PUMA MASTERS 2007
NEW ZEALAND

Our journey across to the long white cloud had begun for the 5th year in a row. The flight was pretty good for a change, quiet smooth. But as per usual the short runway at Palmerston North has a lot to be desired. My feet are getting sore by helping the pilot put on the brakes. Mind you tweetie, Sylvester, bugs bunny and all the cartoon characters that were painted on the outside of the plane moved a couple of feet. That's how fast we stopped.

Tony David and Natalie Carter had already arrived via Wellington a few days early. Which was handy for us, no car hire Tony picked us up from the airport. Our nightly meals were taken care of with advanced bookings at the pub. The meals are absolutely beautiful. Large plates full of lovely food.

Our entertainment other than playing darts was our nightly card games. UP THE HILL DOWN THE HILL. Tony was in charge of setting the chairs right. We all had our favorite positions. My job was to keep the Baileys and Butternut snaps flowing. So I was closet to the fridge. My wife Jo-anne was the co-coordinator and manager. Which she had the softest chair.

Nat's job was to deal the cards properly but sometimes I had a sneak preview.

Notice the wine glass? It was never knocked over and fancy dealing by Nat was her speciallity.

Once again we were welcomed with open arms from all our Kiwi friends. Catching up on the latest gossip and darting achievements.

Saturday was the start of the doubles with Tony and Wayne winning. [below]

Natalie and I once again faulted at the final and went down 4-1. Next year girls watch out.

Singles day was very hard. Every year the darting talent displayed by all the competitors are improving so much. My matches all day was of a very high standard. Well done girls. A special thanks to the girls who patiently waited for me half way through our round robin sheet. I was called away to do an interview and some photo's. (I asked him to take at least 10 years off me but it did not work). Janette thank you once again for the hard match in the final. We always have top matches.

A few photo's at the venue.