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Cliff Lazarenko: The Powerful Legacy of an English Former Darts Player

The Inspiring Rise, Challenges, and Impact of a Darts Icon

Western Business November 26, 2025

0 6 5 minutes read

Introduction

Cliff Lazarenko stands as one of the most influential and unforgettable figures in professional darts. Known widely as “Big Cliff,” he carved a remarkable identity within the sport through his commanding presence, charismatic personality, and consistent performances on some of the biggest stages. As an English former darts player, Lazarenko’s reputation grew throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, when darts expanded rapidly as a televised competitive sport. Fans admired him not only for his height and strength but also for his ability to perform under pressure, which made him a crowd favourite across arenas and television screens.

Despite the challenges he faced throughout his long career, he remained a symbol of resilience and dedication. Cliff Lazarenko’s influence helped elevate professional darts from a pub pastime into a serious sporting attraction. His journey is a compelling example of how talent, determination, and personality can combine to create a legacy that endures long after retirement. As we explore his achievements, style, early life, and contributions to darts, his lasting mark on the game becomes increasingly clear.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Cliff Lazarenko
Date of Birth	16 March 1952
Age (2025)	73 years
Birthplace	Liss, Hampshire, England
Nationality	British / English
Profession	Former Professional Darts Player
Nickname	“Big Cliff”
Height	Approximately 193 cm (6′4″)
Career Start	Turned professional in 1975
Major Organisations	BDO (1977–1993), PDC (1993–2007)

Cliff Lazarenko’s Early Life and Background

Growing Up in Hampshire

Cliff Lazarenko was born in Liss, Hampshire, England, where he spent his early years developing the foundation for his future career. He later grew up in the nearby village of Greatham, a small English community known for its traditional charm and quiet surroundings. This early environment played a meaningful role in shaping the personality of the future darts star. His early exposure to community life helped him build the confidence and sociability that would later define his presence on stage.

In his youth, Lazarenko worked as a builder’s labourer, a physically demanding job that matched his tall and strong physique. This period of his life helped develop the determination and work ethic that he would eventually channel into professional darts. Like many English former darts players of his era, his introduction to the sport came from humble beginnings.

First Steps into Darts

Lazarenko’s interest in darts began at a local pub called The Queen, where he honed his accuracy, rhythm, and competitive mindset. What started as a casual pastime soon revealed a natural talent that stood out among other players. His skill and confidence grew quickly, pushing him to take competitive darts more seriously. This marked the beginning of a journey that would lead him into the spotlight of international darts.

By the mid-1970s, his extraordinary ability became impossible to ignore. His size, strength, and smooth throwing style distinguished him from other players of the time. With his rising skill level and tournament potential, he made the decision to pursue darts professionally.

The Start of a Professional Darts Journey

Turning Professional and Early Success

Cliff Lazarenko officially turned professional in 1975 at the age of 23. This decision changed the trajectory of his entire life, propelling him into a career filled with notable achievements and memorable performances. His early years in the sport showed his ability to compete at the highest level. He soon gained recognition for his accuracy, competitive drive, and intimidating presence on stage.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Lazarenko quickly became one of the key figures in the British Darts Organisation (BDO). His performances in televised matches helped grow the popularity of the sport, capturing the attention of fans across the United Kingdom. His early results built the foundation for a long and successful career.

Rise Through the BDO

Between 1977 and 1993, Lazarenko established himself as a major competitor on the BDO circuit. He reached the semi-finals of the BDO World Darts Championship in 1980, 1981, 1985, and 1990. These deep runs showcased his consistency and ability to thrive under pressure. Beyond the world championships, he also earned victories at events such as the British Open, British Matchplay, and several international tournaments.

His reliability as a competitor and his exciting stage personality earned him a major fan base. Many enthusiasts still regard him as one of the most essential figures of the BDO era.

Transition to the PDC and Continued Success

A Founding Figure in Modern Darts

In 1993, Cliff Lazarenko became one of the founding members of what is now known as the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). This move marked a major turning point in darts history. The split from the BDO led to the rise of modern professional darts, global tournaments, and bigger audiences. Lazarenko played a significant role in shaping this new era.

Throughout the 1990s, he remained a competitive force in the PDC, reaching the quarter-finals of the PDC World Darts Championship in 1999. His performances helped elevate the early reputation of the organisation and showcased his enduring abilities as an English former darts player.

Later Career and Final Appearances

As the years progressed, Lazarenko faced various health challenges that limited his competitive schedule. Despite this, he continued making appearances and performing at a high level. His final major appearance came during the 2007 UK Open, after which he gradually retired from professional play. Even after stepping away from the spotlight, his influence remained strong among darts enthusiasts.

Legacy of Cliff Lazarenko

Cliff Lazarenko leaves behind a legacy built on passion, personality, and performance. His long career, filled with world championship appearances and tournament victories, has inspired countless players. His stage presence helped transform darts into a more entertaining and widely beloved sport. As one of the giants of the game—both physically and symbolically—his reputation remains firmly embedded in darts history.

His contributions stretched beyond his achievements. He helped bring recognition to the sport during its formative years on television and acted as a bridge from the old era of darts to the modern PDC age. For many fans, he represents the true spirit of professional darts: competitive, charismatic, and unforgettable.

Conclusion

Cliff Lazarenko’s journey from a small English village to the biggest stages of the darts world is a story of dedication, perseverance, and remarkable natural talent. As an English former darts player, his achievements and personality helped shape the sport’s identity throughout several decades. His influence continues to inspire new generations of players and remains a vital part of darts history. Cliff Lazarenko exemplifies how passion and personality can create a legacy that lives on beyond retirement.