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Joe Forde - King of the Dartboard in Kingsland

Joe Forde has been King of the Dartboard around Kingsland for many years. He started playing when he was twelve. He got his first trophy when he played on a team with his father back in 1969. Since then he has won many games as is evident from his display of over 100 trophies. The peak of his career came in 1982 when he reached the All Ireland finals. To represent Roscommon that year he played some of his best darts under pressure. He was playing in Frenchpark against Pauric Kelly, he went in with 124 left in the deciding set, Pauric had 14 left. Joe went in and threw single 20, treble 18 and bulls’ eye to finish. He has represented Roscommon on many occasions in the singles, doubled, mixed doubles and he also played for many years on the Roscommon team. 

The early eighties saw some of the best of Joe's darts. He travelled to Wales to play for Ireland in 1982. He has played against some of the world greats including Eric Bristow on two occasions. He holds a high regard for Eric who advised him to take up the game professionally. You would have to live in England, and he had no intention of moving. 

Joe has played very little darts over the past few years. His time is more taken up with family life. 

He says that darts require a lot of time to practice and a lot of spending money, none of which he has at present. Who knows he may make a comeback one of these days. At the moment he won't commit himself one way of the other but he has had an enjoyable time and met many lovely people while he played.

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