Betfred is to donate £32,000 to the Stroke Association following their charity activity at the record-breaking 2020 World Matchplay.
The title sponsors of this year’s tournament, which took place behind closed doors, at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes from July 18-26, previously unveiled a pledge to donate £50 per 180 hit during the tournament, as well as a £10,000 bonus should last year’s total of 330 be matched or beaten.
That previous record tally was beaten during the final between Gary Anderson and eventual winner Dimitri Van den Bergh, who became the sports first debutant champion in 26 years, with the final total of 333 securing £16,650, plus the £10,000 bonus.
Furthermore, stars from the event took part in a special ‘Nine-Dart Challenge,’ with Betfred donating £1 per point scored.
The total of £32,000 will now be donated to the Stroke Association, who were chosen as this year’s partner in support of Sky Sports commentator Rod Studd, who also provides expert analysis on darts and rugby league for Betfred, who is currently recovering from a recent stroke.
Van den Burgh secured the title after overcoming Anderson 18-10 in Sunday’s final, with the 26-year-old’s route the final including triumphs over Nathan Aspinall (first round 10-5), Joe Cullen (second round, 11-9), Adrian Lewis (quarter final, 16-12) and Glen Durrant (semi final 17-15).
“I’m delighted to be writing such a big cheque, especially after a record breaking number of 180s this week,” said Betfred boss Fred Done.
“It was fitting that Dimitri Van den Bergh was the player to hit the 180 which took us beyond last year’s total before he went on to take a well-deserved victory, and we congratulate him on his success.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the players, PDC staff and Sky Sports for putting on such an entertaining event in challenging times.”
Last year’s Betfred World Matchplay saw a total of £32,000 raised for Parkinson’s UK, for whom former Sky Sports presenter Dave Clark is a celebrity supporter.
