From Handmade Flights to 105 Averages – The Inspiring Rise of Kenya’s Peter Wachiuri

In darts, some stories transcend averages, finishes, and silverware. Occasionally, it’s about pure passion — about proving it can be done, no matter where you come from or what you have. Peter Wachiuri’s journey is one of those rare tales. From a small Kenyan village without television or professional-standard equipment, he has battled his way onto the international stage and into the hearts of darts fans across the globe.

Wachiuri’s love affair with the sport didn’t begin in front of a TV screen, inspired by the likes of Taylor, van Barneveld or Anderson. It started on a dusty oche in his village, simply watching others throw. “I used to go somewhere and watch some old guys playing. I saw they were doing a good job, and that’s why I got interested and joined darts,” he recalls on Tungsten Talk for the MODUS Super Series' YouTube channel. 

Back then, televised darts wasn’t an option and the names of global stars meant little. The game was stripped back to its core — play a few legs, enjoy yourself, and head home.

Everything changed when, for the first time, a PDC World Championship qualifier was staged in Kenya. For Wachiuri, it was a dream come true. “I was so excited to have a big match in Kenya. I think it was my second or third time playing those big matches. That was the time where I shined. I didn’t fear anyone — I just threw darts to show what I could do.”

Wachiuri went on a remarkable run, reaching the final and coming within a single dart of qualifying for the Alexandra Palace. That dart — a 154 checkout attempt — missed the double by millimetres.

South African star Devin Petersen, who had faced him earlier in the tournament, remembers the moment vividly: “When he went treble 20, treble 20, I was literally out of my chair. It felt like it was going to be the time where Africa steps up together, a united Africa. That one dart could have changed everything.”

Missing out on Ally Pally hurt, but Wachiuri’s display didn’t go unnoticed. He was invited to play in the Modus Super Series in England — an opportunity he had never dreamed possible. “I never thought I could come all the way from Kenya to London just to play darts. I was very glad to have that opportunity.”

And he made the most of it. Wachiuri battled through to the final, taking on Scotland's Scott Campbell and charming fans with his beaming smile and distinctive throwing style. “You are just fighting with darts, but later you’ll be friends forever. Meeting new people, that’s my passion. Darts is our motherhood — it brings our hearts together from wherever we come.”

One of the most remarkable aspects of Wachiuri’s career is his equipment. In Kenya, where darts retailers are virtually non-existent, flights are often handmade. Petersen was impressed: “It shows that if you really want to play, you find a way. Give players like Peter the right equipment, and their potential is huge,” says the South African. 

That potential was clear in England when Wachiuri averaged a blistering 105 — the best of his career. “In our country, we play 70s or 80s averages. That day I was breathing fire,” he laughs.

For African darts, it was a landmark moment. Ton-plus averages are rare, and to hit one on an international stage is a statement of what’s possible.

His achievements abroad made him a national hero. On returning to Nairobi from international tournaments, Wachiuri was welcomed at the airport like a champion. “At that time, I represented Kenya very well. I just wanted to play my darts and represent my country — and Africa.”

Petersen even jokes that if Wachiuri wins a Super Series title, Nairobi might have to organise a full parade through the city.

Not every new experience was straightforward. Playing Pairs, for example, proved a fresh challenge. “We haven’t been playing Pairs in our country. That was a big challenge because we hadn’t practised it together. But if we get another chance, I think we can do better.”

Wachiuri did, however, collect his first piece of international silverware — winning the Influencer event alongside Oli — a proud moment that only fuelled his appetite for more success.

Wachiuri’s ambition is simple and unwavering: “I want to keep representing my country. That will build darts to another level.”

Petersen believes the momentum is building: “Africa has talent. We’re close to that moment. Players like Peter are the key to unlocking it.”

Peter Wachiuri’s story is bigger than one man’s career. It’s living proof that talent, determination, and opportunity can overcome any barrier — even from a place with no TV coverage, no pro-standard boards, and hand-cut flights.

He’s not just a darts player; he’s a symbol of what’s possible for African sport. And wherever he plays — whether in Kenya, England, or beyond — his message remains the same: “Darts brings us together. It’s our mother. We all come with the same purpose, and that connects us.”