Beaton^s Blog: European Tour 1 Vienna, Austria 27th -29th April

I had an early start for Heathrow Airport Thursday morning and guess what, yes the flight was delayed…

When I eventually reached Austria, the sun was shining and not a cloud in sight.

I was glad to leave wind and rain battered Britain behind.

The tournament was being held at Arena Nova in Wiener, Neustadt, a great venue.

I played my first round on Friday afternoon and beat Mick Todd 6-3, my second game was Saturday evening against James Wade.

I lost that one 6-4, it was very nip and tuck for the first nine legs, then James pulled away from me.

I averaged 91.11 and James 91.24

I was disappointed but I know I am playing well so my time will come.

There were two nine darters during the new three day event, Michael Smith in his first round match against Jamie Caven and Simon Whitlock in his second round game against Joe Cullen.

Phil Taylor and Adrian Lewis didn’t make the tournament due to illness.

My congratulations goes to Justin Pipe, the eventual winner defeating James wade 6-3 in  the final.

I took advantage of the sunshine on Sunday and had a relaxing day before travelling home on Monday.

I’m now looking forward to the last two UK Open qualifiers in Birmingham this coming weekend and am hoping for a good run.

Happy Darting

Steve