Stephen arrows in on pro career

A MORAY scaffolder is aiming to climb the world darts rankings after winning a place on the sport’s biggest stage.

Keith J. Stephen (43) could soon be competing for major prize money against stars like Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor and Gary Anderson, instead of throwing for Flanagan’s Bar in Elgin.

Stephen – nicknamed KJer in the sport – won his PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) tour card from a qualifying school, and last weekend beat current world No 23 Colin Osborne in his first international competition in Spain.

That tourney included major names like Raymond van Barneveld, Mark Webster and James Wade – the last-named the world No 3 who Stephen has beaten in a local exhibition match – and the Elgin ace can’t wait to face more stars.

However, competing on the PDC tour can cost up to £20,000 in expenses if you take part in all the events, meaning Stephen needs sponsorship.

“Being a pro has been my dream for the last three or four years,” he said. “It’s a big gamble, but it’s what I want to do.”

“I’m pleased to have got my card, and now it’s just getting a sponsor to go to these things that’s the problem.

Anyone interested in speaking to Keith about sponsorship, can contact him on 07920 515635.

Read full story of Keith's first event on the PDC tour in Friday's Northern Scot.

Elgin darts ace Keith J Stephen has made it onto the PDC tour.