It is the biggest darts competition in the north east of Scotland.
And now, the organisers of the Granite City Open have secured a new sponsorship deal as they start making preparations for next year’s event, which will run from July 26 to 28.
They have joined into partnership with Gibb Tools, who have become the new men’s singles main sponsor.
Previous winners include two-time world PDC champion Gary Anderson, the thrice BDO king of the world Martin Adams and 10-time women’s global champion Trina Gulliver.
Derek Weston, who has been one of the driving forces behind its success in the last 16 years, said he was looking forward to working with the company in the coming months.
He added: “Next year will see the 17th edition of the Granite City Open, which has already attracted some of the finest players in the world to Aberdeen.
“On average, there are between 1,200 and 1,400 players in action over the weekend and they generate millions of pounds for the local community.
“They use around 200 hotel rooms, give custom to taxis, trains, restaurants, takeaways and local newsagents and all kinds of different businesses get a boost.
“It has inspired many youngsters to participate in the sport and Grampian, as a county, has been the BICC Scottish North Champions for the last five years, which shows how the sport is flourishing up here.
“We rely on around 30 volunteers to assist with setting up the boards and stage and working the control desks all weekend. We’re one big happy family.”
Sean Maclean, of Gibb Tools, is confident the tournament will continue to expand in future years.
He added: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the men’s singles event, which draws some major names in darts as well as showcasing local talent.
“Darts has grown beyond all recognition in recent years and standards have been raised and records beaten on a regular basis.
“We hope to raise its profile in the north east of Scotland even more.”
