Emerging onto the darting landscape in 2014, the Isle of Man Darts Festival has steadily matured into one of the most cherished fixtures on the WDF calendar. Each year, an impressive procession of accomplished arrow-smiths undertake the approximate hundred-mile pilgrimage from mainland Britain or venture across the Irish Sea, converging upon the island with aspirations of silverware and prestige.
There is a certain poetic symmetry to the tournament’s setting. The flag of the Isle of Man (pictured) famously depicts three armoured legs arranged in perpetual motion, an emblem known as the triskelion. One might mischievously speculate that such a motif rendered the island predestined to become a sanctuary for darting excellence.
Even more curious is the island’s ancient motto, Quocunque jeceris stabit – a Latin proclamation translating to “whichever way you throw, it will stand.” For a sport defined by precision projectiles and unwavering balance, the phrase feels almost prophetically appropriate.
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Across its relatively young lifespan, the event has already welcomed a distinguished roll call of champions. Among them are two players who would later ascend to the Premier League Darts summit: Glen Durrant and Luke Littler. Their triumphs on Manx soil serve as further evidence that the Classic frequently attracts competitors of the highest calibre.
The tournament’s inaugural chapter was authored by Scott Waites, who etched his name into history by defeating James Hurrell in the final. Four years removed from conquering the Grand Slam of Darts, the Yorkshireman ensured his name would forever occupy the opening line of the event’s honour roll.
The women’s competition has proven equally illustrious. Russian trailblazer Anastasia Dobromyslova captured the very first title, overcoming Lisa Ashton in the final. Ashton would later return to secure the crown twice, a feat matched only by the prodigious Beau Greaves.
Chucky Chasing Isle of Man Darts Hattrick
In more recent instalments, Scotland’s Jim McEwan (above) has developed a particular fondness for Douglas, claiming the title on his last two visits and arriving this year with ambitions of completing an emphatic hat-trick. On the women’s side, 2025 witnessed a historic moment when Eve Watson became the first Welsh champion, defeating defending title-holder Vicky Pruim.
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As always, the stage is set for another fiercely contested weekend of tungsten theatre. Prestigious trophies await, reputations will be forged, and by Sunday evening two competitors will depart Douglas wearing the broadest of triumphant smiles.
—–ENDS—–
Images: World Senior Darts (in text)
