How to Organise a Darts Tournament

Running a bar with dartboards or part of a darts club? Organising a tournament is a great way to bring your venue to life and build a community. Here's a step-by-step guide.

1. Choose Your Format

Single Elimination (KO)

The simplest format: players face off in pairs, the loser is eliminated. Quick and exciting for small groups (8–16 players).

Group Stage + Knockout

Players are split into groups of 3 or 4. Everyone plays the others in their group. The top players advance to a knockout bracket. Ideal for 12–32 players.

Round Robin

Everyone plays everyone. Rankings are based on points. Takes longer but is fairer. Best for small groups (6–10 players).

2. Set the Rules

• Game format: 501 double out (most common)
• Legs: Best of 3 in groups, Best of 5 in knockout stages
• Throwing distance: 2.37m from the board (world standard)
• Throwing order: coin toss or "nearest the bull"

3. Equipment Needed

• Boards: at least 2 boards in good condition (bristle, not electronic for serious play)
• Lighting: proper lighting above each board
• Scoreboard: whiteboard, scoring app, or paper board
• Spare darts: for players who don't have their own
• Oche: clear throwing line (floor tape or raised oche)

4. Manage Registration

Set a maximum number of participants and offer advance registration. You can use:

• An online form (Google Forms, etc.)
• The FindMyDarts app to list your tournament and manage sign-ups
• A simple sign-up sheet at the bar

Tip: charge a small entry fee (€5–10) to ensure attendance and build a prize pool.

5. Plan the Schedule

Indicative timing (16 players, KO format)

Have at least 2 boards to run matches in parallel.

6. Prizes

• Trophy or medal for the podium
• Bar vouchers
• Cash prize (from entry fees)
• XP points and badges via FindMyDarts!

7. Promote Your Tournament

• List your tournament on FindMyDarts to reach players in your area
• Share on the bar's social media
• Put up a poster in the venue
• Word of mouth: invite the regulars

8. On the Day

1. Welcome players and verify registrations
2. Draw the bracket
3. Explain the rules clearly
4. Assign a referee or marshal per board
5. Start matches and display results in real-time
6. Prize ceremony and group photo!

Organiser's Checklist

• Boards checked and in good condition
• Proper lighting
• Spare darts available
• Match display board
• Registrations closed before start
• Draw completed
• Rules communicated to all
• Prizes ready

With FindMyDarts, list your tournament and let players in your area find you. More visibility, more participants, more atmosphere!