Bristol's Prince Of Dartness claimed his first title of the year in Rosslare, beating fellow up-and-comer Shane Burgess in the final. Despite the confident aura which he tries to display, Mason admitted that it had come as a massive relief to win a tournament so soon after the disappointment he suffered at the Embassy Championship:
"It's a great boost after the recent disappointment during TV events, to lift not only my first Masters, but my first TV event as well."
For a long time now, Mason has been heralded as the 'next big thing' in the world of Darts. Armchair pundits and experts across the land, including Planet Darts regular Sid Waddell, have long been banging the drum that this cocky upstart was going to be a genuine star. Up to now though, despite his growing number of admirers, Mason's undoubted potential had yet to secure him a major title.
Many thought that his chance to establish himself as a major force within the sport, was at this year's Embassy Championship at Frimley Green. Some observers even went as far as to tip the twenty-nine year old as the pre-tournament favourite. Unfortunately though, despite a promising start to the tournament, he crashed out in the semi finals. By his own admission, Mason had failed to live up to expectations on the big stage and this was something which hurt him deeply.
The Irish Masters gave Mason the opportunity to remind the world of his credentials against some of the World's best players and, more importantly, in front of a television audience. This was not a chance that he was willing to forfeit without a struggle and his tenacity was eventually rewarded with an impressive victory.
Mason was visibly elated to have justified his unquestionable promise with a championship title:
"Picking this up has lifted a massive weight off my shoulders," he admitted. "I hadn't yet lifted a 'world' title and I've always been there or there abouts and very high in the World rankings. I'm absolutely delighted to have won this, but it's not over yet."
Mason now plans to continue visiting the major tournaments and will be hopeful of picking up further titles along the way, whilst he will also look to keep on top of his game by taking part in exhibitions around the world. Despite his success though, Mason is not the kind of sportsman who will be prepared to rest upon his laurels and there can be little doubt that this is seen merely as prep work before he launches his offensive upon the prize he covets more than any other - The World Matchplay Title.
