74
After 37 years, Peter still isn’t ‘board’ with darts Mildura Weekly – 30/08/13
By ADAM LUITJES PETER Maynard couldn’t wait for his 18th birthday. It meant his first beer, a full driver’s license – and his first game of pub darts. It was 1975 in Merbein, a social game of darts at the local Citizen’s Club was a popular pastime amongst regulars, and Peter was eager to join in the action. “It was a different era back then,” he said. “Everyone used to go down to the local club and play darts, but you had to be an adult to play. “I still remember playing my first game on my 18th birthday, and here am still enjoying playing 37 years later.” The 55-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in Sunraysia, having won numerous singles, doubles and team titles, but he says he enjoys the social aspect more than the victories. “I forget about all the wins,” Peter said. “I have been lucky enough to win a few trophies over my time, but the main reason I stay involved is the social side. “Through darts I have met a wide range of people, and been fortunate to make some great friends along the way.” Along with his successful record in Sunraysia, Peter has also competed with success in Broken Hill, Swan Hill and Balranald, but his greatest moment came when he played Aus-
www.milduraweekly.com.au
Photo: DARREN SEILER
tralia’s best player Simon Whitlock in 2009. “Playing Simon would be the highlight of my career,” Peter said. “He came here ranked number one in the world, and I got a chance to test myself against him in Mildura… it was a special experience. “I was able to beat him in one game, which I was happy with, and I found out two weeks later he finished second in the world titles, so I can say I beat a world class player.” For decades Peter has been actively involved in the Sunraysia Darts League, including a five year stint as president, and he says there has been a dramatic increase in participants in recent years. “We seem to always be attracting new players,” he said. “The biggest appeal of darts is that it’s such an inexpensive sport…all you need to buy is a set of darts for $25, and start playing. “Currently we have 110 members ranging from 14 to 75, so we really welcome anyone who has an interest… we want to see the sport keep growing in the future.” The Sunraysia Darts League consists of seven teams, and is based at the Merbein Citizen’s Club, with games played at 8pm every Wednesday. More information on the Sunraysia Darts League is available by contacting 5021 2973 or 0418 505 868.
Connor continues winning run in the ring IRYMPLE boxing sensation Connor Tyson, 14, has added another title to his already impressive trophy cabinet, winning the RIPPT Challenge Championship in Adelaide. Attending the recent South Australian open event to further improve his skills and overall experience, Connor said he had been happy – and even pleasantly surprised – to walk away with the title. “I actually didn’t know that my fight was for the RIPPT Challenge belt until I got there, which in a way probably helped,” he said. “It meant that I could just prepare for the fight with no pressure. “I had been pretty happy with my form and training schedule leading into the fight, and to walk away with the title was a great result. “It was a great fight.” Connor has enjoyed a steady rise to the top of the boxing ranks since taking up the sport, with his hard work culminating in winning the South Australian and Australian novice boxing titles earlier this year.
“The last few months have been really good,” Connor said. “I feel like I have improved as a boxer, and I am really confident in my ability.” Connor – who is coached by his father Rick at the family-run Tyson Boxing Club – said he was looking to continue his winning run over the coming months, while continuing to train and work hard. “Working with dad has been great, and being able to train at home in my own backyard (where the Tyson Boxing Club is located) has also been a big help with my development,” he said. “I’m currently training three to four times a week, while running every day. “My goal with training to is to keep working on the technical side of my game, while continuing to keep my fitness levels high.” Connor said he would now set his sights on a return to the South Australian and Australian Titles. “I would love to win both titles for the second year running,” he said. “I know if I keep working hard I’ll get that opportunity.”