The opening weekend of the 2026 PDC Challenge Tour delivered thrilling darts action, crowning a new star and celebrating a seasoned winner. Dutchman Martijn Dragt secured his first-ever PDC title at Challenge Tour 4, marking a significant milestone in his career. Earlier in the day, England’s Joe Hunt continued his impressive form, clinching his second consecutive Challenge Tour victory. The weekend was notably dominated by British players, setting a high standard for the season ahead.
The 2026 PDC Challenge Tour kicked off with an exhilarating weekend, showcasing incredible talent and setting the stage for an exciting season. The first two events saw a clear display of dominance from British players, but it was a Dutch darters’ breakthrough that truly captivated the audience.
Joe Hunt’s Unstoppable Run: Challenge Tour 3 Crowned a British Champion
The third event of the Challenge Tour weekend, Challenge Tour 3, was a testament to the strength of players from the UK. A remarkable statistic emerged: all players reaching the Last 16 hailed from England, Wales, or Scotland. This British stronghold culminated in an all-English final for the third time in the series.
Joe Hunt emerged as the victor, securing his second consecutive Challenge Tour title. His path to glory included a strong performance against PDC veteran Alan Norris, a three-time PDC title winner who reached the semi-finals. Hunt then defeated Arron Monk in the final, who also made a notable return to form.
Key Players and Results from Challenge Tour 3:
- Winner: Joe Hunt (England)
- Runner-up: Arron Monk (England)
- Semi-finalists: Alan Norris (England), Derek Coulson (Scotland – the last non-English player in the top ranks)
- Quarter-finalists included: Steve Beaton (England), known as ‘The Bronzed Adonis’, who showed good form.
Martijn Dragt’s Historic Breakthrough: Challenge Tour 4 Sees a New PDC Winner
While British players dominated the early stages, Challenge Tour 4 brought a change of fortune and a historic moment for Dutch darts. Martijn Dragt, from Dedemsvaart, Netherlands, seized his biggest career title by winning Challenge Tour 4. This victory marks his first-ever PDC title, a significant achievement for the rising star.
Dragt’s journey to the final was impressive, featuring strong wins against formidable opponents such as Daniel Klose, Patrick Geeraets, and Steve Lennon. He had already shown glimpses of his potential by reaching a semi-final on the previous day, indicating his consistent form throughout the weekend.
In a gripping final, Dragt faced experienced Englishman Scott Waites. Waites initially took the lead, but Dragt displayed nerves of steel, sealing his victory with a crucial 72-finish, securing the title and etching his name into PDC history.
Dutch Performances Beyond the Win:
- Martijn Dragt: Winner of Challenge Tour 4, semi-finalist on Friday.
- Bradley van der Velden: Reached the Last 32 in Challenge Tour 3.
- Ron Meulenkamp & Gilbert van der Meijden: Both reached the Last 32 in Challenge Tour 4.
Tournament Results Overview:
Challenge Tour 3 Key Matches:
- Quarter-finals:
- Derek Coulson 5-4 Daniel Ayres
- Arron Monk 5-1 Ryan Branley
- Alan Norris 5-3 Cayden Smith
- Joe Hunt 5-2 Steve Beaton
- Semi-finals:
- Arron Monk 5-3 Derek Coulson
- Joe Hunt 5-2 Alan Norris
- Final: Joe Hunt defeated Arron Monk
Challenge Tour 4 Key Matches:
- Quarter-finals:
- Steve Lennon 5-0 Daniel James Smith
- Martijn Dragt 5-2 Gary Jackson
- Scott Waites 5-1 Danny Trueman
- Simon Stevenson 5-2 Keenan Thomas
- Semi-finals:
- Martijn Dragt 5-2 Steve Lennon
- Scott Waites 5-3 Simon Stevenson
- Final: Martijn Dragt defeated Scott Waites
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
