South African trailblazer Wynand Havenga passes away aged 59

The sad news that South African trailblazer Wynand Havenga has passed away at the age of 59 as tributes have flooded in.

Havenga made history in 2006 as the first South African player to compete in the PDC World Darts Championship. He defeated Steve Maish and Peter Manley to reach the Last 16.

He had won the South African Open in 2006 to secure his spot and continued to excel back home in South Africa. He also competed in the Australian Open Players Championship and South African Masters event. The latter saw him lose to James Wade in Johannesburg.

After leaving the sport due to a shoulder injury, he later became manager of a motorcycle shop as our Forgotten Darters piece unearthed.

Read also

FORGOTTEN DARTERS: Wynand Havenga who became a fans' favourite at 2007 PDC World Championship

Havenga's impact blazed a trail for many others including 'The African Warrior' Devon Petersen who became the real poster boy of African darts in the years to come making his own history.

But it was Havenga first who paved the way as he merely put on Twitter 'a legend has fallen' before then making his own tribute to the PDC.

"You made us all believe when you graced the PDC stage as the first South African to play and win" said Petersen who also paid tribute to him on social media.

"The impact you had on the sport in South Africa was tremendous. A true legend of the sport and one of Africa's best dart players. Your candle has burnt out long before your legend ever will."

Graham Filby who also competed at the World Cup of Darts three times also paid tribute. "Another legend in the sports of darts has left us. Wynand, you taught so many of us so much about our sport.

"I will for always be thankful for the time you took out of your schedule to help others."

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate darts experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe