What is a White Horse in Darts

Key Takeaways:

• The term has its roots in British pub culture and signifies an extraordinary and rare accomplishment, akin to the exclusivity and status of a royally owned white-coated horse.
• Landing a White Horse in darts involves hitting the triple 20 with the first dart thrown during a turn.
• Declaring a White Horse is specific to 01 scoring games. To qualify, the triple 20 must be hit with the first dart, and the player should verbally declare “White Horse!”
• The term “White Horse” in darts refers to a challenging situation where the player targets only the odd-numbered sections of the dartboard.

The game of darts has developed into a global phenomenon, enjoyed by millions of people every week. One of the intriguing aspects of this exciting sport is a strange term: the “White Horse.” Understanding Darts and the importance of a White Horse in darts may be intriguing, whether you’re a seasoned dart player or just inquisitive about the dart game. We’ll delve into everything about darts’ White Horses—where they came from, how they’re used, what kinds there are, and what the heck all this jargon means.

Table of Contents

Understanding Darts

In the game of darts, participants try to hit a circular dartboard with little projectiles called darts. Board – Dart enthusiasts know that each sector of the board has a number and a corresponding point value. Accurate dart throwing is crucial, as accumulating points requires targeting certain parts of the dart board with pinpoint accuracy. Darts is a game that calls for technical know-how, strategic acumen, and intense concentration, much like a dart player aiming for a bulls-eyes Dart.

What Is a White Horse in Darts?

The word “White Horse” is used in darts to describe a difficult situation in which the player can only aim for the odd-numbered sections (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, or 19) to get the score in darts he or she wants. This term calls attention to the strategic and practical skills that are needed to deal with these problems and reach one’s goals.

Origins of the White Horse Term

In the rich tapestry of British pub culture, where social darts originally became well-known, the phrase “White Horse” has its origins. A horse or pony that belonged to royalty and was covered in a brilliant white coat, signifying exclusivity and status, was known as a “White Horse” in times gone by, like during a champagne breakfast.

This phrase gradually found its way into the world of darts and developed a metaphorical connotation that was connected to a remarkable and uncommon accomplishment, similar to hitting the outer bull or even a double bulls shot.

Getting a ‘white horse’ in darts refers to hitting the triple 20 with your first dart thrown in a turn, resembling the precision needed in a double-20 throw. Here are some tips on how to achieve this:

• Practice consistently hitting the triple 20 segment. Work on getting tight groupings in the T20 area to build muscle memory.
• Use a high ton, arcing throw that comes down steeply into the triple 20. This increases accuracy.
• Develop a smooth, controlled pre-shot routine to get focused and relaxed. Take your time aiming.
• Visualize the dart hitting the triple 20 before you throw. See it land in your mind’s eye.
• Stand with your body aligned squarely with the board. Balance your weight evenly on both feet.
• Follow through fully after release by extending your throwing arm. Don’t drop it prematurely.
• Use smooth darts like quality 90% tungsten darts with comfortable grip barrels to improve feel and control.
• Maintain confidence even after misses. Stay positive and pretend each throw is your first of the turn.
• Throw slightly above your target and let the arc bring the dart down into the triple 20.

Consistency, focus and practice are key. Hitting that first triple 20 ‘white horse’ can be a big psychological boost in competitive games, especially if you’re looking to get a maximum score.

Here are the key rules around declaring a ‘white horse’ in a darts match:

• Applies to 01 games – The ‘white horse’ terminology is only used in 01 scoring games like 501 or 301, not cricket.
• First dart of turn – To qualify as a white horse, the triple 20 must be hit with the first dart thrown during that player’s turn.
• Cannot be called on opponents – Players can only declare a white horse on their own turn, not when an opponent hits T20 first.
• Must be triple 20 – The dart must clearly stick in the triple 20 segment, not just single or double 20.
• Applies every turn – Each turn during a leg or match represents a new opportunity for a white horse. Previous game turns don’t matter.
• Verbal call out – The player should verbally declare “White Horse!” after hitting T20 on their first dart.
• No scoring impact – Calling a white horse does not affect scoring or counting in any way. It’s symbolic.
• Celebratory – Traditionally an exciting achievement, worth celebrating or pumping one’s fist.

A certain scoring circumstance during games is referred to as a “White Horse” in the context of darts. It happens when a player throws their first three darts and ends up with a score of 171 points. This feat demonstrates extraordinary talent and accuracy, astounds teammates and onlookers. The White Horse is hailed as a magnificent accomplishment, often followed by cheers and awe.

The darts format known as 501 is where the nickname “White Horse” first gained popularity. Single players in this game attempt to lower their starting score of 501 points to zero. It may alter everything when you get a White Horse in 501. Players find themselves with only 30 points needed to complete the game after collecting 171 points in a single round.

Additionally, although the name “White Horse” originally referred to a score of 171, other meanings have developed through time. Scores of 174 (triple 19, triple 19, triple 18), 177 (triple 19, triple 19, triple 20), and the desired 180 (double-20 throw, double-20 throw, double-20 throw) are examples of these situations. Each situation is a remarkable demonstration of dart game skill that captivates both dart players and onlookers, especially when aiming for the outer bull or center bull.

Dartboard white horses may take many shapes and sizes:

Classic White Horse: White Horses are most popular when a single player needs an odd number to either complete the leg or set up a favorable ending.

Chasing the White Horse: This happens when a player is towards the end of a previous game and is stuck with a difficult odd number. The stakes are higher as the player seeks to land on that one odd number to ensure victory or keep the momentum going, using both heavy darts and smooth darts.

Double White Horse: Extremely difficult situation in which a player needs an odd number to finish yet must hit a double count on that odd-numbered sector. Hitting the double while going for an odd number needs a high level of precision and poise, making it an already challenging shot that much more so, often requiring a special shot or even a triple throw.

The dart game term “White Horse” is a metaphor for the cunning, planning, and will that must be used to triumph against difficult odds. Hitting just the odd-numbered parts of the dartboard requires accurate dart throwing, focus, and extraordinary aim, much like taming a white horse was regarded to be a spectacular achievement. When a player successfully executes one of these shots, the word is used to recognize the intricacy and artistry required to do so, especially on numerous occasions.

The term ‘white horse’ in darts refers specifically to hitting the bulls-eyes Dart with the earlier dart thrown during a turn in 01 games like 501 or 301. Players, especially a Japanese player, use a combination of plastic darts and electronic darts in such games.

This scoring feat doesn’t apply directly in the game of cricket darts, since there are no numbered segments, only hitting marks like 15-20 to close numbers. But, if you aim for 16s in cricket Skunked or try a double-in ’01 game, you’ll find a parallel.

However, there is something similar referred to as a ‘flying start’ in cricket darts:

• A flying start is when you hit 3 marks with your first 3 darts of a turn in cricket, maybe with castaway darts.
• For example, hitting two 20s and a 19 with your first 3 darts would be a flying start, reminiscent of a champagne breakfast.
• This allows you to start scoring points before your opponent has even thrown a dart.
• It gives you a quick leg up and applies scoring pressure right from the start, like a good score in darts.

So, while not exactly the same as a ‘white horse’, a flying start of hitting 3 marks with your first 3 darts thrown is the closest equivalent in the game of darts cricket. It demonstrates precision shooting and gives you an early advantage.

FAQs

Is a White Horse considered a challenging scenario in darts?

A White Horse is a difficult darts situation, that much is certain. Getting three successive odd-numbered targets with a single dart shows great skill and accuracy. To make the most of your scoring opportunities, you’ll need to use some careful strategy and pinpoint accuracy.

darts games

Are there any specific strategies or techniques to handle a White Horse in darts?

Players typically adopt specialized methods designed to counteract the White Horse predicament. When shooting at an odd-numbered target, it’s standard practice to aim for the outer or inner ring rather than the precise number itself. The likelihood of missing the target totally is reduced, but the chance of striking anything inside the combination is increased.

Is the White Horse Term Used in Other Sports or Games?

No, the white horse term is specific to darts and is not commonly used in other sports or games.

Final Thoughts

There are many mysterious ideas and fascinating situations in the sport of darts, but the White Horse stands out even among its many mysteries. The White Horse is a mystery symbol with several meanings, all of which point to the high level of ability and strategic planning required to succeed at the difficult task of striking just the odd-numbered parts.

As you progress in your study of darts, learning about and developing an appreciation for the White Horse will add a new dimension of intrigue to your adventure. Maybe you can enjoy a jug of beer with fellow social darts enthusiasts. Accept the challenge, honor the talent, and work for mastery of the White Horse in darts, as you understand the significance of its wooden frame and aim for the outer circle.