World Watch: Thibault Tricole: The HOT Property in French Darts

Hi Guys

I have always found it unusual that having been one of the originators of darts, that France has failed to make much of an impact in the world of darts.

There are however a number of talented French darts players out there, with Thibault Tricole being the highest rated at 689 in the BDO rankings!

Thibault has been a fixture in European events over the last 6 years and whilst he has yet to qualify for the the first rounds of the a BDO major he recently reached the quarter finals of the WDF Europe Cup Singles.


My money would be on Thibault to crack qualification for a BDO major in the next 2 years

Luke

World Watch: Larry Butler: The American Icon!

Hi Guys

There is another golden oldie who should not be overlooked in the world of darts and that is the legend that is 'The Eagle' Larry Butler.

Butler made his BDO debut in 1992 aged 36 and won the inaugural PDC World Matchplay in 1994 beating the Great Dennis Priestley 16-12 and is still one of only 7 players to have won the title in its 22 year history (thanks to Phil Taylors 15 title haul)

check it out here: https://youtu.be/hXcGuLJprUw

It is a testament to the great mans abilities and proof that age is no barrier in that Butler aged 58 reached the last 16 of the BDO World Championship in 2016 (his first appearance in 19 years) and World Masters final in 2015 aged 57!

A winner of no less than 37 opens across both steel and soft tip Butler is American's most prolific darts player  (John Part is Canadian) and shows no sign of deterioration in his game (given he has just had his best run in 2015/16 since 1994, some 20 years later)!

I hope Butler's still doing this in 20 years time!

Larry Butler you are a true inspiration and America should be proud of their finest darts export!

Luke

19/12/2016: Triple Bullseye

Hi Guys

I have been tinkering with my setup and literally my first 3 darts using Unicorn soft-flex mediums and Harrows retina slims yielded a lovely triple bull:

The only problem i'm noticing is that with such slim flights my darts are landing evry flight down as opposed to straight with standards

World Watch: Dennis Nilsson: The Ironman of Sweden

Hi Guys

Now this is a story i love, a strongman moving over to darts - as i love both disciplines!

Dennis Nilsson was a runner up in the 2003 Sweden Strong Man competition before moving over to darts and since 2006 has been a mainstay on the Swedish Darts scene

Currently ranked 74 in the BDO Nilsson qualified for the PDC World Championships in 2012 and has had a cracking 2016 winning the Baltic Cup Open and the Finnish Masters to go with his Swedish National win in 2011!

Nilsson is getting better and better and i cant wait to see Ironman tearing up future BDO events!


Luke

World Watch: Dragutin Horvath: The Croatian Sensation

Hi Guys

2017 will see the debut in the PDC World Championship of Dragutin Horvath.

Horvath a regular on the PDC European scene will be flying the flag for Croatian darts!

Croatia can already be proud of Horvath who made the Quarter Finals in the PDC 2016 International Darts open and winning the 2016 World Germnay Qualifying event!

Lets home we see more of Horvath in 2017 and beyond

Luke

World Watch: Simon Stevenson: A HUGE Inspiration!!!!!

Hi Guys

Today i have chosen to focus on a homegrown player who is a major darts inspiration for me:

Simon Stevenson

Stevenson then aged 40 burst onto the scene in the UK open reaching the last 32 and  won his Tour card in 2016 and has had a fantastic year flying up the rankings to his 80 in his debut year.


The 'Mirror man' as hes known man has been the force in Plymouth darts over the last decade picking up no fewer than 5 open titles and in his debut year made the quarter finals of the UK Players Championship 12 in Barnsley!

Stevenson though has achieved many a dart players dream and has qualified for the PDC 2017 World Championship!

This again shows that if you work hard you can achieve your dreams and should NEVER, EVER be written off due to age, having qualified and playing his best darts in his forties!

In short this guy makes me want to practice harder!

Good luck to Simon, i'd love him to do well

Luke

BDO World Darts Championship 2017: My Prediction

Hi Guys

Its that time of the year again coming up. The BDO World Championship 2017!

I think it is going to be a genuinely tough tournament and great tournament this year with a great mix of former champions and high level contenders all vying for the BIG one!

Will Martin Adams become the oldest world champion ever at 60?

Will Scott Waites make it 2 in a row and 3 in total?

Can Scott Mitchell bag his second?

Will Tony O'Shea or Darryl Fitton break the curse?

Can Glen Durrant cap the best year of his career off in style?

It really is a tough call!

I think Darius Labanauskas who i did  a world watch on in 2015:

http://mydartinglife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/world-watch-darius-labanauskas-flying.html

could be a serious contender and go all the way!

So, my prediction:

Whilst i'd love Adams to do it, for me its going to be between Mitchell, Durrant and Waites.

I've got to go with Durrant. he's had an amazing 2016 and shouldc ap it off with the BIG one this year!

PDC World Darts Championship 2017: My Prediction

Good Morning guys

Its that time of the year again!

The PDC World Championship 2017 will kick off at the end of the week.

It's quite mad seeing as I've picked MVG to win the last several events, and logic would dictate  he is the most obvious choice however i fear that MVG almost wants it 'too much' as hes been favourite the last 2 years without winning it and i wonder whether trying too hard will make him make mistakes, especially considering set-play is the one style of event that doesn't allow you to rattle of 6-7-8 legs in a row in a short time frame which MVG excels at!

There's just so much quality that i think there will be a few shocks and i wouldn't rule out Peter Wright, Adrian Lewis or even Barney in the final this year.

So, my prediction:

If MVG doesn't go out early he wins it!

if he does i'm going with Taylor or Anderson to take it!

08/12/2016: Practice session and 180!

Hi Guys

I got a good solid practice in yesterday.

I have upgraded to Datadart Martin Adams 22g darts.

They are like thinner and grippier Glen Durrant darts (which are in effect Eric Bristow darts)

I am genuinely thrilled by how they perform!

They are thinner and fly so smoothly.

I am very pleased to report that i have had my bets practice session in quite probably 18 months!

I went around the board on singles, doubles and trebles very well (trebles definately my best ever) and finished on bull and then hit a 180!

I am now hitting a 180 every session which considering this is really only the first week where my darts are actually starting to fly properly is fantastic progress.

This is the key, as i posted previously you have to be consistent, practice and be patient. If you do that it will come!

There were times last week where it just didn't feel like i had ever thrown before but now my shoulder is getting better and i'm getting used to throwing again and it is coming together and the confidence is growing.

Take Care

Luke

The importance of Honesty

Hi Guys

Like with anything in life it is easy to over exaggerate ones prowess in a particular field.  This can be ego, self delusion or just plane insecurity.

I often get asked why i have been so honest with my starting level and current ability and the truth is that honesty is indeed the best policy.

If i had stated that i hit a 180 in my first 10 minutes, and was hitting 9 darters within a month it would be quite obviously a lie and why would anyone want to bother with the blog/story further????

Its like the guy in the pub who always has a story of how he beat this 'pro', beat this guy in the pub (that no one remembers)  with a 170 checkout the night before, is hitting 9 darters in practice  and has a 110 average and yet you've never seen him hit over 60, checkout over 20 or win a match????

"i could have bee a PDC player"

 - sure you could, if you had that talent you'd be earning millions and not stacking shelves (nothing wrong with that mind) at the Supermarket!

It just doesn't lend itself to credibility and to be honest makes you look stupid when you don't deliver.  For me it is far better to say "i'm just a novice and trying to get better" because expectations and reputation will be afforded and judged accordingly  rather than promote yourself as the next Taylor  brag about your incredible scoring power and then lose whilst never hitting above 26 (and then blaming everything from the Weather to the state of the economy)

This is why i have and continue to be honest.

If i was a prodigious talent i would be in the PDC now! The reality is that when i started i wasn't a star by any means:

http://mydartinglife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/how-i-got-into-darts-chapter-3-oh-my.html

By a star i mean someone who is naturally gifted and just has 'it'.

 Bob Anderson was a natural athlete, was an olympic level javelin contender, and played professional football. He hit his first 180 aged 7 with brass darts - that is talent

Gary Anderson's first 9 darts were apparent 2 x 140 and 1 x 180 - that is talent

I got into darts late aged 32, with no prior experience, and a catalogue of injuries and do not have a 'gift' so i have to mechanically work on everything.  I want to be the best i can be however i also have a family and work commitments which means that i cannot dedicate 4-6-8 hours a day to it as a craft like i could if it was avocation i started in my early teens or if aged 32 i was so amazing that it would be worth the risk of quitting the job and winning money in darts!

That is why i am hoping the majority of you will follow my journey and maybe identify with me.

If i can win and achieve my goals in darts and beyond it  will be proof that hard work and determination can win out  over natural talent.

If i play well i will tell you and if i don't i will say i've played sh*t, no BS here and whats more if i do hit silly averages or amazing checkouts you will know its legit. Its why i tend to post my 180's!

Some players have played for years and years and have never had one! I am proud of every one i hit!

As it stands now when 'on' i have a 60-70 average, which has been a high as 100+  before. On a poor day though this can be in the 50's! This put me on same level as the best players in my pub league division and i am confident that i could give anyone in the division a game and win the majority.

I hope this will inspire many who have never or think they can't play to go and have a go at either darts or another sport (health/legality permitting) they love.

Honestly guys it is so worth it!

08/12/2016: 180!

Hi Guys

Currently running 22g Harrows Glen Durrant darts with nlyon medium stems and standard 75 micron flights!

Im finding though that i need abit more grip and maybe something slightly more front weighted.

Take care

Luke

All India Darts Association: Doing AMAZING work!

Hi Guys

Please go to this website

http://www.indiandarts.org/

and check out the good work that these ladies and gentleman are doing.

All India Darts Association, though s very young, has done a plethora of events to popularize the game and remodeled it from a game of elite to a game that can be played by the ordinary mass. It has organized competitions in all levels like Clubs, Schools, Corporates, States, Zonal and National among others.

From its inception in 2000, All India Darts Association has traveled a long distance. It has distributed free Dart Boards to many Schools, Clubs and even individuals who have demonstrated tremendous potential to grow.

Now this is what darts and sport is all about. Darts IS a game for everyone. Young or old, able or disabled, male or female. Their is and SHOULD BE no prejudice!!!!

I would love to do a tour over there as darts really is a game that can/does unite people!

Fantastic work  to everyone involved!

Luke

Congratulations to Glen Durrant, World Winmau Masters Men's Champion 2016

Hi Guys

BIG Congratulations to Glen 'Duzza' Durrant on winning and defending the 2016 Winmau World Masters title!

The Winmau Masters is one of the oldest and most prestigious titles in darts having been held by such darting legends as:

Eric Bristow
Bob Anderson
John Lowe
Alan Evans
Phil Taylor
Dennis Priestley
Michael Van Gerwen
Andy Fordham
Martin Adams

Durrant is having an excellent year having won 10 titles and finishing in the last 16 of the PDC GrandSlam of Darts

Again it just goes to show that age is irrelevant as Duzza is 46 and having his best year ever!

Currently ranked number 1 in the BDO and the 'form' player, you have to make Duzza the favourite to land the World Title this year!

Week 1: Shoulder rehabilitation!

Hi Guys 

I completed my first week of shoulder and physical rehab for darts.

my current routine is:

1. Shoulder stretch:

Bend forward at the waist and allow the arm to hang naturally downward toward your foot.

SLOWLY AND GENTLY make circles with the arm. Imagine watching your hand running laps around your toes and you'll get the idea. 10-20 revolutions clockwise, the same number counter-clockwise. Do a set of these, then a set of the next, then repeat a few times.


2. Shoulder raises

Get a 8lb resistance band (Bodylastics are the best - go with green or red one)

now raise your arm in front of you holding the band handle, SLOWLY and GENTLY, until your arm is parallel with your collar bone and the lower.  Do this 10x for each arm.

Then raise your arms to the side SLOWLY and GENTLY like a bird would flapping its wings. Do this 10x (both arms at the same time)

This both strengthens and stretches the whole shoulder girdle.

I do this every day.

I will add exercises each week, and get back to my DDP yoga  however the key here is to slowly build the shoulder up and not overdo it.

I'm hoping this will reduce the 'Jocky Wilson' 3rd dart twitch i occasionally get and build shoulder stamina.

Take care guys

Luke

Determination is key!

Hi guys

I put 5 hours in today!

Oh boy, first hour was horrendous. I had the Jocky Wilson twitch, release issue, you name it!

Took 1 hour to go around the board 3 in each single!

Genuinely was like I'd never played before & I did think about wrapping in!

I stuck with it though and eventually i got around 3 in each single and then went around the board on trebles and doubles!

In the end it started flowing real nice & natural!

This shows the importance of gutting it out. If I'd quit after an hour I don't know wether after all the recent problems I've had  wether id have picked up a dart again......that's how bad I was!

so all in all 8 hours practice this week!

Next week will be better!

NEVER STOP BELIEVING!

DON'T GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!!!!!!

Hi Guys

I have felt compelled to write this due to the negativity i see all around me!

There are many people that decide for whatever reason to let go of their dreams, ambitions or hobbies.

Maybe it is the pressure of work, family or other commitments. Or maybe it is because you have reached a certain point in the calendar where you think “I’m too old” or “I can’t do this”

Now I hate doing preachy posts or getting ‘deep’ however I need to make something really, really clear here:

“THIS IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL”

And by this I mean this is the one shot you have. No one beats the clock, and no one lives forever.

This is why I cannot understand why people give up their dreams or the things they love to do????

It really is a mystery to me???

Darts of all the sports out there is the one that lends itself most to longevity and ability to play/complete regardless of age.

Unlike Boxing, Bodybuilding, MMA, football, wrestling or you name it, there is no ‘sell by date’ where you have to assess your age (or wear) induced physical limitations and age should have minimal impact on your ability to compete and your aspirations!

What I am saying here is:

“YOU ARE NOT WRITTEN OFF AT 35, 45 or 55”

Now my ambition is to get to a standard where I can compete and acquit myself well in local tournaments and basically give fellow darters a game with the view of competing in a BDO event.

I started at 33, and have a myriad of physical discomforts to manage, however if I achieve that and can do that till I physically cannot lift a dart anymore then I will have achieved my ambition!

Now if I achieve more than that, brilliant!

Am I going to let anyone tell me I am:

Too old

Started too late

Will never make it

F**K no!

If others want to hate and give up their dreams, or aspirations because they’re not 22 or 25 anymore then that’s their life. Haters will always hate, that’s a given however given the short time we have in life, I can’t see why anyone would want to give up on their dreams.

I don’t think anyone on their death bed has said:

“I’m glad I didn’t achieve my dreams or live more”

As long as you don’t hurt anyone in the process why not go for it? The only thing you have to lose is time not doing it!!!

Take Care

Luke

World Watch: Paul Lim, Flying the Flag for Older Darters

Hi Guys

It may seem odd to do a World Watch on someone who has been a fixture in darts for 30+ years however there are only a couple of players left who are flying the flags for the over 60’s and competing at a high level still. One being Martin ‘Wolfie’ Adams and the other is Paul Lim.

Most will remember Lim for hitting the first televised World Championship 9 darter in 1990 (a time when this had only been previously done by John Lowe). 

https://youtu.be/V_nmayyebXc

This was a record that Lim held for 19 years (across both organisations) before Barney hit one against Klassen in 2009.

Mr Lim’s record in the World Championship might not be the best however it should be noted that he was unlucky to always draw World Class players in the like:

·         Dave Whitcombe.

·         Cliff Lazarenko (twice)

·         Bob Anderson

·         Mike Gregory

·         Alan Warriner,

·         John Part (en route to the 1994 title),

·         John Lowe

Mr Lim in-fact is the only player from the 80’s classic era still competing in the PDC today, having played in the 1982 BDO World championship.

It’s incredible that Mr Lim’s first World Championship was 35 years ago and yet here he is still competing.

Anyone doubting at 62 whether Mr Lim still has it should check out Lim Vs World Number 1 MVG in the 2016 Shanghai Masters where Mr Lim gave  the 35 years younger MVG a real run for his money:

https://youtu.be/0I_Cv4CpLL0

Take Care

Luke

27/11/2016: Well Done to MVG in defending the PDC Players Championship title 2016

Hi Guys

Another BIG congratulations to MVG in picking up yet another title in 2016, in defending the Players Championship.

MVG has been imperious this year. He isn't just winning finals, he's making them non competitive.

Its a dominance that hasn't really been seen since Phil Taylor's heyday.

I knew after MVG's (by his standards) poor performance against a spirited Darren Webster where i don't think i've ever seen MVG play so badly that whoever he played in the final was likely to get a kicking and poor Chizzy bore MVG's wrath as he he lost his forth major final.

Now then heading into the World Championship 2017 the question really is who can stop  MVG???

The answer may very well be MVG himself!

Van Gerwen has been the best player in the world bar none the last 2 years, and has won everything and often by demolition jobs!

The World Championship is ultimately what is usually considered the sign of Greatness though and whilst he has won 1 world title (which is incredible in itself) it is the that by which a player is truly judged.

Incredible as it may seem but Van Gerwen could want it too badly and try too hard  thus making mistakes and set play is the one format that i think gives players a chance against him.

One thing i will say though is that regardless of the World Championship i genuinely think MVG's performance and dominance of 2016 has been the greatest by any darts player ever. It has been quite simply epic and MVG deserves 1000000% credit!

Have a good week guys

Luke

23/11/2016: Learning your craft - stick to one dart (at first)

Hi Guys

I get alot of questions on changing darts as everyone is always looking for the 'one' that will instantly take them from a 60 ave player to MVG'esque standards.

The truth is it is important to develop the basics and learn ONE(1) instrument, ie the dart.

Sample the different styles  and once you find one that feels comfortable stick with it and practice with it. Its like learning a craft with a tool. If you keep swapping your constantly resetting.

Now i know its easy and boy have i changed darts (i've blogged about it previously) however it really does affect your progress.

Now i know there are always some exceptions like Peter Wright however if you look his best form (which for me is the last few months) has been with the same darts.

That's not to say you cant tweak in the future however once you've settled on one style (straight, bomb, tampered etc), stick with it.

Its no surprise that the best players have had the most success with one style and even the same dart:

MVG: has always used a straight barrel and still uses the same McKick's premium whites from 2007 and hes the best player in the world and feels so comfortable with his darts,

Phil Taylor: Used straight barrels for 20 years

Eric Bristow: dominated the 80's with the same style of dart

John Lowe: won everything with the same style of dart

Adrian Lewis: Still goes back to his old Unicorns

Leighton Rees: the first world champion. He sued the same set.

Tony O'Shea: uses the same set of 30 year old Bristows

Andy Fordham: Started with and still sues an old set of Lowe's

Now that's but a few and a helluva lineup.

If you do abit of research you'll find that more often than not players form dips when they change from what was working.

My advice, find a set that works and truly learn and develop with it.

You'll be better for it and save money to

Take care

Luke

PDC Cash Converters Players Championship finals 2016: My prediction

Hi Guys

The tournaments are coming thick and fast.

I'm a BIG fan of this one as it gives exposure to a number of different players on the tour.

This year has seen the field raised to 64 which will give alot of players a chance.

looking at the draw there's some great opportunities for some players in the latter half of the top 32 to get to the Quarter finals and i think we are going to see a few upsets along the way.

This is a rare event to not feature 3x winner Phil Taylor, so that is one of the favorites out.

My prediction with whose going to win would have to again go with the obvious and that's MVG.

The legs format suits him, hes the 'man' at the moment and the defending champion.

There are always threats though:

• Lewis has made the last 2 (albeit losing) finals and on his day has the game to beat anyone. He will desperately want to make amends for that.

• Barney is playing well and the draw could see him go deep (and he has had the beating of MVG before when on form)

• Gary Anderson is getting used to the new glasses, is a past winner  and will only get better

• James Wade is playing really well and has made 10 quarter finals or better in the last 6 months.

• Peter Wright is playing in the form of his life and must break his major duct at some point

I definately think we may see a surprise or to in the semi's and final

Take care everyone

Luke

Michael van Gerwen (MVG): Like it or not hes the 'man' now! Haters can hate but its the truth!

Good morning

Listen, i have felt compelled to write as in the wake of MVG's 2016 Grandslam win there have been some fans moaning about:

it always Van Gerwen winning
yet another player didn't turn up in the final

This staggers me as darts history of the last 35 years has literally seen dominance by a couple of players.

Has everyone forgotten that every decade (or generation) has their dominant player:

80's: Bristow
90's: Taylor:
00-2013: Taylor
2014: MVG onwards

MVG is now bringing the total dominance over darts that Taylor enjoyed for nearly 20 years.

You can only beat those in front of you and barring the inaugural Champions league of Darts when the 2000 Taylor decided to turn up and beat MVG, MVG has beaten everyone and won everything.

Is it his fault......................yes it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MVG isn't lucking out in draws and (no disrespect) drawing qualifiers in finals, he is beating the ebst players in the world.

Taylor, Lewis, Anderson, Wright, Wade have all fallen in finals and 17 majors as of this blog in 2 years say it all.

I think once someone has established themselves as 'the man' then they will always become somewhat of a target. Bristow was hated and loved in equal measure and Taylor wasn't exactly Mr Popular until he transitioned into 'legend' and therefore appreciation status.

As it stands MVG is the man to beat and whatsmore i cant see him losing at the moment. As i've stated before if he doesn't go out early he wins it and he is a born winner. You cant buy what MVG has.

Its hard to see where MVG's 'BIG' rival is going to come from. Anderson is brilliant but has nearly 20 years on MVG and Taylor has 30 years. (hell even i have 8 ). MVG could easily dominate the next 10-20 years unless someone comes along who can average 120.

My only concern with MVG achieving that is the physical toll its taking on his body. He already has ankle and wrist issues and i can see elbow and hip issues down the line.

Don't begrudge his success people, hes the hardest worker in darts, plays every tournament and hes doing it all on his own merit. No one is throwing for him.

Have a great week everyone

Luke

MVG takes PDC Grandslam of darts 2016!

Hi guys

It was the obvious call but MVG takes yet another title!

Wade did fantastic to get there but MVG really is on another level right now.

BIG well done to MVG. I think James was to hard on himself. It wasn't his night but then again its been no ones night this year against MVG in PDC finals!

Chris Dobey: A new Star is Born!

Hi Guys

Its been utterly fantastic watching Chris Dobey emerge in the Grandslam of darts this year.

Ranked 54 going in Dobey didn't have an easy group with 2x world champion Adrian Lewis and 1x BDO Champion Scott Mitchell  in the mix along with top 16 rated Benito Van De Pas.

Dobey was unlucky to lose 5-4 to the Dutchman but rebounded to beat the 2 former world champions 5-3.

Dobey then had a belter against the BDO's Jamie Hughes and now faces the resurgent James Wade (who looks a real threat for the tournament)

Its always great to see new faces and Dobey has kind of gone under the radar despite having a great 2016 having narrowly lost to Simon Whitlock in the Players Championship final 19  making the last 32 of the European Championship and the quarter finals of the German darts Masters

If your gonna hit form now is the time to do it ahead of the Worlds and if Dobey can upset Wade and go further the prize money should really send him up the PDC rankings!

Good luck to Dobey and well done to all the BDO lads who acquitted themselves well again this year!

Luke

Fantastic Glen 'Duzza' Durrant Through to second round of PDC 2016 Grandslam of Darts

Hi Guys

Fantastic to see another BDO player doing well at this years Grandslam of darts and once again proving the BDO boys can hang with the PDC guys.

so far we've had:

Darryl Fitton go over Darren Webster (who just beat Phil Taylor 5-0) and Ian White
Scott Mitchell thump Adrian Lewis 5-1

and for me the BDO package of the tournament so far Glen Durrant

Durrant was unlucky to lose 5-4 to World no 2 (and back to back and current PDC World Champion) Gary Anderson (who had to dig deep)

and then thrashed Nathan Derry 5-0 and Alan Norris 5-1

Duzza has shown that he belongs in this company and this is no surprise.

For the last 2 years Duzza has arguably been the main man in the BDO.  Taking the World Masters and Zuiderduin Masters in 2015 and in 2016 winning:

BDO Gold Cup
British Classic
Denmark Masters
England Masters
England Matchplay
England Open
European Darts Open
Swedish Open
WDF Euro Cup Team

The guy is on a roll and ranked number 1 in the BDO for a reason. You don't win those Opens (bare in mind how many hundreds and thousands enter) without class!

Duzza will likely face a resurgent Van Barneveld in the second round however this is a match that Duzza will be sure he can win.

It would be incredible if Durrant could win the tournament like Scott Waites did in 2010!

Go Duzza!

14/11/2016: Shoulder problems causing issue!

Hi Guys

I was practicing Saturday and pulled up something wicked.

The shoulder just started jolting ala Jockey Wilson

Now i know that i have some shoulder injuries however this is.was a concern as i'd hit a nice patch of comfortably hit the 20/T20 but then it was like i'd never picked up the thing before.

Its horrible as the frustration kicks in as you don't want to walk away 'off' but playing through it becomes a chore and a problem.  The result is you start forcing it and it becomes a repetitive cycle of frustration!

its horrid but my best advice here is literally just leave it. put them down and go and distract yourself.  Go watch television, take a shower, watch something funny, anything to take your mind off it.  Angrily launching them all over the place will mean nothing and your getting nothing out of it. Practice is supposed to be fun and if it's hurting or not working, exit early!

There was a time when i'd have laid awake all night annoyed at a wasted session, and gone to work tired. What does that acheive??? nothing i'll have just gotten myself right at it!

Anyway i'll be posting some rehab info and what i'm doing as i know i'm not alone with this!

Take Care

Luke

PDC Grandslam of darts 2016: My prediction

Hi everyone 

It's Grandslam of darts time again. 

Now this like many tournaments was Phil Taylor's whose won it 6 of the 9 times since it was started in 2007 and was last years losing finalist to MVG.

Obviously I'd love the BDO boys to do well however and I know it's an obvious choice but I just can't see past MVG at the moment. He's playing at a different level at the moment and winning everything!

For me if he doesn't go out early he'll win it.

If I have to have a backup I'd love to see Barney win it but I'll go with Taylor

I think we could see some shocks though and I wouldn't be surprised to see Wade or Whitlock in the final.

Let's see eh?

Take care

Luke 

Big well done to MVG. 2016 Pdc World Series of Darts Finals 2016 Champion!!!

Hi guys

BIG well done to MVG! I called it pre tournament and MVG won in style over a very game Peter Wright!

For me the performance of the tournament was MVG 10-0 over Whitlock!

Say what you want but MVG is playing at another level at the moment!

Luke

02/11/2016: Around the Board!

Hi Guys

I had put in a practice session yesterday.

Around the board Singles
Around the board trebles
Around the board doubles
Bull

Considering i'm rusty as hell it only took about 20 minutes or so and if it wasn't for a couple of dodgy numbers like treble 7 etc it'd have been a lot quicker.

Its amazing how going around the board actually improves your treble 20 as after going around i had a few darts at t20 and it was 100,100,100.

As i move on i'm going to incorporate out shots into the equation which should cover all bases!

What i will say is that whilst practice should be fun, to make progress you need structure and to be productive. Spending 3 hours going for T20 isn't going to mean a lot if you cant hit the desired double.

I think i posted it before but i once watched a match whereby a player got off like a rocket and was hitting 80's and 100's and was under 100 when his opponent was still on about 350+

Unfortunately Mr Scorer ended up doing the dreaded:

D20: miss
D10: Miss
D5: Miss
1: Hit
D2: Miss

leaving D1

It was painful. His opponent was only hitting 26's but the guy just couldn't hit D1 for love nor money and the more he tried and got frustrated the worse he (and the game got). Eventually his opponent also ended up on D1. they both spent an eternity at it before the BIG scorer lost! - the match must have lasted 1/2 hour!

The lesson, as Bobby George says:

"trebles for show, doubles for dough"

and its true, if you cant hit the double you cant win!

All the best

Luke

PDC World Series of Darts Finals 2016: My Prediction

Hi Guys

The world series of darts is this week (5th-6th November) and here is my prediction: Michael Van Gerwen

Its an obvious choice however hes won 24 tournaments this year and made 9 other finals. Clearly the stats go with MVG!!!

Since losing to Taylor in the inaugural Champions League of Darts MVG has looked a man on a mission. That loss clearly hurt him and he is tearing through darts at the moment. His insanely quick demolition on 'player of the tournament' Mensur Suljovic 11-1 showed what he can do when hes firing on all cylinders

A fired up Barney could be a derailer however MVG is the form player, defending champion and the form of the competition has been erratic!

For me its now a case of if MVG doesn't suffer a first round blip he wins it. Plane and simple!!!!

Luke

World Watch: Cody Harris: A New Zealand 'darts' Story!!

Hi Guys

There is a player tearing up the New Zealand darts scene and that's Cody Harris.

Those of you who watched the PDC World Cup of Darts will have seen Harris in action!

Prolific on the open scene the 31 year old has won 13 Opens in the last 4 years and has impressively won the New Zealand Open 3 years on the trot (2014,2015,2016).

Harris made the last 32 in the BDO Masters in 2015 and i think we'll be hearing alot more from 'The Codesta'

Harris current record stands at:

Loving it is the key!!!!

Hi Guys

as most of you know the dart player of the last 3 years has been Michael Van Gerwen.  The guy has won everything and is dominating darts,

Now MVG is undoubtedly an insane natural talent however as much as the talent i think a MASSIVE key to his success is that he LOVES darts and what he does!

If you love it, its not a chore or a 'job' and that makes you excel!!!

Now i'm not saying that other players don't enjoy/love/like it however to alot of them its a 'job' or their source of income and you can see it on their faces. In short, some of them look like they don't want to be their or are hating it!

Now don't get me wrong i know its a grueling schedule however MVG as of this post (1/11/2016) had played a whopping 47 tournaments all over the world and that's excluding exhibitions and practice!!!

The thing is if you love something why would you want to do it everyday????

That's the difference i think between someone who is good at something but its not their love/passion.

Take Care

Luke

Inspiration not Imitation!!!

Hi Guys

Inspired by Mensur Suljovic i have decided to focus on the importance of using a player for inspiration but not Imitation.

I am referring to try and copy another players throw or action.

It is easily done, you see a player having MAJOR success so you go and buy the darts and attempt to copy their throw........usually with terrible results.

Every play her a natural grip and throw, and it is this natural action that should be refined. Trying to imitate another player (unless they are VERY similar in everything to you) will only lead to a bad copy.

Its easily done and i am no different. As previously posted i have used the majority of darts and setups of pro's old and new and every time it has worked either only marginally or not at all.

e.g.

I bought a set of 26g Unicorn Phil Taylor Rosso's and used his exact setup (inc those tiny flights).  I rehearsed his throw and release and then made my way to the dartboard.

The results were horrendous and many never even made it to the board. I spent 1 hour desperately trying to get all 3 on the board. It never happened!!!!!!

The obvious lesson being is that having Taylor darts and using a Taylor styled throw wont make you Taylor!!!!

I knew it beforehand but like many theirs always the temptation to try something that's worked (albeit for someone else)

Ithen went back to my previous darts and throw and first 3 darts hit 100!

You name it iv'e tried it from 16g Priestley's to the classic 22g Bristows and all felt wrong.

I have even tried to follow the John Lowe way in his book  (Lowe probably having the best darts action ever) however despite the 'sense', 'logic' and mechanical perfection it should in theory result in, it just doesn't work for me 1 iota.

The reality, i throw my way and i have to otherwise it doesn't work.

There are so many players out there and they all throw different as we are all different. The bottom line is if it works for you then that's your throw. It doesn't have to be pretty, as long as its effective!

Just look at Mensur Suljovic (7th in world) or the great Jocky Wilson!

Take care

Luke

Mensur Suljovic: This guy is one of the reasons i still want to play darts!!!

Hi Guys

Watching the PDC European Championship final  between Mensur Suljovic and Michael van Gerwen it reminded me of the VERY reason why i love darts and still want to play it.

Suljovic has been something of an unfashionable player over the years.  The odd quirks pre-throw, the speed, the throw itself, the 'out choices', have all seen him come under criticism, and arguably ridicule.

I though love it!!!!!

I don't want to watch  an event where everyone has the same throw, stance, posture and 'counting', how boring is that????

Mensur for me represents everything that hard work and doing things 'your way' counts for and it inspires me and reminds me that just because you don't play like 'X' doesn't mean you cant make it!

Yes he lost in the final (and MVG was terrific)  but for me the result was almost secondary, here is a guy who for years has had derision and criticism for how he plays and yet hes now 7 in the world! yes 7th!!!!!

This is a stunning achievement and irrefutable proof that you don't have to be like everyone else.

I hear he's a nice guy as well and to see his family there watching him must have been something special.

So to everyone out there with quirky throws or ticks don't be put off and think that you cant achieve what you want (in darts or life for that matter) because as long as it works its right for you!!!!!

Anyway BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Mr Suljovic and have a good week everyone

Luke

World Watch: Andree Welge, the unsung German darts star!

Hi Guys

I haven't done a World Watch for a while so thought this time i would focus on Germany's Andree Welge

Welge has been on the scene since the 1990's and competed in 5 World Championships (1 x BDO, 4 x PDC)  and is one of Germany's finest and unsung darting exports.

Having played on the PDC tour, the Bulls sponsored Welgee made the last 16 in the 2012 European Championship and will be hoping to once again force himself up the PDC rankings.

Welges record currently stands at:

Wishing Martin 'Wolfie' Adams a Swift Recovery

Hi Guys

it is sad news to report that Martin 'Wolfie' Adams, whom i have had the pleasure of meeting has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Despite this he will compete in The PDC GrandSlam of darts - what a guy!!!!

A true legend of the game Wolfie has won an incredible 6 majors in his 50's (3 x wold champion) and is an inspiration to us all.

Lets send positive thoughts and wish 'Wolfie' a swift recovery!

Luke

24/10/16: Quick update and the importance of natural grip and release!

Hi Guys

and good morning (or evening) wherever you are.

I hope you had a good weekend.

I managed to pick the darts up briefly the weekend and although way below my usual standard, i was consistently hitting the 20!

I must stress that the most important thing i am finding is that it is ESSENTIAL to instill in the mind 'clean release, clean release'.

I must admit the older i get the calmer i seem to have gotten on my throw and this is important. Before i use to rush out the 3rd dart, but now for me its about consistency.

One thing i have noticed is that whilst the protracted break has affected my overall accuracy  it has enabled me to in effect 'reset' my throw as before i was getting frustrated and trying to force things whereas now i feel like i can work from the ground up and refine key elements.

If you watch the pro's the common denominator is that they all have a consistent throw, none of them change dynamics each leg and very few change their speed, or grip.

Having studied alot of players i have noticed that the majority use a 2 fingered grip (and from the rear) and as i have progressed i have started to reduce my 'fingers' on the dart and grip position.

Previously it was 3 fingers and a thumb across the whole barrel with thumb in centre but now its 2 fingers with thumb at rear. Its all about confidence really as when starting out more fingers equal more grip and feel of control, however it also makes for more contact on the dart and increased chance of release issues.

I do feel it is important to go with what feels natural though from a throwing point of view as trying to emulate another players throw  has, for me at least proved to be 'unnatural'.

e.g. i have tried to emulate the following players throw (with their darts) .

here are are just a few of the players throws i have tried to emulate (using their darts):

1. John Lowe: Johns throw is perfect, however it just doesn't on any level for me.
2. Phil Taylor: Just couldn't get any consistency and didn't have confidence in it due to how little of dart i was holding (this was phase 1, 2 and 5)
3. Dennis Priestly: Ugh, the man is  Legend, how he can even hit the board with that grip and throw is beyond me???
4. Eric Bristow: Did have moderate success but god did i suffer from some off angle darts.
5. Raymond Van Barneveld: May as well have been deliberately throwing them off the board (Phase 1)
6. Leighton Rees: No idea how he managed to get near a T20?
7. Ted Hankey: Incredible darts in practice, however 14g darts just didn't work for me in a competitive environment!
8. Simon Whitlock: Just didn't work at any level!

as you can see, quite a variety and none of it worked for me.

What i have learned is that if it feels natural it will feel better and more confident and that involves rhythmic style that is not too dissimilar to MVG (without ever trying to copy). Every time i have tried to slow it down and think it hasn't worked!

This is just how it feels for me and the beauty of darts is that it offers a HUGE array of options and discovery.

anyway, just a quick update i hope everyone has a great day

All the best

Luke

19/10/2016: Age is irrelevant! if you love it. DO IT!!!! Lil Al you have inspired me!

Hi Guys

I have been inspired to post this by a forum member on the www.dartsnutz.net website

In particular Lil Al, a guy who despite being 80 is still going online, and still throwing darts

For me this is what its all about. I know i have posted about it before however i hate age being used to denigrate players for being 'past it', 'unable' to play or a reason for a decline in form.

Now i know this will apply to certain sports (boxing, mma, football etc), however in darts this is one of my BIGGEST pet peeves!

People bemoan Phil Taylor for declining due to "ahem" age when the reality is that he is still beating the best and  still putting up insane averages! The mans 56 and yet some players are retired in their 40's. In theory if age is a factor shouldn't every sub 50 player be beating Taylor?????  - utter nonsense!!!

The sport has seen some great performances by players 50-55+

Bob Anderson
John Lowe
Dennis Priestley
Paul Lim
Martin Adams
Phil Taylor

are just a few that spring to mind!

I think its never to late to start, get good and compete at darts, hell Bobby George didn't start till he was over 30 and recent high ranking PDC player Andrew Gilding didn't start till mid/late 30's!

Martin Adams is 60 and has said he wont stop, and why would he the guy is still fantastic (and won the Dutch open aged 59)???

If you love it, and still want to do it why should a date on a piece of paper dictate whether you can or not?, hell the Rolling stones are aged 69-75 and still touring........and whats more people STILL want to see them!

The bottom line is if someone in their 80's can play competitive darts, and plenty of players have competed into their 60's then its never to late!!!!!!!!

Lil Al - You have inspired me!

Update: 19/10/2016, the reason for my lack of posts

Hi guys

i have received a number of emails recently asking how i am and why my posts have reduced and how my darts are going.

I'll be honest with you, i haven't picked up a dart  properly in several weeks.

I have been struggling with a back issue that i'll be honest has hindered me since i started playing darts.

The injury originally stems from an accident at work some 7 years ago and re-aggravated about 3 years ago and forced me to quit bodybuilding. I basically have no intervertebral disk at L2 and have damage to the discs above at below it. This can result in severe pain and discomfort in everyday tasks let along leaning for darts.

This is in addition to damage to my shoulder, hips and knees from boxing, wrestling and lifting very heavy weights.

It is not something that is going to get better, and a fusion will see my range of motion completely limited so it is something i have to work around.

At the moment i am looking at alternatives. I have tried DDP yoga and that works very well however i need to work on ways to additionally strength the back, hip and knees areas without affecting my ability to throw a dart, as has the lack of hours in the day to practice due to work.

 I had intended 2016 to be a year where i played consistently, and this has probably been my worst year for playing darts since i started (only 3 years ago mind).

I am going to try and get myself darts fit as i would like to defend the Sutherland Cup for the third time as automatically qualify as a past winner and get back and beyond my best standard.

The thing is i'm not the kind of person whose happy to turn up to a competition or league match unprepared and unfit and lose to a player i should and would be beating. For me its no fun just turning up for a 'chuck about'.  I want to, no scrap that i need to win and i wont play unles si know i can give somewhere near my best.

anyway thank you for your emails

Take care and keep viewing

Luke

MASSIVE Unicorn Darts Clearance Sale! 60% off

BIG Announcement coming soon

You learn more from losing to a good player than thrashing a poor one!

Hi guys

havent been about for a few days as had about of food poisoning.

An interesting topic was raised on the www.dartsnutz.net forum by Dorian, and that was stepping put of your comfort zone.

This is 10000000% true.

If your playing in a small group of players chances are there's always 1 or 2 players who aren't very good (no shame there and just play for fun or to join in) and you look forward to playing them. You know  their game (lots of 26's and the occasional 100 that scares you briefly)  and that 99/100 your going to win and its comfortable.

Unfortunately whilst its good for the win record it doesn't do alot for your progress and you don't learn anything.

Now there will always be a few exceptions. Some days you will play a poor player and thrash them. checking out whilst leaving them still on 405 and you'll feel supreme, however if there's nothing to beat,you beat nothing! - wheres the kudos in that!

If you never intend to play league or competitions that's fine but if you do, one day your going to find yourself in a situation your not used to. Like a young boxer who has been fed a string of tomato cans on the way up its an acid test, the first real challenge and this is where you 'learn' about your game and also about yourself.

Its no shame losing to a good or very good player (let alone great), however if you lose to a poor one that's a different story. That will haunt you!

I've had matches where i'm sure i'm going to win, I've seen the draw or the player and it just hasn't set the adrenaline going. You go up and for whatever reason your play drags itself down to their level (or below). You get frustrated, "why am i losing to xxx, i cant their rubbish" goes through your head and then you get annoyed. the 45's that annoyed you are now 26's, and then you hit three 1's and you then watch the other guy hit an obscure double to take the lead! Unless you can re-adjust quick a loss will follow and you then go home in a bad mood wandering how a player whose never hit about 60 ever has just beaten you 3-0!

I think most have been there (more than will admit no doubt).

Now if you'd drawn a very good player, the adrenaline will be up, you'll be pumped up and this is where you'll learn about your game. Yes you may lose wide but if you gave it a good show no shame there. If you made it close, fantastic! if you win you go home feeling like you've just taken Taylor at the Worlds!

Its a completely different story! - and you'll have learned far, far more about how good you can really be and its all great experience!

I hate losing, that's a fact, however its also a fact that no player has never lost. Bristow, Taylor, Van Gerwen they have all lost. You cant get precious about it!  I would even go as far to say that one of my best performances came in a losing effort.

It was against a player who played for avery serious bunch of players who played for the Cob & Pen in Wallington, Fareham. They were a good bunch who loved their darts (and its a great little pub). These guys all looked the business and the team regularly did well in the league.

This was the match report from January 15:

Sober as a judge (as drove) it was 11pm by the time I got on (3 hours after arriving) and we were already 6-0 down (with only about 2 legs won all night). I was playing against a guy called Steve, a quality player. He was first off and landed the bull to start, feeling confident I stepped up and hit outer bull, so he was first up. What happened next was a quality leg. He got 80, I got 85, he got 60, I got 90, he got 100 I got 100. We carried on hitting 75+ scores to the point where the spectators were shouting  “this is TV darts’. I lost the first leg when he took out d4 after I’d had 6 darts to finish and wired d2 twice.  The second leg was equally high quality as I hit 100, several 60’s, 80’s and another 95. I eventually closed out on d1, when I again made a hash of my doubles.  The decider was on. I hit outer bull, and he hit just outside to give me the advantage. I started off with 45. And hit a few 45’s before another couple of 80’s, a 95 and a 76 left me on d16. Unfortunately I hit 8 to leave me d12. I wired d12 and he took out d2 to win a high quality game of darts.  I’d lost but it was a fantastic high quality game. Easily the match of the night and another match I should have won against a quality player.  It’s bizarre to lose a game and feel pleased but this was one of those occasions. This was one of my 3 best performances since starting (competitively) and this performance would have beaten any of my previous opponents this season. Overall the team lost by a 9-0 drubbing, our worst loss of the season, however I was actually elated. My performance(s) was heading in the right direction and back on track. Over a longer format I’m confident I would have won.

As you can see i lost yes but gained far more in defeat.

Day 2 of DDP yoga

Hi guys

Just finished my second session of DDP yoga!

'Stand up' is truly 33 minutes of intensity!

Feel great though. DDP is amazing, don't be fooled that this is some gimmick. Far from it the guys a genius!

I'd recommend to all!

DDP Yoga for darts!

Hi guys

I have decided to fully commit for 1 year just to see how far I can push it.

I cannot lift weights and play darts, it just doesn't work & my body is pretty torn up!

To repair this and give me the best chance I have  decided to re-dedicate myself to DDP yoga to restore flexibility repair damage and re-allign myself!

Hit 'Energy' for the first time in ages and it really kicked my ass!

I'll keep you posted how it goes!

I'm also putting the darts down until I've given myself a week to re-adjust!

Stay tuned people

23/7/2016: 180 with 12g brass

23/7/2016: 3 more wins

Hi guys

Played 3 best of 9s tonite 501 tonite

M1

Won 5-0
100s x3
140 x 1
180 x 1
C/o 34%
Ave:61.6

M2

Won 5-3
100s x7
C/o 26.3%
Ave: 56.8

M3

Won 5-0
100s x 4
140 x 1
C/o 31.2%
Ave: 55.3

Overall happy to win however I had some seriously dodgy legs where all I could get was 45. If it wasn't for a dodgy spell I would have averaged around 73-78

Not bad for someone who gave it a 4 month break

Comeback continues!

Hi guys

Based on my past win I got invited to play again tonite.

Played: 12 legs
Won: 12
180: 2
100+: 8
Highest out: 95
Checkout %: 34
Minimum dart leg: 18
Average dart leg: 20
Average; 68.3

Incredible that after such a long break I'm playing some of my best darts ever!

180 x 2

More 180s guys

Impromptu comeback sees a startling run of form!

Hi Guys

I have just got back from an impromptu 15 legs of darts.

I hadn't intended in playing however I got roped in to cover for a last minute drop out.

Now bare in mind I have picked up a dart for about 10 minutes in last 3-4 months!

Tonight though had made me have a re-think

It was best to 15 legs and I won all 15, hit over 100 12x, averaged a checkout of 31%, had a 19 dart leg, averaged 22 darts a leg, a high checkout of 89 and averaged 61!

At one point I was average 125 and then a steady 95 until i blew a few doubles.

I need to have a think as I may have something left!

21/6/16: a little update

Hi Guys

I am aware that my updates have been quite sparse recently. This has been down to work commitments, so i apologise for this. A BIG thank you to everyone who continues to view the blog and email me, it is much appreciated.

I must admit that i have barely picked the darts up in the last month or so, however the other night i  picked up the old faithful 12g brass and in a quick 10 minute throw hit

140 x 2
120 x 2
60 x 5
80 x 3
100 x 2

amongst a few awry 26'ers

i think this goes to show that once you have a certain level of proficiency it never completely goes,

anyway i hope everyone is doing well, please keep up the support, and i hope i have some more news for you soon!

Luke

180!!!!

180!!

Me and Darts Legend Raymond Van Barneveld

Me and Barney

Me and 3 x BDO World Champion & darts Legend Martin 'Wolfie' Adams

Me and Martin Adams

Please follow my blog: http://mydartinglife.blogspot.co.uk/?_sm_au_=iVVvVnlnWH6V7ZW3

Hi Guys

I am getting 1000's of hits but i need to turn this into followers,

Social media is such a BIG part of getting your name out there that if i can get the numbers high enough i will be able to attract even small sponsorship which will be enough to enable me to get to tournaments and get my name out there.

I want to fly the flag for all of us darts players who aren't 22 anymore and didn't go to 'darts school' or the youth setups but have done it the 'old school' way of pubs, and friends back rooms etc, and show that age is no barrier.

Ultimately if there is enough interest down the line i will do a youtube channel  and have footage of when i go to events, and what takes place etc.

So follow my blog i want you along for the ride:

http://mydartinglife.blogspot.co.uk/?_sm_au_=iVVvVnlnWH6V7ZW3

Luke

Getting Healthy: For Life and for Darts!, Stop the rot!

Hi Guys

This is abit of an appendix to my return to darts blog post. Really its concerning longevity and making the necessary adjustments to excel, stay in or continue with your chosen hobby or sport. In this case with me its darts.

Now during the everyday hustle and bustle of life in general it is easy (more like inevitable) to fall into bad habits, especially when working long hours, travelling or dealing with children and responsibilities (or all of them) where eating and health is concerned.

I am the biggest guilty party in this. I have been a bodybuilder, boxer and wrestler and know exactly what is good and bad for you. Its pretty simple really and nowadays you only have to google whats healthy and whats not and a plethora of information is there.

Now, did that stop me?????? of course not!!!!

 Sure i've talked a good talk before about being healthy and yes i gave up alcohol for 30 days in January and yes i have abstained from cola for a week or 2 etc etc etc however as with anything within a few weeks the convenience (and deliciousness) of crap food and drink reestablishes its grip on you and before you know it your in the same place.

I'll give you an example. A typical week for me would/could include:

1 Chinese Takeaway
1 Indian Takeaway
1 Dominos Pizza takeaway
McDonalds
KFC
Anywhere up to 40 cans + of 440ml 4% lager (maybe more)
Fried breakfasts
Pasties and pies at lunchtime
Gallons of coffee and cola

+ numerous bags of crisps, chocolate bars, ice creams

Incredibly despite this tsunami of unhealthy stuff (none consumed in moderation) i was still only around 215lbs (and looking in decent physical condition).  Unfortunately i felt hideously toxic inside, always felt rough, had a terrible complexion and generally just felt horrendously sluggish (the bodywork was covering an engine severely needing a service). Before i had always looked young for my age, but at 35 if anything i looked 40! I felt tired but couldn't sleep, i was irritable and whats more i had zero energy!

Now everything in moderation is fine, however mine was far from moderate and everything was to gluttonous excess. Now before i go any further i am not preaching or condemning any of that food. I love it and still do however when things go from a treat to a regular consumption that's when the accumulation of waste builds up.

Now when your 25 you can get away with it but there comes a time when you have to take precautions to ensure that you are still capable to do the stuff you love and this is why i realised that in order to be a better husband, father and darts player that i needed to get a grip of myself.

Now i'm not recommending this but i went cold turkey. I cut out:

Caffeine
Alcohol
Processed Sugar
Dairy
late night snacking
snacks
cola
excess takeaways

straight from my diet, and went on a diet of

breakfast: low sugar rice cereal (in water), banana, and pint of water
Lunch: healthy (no crisps)
Dinner: Healthy

with

1 gallon of water consumed throughout the day
1 fresh lemon squeezed into warm water and drank (daily) - just remember to rinse mouth out after as the acid can hurt your teeth
2 cups of green tea
handful of nuts when hungry

and light exercise

The first few days where harsh to say the least and a decidedly miserable experience, however and in a testament to just how amazing the human body is within 4 days i:

Already looked better
My clothes fit better
Lost weight
Was sleeping better
Had more energy
Complexion looked much better
toileting less
had more focus and clarity of thought
had a resting pulse of 58 (which is excellent for my age)


As soon as i picked up a dart i felt clearer and within 10 minutes of picking up my first dart in 6 weeks i narrowly missed a triple bull and hit a beautiful 180!!!

Now i know that if i carried on down the path i was unchecked this would have led to excess weight, health issues, stress on joints (back and knees)  and i probably would be a physical wreck by 40 and this would not only impact and affect the quality of my life with my family but also the level of darts i could play at/

Of course i will have the occasional takeaway and treat, however i want to be able to function and enjoy myself at 60 and be like Bob Anderson  was (and still is) with his darts.

So after all that was the message??

Well, id say its 'nip it in the bud' when you can! don't wait for the wheels to fall off the car before you fix it and it'll run better and last far longer!

Luke

Darts: Its my addiction!

Hi Guys

I just wanted to touch upon my blog post last night about coming back to darts.

I know i only quit, what 5-6 weeks ago which is nothing however the truth is that i have got darts in my system and have since 2013. Its 'in' me now and its something that i cant 'not do'.

I tried avoiding the forums, watching it on television or checking results online however like an addict i couldn't help myself.

I managed to avoid a few of the television events and then caught the PDC Premier League on SKY and that was it, i desperately wanted to pick up a set of darts their and then.

I managed to hold off but then low and behold before i knew it i was back checking the forums and watching it regularly and then last night i picked up the darts and within 10 minutes, cold and unpracticed i hit a double bull and narrowly missed a treble bull and then hit a great 180 and that feeling just came back!

I wont lie it feels great when you hit what your aiming for and hitting a 180 feels incredible. It is like a drug (at least for me) and too be brutally honest not something i ever want or feel i could give up and be happy with.

I posted a while ago that i was struggling to find practice time. Yes it is hard but when you truly love something you have to make sacrifices. If that is sleep, then so be it (last night's 180 was at 22:30).

I love the feel of competition and if some players can do great things at 40,50,60+ at 35 i'm sure i can give some players a difficult night

Darts is my addiction

Luke

Im back guys! New darts, new motivation, jump on board the Luke Express!!!

Hi guys

Im back!!!!!!

I cant give it up.

I am diving full speed ahead back into darts!

Just hit 180 cold and with new darts!

Genuinely looking forward to blasting past my best and beyond and catching up for lost time.

To everyone who follows and supports me please continue to do so it is much appreciated. I cant wait for you to be part of the journey!

Look out for lots more updates

Luke

Practice session: 4th February 2016, 180!!!!

Hi guys

Had a cracking practice tonight.

Just around the board on singles and then again finished with a cracking 180!

Im now getting that confidence that those 180s are going to come each session.

Finished witha  succession of 3 100s to round off a cracking 45 minutes!

My current darts setup

Hi guys

This is my current setup:

22g Andy Fordham gold titanium, customised.

Unicorn machina alu stem (short)

Harrows retina small standard

World Watch: Kevin Munch, Hitting Gold in Germany!

Hi Guys

I haven't done a world watch for a while so for my German followers i have decided to highlight 'The Banana' Kevin Munch.

Munch is currently ranked 164 in the BDO world rankings and has played in the PDC World championship, making the second round in 2012.

Proving that Max Hopp isn't the only top class German Player, Munch has won:

German Gold Cup: 2009,2015
Gemran National Championship 2010
PDC World German Qualifying Event in 2011.

As he gets more experience playing in the PDC and BDO European events, look for Munch to start making a name for himself soon.

Watch him in action below:

https://youtu.be/xNcSuXojMlk

Take Care

Luke

Why i use an older style dartboard!

Hi Guys

I received an email asking what kind of board i play on, so thought i would share en-masse.

I have used them all, Unicorn HD,  Winmau Blade 3 and 4 etc

and the borrd i use is...................................:

That's right a Winmau Masters board with with thicker wire and staples.

Now you may ask "why" i use one of these when there are new boards out with super fine razor wire??

The answer: Because this is the type of board the Legends used.

Think about it. The wire is thicker and inclusion of staples reduces the target area.  This means that you have to be more accurate and more focused about the target area.

Now come match time, when your playing on a blade 4 or Unicorn HD or other high end board with a technically larger target area it is going to pay dividends as your accuracy should be better and you have a bigger space to hit = win/win.

I have attached a link below to John Lowe discussing today's boards which inspired my decision:

https://youtu.be/ykWwZmuB73U

Take care

Luke

Make it fun!

Hi Guys

Just a quick one, that i kind of touched on, on a previous blog but didn't elaborate.

Whilst practice is essential and needs to be focused, it is also incredibly essential to 'mix it up' and throw some fun things in there as otherwise it can become a nightly repetition that gets stale, leads to apathy and then equals wasted time with nothing gained.

I like to throw some fun stuff in there each week as abit of a challenge, and you'd be surprised how effective it can be to your overall game.

I will share one for you now.

As you will remember, last (November 15) i decided to throw some random practice in and 1 such bit of fun was the 1 hour 1000 darts at bull challenge:

http://mydartinglife.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/my-1000-darts-at-bull-challenge-results.html?_sm_au_=irV3v50Nj8M1tNJr

abit of madness but ended up with my first ever triple bull (no easy feat with 25g Ton Machines) and i found as soon as i switched to T20, i hit 180 straight away and my focus on trebles was greatly improved.

I would advise those just starting to start with a 100 and work up e.g. 250,500,750 etc as it can be quite tiring and draining, and i wouldn't attempt this myself until a few months times.

I will throw a few more novelty games in at various points

Take care


Luke

Fitness for darts: 2016

Hi Guys

as part of my preparation this year i have altered my training routine to keep me fit, and in decent condition, but without fatiguing the muscles or altering muscle memory.

I have been guilty in the past of way over-training in the past and it has affected my darts.

Example: Hit the weights super heavy on Sunday and come Monday's match i was lucky to hit the board let alone what iw as aiming for.

I believe in training specifically for the chosen sport. In the same way that a shot putter would train differently to a boxer.

I use a resistance band (Bodylastics are the best), and no weights

Currently i am doing this:

Sessions: Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Band Colour: Orange (unless stated otherwise), for those below 200lbs i would recommend a blue,or black band.

Reps: 12
Sets 1

Back extensions (no resistance)
Wide Grip Pulldowns
Bent Rows
Bicep Curls
Chest Press
Tricep Pushdowns
Military press
Front Raise (Red band)
Side Raise (Red Band)
Squats
Lunges (each leg)
Side bends (each side)
Incline crunces: 50 reps
Leg Raises
Laying side leg raises (each leg)
Abb Roller

Rowing machine: 10 minutes (optional)

This whole routine (excluding rowing) should only take 15 minutes and each rep should be done slowly with a full range of motion. Remember the aim here is stretch, and contract the muscle in the correct manner and not build muscle or fatigue them. A good full-body workout is great for overall fitness and your general well-being.

Give it a go, it saves on gym fee's and whats more you wont risk affecting your darts.

Hope this helps

Kind Regards

Luke