
Barry Hearn, the leader of DARTS, recently had a prostate operation just prior to the PDC World Darts Championship.
The BIGGER 180 initiative, launched by sponsors Paddy Power, has successfully raised significant funds for their chosen charity, Prostate Cancer UK.
During the 16-day competition, every 180 scored contributes £1,000 to a growing total — the last championship saw 914 180s thrown, prompting the Irish bookmakers to round the total up to £1 million.
Paddy Power hopes to inspire at least 180,000 viewers to assess their risk for prostate cancer through a quick online screening that takes just 30 seconds.
Matchroom Sport’s president, Barry Hearn, 76, revealed that he faced an urgent prostate health issue and remarked: “This campaign is exemplary; it’s truly fantastic.”
“Last year, we urged fans to ‘Get checked’.
“I took that advice to heart and had a successful prostate operation two months ago.
“I am quite health-conscious, but the campaign gave me the push I needed.
“It’s the motivation every man should receive. What are you waiting for? It doesn’t cost a thing.
“Are you… foolish? Do you really want to risk your life? Let’s be real. It’s downright silly NOT to take action. We should not be reckless.
“Sometimes, life gets hectic, but that was the nudge I needed to proceed.
“I noticed an issue, so it was time to address it. As you can see, I still look fantastic!”
Barry Hearn reveals ‘very straightforward’ plans for the World Snooker Championships that could allow him to ‘treble prize money’
Hearn, recognized as the UK’s top sports promoter, has experienced two heart attacks.
The latest one occurred in April 2020, and he underwent emergency surgery at the onset of the Covid pandemic to receive two stents to help keep his blood vessels open.