Whether you are a keen local dart player, an elite professional or anywhere in between from Autumn through the new year is bumper time.
The peak season seems to have moved earlier this year with the PDC Autumn/Winter majors and now the WDF’s flagship Lakeside championship coming hot on their heels.
Since Raymond came across to the PDC in 2006 it’s never been ebay to predict the winner of the men’s Lakeside title. But that year could also provide a fairytale this year with the return of Jelle Klassen who has certainly put in the miles this year and could bring his career full circle 18 years after his remarkable victory of Barney.
A name that I just have an inkling for this year is Darren Johnson. DJ has long been a very dangerous foe in any level of competition but hasn’t quite come through on the TV stages. But, he is playing very well indeed and has had more stage TV experience via the World Senior Tour.
In the ladies it is difficult to see past Beau Greaves to defend her crown and join a small club of women’s world champions to replicate their effort. But, if it’s to be a fairytale year, don’t write off Aileen De Graaf’s effort to complete her trophy cabinet.
Speaking of the Women’s game my warmest congratulations to my sometime practise partner and friend, Natalie Gilbert. I have known Nat for quite a few years and we share some friends and team members. Not only is she a serious talent, she has put in the hours and clocked up the miles. She deserves every bit of success that comes her way . It could not happen to a nicer person.
Out in the amateur or semi professional circuits there are a vast number of ADC and Open events to keep us busy. I thoroughly enjoyed the Bardon Premier League for example and not just because I won the trophy!
It was a quality field, playing up to 13 legs per match, with finals night for the top 4. I overcame the breakthrough talent of Chris Wickenden and the veteran dangerous Andy Hibbert. This kind of event is both superb in itself and the best kind of practice you can get.
Chris Wick is staging a Women’s equivalent featuring Rhian O’Sullivan Chrissy Manley and next year’s men’s event looks even stronger with Danny Lauby and Ricky Evans joining the group!
Regardless of where you play your darts, the opportunities are out there. Go get them!
—–ENDS—–
Colin is a 7-time PDC Pro Tour event winner and claimed the Champions League of Darts in 2009. he is sponsored by Winmau, Sidekick Sport UK and is a Darts World contributor
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