Thirteen-year-old Shreya Reddy made waves in the local darts scene by defeating two seasoned national players during her debut at the National Singles Darts Tournament in Suva. The young talent, a Year 8 student at Kids First Fiji, won all her pool games with a commanding 2-0 score, which notably included victories over experienced dartists Ana Ruci and Litia Heritage.
“This is my first tournament, and I didn’t know I could do it,” Shreya stated, crediting her mother, Releshni Karan, for her confidence. Releshni, a former captain of the Fiji women’s darts team, expressed pride in competing alongside her daughter. She enrolled Shreya in the tournament after noticing her dedication during practice sessions.
Shreya now dedicates herself to dart training, practicing three times a day. She stands out not only as one of the youngest competitors but also made it to the women’s top eight and into the semi-finals of the tournament. Admitting to occasional nerves, she shared, “Sometimes I get nervous, but I just block everyone out and pretend I’m playing at home.”
The National Singles Darts Tournament is also pivotal, as it serves to select players for the Fiji team aimed at participating in the South Pacific Darts Championship in 2027. The Fiji Darts Association is actively working to boost grassroots participation, specifically encouraging more children and women to engage in the sport.
Shreya’s journey in darts began just over a year ago when she started watching her mother prepare for the South Pacific Darts Championship. The collaboration between Shreya and her mother reflects a growing trend of family involvement in sports, showcasing how local support can cultivate budding talent.
This tournament not only highlights Shreya’s personal achievements but also symbolizes a brighter future for darts in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and encouragement for younger generations in sports. With ongoing efforts to promote participation, it seems that the future of Fijian darts is incredibly promising.
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