Big kid James Wade proud of longevity ahead of brush with darts cement mixer
Well, that didn’t go to plan! I was really looking forward to the World Grand Prix and felt that my game was in a good place, but I got on stage and had 10 minutes where I couldn’t make anything happen in my first round match against Martin Lukeman. Unfortunately, you cannot recover from that in such a short format.
Finishing is really my forte, but I struggled to open the legs with a double and when you give away the opening set in a best of three it leaves a mountain to climb. I did nearly climb it, taking the second set and then having a match dart, but ultimately I didn’t do enough to win.
One thing that did make me proud was to hear the stat that I have now appeared in more PDC majors than any player ever. I think this shows my longevity in a game where people tend to have spells of form and then disappear.
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In the words of Elton John, ‘I’m Still Standing’ and I am hoping to be around for a little while longer. It is nice to hear people saying that they are glad I am still at the top as I feel like a link between the past and the present of PDC darts. It is certainly fun to have duelled with the likes of Phil Taylor and now going head-to-head with the new talent.
This is also a good time to congratulate Michael van Gerwen on another job well done. MVG has certainly not been as dominant in recent years, but he has won the Premier League, the World Matchplay and the World Grand Prix this year, and that is some achievement.
I didn’t have to too long to dwell on my disappointing exit, as this week was Arthur’s birthday and sees me penning this column from Disneyland Paris. I must admit that I was a little sceptical about whether I was going to enjoy the experience, but the small child in me has taken over (some would say it is always in charge) and we are having a great time.
Most importantly, Arthur loves it and it is a rare chance to spend some quality time with my family. I feel very blessed to be able to do so.
Once back my head is going to be spinning next week, namely thanks to a ridiculous game invented by one of my sponsors and the fact that I have a run of Players Championship events.
I am opening a Jewson branch in Wigan on Wednesday and that means another episode with their dreaded cement mixer dartboard which looks great fun but gives me motion sickness. If you fancy seeing me turn green, I will be at the branch from midday until 2pm.
Can James Wade win one of the upcoming majors? Tell us in the comments section below.
I will then head to Barnsley for a run of Players Championship events. My aim is to build up a good vein of form ahead of the crucial qualifiers for the Grand Slam of Darts in Wolverhampton next month.
Anyway, I’m off to have dinner with Mickey Mouse (don’t tell Sammi I call her that!).
Wadey
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