Cayden Smith produced a star-making performance at the Welsh Classic over the weekend by
reaching the-finals of one of the WDF’s most prestigious weekend events. Having seen off fellow
Team360 star Jack Nankervis in the early rounds, Smith defeated former World Championship
qualifier Aaron Turner in the last 16. Smith then produced his sixth 80 plus average of the to reach
the final four where he was eventually defeated by the experienced Carl Wilkinson.
It was also a hugely positive weekend in Wales for Fabian Tapner who reached the final of the youth
event in his home nation. Tapner produced a stunning performance to see off Sophie McKinlay in
the semi-finals, and was ever so close to claiming the trophy as he lost a deciding leg to Mason Teese
in the final.
The aforementioned McKinlay would be the kryptonite for Hannah Meek throughout the weekend,
losing out to the young Scot in the girl’s open semi-finals and the last 32 of the Welsh Classic. Meek
showed some steady displays on throughout the weekend which included a 71 average in defeat to
Lorraine Hyde.
Jack Nankervis would seal the deal for Team360 as he claimed the Welsh Open boy’s title with a win
over the highly thought of Jenson Walker. Nankervis rallied after defeat in the pairs and classic
events to add his name to the roll of honour with a 4-3 win over Walker.
Away from Wales, young Ryan Branley took the headlines in the North-East. Branley had been
making his name on the ADC circuit in recent months and was crowned the vault champion at the
weekend with a win over Karl Coleman, who heaped praise on the youngster following their
encounter.
