Back in 1973, while bell-bottoms were still on-trend, the British Darts Organisation (BDO) was officially established. It wasn’t just about creating an organisation; it was about crafting a new chapter for darts in the UK.
The visionaries behind BDO were instrumental in turning darts into a professional sport. Founder Olly Croft and his fellow enthusiasts laid the groundwork for what would become a darting powerhouse. Their mission was clear: promote the game and elevate its profile.
BDO quickly became a beacon for darts enthusiasts. It not only organised competitions but also gave a platform for amateur players to shine. The organisation was key in bringing structure and recognition to the sport, paving the way for the world of professional darts we know today.
The influence of the BDO can’t be overstated. It played a major role in the transition of darts from bar room pastime to televised sport, capturing the imagination of audiences nationwide. This organisation’s efforts laid the foundation for a sporting revolution, maybe without even fully realising it at the time.
Pioneers and Legends: Iconic Players in BDO History
Darts isn’t just about hitting bullseyes. It’s about the legends who make the sport thrilling. Names like Phil Taylor and Martin Adams are forever etched in the history of the British Darts Organisation. These players didn’t just win matches; they captured hearts too.
Phil Taylor, often hailed as the greatest in the game, began his incredible journey here before moving to rival organisations. His precision and consistency were unmatched, setting standards few could aspire to reach. Taylor won his first two world titles out of his sixteen in the BDO defeating his protege Eric Bristow in 1990 and two years later in a very tense & dramatic sudden death win in 1992 against Mike Gregory in which he survived several match darts.
Then there’s Martin Adams, a true BDO stalwart. Known affectionately as “Wolfie,” his charismatic personality and memorable performances became a staple in BDO tournaments. Adams’ commitment to the organisation even during challenging times spoke volumes about his loyalty and passion. Martin went on to win three world titles in the BDO and three World Masters titles, cementing his legacy as a champion.
Eric Bristow, another iconic figure, helped elevate the sport, often lighting up the stage with his competitive spirit. His contributions went beyond his skill; he inspired a generation to pick up darts and aim high. Eric was very successful going on to win five BDO world titles.
The BDO didn’t just see male heroes. The story of Trina Gulliver, “The Golden Girl,” showcases female dominance in darts. Her numerous titles including ten World Championships and her accolades cemented her status as a legendary figure in the sport.
The unforgettable performances of these players weren’t just about titles. They showed an artistry of the sport, connecting fans worldwide and showcasing the BDO as a pivotal stage for emerging talent.
Darts Divided: Understanding the British Darts Organisation Split
When it comes to darts, the 1992 split is a major turning point. It shook the darting world by creating the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) as several top players left the BDO seeking better opportunities and brighter lights.
The split wasn’t just about a change in name. It symbolised a divide in approach and ambition. The BDO wanted to stick to its roots and original values, while the PDC aimed at making darts bigger, bolder, and more mainstream with higher stakes.
Internal conflicts also played a role. Differences in prize money, television rights, and player treatment contributed to the friction. The players that jumped ship felt the PDC could give them the global spotlight they craved.
For fans, the split initially meant choosing sides. Each organisation had its tournaments, stars, and broadcast deals. This divide, while initially troublesome, spurred innovation and growth in the sport, leading to the establishment of darts as a major event worldwide.
Sponsorship and media attention shifted towards the PDC, altering the landscape entirely. This shift affected the BDO’s ability to attract top talent, which inevitably impacted viewership and tournament prestige.
Darting Arenas: Types of Tournaments within the BDO
For anyone looking to understand the BDO’s role in darts, its tournaments are where things get exciting. The flagship event, the BDO World Championship, was a spectacle that brought together the best talents. This championship became a proving ground for future legends, a place where careers were forged under intense pressure.
Beyond the World Championship, the BDO organised many competitions like the World Masters and county-level events. These tournaments were known for their unique formats, testing players’ consistency, focus, and endurance.
For aspiring players, BDO tournaments were the ideal stepping stones. They offered invaluable stage experience, preparing players for the rigors of international competitions. They were crucial for promoting grassroots talent and bringing innovative darts styles to the fore.
Historic Venues and Their Significance to the BDO
The British Darts Organisation wasn’t just about players and tournaments. The venues where these events were held played a massive part in the charm and tradition of the game. In the early days of the World Championships, Jollees Cabaret Club in Stoke on Trent, UK hosted the event before moving on to The Lakeside Country Club in Frimley Green, Surrey, UK became known as the heart of the BDO. It wasn’t the biggest venue, but it was packed with atmosphere and history.
The Lakeside hosted countless unforgettable matches, marking the highs and lows of competitors’ careers. For many, playing there was a milestone, synonymous with prestige and tradition in the darts community.
Beyond Lakeside, BDO events graced other notable sites like the Indigo at The O2 and international venues, bringing the sport to a diverse group of fans. Each venue added its flair and energy, enriching the experience for players and spectators alike.
Television broadcast played a crucial role in popularising these venues. Many fans’ first glimpse of competitive darts was on TV, with Lakeside’s grand stage providing the backdrop. This visibility helped elevate the profile of the sport and the places hosting it.
These venues weren’t just stages; they were witnesses to countless stories of triumph, heartbreak, and excellence. They contributed significantly to the history of darts, leaving an indelible mark on the sport even after the BDO’s decline.
The End of an Era: Why the British Darts Organisation Ended and Its Enduring Legacy
In recent years, the darts community faced the hard truth of bidding farewell to the British Darts Organisation. Various challenges contributed to this turning point, with financial hurdles and dwindling media contracts leading the pack.
A major blow was the loss of key sponsorships and television deals. With media moving to cover events with larger audiences, the BDO found it tough to maintain visibility, leading to a drop in funding and recognition. This financial strain made it increasingly difficult for the organisation to sustain its operations.
The competitive appeal of rival organisations, primarily the PDC, posed additional obstacles. The shift of top talent and growing global audiences towards the PDC left the BDO struggling to attract the same level of attention and participation.
Despite these struggles, the legacy of the BDO is one of pioneering spirit and cultural impact. It nurtured talent and brought darts into the public eye, laying the groundwork for what darts is today. The story of BDO is rich with lessons about resilience, innovation, and the balance of tradition and progress.
The end might have come sooner than many hoped, but the memories and milestones created under its banner will remain influential. The narrative of the BDO serves as a reminder of the sport’s humble beginnings and the spirited drive that pushed darts into the spotlight.
For those who followed its journey, BDO’s legacy is about more than competitions—it’s the community it fostered and the excitement it brought to fans around the world. The BDO was dissolved in 2020