The Hong Kong Darts Association was set up March 21 to attract more people to the sport and provide a platform for local players.

Darts is a traditional pub game originating in Britain, as well as a professional competitive game in present days.

"Darts is a healthy sport, and is suitable for men and women, old and young," said Chen Zhisi, host of the founding ceremony. "I'm happy to see more people understand and pay attention to this sport."

"The association plans to hold two to three tournaments a year, to set up platforms for the local darts players, and to cooperate with the international darts agency to hold Asian or even international tournaments," said Luo Qibang, chairman of the association. "In addition, we will cooperate with secondary schools, colleges and universities to bring darts into campus."

An invitational tournament was held at the founding ceremony. Lin Lianghua won the competition between eight players and beat Lin Dingzhi in the final, winning a 50,000 HKD (about 6,373 USD) championship prize.

More than 400 guests attended the founding ceremony at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Hong Kong.