Hylton^s Frequent Flyer - March 2012
PDC
Another mixed month would be a fair summary of March, whilst not going as well as I would have liked there have been one or two moments of success. Reading kicked of with a very tough match against the in form Micheal Barnard, I was a little inconsistent in the middle of the game whereas Mike was totally solid throughout and deserved the win. The next day was a little better, a patchy game against Stuart Kellett, but I came through strongly with a 12 dart last leg. Tony Littleton was next and unfortunately for Tony I started strongly and he was a little nervous, he came on strong when he had settled but I was always clear and won nicely. Simon Whitlock proved too strong on the day in the board final but as he reminded me that just makes it 1 all between us. The next two UK Opens were tough with the open draw handing me pre lims number 3 and 4 against Wayne Jones and then Wez Newton. Despite playing pretty well against Wayne I still ended up with nothing from the weekend! It has been a tough time recently and I shall be going back to the gym (Rocky style!) and working with Team Hylton to get back toward where I want to be.
The 3rd Way – Open Events
More events are available to all this year with The Harlow GP series and the EDO doing the England GP around the Country. In addition the usual plethora of smaller independent events are still going strong. Dan Russell claimed the England GP in Southampton. The Leicester City Open was another quality field with Jabba, myself and Kevin Mcdine all doing well. Kevin winning the event. Sutton Coldfield’s 1st Friday Event was reclaimed by yours truly and the 4th Friday Event went to Nik “Hero” Fulwell. Others in fine form around the country in Opens include Dave Jolly & Ian “Whippett” Jones. I suggest an eye on these guys over the year.
In Your Corner
So far we have had, drivers, practice partners and commercial sponsors in this section. Now a mention for partners, whether they are wives, girlfriends or significant others! It is often underestimated the influence that can be had by the darters closest supporter. Many a darter has had a dip in form or a poor result due to family matters or other distractions. A supportive partner can remove the normal stresses and strains and allow the player to focus completely on darts. Tact, subtlety and complete belief and positivity can be of vital importance. Also the occasional kick up the backside can sometimes only be delivered by the closest person. It is vital though that they fully understand the commitment required and are prepared to sacrifice as much as the player.
Unsung Heroes
Dennis Stokes is this months closet darts servant, Dennis has been playing and supporting the game for many years. From setting records in Darting Marathons in the 1980’s through to playing roles in the promotion of the game via magazines and multimedia work over the last few years. Barely an event goes by in the darting world, especially in the midland or Birmingham area that Dennis does not attend or influence in some way. He has operated 100’s of darting events at venues all over the country and has helped provide a whole virtual circuit for amateur and semi pro darters. Together with Double16.com a road show of events and information is constantly available covering all area’s of darts, PDC, BDO, County, Youth, Charity and Fun Darts Dennis is involved in reporting promoting or just attending purely for the enjoyment of the game. No mention of Dennis would be complete without acknowledgment of his partner Gill (known as Baggie Gill due to her football passions). Almost always at his side and even stepping in to the breach when Dennis is indisposed. It is with great surety that I venture this particular unsung hero will be contributing to darts for many years yet. Dennis also presents quizzes and other events to raise funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, best of luck to Dennis and Gill with all their activities.