Once again the main part of my darting year ended with a visit to Lakeside.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t show off my skills on the historic stage as my year in WDF was rather disappointing. The final blow was qualifying being held at Lakeside before the regular scoring events had concluded. This changed the event as players were now certain or almost certain to play under the insurance policy.
So I was there purely to support my friends and tour mates and see what was going on.
There seemed to be some improvement this year and despite the fact that it didn’t show in the report, there was a great atmosphere during both first weekend evening sessions.
The ticket sales process could have been better and from what I know, there were definitely no seats available on Saturday and Sunday. This is a bit awkward considering the competition lasts for a set number of days and the sessions take place while many of them are at work. This could definitely have an impact on the women’s event.
I couldn’t help but be impressed by Jimmy Van Schie, who visited the place to get acquainted with the surroundings. He ran into the practice area, hit 180s, 140s, put them down and walked away, came back later and did almost the same thing again with other people’s darts! To be fair, he also said he would return the next day to practice properly.
From a personal perspective, it was sad to see my friend and partner in crime Kirsty lose, even if it was to Deta, after winning her first match. It can be hard up there, and when it turns against you, it’s even harder to turn it around.
Overall, the women’s event was a mixed bag, with some names not making it as far as you might think. I also think the seeding/rankings may need to be revisited due to some quirks of the new ranking process requiring adjustments.
I’m going to the Birmingham festival and I’m hoping to go a little further than my previous efforts in the semi-finals and finals. This is an amazing independent event that pays decent prize money, attracts great pitches and is very popular with players. As much as it pains me to admit it, Stephen Passetti aka “Spag” deserves full credit for a great effort.
Warmest Christmas wishes to all of you and see you in 2025!
—–ENDS—–
Natalie Gilbert is a PDC Women’s Series winner who also plays on the WDF Women’s Tour. Natalie is sponsored by Red Dragon Darts
