The Charlies Eke Darts Club based in Titikaveka are not just about sport and socialising, the kind hearted members have donated over $12,600 to various community organisations on Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.

Popularly known as the “Eke’s”, the club got off to a humble start in early 2020 with just 23 members. Today, the club has 93 members.

The initiative to donate to the community started collectively from the founding members.

Throughout the year donations were raised through the generosity of the members who contributed $2 or more to a community box every time they played a game of darts.

Club treasurer Mary de Luze Hosking said: “We decided to donate to the Teimurimotia Volunteer Fire Rescue Brigade in Titikaveka first, then gradually reach out to other community organisations.”

“Our members have been more than generous during this Covid lockdown and we, the committee, would like to thank them for their continuous support and kindness to our community.”

The Cook Islands Downs Syndrome have conveyed their meitaki maata to the Eke’s for their $500 donation. “What an awesome initiative you’ve started and to hear that you continue to give back is a blessing in itself,” the group said.

Charlie’s Eke Darts have donated over $12,600 to the following community organisations: Takitumu’s  Teimurimotia Fire Station, The Are Pa Metua, The Ataera family – house fire victim family, The Creative Centre, Titikaveka Pre-School, Papa’aroa School, Titikaveka College, Aitutaki’s Ureia Community, Aitutaki’s Ureia Darts Club, Aitutaki’s Are Nikau Darts Club, Aitutaki’s Are Umu Darts Club, Mangaia School, Mangaia’s Oneroa Darts Club, Mangaia’s Oneroa Community, Mangaia’s Ivirua Darts Club, Autism Cook Islands, Cook Islands Downs Syndrome and the Movember Men’s Health Movement.

The Eke’s, as they are popularly known, have developed from just being a darts club and have taken on and competed in other sports that include lawn bowls, golf, pool (billiard) and netball. They are looking to explore at least eight other different sports in 2022.

They have also travelled to the Pa Enua – Aitutaki and Mangaia – to participate in darts events, connect and reconnect with the people and their families, learn more culturally and to explore the beauty of each island.

The president of Charlie’s Eke Darts committee is Charlie Hosking, vice president John Makuru, secretary Ngaoa Tangimetua, vice secretary Neville Cryer, treasurer Mary de Luze Hosking and club captain Fariki Mana.

The Eke’s wish everyone a safe and festive season and a Merry Christmas.