Darting star Simon Whitlock is confident his wait for a second career major will come to an end during a packed conclusion to 2013.
The 44-year-old Australian is eager to add to his 2012 European Championship success and has his sights on the five big tournaments on the calendar between now and the end of the year, starting with next week’s World Grand Prix in Dublin.
Since the last televised major in the UK – the World Matchplay in July – Whitlock has reached the semi-finals of the Sydney and German Masters and the ‘Wizard’ believes his form makes him a strong contender for the forthcoming events.
“It’s a massive time of year for all the players with big tournaments leading up to the World Championships at Christmas and I’m really confident,” said Whitlock, who is sponsored by leading paint manufacturer Leyland Paints.
“I’m throwing well and looking forward to the tournaments.
“The standard at the moment amongst all the players is exceptional but I feel as though I’m in good enough form to win events.”
Whitlock begins his quest for glory in the double-in-double-out format in Dublin with a first round meeting with Northern Ireland’s Michael Mansell on Monday night.
And with the opening round of matches being over the sprint format of best of three sets, Whitlock knows a slow start will be heavily punished.
“Michael’s a good player and the short format makes it tough for everybody,” added the world number four.
“If you don’t get off on your starting doubles it’s going to be a real struggle and you have to come out the blocks well.
“Making sure I’m sharp on the doubles has been a big priority for me in the lead up to this tournament.”
Article courtesy of Leyland Paints, founded in 1922 and has a long and distinguished history as a manufacturer and supplier of decorative paints and sundries, particularly targeted at tradesmen.