SkyBet Extend PDC Sponsorship

THE Professional Darts Corporation are delighted to announce a new, four-year deal with SkyBet, who will continue as sponsors of the SkyBet World Grand Prix until at least 2009.

SkyBet have sponsored the double-start tournament since 2004, when Colin Lloyd picked up the title.

Phil Taylor, the 2005 champion, will begin his defence next week at the Citywest Hotel when the ninth World Grand Prix is staged.

Following the commencement of SkyBet's new contract, the tournament's prize fund has been increased from £100,000 to £130,000.

This year's SkyBet World Grand Prix champion will take home £25,000, and the prize fund will increase further to £200,000 in 2007.

"We are delighted that SkyBet have extended their backing of the SkyBet World Grand Prix," said PDC Chairman Barry Hearn.

"They joined an elite band of sponsors when they linked up with the Professional Darts Corporation two years ago and have since increased their status as a leading sports bookmaker even further.

"They are associated with one of the most exciting and unpredictable tournaments in darts and it is a pleasure to work with them."

The 2006 SkyBet World Grand Prix begins on Monday 23 October at the Citywest Hotel, Saggart. The final will be played on Sunday 29 October.

Every dart in the event will be screened live on Sky Sports in the UK, with live coverage also spreading into Holland and Germany.

"SkyBet is pleased to confirm our new four-year sponsorship agreement with the Professional Darts Corporation," said SkyBet PR Director Dale Tempest.

"Over the last few years Sky Sports and the PDC have taken darts coverage to new levels of fun and excitement, and as a sponsor that's exactly what we are looking for from such a high profile event."

2005	Prize Fund	2006
£20,000	Winner	£25,000
£10,000	Runner-Up	£12,500
£6,000	3-4th	£8,250
£4,000	5-8th	£6,000
£2,250	9-16th	£3,000
£1,500	17-32nd	£1,750
£100,000	Total	£130,000