RAF Darts off to a flying start with Winmau!

Recent partners Winmau, have wasted no time in demonstrating their commitment as a sponsor of RAF Darts (RAFDA), supplying RAF station clubs with boards, mats, and surrounds for their brand-new darts facilities.

With additional funding from the RAF Central Fund supporting further kit and equipment, these fantastic new spaces include professional lighting and welcoming areas for players to socialise and relax.

The recognition of darts as an official sport in the RAF, along with the subsequent development of station clubs through sponsorship and Central Fund charitable grant funding, brings a multitude of benefits to its players.

As well as improving the lived experience for personnel on stations and units, playing darts harnesses important skills such as focus, strategic thinking, mathematics and patience.

With dedicated spaces at stations around the country already up and running, weekly sessions for players of all ranks and abilities are now underway, providing more RAF personnel the opportunity to get involved with RAFDA.

Commenting on the importance of the sponsorship with Winmau, FS Mark Culpan, OIC RAF Benson Darts Club, said: “The establishment of the Benson Darts Club is a fantastic addition to our station, providing personnel with a dedicated space to relax, socialise, and enjoy the game.

As a fully inclusive club, we welcome players of all abilities, from complete beginners to seasoned players. Beyond the enjoyment of the sport, the club has a positive welfare impact, offering a space for personnel to unwind, connect with others, and support their mental wellbeing.

With darts only recently being recognised as a Category 3 sport in 2025, this facility also presents an exciting opportunity to embrace the competitive element of the game and develop players who aspire to progress to representative level.

Thanks to the Winmau sponsorship, which supplied us with top-quality equipment, we’ve been able to set up this facility quickly and to a professional standard, fostering camaraderie, morale, and wellbeing across the station.”

Speaking from RAF Lossiemouth on their club uplift, Cpl Charlie Gaulder enthused: “The RAF Lossiemouth Darts Club has experienced remarkable growth since establishing its partnership with Winmau.

What began as a small group of dedicated players relying on donated equipment has evolved into one of the most popular and dynamic clubs in Lossiemouth. With the support of Winmau and the Central Fund, the club has been able to acquire professional-standard equipment, elevating the standard of play and expanding opportunities for all members.

This sponsorship has not only enhanced the club’s profile but also brought significant benefits to RAF Lossiemouth as a station. The club has become a hub for social engagement, boosting morale, promoting wellbeing, and generating a renewed enthusiasm for darts across the base. It provides a welcoming environment where personnel of all ranks and abilities can come together in an inclusive, supportive setting.

In recent years, the club has proudly hosted a range of successful events including the ‘Lossie Pally’, charity fundraisers, and County League fixtures, while also producing representatives now competing at RAF Darts level. Looking ahead, the club is excited to continue building on this momentum, with a busy year planned for 2026.

Upcoming highlights include the return of the annual ‘Lossie Pally’, featuring prominent influencers and professional players, as well as the RAF Champs Qualifier, where the club aims to field a strong contingent of competitors.

Thanks to the continued generosity of Winmau and the Central Fund, RAF Lossiemouth Darts Club stands as a shining example of community and sporting excellence within the RAF.”

Sharing with us why sponsoring RAFDA is so important to Winmau, representative Tom Long said: “At Winmau, we’re incredibly proud to support RAF Darts and the brilliant work that RAFDA does.

Our partnership is about more than just sponsorship, it’s about helping the game grow from the grassroots up, creating opportunities for players, and supporting a community that lives and breathes darts.

Seeing the RAF Darts team engage with members of the public at events like the RIAT Airshow in the 6-dart challenge really brings home what this is all about: connecting people through the sport we all love.

The dedication, teamwork, and passion within RAFDA perfectly reflect the values we hold at Winmau, and we’re honoured to be part of their journey as the game continues to grow and inspire.”

Clearly off to a flying start and putting the new facilities to excellent use, RAFDA’s Winter League is now well underway with teams from thirteen stations around the country competing for glory!

Furthermore, we are also delighted to announce that RAF personnel can get 10% discount online on all full-priced products at Red Dragon Darts by using their Blue Light Card!

Visit our website for more information:  Suppliers for Sport and Physical Activities – RAF Central Fund