Bradley darting off to the USA

WHO WOULD have believed that tossing a ‘spike’ just more than two metres across a room could take you over 12,000 kilometres from home?

Well, that is exactly what is about to happen for Kimberley’s Bradley Pillay, who is headed to Kissimmee, Florida, in the United States of America, to take part in the Dart Players of Florida League from August 17-20.

Bradley, now 28 years old, took up darts at a young age, after watching others play the game. But ask anyone who has tried their hand at darts, it looks much easier than it is. But Bradley’s passion for the sport was ignited at a tender age while accompanying his father and brother to the De Beers Stadium, where they would engage in friendly dart competitions.

Fascinated by the precision and skill required to not only compete, but excel in the game, young Bradley would borrow a set of darts and eagerly throw them. And, with the guidance and encouragement of his father, brother, and other players, he quickly developed an affinity for the sport.

It was a love affair that would shape his life in remarkable ways.

By the time he reached the age of 13, Bradley began playing darts competitively, displaying remarkable talent despite the absence of a dedicated junior division. Undeterred, he fearlessly competed alongside seasoned senior players, holding his own and gradually gaining recognition for his exceptional abilities.

With every match, Bradley’s confidence and skill developed, and his belief in his ability and passion to compete with the best only grew stronger.

Currently, Bradley represents the Viceroy Dart's Club, a distinguished club in Kimberley that has been fostering dart talent since his grandfather, George Pillay, established it in 1974.

The club, known for its rich tradition and nurturing environment, is still a dominant force to this day and has played a crucial role in honing Bradley’s skills and providing him with invaluable support throughout his journey.

Bradley is privileged to be able to draw inspiration from several accomplished figures in the sport, including his father, Eddie Pillay, as well as renowned players Devon Petersen, Charl Petersen, and Gerwen Price. Motivated by their success stories, the young dart player has embraced the sport with a relentless drive to excel, always striving to push his limits and reach new heights.

Bradley attributes his foundation in the sport to his father and Celeste Parker, who taught him the basics. But his unyielding dedication and hunger for improvement drove him to expand his knowledge and refine his technique independently. As the years went by, he continued to evolve as a player, refining his skills through practice, experience, and a burning desire to compete at the highest level.

As for the future, Bradley remains resolute in his commitment to his dreams. With unwavering focus, he intends to continue honing his skills to become the best player he possibly can.

His immediate goal, however, is to secure a Professional Darts Corporation tour card, a vital step on his journey to becoming a professional darts player. In fact, he lives by a motto that encapsulates his approach to life: “If your dreams don’t scare you, then they aren’t big enough.” It is a philosophy that has given him the courage to pursue his ambitions relentlessly.

Speaking to the DFA, Bradley expressed his gratitude to the African Darts Group for creating this remarkable opportunity for him and all the other selected players.

He also extended a special thank you to Cyril Kruger from C Pac Pump and Valves in Kimberley, Street Machines, and all the other sponsors whose generous support is making it possible for him to participate in this prestigious international competition.

Looking at his journey thus far, and the character and determination of the young athlete, it is not unreasonable to expect that Bradley is set to make his mark on the international darts scene and inspire aspiring players back home.