The first World Professional Darts Championships took place in 1978. Due to its sponsorship by Imperial Tobacco, it became simply known as “the Embassy”. It was first played in Nottingham in 1978, and moved to Jollies in Stoke-on-Trent the following year. From 1986 it has taken place at the Lakeside Country Club in Frimley Green, where it remains to this day. Englishman Eric Bristow is the most successful player in the tournament’s history, reaching 10 finals in 16 appearances, winning the title a record 5 times. The first Dutchman to play in the championship was Bert Vlaardingerbroek in 1988, losing in round one to eventual champion Bob Anderson. The most successful Dutch player is Raymond van Barneveld, winning the title in 1998, 1999, 2003 & 2005 and being runner up in 1995 & 2006. In 2006 fellow Dutchman Jelle Klaasen beats Barney in the final. The only other Dutch Champion is Christian Kist who claims the title in 2012. Another memorable moment is without doubt Paul Lim’s magical 9 dart finish in 1990. The former Singapore player, representing USA, remains the only player in history to achieve this feat in a World Championship.