PDC World Darts Champion Michael Smith and legendary player turned broadcaster Wayne Mardle hope to strike it lucky in the world of greyhound racing by owning a dog together.
The pair went viral at the beginning of the year when Smith’s extraordinary nine-dart finish in the World Championship Final at Alexandra Palace was described by a gob-smacked Mardle from the commentary box.
Over 20 million people have since watched the sport’s ‘greatest ever leg’ on PDC channels alone.
And now, darts’ iconic moment will be shared with greyhound racing as Smith and Mardle team up with I Can’t Spake – the now iconic words used to describe the new World Champion’s greatest hour.
Mardle, a lifetime greyhound racing enthusiast, said the search to identify his newest four-legged pal has already started.
“A friend suggested Michael and myself should buy a greyhound and name it after the commentary,” said Mardle. “It’s a fantastic idea and Michael was onboard straight away.
“We hope to find an Open race quality greyhound so it can run in major races and competitions and we’re already on the lookout for our own superstar!”
Mardle has already been in the winners’ enclosure since his newest co-owner defeated Michael Van Gerwen 7-4 in the World Championship Final.
The 49-year-old could not hide his delight when Why Wasn’t I Told won an A2 contest and £160 in prize money at the recently reopened Oxford Stadium on her race debut for trainer Matt Dartnell.
Born in March 2021, the greyhound is named after another of Mardle’s iconic onscreen moments when he gave an unfortunate television interview after losing at the Masters of Darts without realising he was being filmed live.
Describing himself as a dog man at heart, the former World Championship semi finalist revealed his lifetime passion for the sport and hopes his forthcoming purchase will inspire a new generation of racegoers.
“Greyhound racing was my full-time hobby growing up,” said Mardle. “It’s a great sport which has always interested me and during the 90s I used to visit Romford four times a week.
“I was so obsessed I could name every dog on sight as soon as they arrived at the stadium with their trainer. I’m a dog person and love being around them.
“Greyhounds are such fantastic animals. They’re well behaved, chilled, relaxed and make brilliant pets in retirement. I’ve got a 100% record at Oxford this year, so there’s no pressure!”
Photo: Taylor Lanning.
