November saw me heading to my final WDF darts competition of 2023 before the World Championships at Lakeside and my double dream come true.
On Friday we checked in to the fantastic Gleneagles Hotel in Killarney prior to the start of the darting weekend, and the pairs competition. Myself and Jo Rolls really did get the draw from hell by drawing Aileen De Graaf and Kelly Streef. Despite best efforts from both the partnership of Twinkle - Sparkle was over for 2023.
Saturday saw the start of the main WDF Gold ranked comp. Gold events are very scarce in the WDF now but the fantastic team in Killarney show why they still get alot of competitors and supporters, as they have their pot of gold at the end of the Irish rainbow.
I set off great guns and feeling quite positive both mentally and physically, dropping only 1 leg in my first game. I felt good going into the second game and knew it would be a battle against Scotlands Lynsey Ward. Neither played our best games and I continued my winning streak with a 4.2 victory.
Straight away after my game with Lynsey and a little comfort break I was straight back on and into the last 16 of this precious Gold event. I faced Noa Lyn Van Leuven. I set off the better and had chances to go 2.0 up but wired too many doubles. With a little arm fatigue setting in I bowed out with 26 world ranking points and 100 Euros.
Sunday saw the start of the Silver ranked WDF competition. Again, I set off in winning ways to take the first victory of the day 4.0.
My second Saturday game was a little more scrappier as due to flooring and set up of the board I could not stand where I needed to, I had to stand more over to the right due to a carpet divider running straight down the middle of our oche. Hindsight is a wonderful thing and perhaps I should have said something, thank goodness I wasn't drawn on that board again. Sheer grit and determination got me through to 4.3 victory... Also a copy of my infamous Lakeside double 8 shot (2ft wide of the oche) helped me on my way.
For a second time and due to seeding I faced Noa Lyn in the last 16 of the Silver event. I put up a good fight but just could not keep up with the scoring power. Defeated but not deflated I earned another 13 world ranking points and another 50 euros.
Time to continue preparing for Lakeside. I am the very first lady on that dream stage on December 2nd at 1pm. I HAVE JUST 7 DAYS TO FIND 2 FINAL SPONSORS TO COMPLETE MY DARTS SHIRT. Sponsorship gives companies a wider advertising network and also helps myself and other players with funds to go towards travel and accomodation.
A big thank you to Peterson, Coast N Country and #TeamApex also to all the people who have said they are going to be there to support me - it means more than you know.
My shirts are twinkled, my place is earned and I am nervously excited!
Back to Lakeside I go!