Новости Unicorn

The 39-year-old publican from Stoke has shot into the limelight over the last seven months, coming from absolutely nowhere to claim a coveted place in the World’s top 32.

“I am pinching myself at the moment,” admitted Hamilton. “When I was approached by Unicorn Managing Director Edward Lowy at Blackpool, I couldn’t believe it. It is great to be noticed and a great honour to be involved with Team Unicorn.”

“The Hammer” becomes a Unicorn Contender, along with James Wade, Adrian Lewis, Wes Newton and Michael Barnard, after displaying the talents that many people believe will lead to major titles.

After beating Raymond Van Barneveld in the Blackpool qualifiers, he produced some brilliant darts to reach the semi-finals at The Winter Gardens. Hamilton claimed some big scalps – disposing of Team Unicorn stars Peter Manley and Adrian Lewis, before beating Wayne Mardle in the quarter-finals.

But for missed doubles at crucial times, he could well have beaten Phil Taylor in the semi-finals…..eventually losing a classic 17 legs to 11.

“It is amazing….one week has changed my darting life and I intend to make the most of it and win big titles,” he said.

Hamilton first shot to prominence at this year’s World Championships, when as a qualifier he reached the last 16 – losing to Taylor again, despite a 98 average.

He is now world ranked No.29 and provisionally No.21 in the Order of Merit. He has come to top flight darts late in life but is sure to cause quite a stir over the next few years.

With the help of Unicorn, Hamilton now plans to turn full-time professional in September. “I now have a manager at the Skylark Pub,” he explained. “I will still own the pub – it is my home now – but I believe I have the ability to succeed and darts must and will come first.”

He seems to thrive under the pressure of the big stage and the way things are going, he is a certainty to claim a place in the top 16 when the new money list replaces the current ranking system in January.

The King Henry VIII look-alike will be a valuable addition to the king of darts manufacturers.

BY STUART PYKE