The BDO (British Darts Organization) and the PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) are two of the biggest governing bodies in the sport of darts. Both organizations host major tournaments and competitions, but there are some key differences between them.
The BDO was founded in 1973 and is considered the original governing body of darts in the UK. It is focused on promoting the sport at a grassroots level and focuses on the traditional aspects of the game, such as the use of a sisal dartboard and the traditional “diamond” pattern on the board. The BDO also runs the World Professional Darts Championship, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments in the sport.
The PDC, on the other hand, was founded in 1992 by a group of players who felt that the BDO was not doing enough to promote the sport and its players. The PDC has a more modern and professional approach to the game, and focuses on promoting the sport to a wider audience through television coverage and high-profile tournaments. The PDC also uses a different type of dartboard, made of a material called “bristle” which is considered more durable and consistent than the traditional sisal dartboard. The PDC also runs the World Darts Championship, which is considered one of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport.
Both the BDO and the PDC have different rules, regulations and rankings systems, and the players are not allowed to participate in both organizations’ tournaments, that’s why many players choose to play in one or the other. The PDC tournaments tend to offer higher prize money and also attract more of the world’s top players.
In summary, the BDO and the PDC are two different governing bodies that have different approaches and focus on different aspects of the sport of darts. While both organizations host major tournaments and competitions, the PDC is considered to be more professional and has more global recognition.