Elton John inspiring James Wade to climb back up darts ranking again
As I have mentioned before, 2023 is my 20th year on the PDC circuit. In that time I have had some well-documented highs and lows, but I genuinely believe I am in a great position to hit new heights.
From July, I will be ready for a renewed push towards the top of the darts rankings. A lot of pieces have fallen into place in my life that make me really believe in what I am doing and the reasons I am doing it.
One of the outwardly noticeable changes will be the introduction of a new walk-on anthem in the shape of Elton John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’, which feels massively appropriate given the challenges I have faced and the way the sport has changed since I first arrived on the scene.
It is also a nod to the mental health charities that I am constantly looking to support and publicise, particularly Bipolar UK who have asked that I talk openly about my battles and the ability to work through them. I want people to see my walk-ons as a triumph in survival and a rallying cry to challenge yourself and persuade yourself that you can do things that make you uncomfortable.
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The lyrics are scarily pertinent to me. I think I need to have a bit of a darts ‘mask’ in order to survive being on stage under that spotlight (some would say it’s a slightly miserable mask sometimes, but I do try) as it can definitely feel like a lonely place when things are going against you. I’m also hoping this ‘look at me, I’m coming back’ approach is going to be reflected in my 2023 PDC season and the start of phase two of my darting career.
I have a wonderful young family, a hugely supportive team around me and I am starting to get opportunities to really help people and talk about my life experiences. ‘Feeling like a little kid’ is probably a good description of the enthusiasm I have gained through all those things.
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(Image: PDC)
I am fortunate that my team have some connections with Elton (my people know his people, you know) and I am led to believe that he likes the idea of me using the tune, particularly as it was written after defying his own demons.
Samantha and I went to see his farewell tour and he is a simply brilliant musician who has lost none of his ability over the years. It’s safe to say I don’t expect to be still at the oche at the age of 76 like he is!
The final reason – if you still need persuading – is that my son Arthur loves ‘I’m Still Standing’ and can’t stop singing it. So I know, as the years pass by, there will be at least one person singing along in the crowd!
(Image: Getty Images)
On the darts, I am practicing a lot and starting to really build some confidence. I am playing well and am itching for the opportunity to show it in a top-class competitive environment.
I am envious of Rob Cross and Michael Smith as I loved being in the England team for the World Cup of Darts and I look forward to putting myself in a position to represent my country again.
What’s that you say? Did you think this fool could never win? I’m still standing and that’s a good start!
Take care of yourselves and others.
Wadey
