Gary 'Big Robbo' Robson
17th March 2007
DartsMad - Hi Gary, thanks for taking time to speak to us. This interview is split into four parts – your current form and aspirations, a bit about the UK Open, then some questions specific to you, and lastly some random lucky dip questions. We asked for input from people on the various forums so there may be one or two questions from darts fans thrown in as well. First up, how did 2006 go for you? And were you happy with it?
Gary Robson - 2006 was a bad year for me, I didn’t play well for most of the year. I think I got a little bit lazy and spent more time doing exhibitions in Holland.
DM - How’s 2007 going for you so far?
GR - Its going ok, I played the Lakeside and played well. In fact I thought it could have been mine this year but I blew it in the last 8. I’ve just won the Isle Of Man Open and hope to build on that.
DM - Have you set yourself any targets for this year?
GR - Not really, if I could pick up a few more titles then that would do me.
DM - Where do you hope to be this time next year?
GR – It’s hard to say, things are changing in darts at this moment in time. I don’t think anybody could say where they’ll be next year.
DM - What are the reasons for you entering the regional qualifiers? Is it just for the prize money or are you trying to qualify for the finals in Bolton?
GR - Darts is darts and I play where I can. Yes the money’s good and its good to see some of my old mates.
DM - What’s your record like in the UK Open? How did you do last year? What is your aim this year?
GR - I’ve only played in two UK opens, both this year. I got beat first round in Scotland and the last 16 in Bristol.
DM - For me, one of the most intriguing tourneys of ‘yesteryear’ was the NOTW. The short format and openness of it was fascinating and made it extremely difficult to win. Did you ever get to play in it? If so, how did you find it? If not, would you have liked to? And how do you think it compares to the UK Open?
GR - I never got to play in it, which was a shame. I would have loved it I’m sure. You had to play from 8 foot which would have been different. UK Opens I think are great – similar but with a longer format. Longer formats are better than short ones in my opinion.
DM - You just mentioned that you recently became the ‘Manx King of Darts’. You must be in a bit of form?
GR - I’m playing well like I say. I changed a few things in my life to concentrate on the darts more and it seems to be working. Ask me again in 6 months!
DM – Here’s a question from a fan. “I’d be interested in any of the players who combine going on the circuit and practicing with another job & how they do it like Andy Hamilton or Terry Jenkins.” – Big Bad Bri (SoD forum)
GR - Believe it or not sometimes it’s easier to work and play darts. It stops you getting bored. When you go to the darts you focus a lot more and working takes the monotony out of playing all the time.
DM – And another from the same person. “And it would be interesting to hear a little more from the top BDO pro players like Gary Robson and John Walton about where they see darts going over the next few years?” – Big Bad Bri
GR - I think the only way for darts is forward. It gets bigger by the day. I don’t know how things will end up between the PDC and the BDO, I only hope that whatever happens will be good for the sport and the players.
DM – Good man. Now for your lucky dip questions…
DM - Do you get recognised in the street?
GR – I do yes – more so in Holland than here in the UK. I do a lot of exhibitions over there.
DM - Premier League crowds – discuss.
GR - A little bit noisy for my liking but the boys seem to play with it ok.
DM - When I’m at home I relax by picking up my darts and having a chuck. What do you do to switch off from your ‘day job’?
GR - I like watching movies. I think I’ve seen nearly everything that’s ever been made!
DM - Best nickname is darts? Worst nickname is darts?
GR - The Dazzler is great and the worst Big Robbo! Haha! Someones telling lies!
DM – Thanks Gary. Good luck for the coming months, we’ll speak to you again in the near future.
