Darts prodigy 10-year-old who has scored over 500 180s secures new sponsorship

A Suffolk 10-year-old looks set for a bright future in darts with a sponsorship from one of Suffolk's premier leisure destinations.

Lennon 'The Force' Wharf, from Brandon, is setting new standards for junior darts with his performances, so far scoring more than 500 180s.

Lennon has now been sponsored by Stonham Barns Park, Stonham Aspal, near Stowmarket, one of Suffolk's premier leisure, retail and holiday destinations and a major darts venue for the region.

He recently joined Target Dart’s Elite 1 team, becoming their youngest ever player, and aims to be an integral part of the JDC Foundation Tour, a competition for players aged 10 to 18.

Speaking about the new sponsorship, Alan Forward, of Stonham Barns Park, said: "Lennon is a very strong young player, and we are very lucky to be able to support him as he focuses on winning trophies.

"He has a range of sponsors behind him which will help him to follow his dreams of making it big in darts.  We think he could go very far indeed."

Darren Moyes, of Evolution Darts, who works in association with Stonham Barns Park, said: "This sponsorship is a perfect match of player and venue.

"Lennon is an awesome talent. I first met him and his father Gary at the Stowmarket Youth Academy where I sat in a room full of people watching this tiny lad throwing leg after leg of quality darts without a care in the world.

"I really do believe that with the help of Stowmarket Youth Academy and the team at Stonham Barns Park he has every chance of making it big," he added.

Lennon's dad, Gary Wharf, said his son was three years old when he started throwing darts, and demonstrated a talent even then.

"With seven years of playing experience, he is definitely making waves in the sport now particularly in JDC competitions," he said.

"He wants to play for England Youth and as far as I can see he’s certainly in with a chance."

Lennon said: "‘It’s all about keeping cool, pointing the dart correctly and taking one foot off the ground when throwing helps too.

"I do love to play and enjoy the competitive atmosphere. Darts helps me with my maths too and as a result I get on well with the subject at school too."

Stonham Barns Park has been hosting various darts events at the new Legends Sports Bar since its opening, with famous names from the world of darts including Russ Bray and Ipswich-based Keith Deller.