Intermittent starting on a 1999 Mastercraft 42” riding mower

I have a 1999 Mastercraft 42” rider.

intermittent starts.

Mower work perfect last fall. Winterized it, removed battery. Put battery back in and difficulty in starting! Turning key sometimes will start? I have to release the blade from the disengaged to engaged and and disengage again, push on brake and sometimes will start. I may have to do this 3-4 times before I can get it to start.

any help is appreciated.???