James Wade's Gas Problem Won't Go Away (And Neither Will the Dutch Commentary)

By Lewis Barnett 3 July, 2025 4 mins read 52 Views

Look, I've covered some weird sports stories in my time, but this one takes the cake.

James Wade - you know, the darts player who's become infamous for his... digestive timing - has found himself back in the headlines. Not for his throwing arm this time. Nope. It's the other end that's causing all the drama again. Poor bastard can't catch a break, and honestly? I'm starting to feel bad for the guy. Almost.

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The Dutch Are Having a Field Day

So here's where it gets really bizarre. Two Dutch hockey legends - Ellen Hoog and Naomi van As - decided Wade's latest gas explosion was podcast-worthy material. I mean, when former Olympic athletes are breaking down your fart technique on air, you know you've reached a special level of fame.

Hoog didn't hold back: "This was such a strange one. Did you see it? I think Wade must've been a bit jittery, because right in the middle of the match, he let out an absolutely massive fart. He actually lifted a cheek and let it rip."

Jesus Christ. The woman has zero chill.

Van As was practically losing it, describing it as "not just your average fart – it was a full-on, rattling belter!" I swear, these two were having way too much fun with this. Like kids discovering their first whoopee cushion.

Poor Peter Wright

Can we talk about the real victim here? Peter Wright had to stand there and continue playing while Wade was basically crop-dusting the oche. The man's got the concentration of a monk, I'll give him that. I would've walked off stage laughing my head off.

Hoog made the same point: "His opponent — poor bloke — had to keep throwing darts in that stench!" Yeah, that's not exactly what you sign up for when you become a professional dart player.

The Velcro Defense (Again)

This isn't Wade's first rodeo with fartgate drama. Back in September, he got caught in a similar situation with Callan Rydz. His defense? Velcro shoes.

I'm not kidding. He actually released a statement saying: "It was actually the velcro on my new trainers. I now consider this matter put to bed as don't wish to talk about it again."

Mate, if your shoes are making those kinds of noises, you need new shoes. Or a better excuse.

When Sports Commentary Gets Weird

What kills me is how seriously these Dutch commentators analyzed the whole thing. Van As pointing out Wade's posture: "He was standing there with his back arched, bum out… what did he think was going to happen?" It's like they're breaking down game film of a touchdown pass.

The fact that this has gone international - from British darts to Dutch hockey podcasts - shows you how starved we are for entertainment these days. Or maybe it's just genuinely that funny.

The Stink That Won't Die

Wade won that match against Wright 6-5, by the way. Made it to the quarter-finals of the Players Championship. But nobody's talking about his actual dart-throwing skills anymore.

Instead, we're getting play-by-play analysis from hockey players about his digestive habits. The man's probably sitting at home right now, wondering how his career took this particular turn.

At least he's memorable. In the worst possible way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between steel tip and soft tip darts?

Steel tip and soft tip darts represent two distinct branches of the sport, each with their own equipment, venues, and sometimes even scoring systems. The most obvious difference is in the point: steel tips have metal points for traditional bristle boards, while soft tips use flexible plastic points for electronic boards.

How do I improve my dart throwing technique?

Improving your dart technique comes down to consistency and deliberate practice. First, establish a comfortable stance—feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly forward. Your weight should be balanced and stable, not leaning forward or back.

How often should I replace my dartboard?

A quality sisal dartboard should last anywhere from 1-3 years with regular play, though this varies dramatically based on usage and care. Professional-grade boards like Winmau Blade 5 or Target Unicorn typically outlast budget options by a significant margin.

What are "flights" and "stems" and do they really matter?

Flights and stems (also called shafts) are the components that stabilize your dart during flight, and yes, they absolutely matter—though perhaps not in the way beginners often think.

Is it worth spending more money on expensive darts?

The question of dart investment really depends on your commitment level and budget. You don't need to spend a fortune, but there's definitely a quality threshold worth crossing.

Can you recommend some fun dart games for parties?

Absolutely! Darts doesn't have to be all about 501 and cricket. For parties, you want games that keep everyone involved, accommodate different skill levels, and create some friendly competition.

Statistics

The highest possible score with three darts is 180, achieved by hitting three triple 20s.
The Women's World Darts Championship was established in 2001, with Trina Gulliver winning 10 titles.
Statistical analysis reveals that professional players throw darts at an average speed of 40-60 miles per hour.
A perfect leg of 501 can be completed in nine darts, known in the sport as a "nine-darter."
Research shows that top professional dart players achieve accuracy rates of over 80% when aiming at treble 20.
A standard dartboard is divided into 20 numbered sections, with the bullseye at the center worth 50 points.
The World Darts Championship prize fund exceeded £2.5 million in 2023, with the champion receiving £500,000.
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Championship has been held since 1994, with Phil Taylor winning a record 14 titles.

External Links

How To

Setting Up Your Practice Space

The official height for a dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches from the floor to the bullseye. The throwing line (oche) should be 7 feet 9¼ inches from the face of the board. I used to have mine hung too low and wondered why my game never improved at the pub! Measuring tape is your friend here.