World Series of Darts Episode Recap - Episode 2


World Series of Darts - Episode #2
Broadcast July 25, 2006 on ESPN 7pm EDT

Its time to travel to Zion Grove to meet this US superstar, Johnny Kuczynski. As we visit Johnny we find he loves to ride his Harley Davidson on the Pennsylvania country roads. When he was only 8years old his father introduced him to darts. These days the American number one lives next door to his father and enjoys friendly darts games in the living room when not out singing karaoke.

Surprisingly enough the best dart player in America doesn't play darts full time and supports himself by hauling garbage during the day. While running his own waste disposal business affords him time off to travel, it doesn't allow for a full time practice schedule. A fierce competitor this American champion shows an emotional side as he sheds tears recalling his qualifying tournament victory. Clearly, this man loves the game and wears his heart on his sleeve. He wants to show the world that the Internationals aren't the only ones that can play darts.

Its time for the match, and we meet Johnny's opponent a 2 time World Champion - John "Darth Maple" Part. His 11th ranking in the world is deceiving as the Canadian Part is a tremendous player and poses a monumental task to the American hot shot.

Johnny K throws strong in the first leg and draws first blood with a 16dart leg. In the second leg Part wins in 21 darts, the American chalked up a maximum but had trouble finding the triple on the other turns and 2 missed doubles let the Canadian in the door.

We flash forward through the next game claimed by Darth Maple. And see a nice 89 checkout by Kuczynski to tie the contest at 2 games all. Again we flash forward 2 more games both won by the American superstar to bring the match score to 4-2. In the seventh leg Part sneers his way to a beautiful 161 finish to strike back and move within just one game.

In the 8th leg Kuczynski spears yet another 180 but a mid-game volley of 40 and 36 gives Part a shot at the double which he spears on the 17th dart. All tied at 4 games apiece.

Johnny K strikes double top to take the 9th leg and move one game away from the match. In the 10th leg with 140 remaining the American hits the first two triple 20's and just before he shoots at the double 10 someone in the audience claps twice clearly distracting Johnny K. Part seizes the opportunity and promptly finished 93.

In the final leg yet another 180 puts the American in the drivers seat. After a valiant setup shot of 131 by Part, Kuczynski narrowly misses his finish from 70 leaving tops. With 112 remaining the Canadian has one dart at double 16 but it falls short. Johnny K wastes no more time and as the second darts strikes the double 20 he moves through to the second round!

What an exciting episode. Tune in next week to see if Johnny Kuczynski can continue on his quest for the million dollar dream...