Usher sets his sights on Q-School

Scarborough darts ace Graham Usher is hoping to return to the PDC qualifying school in January, with his eyes firmly set on earning a tour card.

Qualifying school is held every year, with darts players hoping to earn a tour card. Having missed out in January, Usher has spent his time playing online darts against other players and has seen his game improve.

He said: “I think my game has got better because I’ve been spending time at home and not going out.

“It’s been strange, I must admit, being back playing on the floor with someone stood next to you.

“It’s a hard thing to get used to, but I’ve really enjoyed it and it’s been great to be a part of.”

The Scarborough News spoke to Usher at the end of 2020, with the player hoping for a bumber 2021.

“Scarborough darts player Graham Usher has admitted that 2020 was a huge learning experience for himself and he hopes that 2021 has the making of a very successful year.”

Sadly, the ongoing pandemic was frustrating for Usher, limiting him to practice sessions and live stream matches.

But the 2019 Lincolnshire Open champion, is starting to hit form at the right time, with an impressive run at the Online Darts Live League which saw him qualify for finals week.

“I would definitely like to give Q-school another go and I’m 80% sure I’ll be there, but it all depends on my financial position.

“Having said that, with the online darts league, it’s just going to get bigger and bigger and I’m not sure whether to concentrate on that and just take part in the challenge tour.

“Even if I finish high up in the qualifying, but don’t get my tour card, I’ll still get invites into the pro tour events which would be a positive for me."

The 48-year-old is hoping to rub shoulders with the likes of world number one Gerwyn Price and Micheal Van Gerwen. But would need that illusive tour card, if his dream was to come true.

He added: “It would be amazing, and I’ve been lucky enough to get an invite and play against some of the best players in the world.

“It’s a different level and your consistency has to be on it every leg.