Photo: PDC Europe
By Ryan Segal
Cameron Menzies says he wants to make it a 'weekend to remember' as he gears up for his World Cup of Darts debut. The 36 year old from Muirkirk is preparing to represent his country for the first time in the PDC, playing alongside fellow Unicorn thrower Gary Anderson for his beloved Scotland. Like fellow debutant Adam Leek, the anticipation is building - but the nerves are very much under control.
"I'm fine at the moment! Once I reach the airport, it'll become very real. But it's just about remaining as relaxed for as long as possible, and then going from there."
He's been playing some phenomenal darts on the stage in the last few weeks, reaching a maiden European Tour Semi-Final, and recording a new highest average on the circuit of 108.
After a self described 'tough' beginning to the campaign, he believes the recent run has done him a world of good ahead of his WCoD debut:
"It's definitely helped. It's still a bit inconsistent, but I'm putting in lots more good performances. It's obviously been a big help, as it's been a tough start to the season - but the form's coming in now. Hopefully I'll find a bit of magic this weekend, and make it one to remember."
As the only pairs event in the PDC calendar, some players may alter their approach - but not Cammy - who believes his experience, in addition to plenty of standard practice - will serve him well:
"I've changed nothing at all mate! I've been in my routine, playing a few of exhibitions and things like that recently, but nothing really changes. I know what you mean, as it's slower - but it's just something you need to get used to. I used to play doubles before - I used to be good scoring wise, but it's been years since I played it. It'll be fun, but I'm optimistic it'll go pretty well."
Scotland enter in the second round of the event - but, up until a few weeks ago, were destined to start in the group stage. Gerwyn Price's withdrawal from playing for Wales meant that the Tartan Titans were bumped up to 4th seed, and thus avoid the opening round. Whilst spared a potential R1 exit, it opens the door to face a team coming out of the group stage high on confidence - something Cammy has mulled over:
"You've hit the nail on the head there mate. We're into the second round, and we might have not go there anyways, so that's a bonus. But I know what you mean - The teams that qualify have won games and are high on confidence. I think it goes both ways, because doubles is so different. That said, it's whoever plays better on the day wins, and that's it."
You can shop the Cameron Menzies range via the Unicorn website.