'I was stoned for a week' – Vincent van der Voort recalls extraordinary MODUS Super Series stay

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated Aug 25, 2025 10:19 AM ET

Darts is often associated with glamorous events in world-renowned venues. The PDC World Darts Championship at London’s Alexandra Palace and the Premier League Darts in iconic arenas attract tens of thousands of fans and millions of viewers worldwide. Yet, outside the spotlight of these major tournaments lies a very different reality: smaller competitions in less glamorous locations. Vincent van der Voort, former top player and now analyst, has experienced both sides of the sport.

Last week, the Dutchman was commentating at the MODUS Super Series in Portsmouth on England’s south coast. Expecting a professional environment, he was met instead with a stark reality check. Speaking on the podcast Darts Draait Door, Van der Voort shared his remarkable experiences.

A city of contrasts

Van der Voort described Portsmouth as a place far removed from the glitz of the big darts stages. “I only saw junkies and bums,” he recalled. His accommodation did little to improve matters. “I stayed in a sad hotel, full of people who had been thrown out of their homes. The atmosphere was not great.”

The pervasive smell of cannabis was another surprise. “I think I was stoned for a week without even touching any myself. It was no party,” he said.

Unreal scenes on the streets

One evening, after finishing play, Van der Voort witnessed a bizarre scene on his walk back to the hotel. Two homeless men became embroiled in a fight that seemed more like slapstick than real conflict.

“One tried to slap the other but missed and fell. The other tried to retaliate but tripped over a tree. Then they were both on the ground, flailing their legs. Everything seemed to move in slow motion,” he said. “I watched for a minute thinking: you don’t see this anywhere else. It’s just not possible, right?”

Odd encounters at home too

Podcast presenter Damian Vlottes chimed in with a story of his own from Zaandam, where he had been with Van der Voort’s son. There, too, he had witnessed a curious street altercation. “Two men argued. One charged, but after a small tap, it was over. He threw his hands in the air like saying, ‘I stop,’” Vlottes explained.

Van der Voort was astonished. “So he was knocked out right away?” he asked. Vlottes clarified: “No, not knocked out. He was scared. He wanted to go all out at first, but that quickly disappeared.”

While the anecdotes sparked laughter on the podcast, both men stressed that violence is never the answer. “Violence is something we always advise against,” they said wisely.

The reality behind the darts life

Van der Voort’s tales reveal that behind the glamour of top-tier events, smaller darts tournaments can be raw and challenging. While the stars compete for major titles, the environment off-stage can be harsh and unpredictable.

For Van der Voort, the Portsmouth experience was a sharp reminder that the life of a professional darter is not always smooth. “I opened my eyes out there,” he concluded, “but not in the way I expected.”