“It’s a dart game – it’s not life or death" - Heart surgery gives Chas Barstow new perspective on life and career

At 46, Chas Barstow remains as committed to his darts career as ever. A familiar face on the MODUS Super Series circuit, the Winchester thrower continues to push himself, driven by unfinished business and a deep love for the game.

Barstow has been part of the Super Series – formerly the Live League – since day one in Southampton, and he credits it with playing a huge role in his development. “After Challenge Tour and bits like that, being invited to the first one in Southampton was absolutely great. It’s been massive for my career,” he said recently in an interview with MODUS' YouTube channel. “It’s an awesome way to practise – great players here – so yeah, it’s been awesome.”

His most notable rise came during the Covid-affected 2021 season, when several PDC regulars were sidelined and Barstow was drafted into Players Championship events. He made the most of his opportunity, reaching four Pro Tour quarter-finals and narrowly missing out on a Tour Card – but doing enough to qualify for the 2022 World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.

His debut on the sport’s biggest stage was one to remember. “I didn’t know much about [John Norman Jnr.], but I Googled him. Knew he was a good player with a few quirks,” Barstow recalled. “Spoke to him backstage – really nice guy. The game wasn’t full of antics like I expected, but it was enjoyable. I loved it.”

That win set up a dream clash with Michael van Gerwen on a packed Saturday night at Ally Pally – a moment Barstow describes as unforgettable. “I was so nervous. I remember standing on my walk-on, the room goes green, his music comes on – just sends shivers down your spine. Amazing experience," he remembers fondly. "I played really well, took the first set, but he missed a few doubles. I knew it wouldn’t all go my way. Then Michael being Michael woke up and started hitting everything.”

Despite the 3–1 loss, Barstow’s performance and experience gave him the belief that a Tour Card was within reach. “I had total belief I’d get a Tour Card. I was playing so well. It didn’t work out, but I really thought I would.”

That momentum was halted in dramatic fashion last year when Barstow was forced to undergo heart surgery – the result of a lifelong condition he had managed quietly. “I was born with a faulty aortic valve. I had valve surgery, which put me out for quite a while,” he explained. “But I’ve come back from it a lot stronger and a lot quicker than I thought I would. I’m quite amazed that I’m actually playing to the standard I am now.”

The experience has altered his perspective, without dulling his ambition. “It’s a dart game – it’s not life or death. I absolutely love my darts, but there are bigger issues. You go up there, enjoy the game, and just try and do your best.”

“But I want a Tour Card. I’m going to keep trying Q School – been close a few times. I’ve done some WDF and ADC bits, but that’s the goal," he concludes. "And I’d love to win a week here [in the Super Series] and make it to Champions Week. That would mean a lot.”

With his health back on track and a fresh sense of perspective, Barstow remains a dangerous competitor – and a reminder that perseverance, passion and patience still count for plenty in the world of darts.