gibraltar,” said Craig. “Darts has changed my life in so many ways, and I’m grateful for the support from Hagan Homes. This opportunity means the world to me, and I can’t wait to give it my all!”
Craig’s mother, Barbara Hunter, shared her pride in her son’s achievements. “As a family, we are so proud of Craig and how far he has come. Darts has been a lifeline for him, allowing so many opportunities and make a new circle of friends. Hagan Homes’ support makes it possible for Craig to focus on his training and compete at a high level.”
Craig’s father, David Murtagh, added: “I am incredibly proud of Craig and can’t wait to see him captain the team in Gibraltar. It is such a great honour for Craig and it is thoroughly deserved.”
John O’Toole, ADC (Amateur Darts Circuit) Regional Director of Northern Ireland and JDC Accredited Coach, has played a crucial role in Craig’s development. John commented:
“My role as ADC Regional Director is to organise and set up the vault series within Northern Ireland. Craig plays in these every week at various venues throughout the week. By competing in these events Craig is up against some of the very best players that Northern Ireland has to offer. Craig has made it to numerous final stages of these events.
“I also this year organised and ran an U18 Super Series tournament that consisted of five ranking events leading to a grand finals day. I had over 100 youth players from across the country take part. Craig won two of these events which made him No1 in the rankings.
“Everything Craig has achieved in darts, like representing Northern Ireland and being selected to captain them this year, wasn’t gifted to him. He’s earned it because of his attitude and commitment to the game. It’s the hours and hours a day, every day that has got Craig everything he has achieved in darts.
“There’s a saying in darts ‘You only get out of darts what you put into darts’ – that’s why Craig deserves everything he gets from the game.”
Gregg Fowles, Head Coach and Manager of JDC Northern Ireland added: “Craig’s progress has been remarkable. His commitment and talent have not only earned him a spot in the championships but also the captaincy of Team A. We believe he has the potential to excel on this global platform, and with the backing of Hagan Homes, he can fully focus on his training and performance.”
James Hagan, expressed our commitment to supporting local talent. “At Hagan Homes, we believe in investing in our communities and nurturing young athletes like Craig who demonstrate exceptional dedication and talent. We are proud to support him as he takes on this incredible challenge in Gibraltar, and we look forward to following his journey.”