A DARTS event which proved to be hugely popular in 2023 will return this month - with the opportunity of a lifetime of facing one of two icons of the sport at stake.

The Ace of Sports tournament took place in north Wales last year with businessman John Jones, who founded the company, aiming to give back to the community.

That saw 64 players battle it out for an unforgettable spot to compete against darts legend Michael Van Gerwen at the Argoed Sports and Social Club in Mynydd Isa.

It was eventual tournament champion Shaun 'The Sheep' Thompson who later took to the oche to throw against The Dutchman on the finals night.

After going a leg down to the then Premier League of Darts leader, 'The Sheep' turned it around to go 2-1 up, even throwing the first 180 of the night.

Sadly though, MVG's ruthlessness once again showed in the end as he fought back to win 3-2 in the best of five event. 

This weekend, the tournament starts all over again at the same venue with 64 players - including reigning champion Shaun - set to be whittled down to just two finalists from 1pm on Sunday (February 4).

The lucky (or talented!) two will then go on to the finals night to face either Michael Van Gerwen OR Phil 'The Power' Taylor who will both be at the main event at Chester Racecourse on Saturday, February 24.

The two heroes of the sport will face off to decide who faces the winner of the 2024 Ace of Sports Darts tournament in the ultimate final that night.

Ace of Sports' John, who started the coaching company after his professional footballing career was cut short by injury, said: "The Ace Of Sports Darts Championship has grown into something I couldn’t have ever imagined. We have players travelling in from as far as Scotland to play.

Chester and District Standard: PIC: 2023 Ace of Sports darts tournament champion Shaun 'The Sheep' Thompson (left), pictured with John Jones, will be competing again this year.

"I guess for many it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to play the greatest players of all time. It just doesn’t get any bigger than Phil The Power Taylor and Michael Van Gerwen in the world or darts.

"Yes you have the rise of the young star Luke Littler at the moment but Taylor and MVG have dominated the sport for the last 25 years. Winning 19 world titles  and 160 tv tournaments between them. It’s a rivalry that will go down in sporting history and this will be the last time they face off.

"I originally created the tournament to bring a buzz to the community after Covid. Last year's tournament certainly did that. The 2024 championship has become a sporting occasion that people will talk about for the rest of their lives.

"Good luck to all 64 players travelling from far and wide. This is your chance to be part of history’."