Canadian darts legend John Part has reflected on his memories of the World Matchplay at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, describing the sweltering conditions that players faced in the early years of the event. Speaking ahead of this year's tournament, the three-time world champion recalled how the heat and the presence of smoking fans created a challenging environment, with a 'lack of oxygen' making it gruelling at times.
Part, a member of the Sky Sports commentary team, also looked back on his perfect nine-darter at the 2011 World Matchplay against Mark Webster. Despite losing the match 10-8, Part said the achievement felt extra special because it came in front of what he considers the most knowledgeable fans in darts.
The Canadian twice finished runner-up in the tournament, losing to Phil Taylor in an epic 2002 final 18-16 and to Colin Lloyd in the 2005 final. Part recalled the 'breathtaking' atmosphere of playing in finals at the Winter Gardens and noted the mental effort required to overcome the sport's greatest player.
In the 2005 quarter-finals, Part defeated Phil Taylor, one of only a handful of players to do so at the venue. However, he admitted that beating Taylor was draining and that he never felt the trophy was his until the final was won, having seen opponents benefit from his victories over the Power in the past.
