Rotorua’s Rhys Corbett selected for Para Darts World Cup in Belgium
An unexpected fill-in for missing players sparked a darts journey that will take Rhys Corbett to the Para Darts World Cup.
The Rotorua darts player has been selected to represent New Zealand at the Para Darts World Cup in Oostende, Belgium, from November 26 to 29.
Corbett, who was born with cerebral palsy, never planned to compete when he travelled to Taupō with a friend for a memorial tournament more than a decade ago.
But when several players failed to turn up, he stepped in to fill the gap.
“I’d won four out of five games.
“From there it just started.”
Twelve years on, Corbett has earned selection to represent his country at the World Cup.
Corbett said it’s the milestone he is most proud of along his journey.
“I’m still trying to process it all.
“This was one of the dreams.”
While he hopes to perform well on the international stage, representing New Zealand is what means the most.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there, representing my country and hoping it all comes together when I need it to.”
He said his biggest challenge now is getting there.
Corbett needs to raise about $15,000 to cover flights, accommodation and travel insurance.
Fundraising so far has included raffles and sponsorship, and there are plans for sausage sizzles and a garage sale.
Darts partner and campaign manager June Jones said the family was incredibly proud of Corbett’s achievement.
“It’s pretty overwhelming, but it’s a massive achievement, and we’re all very proud of him.”
Jones said joining the para darts community had shown her the determination of athletes with a wide range of disabilities.
“There’s people in wheelchairs throwing, there’s a teammate of his who only has a thumb and he throws a dart.
“It’s amazing to see these people not let their disability get the better of them and still get out there and do what they love.”
The pair’s local club, Geyserland Darts Association, is hosting a Father’s Day Buffet Breakfast and Mixed Pairs Darts Tournament at the Rotorua Bowling Club on September 6 to help raise funds.
The breakfast runs from 8.30am to 10.30am before the mixed tournament begins at 11am. Information is available on Rhys Corbett’s Para Darts Journey Facebook pages.
Businesses can also support Corbett’s campaign by sponsoring a dartboard at the event, donating raffle prizes or taking part in a “pick a number” fundraising initiative.
Jones said every contribution would help get Corbett one step closer to representing New Zealand.
“Your generosity will make a genuine difference and help a dedicated New Zealand athlete compete proudly on the world stage.”