After first-round heartbreak, Australian qualifier finds love on the Lakeside stage

The year 2024 WDF World Championships in iconic Lake The Country Club had a lot of interesting stories this past week. However, on Friday night one of the more special events in Lakeside’s illustrious history took place when Australian qualifier Amanda Loch actually got married on stage!

After a heartbreaking first-round loss to Kirsi Viinikainen in straight sets, Loch ensured that her December trip to Lakeside would be an experience to remember. He and his partner Laurie were married in stunning scenes at the world famous darts facility.

“It was crazy. The wedding in England was sort of planned. We were going to do it as soon as we had the right feeling. We had some ideas and a few things didn’t work out,” Loch, who was born in England but represents Australia, explains her story in an interview with WDF. “We saw the lake and thought it would be a beautiful backdrop for a wedding. When that didn’t work, someone suggested the Lakeside scene. We thought, “we’re crazy, let’s do it!”

A friend from Australia, a professional, Piotr Machinwho lost in the quarterfinals at Lakeside on Friday, was also on stage, serving as the groom’s best man. “I asked him a few years ago and he happened to be here then,” explains Loch’s new husband, Laurie. “Everyone here came together to make this happen and we can’t thank everyone enough. It was fantastic.”

Following this, the WDF organization itself also sends a warm message of congratulations to the newlyweds. “Everyone at WDF congratulates Amanda and Laura on this special day and wishes them all the best and a happy life together” – these thoughts are repeated by everyone associated with us at Dartsnews.com. Huge congratulations to the happy couple!