Paddy Power’s ‘The BIGGER 180’ has smashed through the £1 million barrier during the Paddy Power World Darts Championship.
But with one final night of action at Alexandra Palace to go, the campaign’s ultimate goal remains: saving lives. That’s why Sir Chris Hoy is urging men across the UK to take Prostate Cancer UK’s 30-second risk checker.
"This isn’t just about trophies or donations – it’s about saving lives,” said Hoy.
“It takes just 30 seconds to check your risk, and it could save your life.” The BIGGER 180, Paddy Power’s ground-breaking campaign, has transformed darts brilliance into lifesaving donations for men’s health, with every 180 scored helping to fund Prostate Cancer UK’s TRANSFORM trial – a revolutionary study to develop a national prostate cancer screening programme.
"Reaching the £1 million mark is a huge milestone for The BIGGER 180 campaign, and we are now one big step closer to making a long-lasting and meaningful change to men's health by funding Prostate Cancer UK's TRANSFORM trial. He continued: "The TRANSFORM trial aims to find the best way to test men for prostate cancer, so we can be sure which is the most effective method for a nationwide screening programme that could save thousands of lives every year.
“This massive cash injection can have an impact on men's lives for years to come.” Prostate cancer is the UK’s most common cancer among men, but early detection is critical.
Hoy explained: "Around 40% of men who currently die from prostate cancer could be saved by a screening programme. The response to early-stage treatment is really good, but without noticeable symptoms, effective screening is the only way of detecting it in time to save lives.
"That huge sum Paddy Power are donating will make a big difference to the lives of thousands of men. It’s a huge step forward.” Every cheer for a 180 at Ally Pally has become a step toward saving lives:
- £1,000 donatedfor every 180 scored.
- £180,000 nine-dart bonuses, split between players, fans, and prostate cancer research.
- Over £1 million raisedto fund the TRANSFORM trial.
Hoy credited the campaign’s success to the combined efforts of fans, players, and Paddy Power’s backing: "The amazing efforts from the world's best darts players, along with the generosity of Paddy Power in putting up the cash, can lead to better outcomes for men affected by this disease. It’s a game-changer, and I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed to this achievement.
“Here’s to one more nine-darter on the final night to land that mega cash bonus again!” Prostate cancer is often silent until it’s too late, which is why awareness and early detection are vital. Yet too many men avoid taking action:
- 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
- Every 15 minutes, another man is diagnosed.
- 23% of men don’t talk about their health – not even with their mates.
Hoy urged men to act now: "When it comes to health, too many of us go quiet. That has to change, and I hope this campaign has proven how easy it is to get yourself checked.
“It takes just 30 seconds using Prostate Cancer UK's easy-to-use risk checker, and it could save your life.” As darts legend prepare for the final showdown, Paddy Power and Sir Chris Hoy are urging fans to end The BIGGER 180 campaign on a high.
"This campaign isn’t just about trophies – it’s about dads, brothers, grandads, and mates,” said Paddy Power himself.
“We’ve smashed £1 million, but the real victory comes when men take action. Don’t miss your shot – take the risk checker today.”
Whether you’re at Ally Pally or watching from home, this is your chance to make a difference. Take Prostate Cancer UK’s 30-second risk checker today - because raising £1 million is incredible – but saving lives?
That’s priceless.