"The Voice of Darts" is coming to 'Paradise'!!!
Russ Bay was inducted into the Professional Darts Corporation Hall of Fame on January 3, 2024. For 25 years, Russ with his booming gravelly voice has called for the PDC. He will fill this exciting role at the Dartoid’s “Darts in Paradise” tournament and festival from the quarter finals on and participate in lucks of the draw.
An Accident Becomes History
Much like so many players’ stories - those who got hooked after being asked to substitute in a pub - Russ’ calling career began one night when the regular caller failed to show up for a county match. He was contacted to call for the PDC in 1996 and made his debut at the World Matchplay in Blackpool. The rest, as they say, is history.
Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner
Russ was a county player for Hertfordshire in the East of London and subsequently competed on the professional circuit. He teamed up with Eric Bristow to win the Norway and Finland pairs.
"The Voice" Goes On
Russ has made use of his raspy voice in various forms of media. He was the referee in the PDC's first ever video game and became the voice of Feasters, a microwave food chain. He has also provided voiceover work for advertising from Coral, Ladbrokes, Cash Converters and McCoy's Crisps. And he has provided his voice and name to Russ Bray Darts, a mobile app. Russ retired from his full-time calling duties following the 2024 world championship – but his voice goes on.