Dart Competition and Standard Venue Setup

Basic Equipment Requirements for Dart Competition

Choosing the Dartboard

Type: International standard dart competitions typically use bristle dartboards, made from compressed sisal fibers. These boards are highly durable and self-healing, meaning dart holes do not remain on the surface for long periods.

Size: The standard dartboard diameter is 17¾ inches (about 45 cm), with the bullseye measuring 1.73 inches (about 4.4 cm) in diameter. The sections and rings on the dartboard must meet the regulated dimensions to ensure fair competition.
Dart Specifications

Weight: Darts generally weigh between 12 grams and 50 grams, with the most common weight used in competitions being 18 to 26 grams. Competition darts must meet the relevant weight requirements, and players should select the appropriate weight based on their own preferences.
Length: The total length of the dart should not exceed 30.5 cm. The flight, shaft, and barrel length must be properly balanced to ensure stable and consistent flight.

Standard Venue Setup for Dart Competition

Dartboard Mounting Height

Both the World Darts Federation (WDF) and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) require the dartboard's bullseye to be mounted at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor. This height ensures a consistent experience for players across different events and provides an optimal throwing angle.

Throwing Distance

In dart competitions, players throw from behind a designated throwing line. The standard throwing distance is 7 feet 9¼ inches (2.37 meters) from the dartboard. A throwing mat or clearly marked line should be placed on the ground to indicate this distance.
Design of the Throwing Area

The throwing area should provide enough space to ensure that players are not disturbed by others during their throws. The setup should allow for at least 1.5 meters of clearance behind the throwing line to facilitate player movement and positioning.
For major tournaments, a specialized non-slip mat is often laid in the throwing area to help players maintain a stable stance and protect the venue's flooring.

Lighting and Environmental Requirements

Lighting

The dartboard must be properly illuminated with lighting that evenly covers the entire surface without creating shadows or glare that might distract players. The standard brightness for dartboard lighting is typically at least 1000 lux, ensuring players can clearly see each section.

Circular LED lights or specially designed dartboard lighting systems are commonly used in dart competitions to provide uniform, bright light without being too harsh or reflective.

Ventilation and Noise Control

The venue should be well-ventilated to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for players, avoiding any humidity or dryness that might affect the dart’s flight.
Noise control is essential, especially in high-level competitions where external sounds could disrupt the players' concentration. The venue should implement soundproofing measures to ensure a quiet environment during matches.

Other Important Venue Considerations

Spectator Area

The spectator area should be clearly separated from the competition area to ensure the safety and viewing comfort of the audience. Depending on the scale of the event, seating for spectators should be positioned to the sides or behind the dartboard without interfering with the players' line of sight.

Larger events often feature LED screens or projection systems to allow spectators to follow the score and player performances in real time.

Judging and Scoring Systems

Professional dart competitions typically have referees and automated scoring systems to ensure accurate and real-time scoring. Referees should be positioned to the side and behind the dartboard, where they have a clear view of the dart’s landing without obstructing the player.

Considerations for Venue Setup

Safety

The competition venue must ensure safety, especially in amateur matches where the participants may not be as experienced. Clear zoning and protective measures should be in place to prevent darts from injuring spectators. For amateur events, ensure that both players and spectators maintain a safe distance.

Movable Dartboard Stands

For temporary tournaments or venues with different layout needs, using mobile dartboard stands can provide flexibility. These stands allow quick adjustments to the dartboard's height and position to suit different venue conditions.

Conclusion

The standard setup for dart competition venues ensures fair competition, enhances player performance, and improves the spectator experience. From dartboard mounting height and throwing distance to lighting and environmental control, each detail is crucial. For event organizers, adhering to these standards creates a professional dart competition environment that ensures smooth gameplay and attracts more players and spectators to participate. SKIPJACK, the darts factory, provides high-quality, customizable solutions like custom dart boards, perfect for creating a professional and engaging atmosphere for any darts competition.