2019 Summer Archery UK MagazineCover

Official magazine of Archery GB

Cover teasers

Inside: History, longbow, barebow, AGM. Big Weekend: It's a record breaker. Field focus: Who, what and why. Clout: The fun starts here. Number one: How to be the best.

Cover photo credits:

Title: Big Weekend 2019.

Contents

News

5 Your news: All your latest news

17 Obituary

18 Clout: The fun starts here, great craic and a good cause

19 Industry leader: Why our Instructor Award is the best

19 Big Weekend 2019 smashes all records

21 A date with history: Caldicot Castle to host 2019 National Tour finals

22 Your pictures: What caught your attention?

25 History: Taking the lead; the rise and demise of Hainault Foresters

26 Force majeure: The impact of English longbows at Agincourt

28 Disabilities: Mike Shepherd, Steve Prowse and British Blind Sport Championship

30 Tokyo 2020: Olympic and Paralympic qualification

34 Field: Championships, 3D, Gloria Mead and Lizzy Rees

41 AGM: Full report and pictures

50 Mail bag: What you think

Practical: advice zone

54 Compound: How to set new cams

55 Nutrition: The best start

58 Back to basics: A look at recurve strings

60 Sun safety: How to be skin kind

63 Barebow: Tuning for string walkers

64 New products: What's new in the market?

Archery GB

66 Suggested rule changes

68 Latest news: Assistance dogs update and Team GB is back

69 Sponsors

Separate documents

2019 Spring Tournament Diary: Archery UK Magazine 2019 Spring Records and Achievements: Archery UK Magazine 2019 Spring Directory: Archery UK Magazine

Editor's letter

Welcome to the second edition of the new-look Archery UK and, more importantly, summer. It's time to get outside and shoot. With that in mind, we have some great advice on how to stay safe in the sun in our extended practical advice zone. And, for our newer members, we are starting a regular back to basics feature with Adam Lewis.

We are also focusing on field in this issue with coverage of the British and the 3D championships. We also look at why you should try field, what you need to know and we have an interview with GB team manager Gloria Mead.

There is also all the latest about the Big Weekend, the National Tour finals, our industry-leading Instructor course and this year's AGM, as well as all your news and pictures.

On a personal note, the autumn edition of Archery UK will be my last; and that means we will soon be looking for a new editor. If you are an experienced print production journalist who can handle ezines and web news updates (or you know someone who fits the bill), keep an eye on our website for further details.

In the meantime, have a fabulous summer and good shooting.

Good shooting.

Jane PercivalEditor

Production information

Publisher

Produced on behalf of Archery GB by: TRMG Ltd, 1 Forum Place, Hatfield, Herts AL10 0RN. Tel: 01707 273 999. TRMG web site: www.trmg.co.uk .

Publishing Director: Jon Fellows. Operations Director: Andrew Stevens. Head of Production: Charles Dragazis. Project Manager: Stefan Glosby.

Design: Mark Chambers. Senior Commercial Manager: Steve Chambers.

Disclaimer

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, the organisers Archery GB and the publishers TRMG cannot accept liability for any statement or error contained herein © 2019.

Printing

The paper used for printing this magazine has been sourced from sustainably managed forests in accordance with the ISO 14001 and EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) standards, which are internationally recognised and externally audited integrated environmental management systems.

Published for:

Archery GB, Lilleshall National Sports & Conferencing Centre, Newport, Shropshire TF10 9AT. Tel: 01952 677888. AGB web site: www.archerygb.org . Email: magazine@archerygb.org. See also the Directory document for individual staff contact details.

Correspondence

Correspondence with regard to Archery UK including mailing list queries and enquiries about advertising, should be addressed to Archery GB at the address above.

Copy deadline for the autumn edition:

19 August 2019.

AGB disclaimer

Archery UK is the Official Magazine of Archery GB and is read by all members. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, however caused. Letters, articles and features do not necessarily represent the opinion of Archery GB.

The decision whether or not to include material submitted for inclusion (whether advertising or otherwise) shall be entirely at the discretion of the Editor and/or the Marketing Manager. No responsibility can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork, editorial or advertising material in transmission or with the publishers or their agents, although every care will be taken to ensure safe return of items requested to be returned.

© 2019 Archery GB

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CNIC dates

If you are planning to enter the Combined National Indoor Championships this year, don't forget it's not the usual first weekend in December. The 2019 dates are 30 November to 1 December.

DBS reminder

Calling all experienced archers. If you are carrying out coaching duties, please remember you need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure. More details on the website under Safeguarding or contact Andrea Holmes by email andrea.holmes@archerygb.org.

SAG latest

The Strategic Advisory Group met on 6 April to check and challenge Sport Team Senior Managers. Find out what happened by searching for ‘SAG meeting notes’ on the website. If you are interested in joining SAG, email Kate Dunnighan: Kate.dunnighan@archerygb.org.

Medals haul: GB teams net titles and quota spots

British teams have been in fine form at international tournaments, gathering medals; and precious quota places for the upcoming European Games in Minsk.

European Grand Prix and quota tournament

Britain's compounders went to Bucharest looking to secure the last two quota places needed to ensure we have the maximum one per discipline to add to our recurve team place at the European Games in Minsk. They succeeded; and much more.

Logo text: European Grand Prix: 9 to 13 April 2019, Bucharest.

Compound Programme Manager Jon Nott, who is in Bucharest as a coach, said: "It was the best team effort I have ever seen on an archery field from GB archers. We worked together to win our quota places in style."

The men's compound competition came to a thrilling conclusion as Adam Ravenscroft beat Stuart Taylor 146 to 142 in the battle for gold medal. And there was silver for Lucy Mason who lost out in a shoot-off Germany's Janine Meissner. A shoot-off also denied Ella Gibson bronze and Lucy O'Sullivan finished fifth.

The Grand Prix was just as fruitful. Compounders Ella Gibson and Stuart Taylor swept to mixed team gold and the team of Duncan Busby, Adam Ravenscroft and Neil Bridgewater took silver as did Ella Gibson, Lucy O'Sullivan and Lucy Mason.

5th Fazza Para WR Tournament

Britain's para athletes topped the topped the table and brought three gold medals and one silver home from Dubai.

Hazel Chaisty romped to the recurve title, making short work of the gold medal showdown, beating Italy's Annalisa Rosada 6 to 2. Compounder Jodie Grinham swept all before her to go head-to-head with Maria Andrea Virgilio. The Italian shot well, but not well enough as Jodie claimed the title. She later said: "Topping the medal table as a team has and will massively lift our confidence. Winning a medal individually always boosts your own energy but when a large number of teammates do it, the result is far greater."

The third gold came, again against Italian opposition, courtesy of compound mixed team of Nathan Macqueen and Phoebe Pine. Recurvers Hazel and David Phillips almost made it four but were left with hard-earned silver after losing a shoot-off against, the Italian team.

Veronica's Cup

British archers left the Veronica's Cup world ranking tournament in Slovenia with three silver medals. Top compound seed Bayley Sargeant took individual silver in a shoot-off against Croatia's Amanda Mlinaric. Bayley, who also won a precision award at the competition, and Simon Scott were edged out of mixed team gold, again by Croatia. Recurvers Emma Davis,

Rebekah Tipping and Lizzie Warner faced Egypt in their team title match. Britain took first blood but then the top seeds fought back to claim gold with a 6 to 2 win.

Logo text: Veronica's cup: Kamnik, Slovenija.

Para-Archery European Cup

Recurver David Phillips claimed individual gold at the first stage of the Para-Archery European Cup in Sardinia with 6 to 4 win over France's Guillaume Toucoulle. And there was W1 silver for Victoria Rumary, who was edged out by Italy's Asia Pellizzari, and bronze for compounder Nathan Macqueen, who defeated Polish top seed Marcel Pavlik.

There were also three team silvers. Compounders Jess Stretton, Jodie Grinham and Phoebe Pine were pipped to the title by Russia. The W1 mixed team of John Cavanagh and Victoria Rumary was edged out by Russian opposition and compounders Jess Stretton and Nathan Macqueen lost their mixed team gold medal showdown, to Russia.

Hyundai World Cup: Shanghai

Logo text: Hyundai Archery World Cup: Shanghai 2019.

Bryony Pitman and Tom Hall took on Korea's mixed team at the Hyundai Archery World Cup in Shanghai and came so close to bagging a bronze medal. They were squeezed out of a shot at gold by Chinese Taipei. That left them facing Korea. The Britons took first blood but then world number one Lee Woo Seuk and Olympic champion Choi Misun hit their stride. Tom and Bryony fought hard but the medal slipped away.

European Youth Cup

Logo text: European Youth Cup: Catez, Slovenia: 13 to 18 May 2019

Grace Chappell claimed individual gold at the first leg of the European Youth Cup in Slovenia, and Nathan Thomas added bronze to Britain's medals haul. Compound cadet Grace beat Italian Elisa Bazzichetto in a dramatic shoot-off and Nathan defeated another Italian, Antonio Brunello, by a single point.

Britain claimed mixed team gold thanks to recurve cadets Penny Healey and Thomas Susca. Compound cadets Nathan and Holly Clifford added bronze and the team of Grace, Chloe A'Bear and Holly finished in top spot too.

Hyundai World Cup: Antalya

Logo text: Hyundai Archery World Cup: Antalya 2019.

Layla Annison, Ella Gibson and Lucy Mason won team bronze at the third stage of the Hyundai Archery World Cup in Antalya. The compounders, who smashed their junior team ranking round world record by nine points during qualification, were edged out of a shot at gold by the USA but beat India 228 to 226 to claim the medal.

Robin Hoods

Two in one target

Lins Howard and Annette Skuse both had a smashing time at the British Wheelchair Archery Association coaching weekend at Stoke Mandeville Stadium when they managed to Robin Hood their own arrows on the same target.

Arrow weave

Things did not quite go to plan at the RAF Archery Indoor Championships. Wonder what a judge would make of this, sent in by Team and Tournaments Manager Robert Hamnett-Day.

Tubular arrows

City of Chester Archers organised a fun Robin Hood shoot. The objective was to get an arrow down a cardboard tube at 20 yards, and two proud members actually achieved the feat.

Simply the best: Junior Masters go head to head

Professionalism and technical skill were the hallmarks as our Junior Masters tested themselves against Britain's best during two days of intense competition hosted by Oxford Archers.

And there were stunning performances at the event, sponsored by Wales Archery Specialists. Entrants may have had to battle against windy conditions, but it did not stop Lidia Stamp from smashing the under 12s ranking round record by 101 points.

Tournament Organiser Nat Merry said: "The day went very well with some very impressive scores. And I have to thank Oxford Archers, everyone who helped, our sponsors and suppliers and to assistant tournament organiser Chris Charlesworth. We look forward to seeing you all again next year."

The champion of champions was Lewis Haslam with fellow under-21s compounder Hallie Boulton in second spot.

Discipline winners included:

Recurve: Megan Havers and Jonathan Ralston Compound: Lewis and Hallie Barebow: Emily Summers Longbow: Molly Joyce and William Thomas

You can find all the age group winners on the Archery GB website in an article dated 22 May or on the Tamlyn Score website: www.tamlynscore.co.uk.

Archery Ambassadors inspire others

Heike Palmer and Joshua Smith helped to inspire almost 500 children from 17 schools at a special archery tournament in Birmingham.

The Archery Ambassadors played a vital role at the SEND Tournament for pupils with a wide variety of special needs. The aim was for everyone to enjoy the event, so they coached the entrants, showed them how to hold the bow, aim and shoot safely and won praise for their skill, passion, patience and compassion.

Archery GB mentor Maxine Palmer said: "What was most rewarding was seeing how the children coached by our Young Ambassadors in the morning session went on to help one another in the afternoon, guiding and coaching one another.  Teachers remarked how they had struggled to get one young lady to verbally communicate but in this environment, she was standing on the line and actively talking to and coaching her school colleagues."

Josh, in particular, has been busy. He spent an evening with Birmingham Roaring Lions, the city's Children's Trust disabled children's forum and has been booked for more events in the next few weeks.

You ought to: Wise words lead Alan to Warrior Games

A year ago, a coach turned to Alan Izzard and said: "You ought to go for the Invictus trials." What do you say to that?

As it happens, Alan Izzard, who had only finished a beginners' course three days earlier, said yes, and now he's busy preparing for the Warrior Games in Florida.

Alan, who lives in Great Sankey, served in the Royal Artillery. Three years after he left, he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and underwent surgery on his back, spine and right ankle. He faces further surgery later this year.

He found new purpose in sport, playing golf, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball. But he has been well and truly bitten by the archery bug, shooting three or four times a week at the Kytujutsu Archery Club in Runcorn and attending training camps.

Selection for the Invictus Games and the Warrior Games were held at the same time and Alan scored a personal best. He received an email shortly after saying that out of the 160 applicants for the Warrior Games, only 20 had been selected; and he was one of them.

"My immediate reaction? It was: 'oh well, I'd better start training'. But honestly? This is a massive honour," said Alan.

So, what are his next goals? "The Indoor National Championships, the Spinal Games and the Invictus Games at the Hague next year. I would love to get into the GB para squad; but if I don't and I help promote disability sport, that's a win."

Our eco-loo is open

Worthing Archery Club now has a fully accessible composting eco-loo, thanks to the National Lottery Big Lottery Community Fund. It means the club can be as inclusive as possible and promote archery to more diverse groups and offer bespoke beginners' courses and coaching for community groups with diverse needs. And it will enable the club to hold countywide tournaments. It was officially opened by Freya Bezancon. 

GNAM 165: Join the tournament's anniversary celebrations

Photo: Some of the historic awards. Picture: Malcolm Rees.

A riddle. What started in 1844 but is only now celebrating its 165th anniversary? The answer is one of Britain's oldest tournaments, the Grand National Archery Meeting.

The 10-year gap is due to wars and the occasional weather-related cancellation but it is still one of Britain's premier, and most enjoyable, events. This year the UK record status event with Rose awards is being held from 26 to 28 June at Lilleshall. And you could probably still snap up one of the last places.

The three-day event is seen by many as an archery holiday. But that's not the only attraction. It is also one of the most relaxed and enjoyable. We spoke to a couple of GNAM veterans to find out what it's like.

Malcolm Rees took part in his first GNAM last year. He said: "It's a wonderful shoot. I loved how relaxed it was. Even though it was record status, there were none of the pressures that you get at a regular target shoot. It was great that there was no need for a silly early start, and yet we shot the full 12 dozen (with plenty of breaks) and still finished early.

"Everyone was happy and relaxed. I thought it was great that if you were able to claim a Rose award on the first two days, it would be ready to be awarded on the Friday at prize giving. The trophy table was just epic; and I love the 'archery spider' that I won."

Graham Potts first competed in the 1995 GNAM and has been a regular ever since. He said: "I had friends in archery who encouraged me to attend what is a prestigious and historic event but, above all, a friendly and enjoyable 'archery holiday'.

"The shooting was great fun, and still is, no matter the bowstyle. The social side of the sport comes to the fore, and many tales of success, failure and fun are shared in a social and convivial atmosphere among friends new and old.

"The shooting, while important as winners are required, is very relaxed with lots of conversation and laughter.

"Prize giving is held on the Friday and includes some of the most prestigious trophies in Archery GB. These have historic significance. It is a pleasure to win one, to value the historic nature of the piece and understand the history behind the person in whose name the trophy is.

"Parting on the final day is always tinged with sadness. It is only brightened by the knowledge that we will all meet again the following year for another GNAM and another holiday. Why don't you join in too?"

You can find more information on the Archery GB website under Shoot, Compete> Compete>Archery GB competitions.

All change

AZ Archers of Cheshire, formerly the Zeneca Company of Archers, has shot its last arrow at Mulberry's, Alderley Park, its home since 1993. The club now has a new name, Alderley Archers, a home for the summer and will settle in a brand-new base in the autumn.

Club hits target in Adam's memory

Caldy Archers took to the line for a charity shoot and raised an amazing £655 in memory of 18-year-old Adam Clift, a popular and promising member who passed away after contracting blood cancer.

Club Chair Carol Gardner said "We had raised a good amount already and then we added some money from our club's 50th anniversary year to make this fantastic total amount. Adam was very popular in the club and all the members are thrilled that we could do something in his name." The money went to the Bloodwise charity and was collected by Adam's parents, Caroline and Richard.

Confidence boost: How to prepare members for competition

Shooting your first club competition can be daunting. The prospect of taking part in your first external tournament can be overwhelming. So how can clubs prepare archers who do not feel ready? Deer Park Archers might have the answer.

It held its first club team championships to mark the end of the indoor season. Over the winter members submitted scores at 20 yards on a 60cm face in a mix of club sessions, club target days and other competitions to set a handicap. Thirty-two archers took part and the draw for the teams which was livestreamed online for all the club.

Organiser Peter Sisson said: "We created these championships to give archers a friendly and relaxed experience of competition as, for a number of them, this was the first time they had entered a tournament. The handicapping system we used made every team equal and gave everyone the chance to win."

After team rounds, head to heads, individual scores and median rounds, the competition came down to the final round with two teams vying for the title; one archer from each team was selected to shoot just one arrow.

Deer Park is already looking at running a Christmas version of the shoot and adapting the format for outdoors. If any clubs want to find out more contact Deer park Archers at: deerparkarchers.co.uk.

Parents in Sport Week

Do you want to make sure your child has the best and safest possible archery experience? Then get involved in this year's Parents in Sport Week which runs nationwide from 7 to 13 October.

On May 1, a new scheme was launched: the Positive Parents Promise. The aim is that, by the end of the week, parents will sign up to the promise, acknowledging their contribution to their child's enjoyment of sport and to allowing clubs and coaches to really get them interested and involved.

You can find out more at the information for parents page on the CPSU website: cpsu.org.uk.

Event dates

June

22 to 23 June: Key Event 2. Shuttleworth College Biggleswade. 26 to 28 June: Grand National Archery Meeting, Lilleshall. 29 to 30 June: National County Team Tournament, Lilleshall.

July

6 to 7 July: Junior National Outdoor Championships, Lilleshall. 13 to 14 July: National Tour stages 2 and 3, Surrey Archery Weekend. 20 to 21 July: National Tour stage 4, (compounds on 20th, recurves 21st) hosted by

Bowmen of Glen. 28 July to 2 August: Youth Festival/Key stage 3, Lilleshall.

August

10 to 11 August: British Target Championships, Lilleshall. 17 to 18 August: National Tour stage 5, (compounds 17th, recurves 18th) Barnsley

Archery Club. 18 August: National Flight Championships, Leeds Airport. 24 August: National Tour stage 6, hosted by City of Belfast Archery Club.

September

7 September: National Tour stage 7, Old Basing Archers Siege Shoot. 14 to 15 September: Disability Championships, Lilleshall. 28 to 29 September: National Tour finals.

October

19 October: National Clout Championships, Rawdon Meadows, Bradford.

Full details

You can find entry dates and full details, including locations, for all these shoots via the online members' portal.

New priorities: Paralympian Mel retires from GB squad

Photo: Mel Clarke celebrating at London 2012.

After winning Paralympic bronze, then silver, Mel Clarke said her next goal was gold. But now she has an even bigger priority; and it has led to her retirement from the Archery GB squad.

That priority is her daughter Cali, and the Mel could not be happier. "It's incredible," she said. "It's better than winning gold, than winning two. It's everything I need."

Mel's high points have included Paralympic bronze in 2008, team gold and individual silver at the 2009 World Archery Para championships, silver at London 2012, bronze at the Bangkok World Para Championships in 2013 and mixed team silver with John Stubbs at the championships in Donauschingen two years later.

"I've had as fantastic 17 years on the programme," she said. "I have met some amazing people and I want to thank everybody who has given me support over the years. It's been difficult but I need to concentrate on this now and I just don't have time to do the training needed to perform at the highest level."

Mel developed osteomylelitis after a childhood fall. She found archery when she was 15 but, in 2003, collapsed at the World Archery Championships in New York. A tick bite had left her with Lyme Disease, paralysed from the waist down, blind in one eye and with damaged hearing. But, as she points out, if that had not happened, she would never have met husband and fellow Paralympian Richard Hennahane, they would not have become close during squad training, and she would not have had Cali.

She is hoping to continue her work as an ambassador for archery, going into schools, youth sports trusts and working with Energize, a Shropshire sports charity.

Paralympic Performance Manager Tom Duggan paid tribute saying: "Mel has been a great ambassador for the sport, not only through her performances but also through the work that she has done in and around the community to tell not only her story, but that of the sport. While the last few years have been challenging with injuries, to be bowing out now for such a wonderful life-changing reason is a positive and we wish Mel, Richard and Cali the very best."

Just what a club needs

Lichfield Archers has been going for more than 50 years. It is an active, growing club, but it knew it needed a little help.

Its club house had been built in 1986 and little had changed since then. It was dated and needed to be made more accessible for disabled members. So it set to work.

In 2015 it had plans drawn up and obtained planning permission, but it needed money. So it completed a funding application for Sport England outlining its aims to make the building wheelchair friendly by widening doors, ramps for access and disabled toilet facilities as well as improving and adapting the kitchen.

Then members had to wait and, in 2017, they found out they had been awarded a substantial amount towards the work. The only thing the club had to do was pay a smaller proportion towards the costs and get on with it.

That work has now been completed and the club is busy making even more improvements. It has invested in field targets designed and manufactured by Club President David Antrobus who has long been aware of the difficulties experienced by some members in setting up outdoors. The targets are designed with wheels and are of lightweight but robust material, with ease of mobility in mind.

He said: "We are very proud of our new facilities and now, our members, along with those with mobility issues, are finding these facilities far more accommodating for their needs. We greatly appreciate the help and support received from Sport England."

News in brief

New Project Rimaya coaches

Eight new coaches have completed their level 1 qualification and are ready to run regular archery sessions for their communities and practice opportunities for pupils who have taken part in weekly school sessions as part of Project Rimaya. A second course will start soon.

From dawn 'til dusk

Want to shoot from dawn to dusk and raise money for Kettering General Hospital's breast cancer unit, the Air Ambulance Service and Northampton's Gossett Ward baby unit? Then check out the charity shoot being hosted by Wellingborough Open Archery Club on 29 June. Details on the club's website: www.woac.co.uk.

New home a step closer

Sway Bowmen's plans for a new home are a step closer after planning approval was granted for its new clubhouse. The club, which started in 1985, is thriving with more than 100 members. It has been on its present site since 1997 and bought the land six years ago. Now it wants to replace its aging units and containers with a purpose-built home and has a target of £150,000 to hit for the total cost of the project.

How to inspire

What's the best way to keep youngsters active? Make sure they enjoy it. That's the main message from Sport England's Active Lives Children and Young People Survey. It involved more than 130,000 children and young people and found that enthusiastic parents were key, they need to enjoy sport to stay involved and that there were inequalities that still need to be tackled. You can find out more on the Sport England website: www.sportengland.org.

Obituary

Arnold Fewells

Arnold Fewell took up archery in 2005, following the above knee amputation of his right leg. His ambition to qualify for London 2012 was thwarted by a 2008 shoulder injury but remained a strong advocate for the sport and for Thirsk Bowmen.

"He was an incredible ambassador for disability in both his working life and in archery," said club Chair Ken Billings.

Clout: The fun starts here, great craic and a good cause

When Berkhamstead Bowmen's Good Friday Clout started in the 1970s, it was a rare chance for clout enthusiasts to get together to shoot. Even better, it was free. All you had to do was turn up, book in and enjoy.

Things have changed a little since then. Following the loss of club member Paul Dunn to cancer in 2005, it became a fundraiser for Cancer Research UK; and it is still going strong.

It is now organised by Barbara Anscombe who drafts in family and club members to help with raffles, refreshments and whatever else is needed and it is all included in the entry fee.

Swirling winds were the only things that ruffled any feathers at this year's two-way clout where conditions were warm and sunny. Another factor making entrants smile was the name of the picturesque Chilterns valley where the shoot was being held: Cow Roast.

The whole event was relaxed and fun with a warm welcome, no pressure and the chance to contribute to a worthy cause. If you are interested in taking part in next year's event, check out Berkhamstead Bowmen's website: berkhamsted-bowmen.org.uk.

Industry leader: Why our Instructor Award is the best

It’s official. Archery GB's Instructor Award is a British industry leader and has been awarded a major national accreditation by the Institute for Outdoor Learning.

The Instructor Award is the industry's leading training course for archery. It is designed for learners with little or no prior experience of archery, lasts for two days and includes a practical assessment. Once qualified, Instructors will be able to: shoot, prepare and deliver archery sessions, set up a range, select appropriate equipment and keep everyone safe.

But what is it like to actually take part in the course? And what do you really get out of it? We asked someone who knows: Tina Campan, a co-ordinator with Explore Outdoor in Bury St Edmunds which provides outdoor education activities.

She took her Instructor course, led by Dave Leader, at Aim4Sport, and she loved it. "It was honestly absolutely fantastic. Probably one of the best things I've done as far as training goes." But she was terrified at first. "I've never done archery before, never even picked up a bow," she said. "Then they told us it was possible to fail the course and that made it even worse. But Dave was really reassuring, so calm and so funny. His humour really came through, and that was exactly what I needed.

"I can't put into words how brilliant he was. He built my confidence and eventually I was shooting consistently and accurately. It was amazing and the more I did it, the better I felt, and the day after I passed, I ran my first session and it went super, super well.

"I'm running sessions all the time now for Explore Outdoors and I absolutely love it, so much so that I'm probably going to go and get my own archery equipment. I might even consider doing a coaching course.

"It did something else," she said. "It showed me you can achieve something even if you are absolutely terrified. And once you know that, you can help others."

You can find out more about Archery GB’s Instructor award on the Archery GB website: www.archerygb.org/instructors.

Big Weekend 2019 smashes all records

100+

The Big Weekend is one of the biggest events in the archery calendar, and this year it smashed all previous records, with 105 events introducing thousands of people to archery around the country.

The event, which tied in with Mental Health Awareness Week, was sponsored by The Archery Shop and was a tremendous success. Student Ambassador Ffion Edgeley helped out at Talisman Bowmen's have-a-go. She said: "We did get some typical British weather but people kept coming back to shoot more arrows. Lots of cheering could be heard

whenever an archer hit the gold and there was plenty of encouragement from families for archers on the line."

Shropshire's Long Mynd Archers received a surprise visitor, Archery GB's Chief Executive Neil Armitage with his wife, Louise. Sue Williamson said: "That was the icing on the cake. I think it was a great day and the members were buzzing about how well it had gone."

Logo Text: Archery GB Big Weekend, in partnership with The Archery Shop 'aim for the best'.

Most successful

Egan Carey of AC Delco Bowmen said: "This was our most successful Big Weekend to date. It was great to see so many families, as well as individuals come and have a go at archery. We had a great time sharing our passion for archery and hope that we might have inspired more people to get involved in archery in the future."

Our new Chair, Mark Briegal was out and about. He visited Colwyn Bowmen and Lonsdale Archers over the weekend. He thanked both clubs and said: "Thank you so much for your hospitality. My wife Clare and I were delighted to meet you all. The enthusiasm of members was evident as was the excellent organisation."

Fantastic day

Volunteers at Lonsdale Archers were on the go all day. Club Secretary and Coach Mark Christie said: "We were delighted with the turnout, and all the coaches had a fantastic day encouraging and enthusing people of all ages about the sport."

And Overton Black Arrows used the event to help charity. It asked visitors for donations towards the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

This year we set a target of hitting the century and when the 100th event was registered, we held a prize draw to win a free Arrows kit. The lucky winners? Caldy Bowmen.

Busy and loving it

Archery GB's Ambassadors were kept busy over the Big Weekend and they could not be happier about it.

Young Ambassador Aaron Christie was kept busy running Lonsdale Archers' registration desk. "My job was to register each person, get contact details, and obtain photo permission

consent," he said. "I was busy all afternoon. It was great to see the kids' faces when they won a tombola prize too."

Club Ambassadors Helen and Jack were just as busy at Wellingborough Open Archery Club. "We had people of all ages and abilities visit us, most were trying archery for the first time but some came back after not shooting for a few years," said Helen.

"One visitor had been told that he would never be able to shoot and never be able to compete due to complications with his elbow. I carefully chose a coach, explained the history and he later walked away with the biggest smile and sense of satisfaction.

"We also had had a long chat about his mental health and anxiety following the death of his wife. His bereavement counsellor had suggested a new activity and he spotted our Big Weekend advert on Facebook and came along. It just shows how important social media is. You never know who may be out there needing a friendly face and we find it brings in people who may never have thought to look for archery."

More reports

There will be more reports and pictures in the autumn edition of Archery UK

A date with history: Caldicot Castle to host 2019 National Tour finals

Britain's premier archery event deserves a stunning backdrop. That's why Archery GB is to hold the 2019 National Tour finals in the spectacular setting of Caldicot Castle in South Wales.

The castle, which set in 55 acres of parkland, is thought to have originated as an earth and timber fortification built possibly by Walter FitzRoger, Sheriff of Gloucestershire. What is certain is that in 1221, Caldicot passed through marriage to Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereford, and that's when work started on the current site.

The de Bohuns went on to gain great power through the earldoms of Essex, Hereford and Northampton and were to play a central role in British history when John of Gaunt arranged the marriage of his son Henry Bolingbroke, later Henry IV, to Mary de Bohun. The aim was

to get his hands-on part of the de Bohun estates. The result was the birth of Henry V, the hero of Agincourt.

The castle later fell into neglect and was further damaged during the Civil War when it was garrisoned by Royalist forces. It was restored in the 19th century by Joseph Richard Cobb.

Now Caldicot, which regularly hosts archery have-a-go sessions, is waiting to welcome you to the National Tour finals on 28 and 29 September. And it won't cost you a penny to attend this fantastic fun-packed event.

It will be the culmination of a campaign that got off to a cracking start at the Bucks or Bounty tournament at Lilleshall and will visit Surrey, Leicester, Barnsley, Belfast and Basingstoke. The event is being supported by the Welsh Assembly and will offer you the chance to see some of our finest archers battling to be the best in Britain. So come along a join the fun.

Your pictures

Submissions

If you want to see your handiwork displayed in Archery UK, it couldn't be easier. Simply send your photograph; it must be in jpg format, high resolution and at least 1MB; with details of where you took it to magazine@archerygb.org.

Introduction

Britain's ever-changing weather conditions have proved irresistible to our photographers over recent weeks, as have the picture opportunities thrown up at tournaments.

Perfect timing

Steve Reeve of Plumpton Archers was in the right place at the right time as Malcolm Parsons released his arrow during a field shoot in Fletching, East Sussex.

Lough Cuan heatwave

Matt Latimer managed to combine both themes with his stunning shot of Lough Cuan Bowmen making the most of the recent heatwave.

On target

Abigail Pearce captured this shot of Claire Phippen during Cambridge University's St George's Day shoot.

Mystical

This mystical shot of targets at Crystal Palace Bowmen's Open Shoot was sent in by Alan and Mary Evans.

BUCS x 3

Christopher Viney found rich pickings at the British University Team Championships in Reading, focusing more on the spectators than the competition itself, resulting in these three shots.

What sticker?

Time out

Come on

History: Taking the lead; the rise and demise of Hainault Foresters

By Arthur Credland, Archery GB's official historian. historian@archerygb.org.

In 1789, Hainault Foresters was established. It was the first archery society in Essex. In fact, it was one of the earliest in Britain, part of the late 18th century revival of the sport. Archery quickly moved from sport and exercise to lavish entertainment and the new societies drew members from county families, the rich and fashionable.

Hainault Foresters was unusual. It admitted women as full members although men and women shot at different targets, the former at 60 yards and the latter at 90 yards. In most 18th century societies women were either present as onlookers, or they may have shot informally with their efforts going unrecorded.

It was founded by a baronet, Sir James Tylney Long of Wanstead Park in Essex, although meetings were not on the estate. Instead the society gathered a few miles away at the Fairlop Oak, a large and ancient tree and noted landmark. It grew in an area of Waltham Forest (Epping Forest), east of the River Roding, known as Hainault.

The first report of a shoot is found in a press-cutting for 1790:

"On the signal, by the bugle horns that the visitors were approaching, the corps of gentlemen archers formed and marched out, preceded by their colours and a band of wind instruments, in suitable uniforms and received the Lord Warden and his suite at the end of their lines and escorted him under their forest trophies to Fair-lop tree where they were received by the Lady President and the rest of the Sisterhood of the Bow all habited in forest dresses.

"After some refreshments in the tents, picturesquely pitched in the rear of the old tree, the excursions of the day commenced by shooting at six targets: the ladies in the centre, who by their superior skill verified the motto of this society 'In medio palma'. The central gold was pierced by a fair one's arrow several times in the course of the day."

The very last report of the society which has come to light appears in the 'World' of 29 July 1793. It simply announces that the Hainault Foresters will meet 'Monday next on Epping Forest'.

Sir James Tylney Long died in 1794. Under different circumstances the society might have continued under another patron. However, in February of the previous year, France had declared war on England and there had been a general call to arms. Many societies were wound up, some only temporarily. Others like the Hainault Foresters, were never revived.

Force majeure: The impact of English longbows at Agincourt

Photo: Tom Hiddleston as Henry V at Agincourt in a scene from BBC 2's Hollow Crown, which covered Shakespeare's Henraid series. Picture: courtesy of Neal Street Productions.

History, tactics, impact

What led up to Henry V's victory at Agincourt on 12 October 1415? England's forces were outnumbered. Their path was blocked. All the odds favoured the French. But the tables were turned. Dave Hughes, formerly of Burscough Archers, takes a look at the history, tactics, and the impact, of the English longbows on the battlefield.

The Hundred Years War

Disagreements between the French and English royal families were at the heart of the conflict. Philip of France confiscated all of King Edward III's French lands. Edward responded by reasserting his claim to the French throne. That was the catalyst for the 100 Years' War.

Henry V succeeded his father in 1415. He invaded France and besieged the port town of Harfleur. He took around 9,000 archers and 2,000 men-at-arms and the intention was to demonstrate his superiority to the King of France. An end to the siege was eventually negotiated, but it had cost Henry almost a quarter of his army, mostly to disease.

The advice was to return home. But Henry had a point to prove. He wanted to show he could act with impunity in France and opted for a 128-mile route march through the countryside to Calais. The plan was to sail home from there.

It meant crossing the River Somme, but the French were shadowing his forces on the north side, preventing any crossings. Eventually a loop in the river gave him the perfect short cut. The terrain meant French forces had to travel further to reach the same point, so they changed tactics and headed for Agincourt. Why? Because the English had to pass through the village to reach Calais. Henry was left with no choice. He had to fight, pitting his remaining 8,000 archers and 1,000 men at arms against massed French forces of around 34,000.

The Battle of Agincourt

How did Henry's 'band of brothers' win? And why were the archers so successful at Agincourt? One major factor was a complete lack of unified leadership among the French. Others included:

The archers could each release 10 arrows per minute.

The ploughed field was very muddy. It had rained overnight, leaving the French cavalry and their men-at-arms at a disadvantage to the archers.

The geography of the battlefield meant the French could not attack on multiple fronts. This reduced the impact of their numerical superiority.

The French were over-confident. They had obvious numerical superiority and better physical fitness, but were ill-prepared to fight on the day. They even sent a herald to ask Henry on what terms he would surrender. This was rejected. On the morning of the battle the English all took mass and ceremonially swallowed a pinch of soil as a symbol of their preference to die rather than surrender. The English lined up to start the battle with the yeomen archers on the two ends of the line and the men-at-arms and the king, all on foot, in the centre.

They had to protect the archers, so they hammered 6ft long sharpened stakes into the ground angled towards the French. Nothing happened and it was decided to move forward 200 yards, so they 'upped sticks'. This move benefitted the English because the fighting line was now limited by two copses restricting the width of the fighting line.

Henry then ordered the archers to send a flight of arrows towards the French lines. This enraged the French provoking a cavalry charge which ran into the stakes and was caught in the archers' crossfire. The dead French horses and cavalrymen created a barrier across the battle line. What was left of the cavalry then turned around and returned to camp.

At this point the first of three French lines moved forward, swiftly followed by a second. They were in full armour, weighing around 70 pounds, and slogged three or four hundred yards to cross the muddy field. After their horses were brought down by the arrow storm or dragged off them by the English, they were struggling in the mud.

Meanwhile, the second line advanced behind them pushing the first line up against the barrier. This restricted their ability to use their swords. The English where much nimbler and used dagger and sword and the archers their mauls to despatch or render unconscious the armoured knights.

Aftermath

It was all over in three hours. The French had lost 10,000 men, mainly knights. It is estimated that the French lost 95 per cent of their nobility. The total number of English lost amounted to approximately 400.

The battle of Agincourt, won against all the odds, passed into legend and was immortalised by William Shakespeare. Two years later Henry, at the height of his powers, became regent of France but died of camp fever two years later on the outskirts of Paris.

Disabilities: Mike Shepherd, Steve Prowse and British Blind Sport Championship

Making it Count: How archery gave Mike a new goal

Second chances do not come along very often. And when they do, they should not be wasted. At least that's what Mike Shepherd thinks; and he has better reason than most to appreciate what it can mean.

This is his story:

"In 2015, I was told I had end-stage liver disease and would need a transplant. I was put on the waiting list and, in the very early hours of 20 January 2016, I received a call to say a matching donor liver had become available.

"This meant someone had died so that I could live. The feelings of both elation and immense guilt that transplant recipients feel are so very hard to resolve. I wanted to make the donor family proud, and to live life to the full.

"My initial recovery was extremely difficult. It was 18 months before I could even consider returning to normal life. On top of that, there were serious side-effects from my daily medication. Returning to fitness would be a long and rocky road.

"When a friend suggested taking part in the 2018 British Transplant games in Birmingham, I was slightly taken aback. I thought it was just for established athletes and I wasn't involved in any sport. Then I thought of my father.

"He was a keen archer back in the 1960s, helped form Rhyl Archers and was passionate about archery at all levels. I had never shot seriously but, with the British Transplant Games in mind, it had never felt like a better time to start.

"The guys at Stafford Archers understood my limitations. When I first joined it was slow going, I could not stand for long without pain. But within weeks, after much patience and encouragement I noticed a huge improvement, both physically and in my confidence.

"Five months later I was shooting at the Birmingham games. It felt like a fantastic achievement. Not just for myself but for those who helped me get there.

"I had never competed before but quickly realised there were many others were in exactly the same position. More experienced athletes helped us enormously with advice and tips.

"Of course, I didn't win any medals. I had never expected to. It was about pushing myself to achieve something I had previously considered beyond my capabilities. Most importantly, the British Transplant Games were a great success. I was honoured to join over 1,000 transplant athletes in raising funds and awareness for organ donation and encouraging recovery to fitness through sport.

"Now, one year later I have gone from strength to strength. I enjoy being an active member of my club and I'm now in charge of the taster sessions. I feel proud to call archery my sport."

Jack Grocott, Chair of Stafford Archers, said: "We were all hugely impressed with Mike's involvement in the games so soon after taking up the sport.

"Since then he has shown unwavering enthusiasm and passion for archery. He's always the first to volunteer and takes great joy in helping new people discover our sport."

Number 1: How Steve became the world's top VI archer

Steve Prowse is the best of the best. Undefeated outside for 18 years and number one in the world. So why haven't more people heard about him and his achievements? It's possible it is because he is a visually impaired archer, and VI archery is only now starting to get the attention it deserves.

We spoke to Steve to find out how he started and what drives the reigning world and European champion. He said:

"I started archery back in the 1990s and was introduced to a tactile stand. It was basically a tripod with a pin attached, located on the back of the hand, and a foot locator that sets the foot position. It was just not quite right for me. It prevented me from making adjustments that allowed my shot to be executed properly and repeatedly.

"After the World Championships in South Korea 2007, under the old International Paralympic Committee rules, I decided, along with much help from the Wolverhampton Company of Archers members and my long-suffering wife and spotter Lesley, to redesign the stand. It became simpler and more adjustable.

"One of the major issues with using a tactile sight is that it depends on the surface it rests on. Any variation from completely level causes problems with aligning the body at the correct angle and changes the ability to have a consistent draw length. A slight deviation can create up to 25mm difference. You can practice on one ground surface get the draw

length to the optimum only to find it being too short or too long when shooting on a different ground surface.

"When redesigning my stand, I did extensive research into other sports similar to archery that appeared to have skill sets that I could transfer to my own shot process. These ranged from proprioception (awareness of the position and movement of the body) to how to control breathing through the shot process. It has been a long process. Ways of preparing a shot routine and execution were limited by the tactile stand so both had to be adapted until the equipment allowed me to execute the process with minimal interference.

"These developments are ongoing and have allowed me to make minute adjustments. These have had a dramatic effect on consistency and scores: approximately 0.5 degrees difference in body position equates to approximately six inches difference on the target face. It became very clear that no one part of the shot routine is more important than the other. My routine is built from my feet upwards. Minute detail is taken in every aspect of this process. One detail missed or not repeated can send the arrow from one side of the target to the other.

"I have developed my own practice routines during which I break down each individual component. For example, I might spend hours just practising my balance and body position when putting an arrow into the bow as for me, this is the start of the shot process. Get this wrong and the whole shot breaks down. I also practice in adverse conditions. I do this rigorously, usually four to five days a week.

"It seems to have worked very successfully. I have not lost an outdoors competition in over 18 years and have achieved 13 world and multiple national records. It does, however, bring difficulties. The pressure to perform at elite events puts immense psychological strain on performance. The more events I take part in, the harder it seems to get as the level of expectation increases. I am currently ranked number 1 in the world, having become double world champion and three-times European champion.

"How I see VI archery progressing? It is very slow and challenging and I know members of British Blind Sport archery section have for many years been attempting to address certain issues. However, up to this point it has been a difficult and sometimes frustrating process.

"In terms of my own progression, I would love to gain a coaching qualification. I would dearly love to pass on what I have learned as I think I am nearing the end of my international career. Each year I make a decision competition by competition."

British Blind Sport Championship

Archery GB is delighted to be working with British Blind Sport which is holding its Archery Championships at Lilleshall Sunday 15 September.

On 14 September, entrants can compete in the National Disability Championships, which are supported by the Worshipful Company of Fletchers. On Sunday, the Disability Championship finals for the para classified archers will be held on the Astroturf and the BBS Championships will be shot on the field.

Tokyo 2020: Olympic and Paralympic qualification

Our quick guide

Tokyo 2020. It's getting ever closer and the first qualification tournament, the World Para Championships in s'Hertogenbosch, is under way. That will be immediately followed by the World Championships and then the European Games in Minsk. So, what do we need to know about the qualification process? Here’s our quick guide to what is about to happen.

Olympics

There's a total of 128 spots available: 64 for men and 64 for women. This is how World Archery breaks them down:

28 places at 2019 World Archery Championships (eight teams and four individuals). 8 places at continental games (five mixed team, top individuals in Asia, Europe and

Americas). 13 places at continental qualifying tournaments. 10 places at final qualifying tournament. 3 places for host country. 2 universality invitations.

There are two paths to securing quota places: through teams of three (gaining three individual slots) or through individual athletes (a maximum of one man and one woman.) You cannot do both.

Not every athlete who wins a place will compete in Tokyo. In the UK, the final decision rests with the British Olympic Committee. To fill an Olympic place, an athlete must have shot a minimum recurve score in a 72 arrow 70-metre ranking round in a world record status competition during the qualification period. For men the score is 640, for women 605.

World Archery Championships

June 2019: Top eight teams win places. Top four individuals who have not already qualified for team spots win places for their nation.

Eligibility is limited to finishers within the top four. Any extra places are returned.

European Games

June 2019: The top ranked mixed team and top three individuals not already qualified by another method win places for their country. If a country already has one of the two gender quota places from the world championships and qualifies a mixed team place, the additional gender spot is awarded and the duplicate gender place transferred to the individual event.

Eligibility is limited to finishers within the top four. Any extra places are returned.

Continental events

Summer 2019 to Spring 2020: These are for countries without quota places. The top ranked individuals win places for their nation. There are four available to Europe.

Final qualification tournament

Summer 2020: Open only to national teams that do not have quotas. The top three are awarded places. Any individual quota places already gained by a qualifying team are returned.

Universality places

July 2020: Two places awarded to emerging sporting nations to drive competitive ambition, sport development and equality.

Paralympics

There will be 140 athletes, 80 men and 60 women, bidding for archery's top titles at the Paralympics. They will be shooting in three categories, compound open, recurve and W1 and there are nine events.

World Archery breaks down all the quota places as follows:

24 places via 12 mixed teams: top four in each of the three categories at the main mixed team competition at the 2019 World Archery Para Championships.

56 places: highest-ranked athletes not qualified via mixed team event at 2019 World Archery Para Championships. (2 men's W1, 2 women's W1; 20 men's compound, 8 women's compound; 16 men's recurve, 8 women's recurve.)

30 places: continental qualification tournaments in Americas, Asia and Europe.

12 places: eligible athletes at final qualification tournament (see below).

6 places: host country allocation.

12 places: bipartite commission. Each men and women: 3 recurve, 3 compound (see below).

Paralympic places available (from above graphic)

Total places available between all countries:

W1: 12 women and 12 men. Recurve: 24 women and 32 men. Compound open: 24 women and 36 men.

Maximum places available to GB with a world champion:

W1: 2 women and 2 men (individual and/or mixed team). Recurve: 3 women and 3 men (individual and/or mixed team). Compound open: 3 women and 3 men (individual and/or mixed team).

Maximum places available to GB without a world champion:

W1: 1 women and 2 men. Recurve: 2 women and 2 men. Compound open: 2 women and 2 men.

World Championships (from above graphic)

World Para Championships are currently underway in s'Hertogenbosch. Maximum places available between all countries:

W1: o Mixed team top 4 teams. 1 mens, 1 womens place each.o Individual men and women (after any athlete obtaining a place via the mixed

team has been removed). Total: top 2 men, top 2 women.

Recurve: o Mixed team top 4 teams. 1 mens, 1 womens place each.o Individual men and women (after any athlete obtaining a place via the mixed

team has been removed). Total: top 16 men, top 8 women.

Compound Open:o Mixed team top 4 teams. 1 mens, 1 womens place each.

o Individual men and women (after any athlete obtaining a place via the mixed team has been removed). Total: top 20 men, top 8 women.

Maximum places available to GB:

W1: Mixed team plus individual men and women. Total: 2 men, 2 women. Recurve: Mixed team plus individual men and women. Total: 3 men, 3 women. Compound Open: Mixed team plus individual men and women. Total: 3 men, 3

women.

Continental Qualification Tournament 2020

Places are only available in categories where we did not qualify for places at the world championships. Maximum additional places available to GB:

W1: 1 man, 1 woman. Recurve: 1 man, 1 woman. Compound Open: 1 man, 1 woman.

Final qualification tournament

Places only available if we fail to qualify for places in the previous two events. Maximum places GB can win:

W1: 1 man, 1 woman. Recurve: 1 man, 1 woman. Compound Open: 1 man, 1 woman.

Bipartite Commission places

Recurve and compound: Must be applied for in writing and the commission will decide who to award them to.

W1: No bipartite places available unless any place remains unfilled after all prior qualification events.

Recurve: 3 men, 3 women. Compound Open: 3 men, 3 women.

Minimum qualification standards

720 round score: must be shot between 1 June 2019 and 1 July 2020.

W1: Men: 590. Women: 520. Recurve: Men: 570. Women: 530. Compound Open: Men: 650. Women: 620.

Field: Championships, 3D, Gloria Mead and Lizzy Rees

Just flawless: Praise heaped on All British Field Champs

Some of the finest field archers from the UK, Ireland and France gathered near Newtownards, County Down for the 2019 All British and Open Senior and Junior Field Archery Championships, and the results were just as spectacular as the surroundings.

More than 130 took part in the event, hosted by Lough Cuan Bowmen and held in woodland surrounding the Mount Stewart estate, which is run by National Trust. Volunteers rallied to set out courses in two separate woods and over challenging terrain.

The result was, according to judge Ashley Russell-Cowan, "a stress-free two days". And City of Belfast archer Mike Henry went further. He said: "The setting was beautiful, the weather kind, and the camaraderie unparalleled in participant sport. The organisation and flawless execution were truly testament to the team spirit that exists at the club."

All bow styles and age groups were represented, and there were plenty of success stories with entrants claiming Arrowhead awards, Northern Ireland and UK records.

Among the special guests was Olympic gold medallist and sports ambassador Dame Mary Peters. She was the Lady Paramount and presented the awards. The Home Nations prize went to Wales. It was presented by Lady Rose Lauritzen, granddaughter of the Marquess of Londonderry, whose family once owned the estate.

Gloria Mead, GB Field Team Manager awarded the Jack Secombes Trophy, which goes to a GB field team member, to Naomi Folkard.

"It was a huge success," said Lough Cuan Bowmen Chair, Michael Ferguson. And the last word should go to French archer David Jackson who said: "Thanks to Lough Cuan Bowmen for the weekend and all the hard work put into it. Everything went so smoothly."

You can find all the results in an article on the Archery GB website dated 27 May.

Nailed it: Auld Braidlie wins praise for 3D champs

Picture: Milly Williams

An amazing competition. That's the verdict of Emily Williams who took the women's longbow title at this year's National 3D championships.

"Despite it being the first WA 3D competition hosted by Auld Braidlie Archers, they absolutely nailed it. The course was perfect, held on the side of a very cold, windy and steep Scottish mountain made for a very technically challenging course. However, the size and distances of the targets were fair leaving us with a very enjoyable course that definitely tested us all through the weekend."

Emily was one of the barebow, longbow, instinctive and compound archers who flocked to Hawick in the Scottish Borders to take part in the two-day event, which culminated in head-to-heads.

"This was the first domestic 3D tournament I had taken part in that included head-to-heads," she said. "And which is always by far my favourite way of shooting. Having the two finals courses running around the tea tent meant that everyone was able to spectate and cheer each other on, showing support for competitors in a way that I've never seen in any other sport.

"I'm sure everyone who attended has expressed their gratitude to all the people who put the work in to get a British 3D Champs started, and we can't wait to shoot more of these in the future."

Rob and Sophie Twigg also had reason to celebrate. Rob took the men's longbow title and Sophie finished third with her first GB team qualifying score.

He told his local paper that, after a bad start in the finals, he controlled his breathing and visualised the arrow flying to the centre of the target.

"The judge then walked forward before saying 'shoot' and it was in that moment that it seemed as if the world actually stood still. I very slowly exhaled and relaxed my fingers letting the arrow loose.

"The rest, as the saying goes, is history, for the arrow sailed through the air, hitting the target and I had won."

This year’s British 3D champions are:

Barebow: Adele McPeake and Jason Meehan. Longbow: Emily Williams and Rob Twigg. Instinctive: Alison Kelly and Jed Cullen. Compound: Claudine Jennings and Zach Ball.

Leading the field: Meet GB team manager Gloria Mead

What is it like to be Great Britain's Field Team Manager? And how do you find yourself in that position anyway? There is one woman who knows: Gloria Mead. She has held the job for eight very successful years and spoke to us about what it entails.

Gloria started shooting in 1984, practised hard and was Gloucester county champion for several years. But that was just the beginning of her story.

"In 1993 I was introduced to field archery," she said. "Not only did it provide an extra challenge, I found my target, and indoor archery improved because the disciplines complement each other. In 1996 I was fortunate to be selected to be a member of the British Field Team. I won the women's recurve field title in 2002 and 2003 and have continued to compete at both target and field ever since.

"In 2011 I was asked to become the GB Field Team Manager. I agreed to take on the role and see how it went, to offer a sense of continuity for the team members. I felt it would be for about three years but, apart from 2017 when I underwent treatment for breast cancer and didn't think I would be back, this year will make it eight years.

"The role is certainly not straightforward. You can have a team of up to 36 archers, a mix of males and females, juniors and seniors, recurve, barebow and compound. And sometimes the first time you meet is at the airport.

"Each international event has issues, before and during, such as transport, accommodation, food, communication and rules. My role is to ensure they are dealt with, so that there is little or no impact on the team.

"What is my main focus? The team of course, making sure they all know where they should be, when they should be there and with everything they need. I always ensure my actions, and those of the assistant managers, provide a stable environment to enable each archer to perform at their best. The different personalities are always testing, but that's what makes the archers the winners they are.

"One piece of advice I was given was that for each individual team member 'It's all about me'. I endeavour to provide support to everyone as individuals, while ensuring they realise they are part of a team.

"The biggest team was for the European Field Championships 2015, held in Poland. There were 32 archers. The youngest was 13 and the oldest in their 50s.

"Every time I put on my GB team shirt, every time I hear our national anthem being played, and see our team members receiving their medals on the podium, I feel an enormous sense of pride. One of my proudest moments, though, was in Val D'Isere at the 2012 World Championships accompanying the women's team in the gold medal match. The team became world champions for the first time and, not to be outdone, the junior women's team also won gold.

"On the international circuit our archers are revered. They are among the best in Europe and the world. Other team managers are interested in our selection procedures and our unity. They admire the way we are always together as a team on and off the field of play. They are very complementary about our team and congratulate our triumphs. I feel privileged to be the GB Field Team Manager."

GB field team achievements

2011

Venue: Montevarchi, Italy. Championship: European. Number in team: 19. Golds: 1. Silver: 4. Bronze: 2. Bronze (again): 3.

2012

Venue: Val D'Isere, France. Championship: World. Number in team: 23. Golds: 2. Silver: 2. Bronze: 2. Bronze (again): 2.

2013

Venue: Terni, Italy. Championship: European. Number in team: 18. Golds: 2. Silver: 0. Bronze: 2. Bronze (again): 6.

2014

Venue: Zagreb, Croatia. Championship: World. Number in team: 24. Golds: 0. Silver: 4. Bronze: 3. Bronze (again): 1.

2015

Venue: Poland. Championship: European. Number in team: 32. Golds: 0. Silver: 4. Bronze: 6. Bronze (again): 2.

2016

Venue: Dublin. Championship: World. Number in team: 2. Golds: 0. Silver: 2. Bronze: 3. Bronze (again): 3.

2017

Venue: Slovenia. Championship: European. Number in team: 23. Golds: 0. Silver: 1. Bronze: 4. Bronze (again): 2.

2018

Venue: Cortina, Italy. Championship: World. Number in team: 24. Golds: 0. Silver: 1. Bronze: 0. Bronze (again): 6.

Field: Why you should try and what you need to know

Words: Lizzy Rees

Essentially, field archery is just shooting arrows. It sits under World Archery which means anyone who is an Archery GB member can have a go. But what makes it different from target archery? And why should you try it?

Terrain

Field archery can sometimes be compared to golf. A day of competition involves walking around a pre-set course of 24 targets, each positioned at different distances and angles. A typical course will have known distances (marked targets) and unknown distances (unmarked targets) and it's up to the archer to work out how far to shoot and how to adjust

for angles. It can be shot in wooded or open areas, as long as there are some differing angles.

Target face

Foam bosses are almost always used instead of straw. We use black and gold faces varying in size from 20cm to 80cm diameter and the scoring zones range from 6 to 0. Six is the inner gold circle and zero anywhere off of the black scoring zone. Which face size you shoot is determined by the distance you shoot. The further away the target, the larger the face.

Distances

The furthest distance shot in competition by a sighted archer (shooting recurve or compound) is 60m at an 80cm face. For unsighted archers (barebow, longbow, American flatbow etc), the longest is 50m at an 80cm face. We also have a beginners' set of distances which go up to 30m.

World Archery 3D

As well as World Archery field, 3D archery is becoming hugely popular in the UK. It is very similar terrain but archers shoot at 3D foam replicas of animals instead of black and gold round target faces. All of the targets are at unknown distances ranging up to 45m for sighted archers and 30m for unsighted archers.

5 reasons to try field

1 It's different

Target archery is fantastic, but field is exciting, offers more variety and is very technical to master.

2 Sense of community

At a competition or have a go, you're in a group of up to four and you will stick with them to the end, forming new friendships and getting, or offering, tips.

3 Health benefits

There's lots of walking between targets over hilly terrains. It's an excellent way to get out, shoot some arrows and keep fit.

4 It won't break the bank

A one-day event will cost adults between £10-£12 and less for a junior. Over 24 targets, that works out at 50p each and a full day of sport and exercise.

5 It's inclusive

Field welcomes compound, recurve, barebow, longbow, American flatbow, traditional, instinctive, compound limited and compound barebow. It's a great way to try something new. Please head to the Archery GB tournament diary to find your nearest field archery event.

Your input

We are looking at how we can make our field offer better. We are about to release a Field Archery questionnaire and we would really appreciate your input. Keep an eye on the website for further details.

AGM: Full report and pictures

On the up: Great progress on satisfaction and retention

Membership satisfaction, retention, increased consultation and sustainability are key to the future of Archery GB; and we are making great progress, delegates heard at this year's Archery GB Conference.

Chief Executive Neil Armitage said: "I'm really pleased to report our retention has increased from 64 to 68 per cent. That's a really good result and ahead of where we expected it to be.

"We know that the more we understand our members, the more relevant we can be. That's why Archery GB is working with the universities of Birmingham and Portsmouth to really understand the experience of archers. Some 700 archers have provided us with in-depth information about their experiences in their clubs, for coaching and archery in general, and we thank them for their help.

"It will provide us with valuable, independent, robust evidence that we can use to develop more opportunities to provide positive experiences for archers and coaches.

"We are particularly interested in understanding the current motivational climate: the quality of experience, what encourages people to stay in, or leave, the sport. The research will allow us to adjust the learning opportunities we provide for coaches so that they can understand and use strategies for creating a motivational and empowering climate."

This is being helped by technological advances which, as well as allowing us to offer security and a slicker, cost-effective and more efficient member and range registration process, also includes the new Learning Curve app for coaches and volunteers.

The research is also yielding valuable metrics, including the net promoter score, a tool to measure whether you would recommend the organisation. In business anything above 20 is seen as a really good result, and archery clubs are scoring almost 60.

Research is also allowing us to improve communication through Archery UK, ezines and our social media platforms, helping to ensure we get the right information and support to the right people at the right time.

Invaluable insight is also coming from the Sport Team Strategic Advisory Group, which was set up to share knowledge and experience, check and challenge the Sport Team's approach, activities and future direction, making sure that grassroots archery is at the heart of all decisions. A special interest group is being established to focus on four key priority groups: the over 55s, women and girls, children and young people and disabled people.

We are also keen to get young people involved and have made a great start with our new Ambassadors and Mentor programme, novice-led competitions and encouraging school competitions.

Another initiative, creating a new regional role, an archery club development officer, offers another way of giving local support. The post is jointly funded by Archery GB and Southern Counties and the aim is to extend the idea to other regions as quickly as possible.

Financial sustainability is vital to Archery GB's future. Neil said: "There is no silver bullet. Becoming independent of grant funding is always a challenge. We have developed a business improvement and innovation approach to our commercial activities. Our financial initiatives have resulted in new Partnerships with Wales Archery, Errea and The Archery Shop, which is now sponsoring the Big Weekend and we are working on others." These include accreditation of instructor courses by the Institute of Outdoor Learning and working with UK Sport and other sports to develop a broadcast proposition to showcase archery, among others, increasing the level of interest and exposure.

The success of our archers and our involvement in the campaign group Every Sport Matters has secured extra Aspiration Funding of £192,500 in addition to our medal support plan funding, which will be used to prepare for and maximise our chances in Tokyo.

2019 AGM at a glance

Mark Briegal became Archery GB Chair. Rachel Wilkinson named Company Secretary. Scott Smith joined the Board as a Senior Independent Director. Yakub Ali was confirmed as an Elected Director. Helen George co-opted on to Board. President Trish Lovell succeeded by Richard Custance. Derrick Lovell became a Vice-President. Making sure regulations and Articles of Association meet with Crystal Mark standard

approved. 'Chair' to replace 'Chairman'. Changes to system of voting approved. All AGM details can be found on the website: About us> AGM 2019. The 2020 AGM will be held on 18 April at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC.

2019/20 membership fees

The new Archery GB membership fees for 2019/20 were announced at our AGM. Chief Executive Neil Armitage told delegates: "Our commitment is that we will guarantee that additional revenue created by fee increases, along with other income streams go directly back into the sport through our long-term investment strategy, which is used to

support ongoing sport development initiatives like our clubs and facilities plan, coaching strategy, competition strategy and community and volunteer plans."

The fees for 2019/20 will be:

Direct member senior (25 and over): £55. Direct member senior (18 to 24 inclusive): £12. Club member senior (25 and over): £47. Club member senior (18 to 24 inclusive): £12. Junior member (under 18, all categories): £12. Archers with disabilities (all ages): £12. School/scout troop clubs: £5. University clubs: £170.

Find out more

Do you sometimes wonder what we do and where your membership fees and our grant funding go? You can check out everything we have been up to over the past year in our 2018-19 Yearbook. Check out our website news announcement dated 16 April or scan the QR code.

Lasting legacy: Selfless volunteers are rewarded

Volunteers are at the heart of our sport. All leave a lasting legacy and their work was recognised with trophies and plaquettes after Archery GB's AGM.

Archer of the Year

The Hartwell Trophy for the Archer of the Year went to the chairman and lead coach of Wymondham Archers, Peter Hill, for improving club facilities, setting up new partnerships and courses and putting talent development and coaching ahead of his own shooting.

Young Archer of the Year

Layla Annison won the Archery GB Young Archer of the Year award. She is a triple European champion, won the UK Masters, Target Championships and National Tour titles, holds four UK and one European Record as well as topping the British senior rankings and is the GB senior indoor champion. All while studying for GCSEs.

Wheelchair archer of the year

The Gussy Trophy for the wheelchair archer of the year went to Paralympic double gold medallist John Walker. He only took up archery in 2013 and went on to pick up European and World titles but is retiring because of a shoulder injury.

Best magazine

The Toxophilus Trophy for the best magazine went to Derwent Bowmen's weekly newsletter produced by Sarah Francis.

Best websites

Canterbury Archers fought off strong competition to win the Archery GB Club Website Award and the Region and County Website Award went to Essex and Suffolk County Archery Association.

Gold Plaquettes

Mark Davies

Retiring Chair of Archery GB who created a strategic Board, sorted out governance issues and secured the trust of investors in archery such as UK Sport and Sport England. He did all this while having a major heart trauma, running the Athens marathon and becoming Chairman of British Rowing.

Chris Jones

Founded Merlin Archery, a long-time supporter of the Archery GB National Series and helped introduce the compound bow into the UK. Chris passed away last year and his award was accepted by his son, Ben.

Bob McGonigle

Photo: Mark Davies presents Bob with a gift from the board.

Bob first worked with Scottish Archery. He became Archery GB's Director Scotland then Development and Marketing Director. During his nine years on the Board, membership grew

from 30,000 to 46,000 and Britain hosted the 2010 Archery World Championships and the 2012 London Olympics and he helped transform the sport.

Silver Plaquettes

Steve Ellison

A man of many talents and roles, particularly as Chair of Southern Counties, Steve Ellison always strives to move the region forward.

Mark Davis

Mark is the safeguarding officer and treasurer for Kent. He has worked as a coach, tournament officer and, importantly, as a judge, giving up hundreds of weekends to archery.

Peter Morris

Peter, an archer for 54 years, a judge for 48 years, a national judge for 28 years, an international judge for seven years and has served 11 years on the judging committee as well as officiating at three world championships and the Sydney and London Olympics.

Andrew Rees

Andrew is a pivotal member of the field archery community, organising the All-British Field Championships, managing the team and chairing the Operations Committee.

Pippa Britton

Pippa is a double Paralympian and on the podium at six world championships, a Board member and Archery GB's Diversity Champion. She will continue to focus on her work with Sport Wales and UK Anti-Doping.

Catherine Wilson

Catherine is our first Senior Independent Director and retiring Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.

Chris Fletcher-Campbell

Chris became Southern Counties Treasurer in 2007, Honorary Secretary in 2013 and works tirelessly behind the scenes.

Trish and Derrick Lovell

Derrick and Trish have shared Archery GB President duties for the past nine years. He is an International Judge (Emeritus) and has served on World Archery committees. Trish is a senior coach and international field archer.

Bronze plaquettes

Ray Fisher

Ray has been Chairman of Audco Archers for more than 20 years and pivotal to Shropshire archery.

Andrew Neal

Andrew is known as the 'king of clout' who runs everything from the Tassel Awards to the National Clout Championships.

Michael Vittles

Michael is a former county secretary whose work has been pivotal to Dorset and Wiltshire.

Robin Leveridge

Robin: Tournament organiser for Grand Western indoor events, invariably to the highest standards.

Peter and Brenda Champion

Woking Archery Club was 50 last year, and for 40 of those, the Champions have been central to its running.

Gloria Mead

British Field Team Manager and a past world field championships course designer.

Steve Prowse

Reigning European and World visually impaired para champion who holds 13 world records and has been undefeated for 18 years.

Joan Griffiths

Joan is a highly respected judge, archer and Dorset and Wiltshire county official.

Alastair Robinson

Alastair was nominated for his coaching and professionalism over many years at regional and national levels.

Martin Skinner

Martin has been Essex and Suffolk's Honorary County Treasurer for the past 25 years.

Richard Anderson

Richard is a field party member at national tournaments and part of the BUCS management group.

Pat Callaghan

Pat is a dedicated club and county committee member and tournament organiser in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Malcolm Higman

Malcolm is a dedicated supporter of VI and wheelchair archery who has redesigned equipment to improve accuracy and make it more portable.

Paul Clark and Debbie Horn

Paul and Debbie were nominated for their work with the Junior Committee.

Paul Gregory, Barry Du-Crow and Nick Hayball

Paul, Barry and Nick were nominated for developing the longbow and barebow rankings.

Mail bag

Submissions

Write to: Mailbag, Archery UK magazine, Archery GB, Lilleshall National Sports & Conferencing Centre, Newport, Shropshire TF10 9AT

Email: magazine@archerygb.org

Please note we cannot print letters sent to us without a name and address or an email address (although we can withhold the address if you wish). Letters may be edited for publication. Please try to keep them to 250 words if possible. Letters containing personal attacks will not be published. By submitting a letter to Mailbag you understand that, should your letter be selected as the Star Letter, your address will be passed on to Opticron so that the prize can be delivered.

Simply send in your letters for the chance of winning an MM3 60 16-48x scope worth £320.

Star Letter

Prize

An MM3 60 16-48x scope by Opticron. Look out for some special offers on the Opticron IS R scope range. For more details go to the Opticron website: http://www.opticron.co.uk/.

Our prize is worth £320.

Embrace and encourage

We stand in awe of the achievements of those archers who have the skill and dedication to achieve the standards required to shoot for their country but we have to ask, what about the rest of us?

We are a recreational archery club which is full of archers enjoying their sport and the camaraderie, with little aspiration to go to the Olympics. This particularly applies to an 80-year-old who took his beginner's course at the age of 78 and, by his own admission, has only a slim chance of making the next Olympics. We had another member in his late 70s who was shunned from a local club because he was not competitive. This is not right. In our club if anyone makes an error, and providing it isn't dangerous, we laugh with them, not at them. Surely archery should be fun?

Please do not be misled. If any of our archers wish to shoot competitively, they will receive the encouragement and support of our coaching staff and will be encouraged to do so. We are fully aware that a Grand Master Bowman is a beginner who never gave up.

Thousands of us dutifully pay our fees. We are in our sport for the love of it. Some shoot for the pleasure of the arrow leaving the bow and achieving a level of self-satisfaction in that. Some compete against themselves and are content with small victories. Some want to move into competitive shooting. Others are more interested in the mechanics of archery, be it making their own longbow or laser setting a compound. Not forgetting the coaches, committee members and the few in each club who, actually, do the work and keep the club going.

As an organisation we should embrace and encourage all forms of archery and archers. Where would Archery GB be without either the competitive archers or the 'fun' archers? We are the archery family and the organisation needs everyone to survive and prosper.

Keith Ritson, Bowmen of Backworth

Other letters

Switching too early?

When it comes to cross eye dominance, beginners can be advised to swap to their non dominant hand. The question is, is this being done too early and not, as it should be, as a last resort? Identification of the dominant shooting hand should take precedence and, when the dominant hand and eye do not match, closing, squinting or blanking the eye with an opaque material should be preferred initially.

In some cases, the archer may not be truly cross eye dominant. They may not fully understand the concept of aiming, concentrating on the pin instead of looking through the pin to the target. In this case a tunnel sight, a technique taken from clay shooting may help. Using opaque sticking tape, wear suitable clear glasses and blank out only the view within the dominant eye's peripheral vision at full draw that contains the sight pin. This allows the archer to focus down the range properly with both eyes.

Eye dominance can be easily corrected. Changing dominant handedness is difficult to achieve. Swapping handedness adds uncalculated risk and hampers progression due to difficulties in controlling the motor function of the non-dominant hand. The archer should ultimately decide for themselves which hand to use, but only after a significant period of shooting time. Changing handedness, focused only on correcting the sight picture may prove expensive as the archer increases in poundage and good technique is hampered. Any parent whose child returns from a beginners' course having changed handedness from a distinctly predominant side should question that decision. Instructors should not take offence if the parent wishes the decision reversed. These observations are based on Masters degree studies and peer reviewed journals.

Andrew Johnstone

A fairer way?

In the winter 2018 edition of Archery UK, Roy Carlo called for a level playing field. I sympathise, but it is not a question of age alone. There is a better way to change the classification system to be fairer to all archers.

I have had to reduce the poundage of my recurve limbs. I used to be able to draw 40lbs but now I am only able to draw 30. I am tall, thin and over 70 so I do not possess the muscle to draw heavier bows. I can reach 70 metres but my groups suffer in windy conditions because of my light arrows. The International Game Fishing Association uses a classification system based on the power of the fishing and success depends on the skill of the angler. Records are based on each of these classes. So, why not have a classification system based on the limb poundage used by each archer, irrespective of their age?

You could establish a datum poundage for each distance. For example, World Archery 70 metres first class currently requires a score of 437 points with 72 arrows. So why not state that the datum for that classification is 72 arrows with 36lb limbs? If an archer uses limbs

with a rated power less than that, they could apply a handicap to their score. Yes, I know that limb poundages can be altered by screwing the tiller bolts in, but it is the rated poundage of the limbs that would be considered. This system could be applied over all archers, both male and female, disabled seniors and juniors as well.

Dennis O'Connor, Calne Archers, Wiltshire

Reusing straw bosses: your ideas

Recycling. It is, quite rightly, one of the hottest topics around. In our last edition, David King, Winnington Park Bowmen wondered if straw bosses could be recycled in any way especially, as Richard Stainthorpe pointed out, his local recycling centre treats it as trade waste and levies a charge of £41 per quarter tonne.

We asked for your suggestions, and you did not disappoint. Among the best answers were:

Uncoil them and leave them under the hedgerow to rot down. Cut through most of the binders so that the air could circulate and in early spring, if loosened enough, the birds can take pieces for nesting material.

If there are any badger setts nearby, they may well be grateful for dry bedding. Don't leave any lengths too close to an entrance as it might put them off leaving the sett. In winter, badgers take wet 'grasses' into their setts and leave it piled in their tunnels, leaving it to heat up as it rots down.

Uncoil the straw, cut it into manageable lengths, take it home and spread it out over your gardens to add nutrients to your plants.

On the cards

Can we talk about Archery GB membership cards? When I received my first physical membership card (a few months after I actually became a member) I thought it was really pretty but when reading the expiring date my first thought was: 'Is AGB sending members a new card every year? Can you imagine how much plastic waste this can produce if tens of thousands of members in the UK are replacing constantly their cards?'

Before receiving my card, I was using the e-card on my phone (and I still have it). I think this is convenient. Not only it is waste-free but it is always with me wherever I go. I understand many members may prefer having the actual card, and for this reason would it be possible for AGB to find a way to reduce plastic waste? A few ideas: paper card, e-card, renewable and reusable plastic card with barcode (already there) or chip possibly associated to an online account. Some of these options could also help reducing costs.

Michela Screpante

The wrong wrap

Why do you continue to send the magazine out in a single use plastic wrapping? These are not accepted by local authority domestic recycling schemes. The Royal Horticultural Society now sends its monthly magazine in a paper envelope which is completely recyclable and the Guardian puts all its Saturday magazines in an envelope made from potato starch which can be composted. Single use plastic is a blight in our environment.

Maggie Johnston

Editor writes:

We’re listening and we are currently reviewing our use of plastics.

Practical: advice zone

Compound: How to set new cams

Words: Duncan Busby. Picture: Malcolm Rees.

Question

I recently got a new compound and the cams feel very different to my old bow, I've been told I can adjust the stops but I don't know how hard or soft they should be. What is the best way to set the cams on a compound bow?

Answer

Almost all modern compound bows have a notable stop or wall. This is where the bow's maximum draw length is reached at the end of the draw cycle. The way it feels is very much a feature of the cam design: it can range from a dead stop where you cannot physically pull the bow any further to a softer spongier feel which allows you to pull into the wall slightly.

The type of cam wall your bow has will depend on the design and placement of the stops. Most cam stops are designed to come to rest on the cables and can be either hard or soft depending on their design. Other bows feature limb stops, in which the cam stop is designed to sit against the limbs at full draw. These almost always give you a hard feeling dead stop.

New technology

Most bows are designed with only one type of stop but a growing number of manufacturers are incorporating technology which allows you to alter the feel of your cam wall by either adjusting the size or placement of the stops or by swapping out the cam modules. There are also companies which offer after-market stops for various bows which allow you to fine tune the feel of your bow's wall.

Remember that when changing the feel of your bow's stops you may also affect the holding weight (the percentage of the bow's peak draw weight you hold at full draw.) Keep this in mind if you make adjustments as this will change how the bow feels to shoot and how steadily it aims.

Preference

How you set your stops is very much down to personal preference. Some archers favour a hard stop that doesn't move at full draw. Others prefer their cams to give a little. Your shooting style, particularly how hard you pull against the stops, will be the biggest influence in your choice.

If you like to shoot with a lot of pressure in your shot, then choose a hard stop. A very soft cam wall will allow your draw length to extend beyond full draw, which can make it difficult to maintain a steady aim. A harder stop won't give as much under pressure and will maintain your optimal draw length.

A soft stop will suit an archer who pulls progressively into the wall, slowly building the pressure throughout the shot. The slight increase in draw length created by a soft stop can help to produce a steady and predictable hold over the target. And you are much less likely to bounce off a soft stop at full draw if you don't have enough pressure in your shot.

Draw length

Your draw length will also play a part in your choice. If you like to shoot at your maximum draw length you will not want the bow to go any longer at full draw. But if you prefer to shoot with a slightly shorter draw length a little extra give in the wall will allow you to expand naturally in the shot while maintaining a steady hold over the target.

There is no right or wrong way to set your cam stops, it's just what works for you. It is, however, definitely worth trying out a few different stops to see which style allows you to aim and execute most comfortably.

Further reading

You can find more advice at Duncan Busby Archery: www.duncanbusbyarchery.com.

Nutrition: The best start

What makes a good breakfast?

And why is it particularly important for anyone involved in sport? Good performance depends on stable blood sugar, avoiding peaks and troughs and preventing you getting weak and shaky after the first couple of dozen.

Most people tuck into a bowl of cereal. Breakfast cereals are a relatively recent phenomenon and, while we are aware that they contain sugar, do we really realise how much? Our nutrition expert Jackie Wilkinson has looked at the work of Dr David Unwin and his award-winning diagrams showing how badly it affects your blood-sugar.

Dr Unwin realised that added sugar in food is not the only problem. Our bodies quickly break down processed starches into simple sugars. He coined the phrase "soon to be sugar" and it means, in terms of your blood levels, that the difference between a slice of bread and some glucose is about 15 minutes in your stomach. All of us can benefit from reducing these foods. Diabetics need to consult their doctors to keep their medication matched to their intake.

Glycaemic Index

The Glycaemic Index (GI) helps predict how these breakfasts might affect blood glucose, important information if you have type 2 diabetes.

It is the glycaemic response to, not the carbohydrate content of, food that matters in diabetes and obesity.

The following calculations can be found in: The glycaemic index revisited; Unwin; Journal of Insulin Resistance 2016 @lowcarbGP.

Coco Pops

GI: 77. Serving size: 30g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 7.3 x a 4g teaspoon of

sugar.

Cornflakes

GI: 93. Serving size: 30g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 8.4 x a 4g teaspoon of

sugar.

Mini Wheats

GI: 59. Serving size: 30g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 4.4 x a 4g teaspoon of

sugar.

Shredded Wheat

GI: 67. Serving size: 30g.

How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 4.8 x a 4g teaspoon of sugar.

Special K

GI: 54. Serving size: 30g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 4 x a 4g teaspoon of sugar.

Bran flakes

GI: 74. Serving size: 30g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 4.8 x a 4g teaspoon of

sugar.

Oat Porridge

GI: 63. Serving size: 150g. How each cereal effects blood glucose equivalent to: 4.4 x a 4g teaspoon of

sugar.

Boxed cereals

Most boxed cereals have the same basic ingredients: processed grains, sugar, flavourings and added vitamins and minerals (not all in a highly bio-available form).

Corn Flakes and Coco Pops are among those that have the worst effect on blood sugar. In the diagram, the line of spoons does not represent sugar added as an ingredient or even carbohydrate content; it shows what happens in your body compared to eating that much sugar. The serving size is 30g (except for porridge), so if you have bigger portions or add sugar on top, the impact will be much higher.

Shredded Wheat prides itself on being made with whole wheat, high in fibre and without added sugar or chemicals. But it is still highly processed and “soon to be sugar.” The diagram shows 4.8 teaspoons of sugar equivalent for 30g. People usually have two for breakfast, and that is equivalent to 7.3 tsp.

Bran Flakes. They do have the most fibre and, close to Special K, a relatively lower impact. But four or five teaspoons of sugar equivalent is still a lot. A quick rise in blood sugar will be followed by insulin production leading to a crash and feeling hungry before 10am.

Better options?

Eating food in its natural state is better for performance, as are some more traditional treats.

Porridge: Natural oats release more slowly than processed sachets. Replace some of the oats with protein and fat as Joe Wicks does using ground flax seed, chia seeds, desiccated coconut and almond milk, topped with natural yoghurt.

Yoghurt: plain with nuts, seeds, protein powder and fruit.

Eggs: boiled, fried, poached, omelette or go continental with boiled eggs, ham and cheese. Save time by hard boiling your eggs the night before. Or dip avocado or buttered, wholemeal toast soldiers in soft-boiled eggs.

Smoothies: base them on coconut milk, avocado, ground almonds, flax, spinach, whey powder or natural oats etc. Add just a little fruit but beware high-sugar, bought smoothies and many internet recipes with too much fruit.

Fry-ups: sustain you for ages. Choose from bacon, egg, black pudding, sausage, mushroom, tomato (no beans or hash browns) or do the Aussie thing; steak and egg, perhaps with wilted spinach.

Fish: a tin of mackerel plus half a pear and some seeds or smoked salmon with scrambled eggs on toast and courgette.

Top Tip:

Eat a good breakfast to keep your blood sugar stable.

Further reading

Find more advice from Jackie Wilson's Nutrition Coaching website: www.learntoeatwell.co.uk.

Back to basics: A look at recurve strings

If you need specialist help, just ask

We all need a little help now and again. That's why we are running a new series of back to basics guides put together by Adam Lewis of Wales Archery. Here he takes a look at the dos and don'ts of recurve strings and using them to tune your bow.

Nock fit

The most important thing to get right first is the nock fit. The arrow should come off the string with a gentle tap. If the arrow is falling off too easily, it effectively means that the bow is being dry fired. Instead of the energy being transferred into the arrow what happens is the energy goes right into the limbs and this is what happened in the photo.

On the other hand, if the nock fit is too small and you have to hit the string with some force to get it off, it means extra energy is being spent to allow the arrow to release from the string. This takes precious energy away from the limbs, resulting in poor performance. 

Strand count

Strand count is the number of strands in the string. That can vary depending on the material used and its weight. What is considered normal on a high-end recurve string in BCY is anything from 14 to 18 strands but when compared to 8190, that 18 strand string would be the equivalent of 24 strands.

We don't want to use too many or too few strands when making a string. If we used 14 strands with 8125g on a 40lb recurve, the string would be harsh on the fingers and the bow would feel very aggressive. Using too many strands, such as 18 on a 22 lb bow, would reduce performance. As a rule of thumb, 14 strands up to 30lb, 16 strands 32 to 38lb and 18 strands anything from 38lb.

Bracing height

This is the measurement from your pressure button hole to your string when strung up, most bows have a different recommended bracing height depending on multiple different factors such as bow style, bow length, manufacturer and limb tip design. Most recurve bows will have a bracing height range adjustment of 2cm so a Hoyt Grand Prix 68" bow has a bracing height range of 21.5 to 23.5cm and you can use that room to find the sweet spot in the bracing height range. The way to do this is by setting your bracing height at either the maximum or minimum then shoot three or four arrows and listen to the sound it makes then put four more twists into the string and repeat the process. What you are looking for is for the bow to sound the quietest. There might be two to three sweet spots and normally these spots group better as well.

Nocking point

The goal is to set the nocking point horizontally so that the arrow leaves the bow at a perfect angle without any clearance issues. Normally if you have clearance issues the tell-tale sign is marks appearing on the shelf below the arrow rest. This can also be caused by finger pressure. The brass nocking point should be removed after you have found the ideal height and replaced with a tie on. This gives cleaner string travel and better performance.

How to tune your string to your bow

If your nock fit is too tight or too loose, you will need to re-serve with either a thicker or thinner material. It's important to get this right. If your arrows are coming out a little stiff but your pressure button is set to a good stiffness, you can remove a few strands out of the string to quicken it up. Reducing your bracing height will speed up the bow resulting in more energy going into the arrow. That will straighten up your arrow.

If you are shooting barebow and indoors, you really want to slow that arrow down. You can increase the number of strands in your string and raise your nocking point. This will slow the arrow down while the arrow is aiming lower down at a better aiming point.

Sun safety: How to be skin kind

This article was written with support from Macmillan Cancer Support: www.macmillan.org.uk, British Association of Dermatologists and Sun Sense.

Be skin kind

It's great to get out into the sun to shoot; but with skin cancer rates in the UK increasing rapidly and overtaking other countries such as Australia we all need to take precautions. Compound archer and skin cancer clinical nurse specialist Anne Rutland tells us why and what to look out for.

The most important thing is that there is no such thing as a safe tan. UV radiation damages the DNA in our skin cells and can cause skin cancers such as melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) or basal cell carcinomas (BCC). The risks are increased by other factors:

Fair skin that burns easily and rarely tans. Darker skin reduces your risk, but not completely. Having blue eyes. Severe sunburn during childhood. History of sunbed use. Having unusual or lots of moles (check them every six months). Family history of cancer. Reduced immunity (from transplant or medication).

Enjoy the sun. Vitamin D is good for our bones and it makes you feel good, and if we do it safely the risks of developing skin cancer are drastically reduced. We archers love to spend time outdoors on the shooting line in great weather. But let's respect what it can do in the long term.

Remember: Slip on a shirt, seek out shade and slap on sunscreen.

If you have been affected by skin cancer or would like further advice, contact your GP or check out Macmillan Cancer Support: www.macmillan.org.uk and British Association of Dermatologists sun awareness page: www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/sun-awareness.

Be sun safe

1. Seek out shade and avoid being in the sun too long between 11am and 3pm.

2. Choose a sun protection factor suited to your skin type. If you are out all day go for SPF 50/50+; but any sun cream is better than nothing.

3. Apply sun cream at least 20 mins before going outside in the morning and reapply often. (Distance changes are a good time and clean your hands afterwards).

4. Wear a hat with a brim or peak, sun glasses and seek shelter between ends.

Top tip

Stay in the shade as much as possible.

Know the facts about common skin cancers

(British Association of Dermatologists.)

Where should I look

Non-melanoma skin cancers can occur on any part of the body, but are most common on areas of skin that are most exposed to the sun such as your head and neck (including lips and ears) and the backs of your hands. They can also appear where the skin has been damaged by X-rays, and on old scars, ulcers, burns and persistent wounds.

What should I look for

Non-melanoma skin cancers vary greatly in what they look like. They tend to appear gradually on the skin, and slowly get bigger over time. They will not go away on their own without treatment.

What should I do if I find something

If you notice any of the warning signs listed here, or if you are worried about any other changes taking place on your skin, even if they are not the same as those described here, you should tell your doctor as soon as possible.

If your doctor thinks you have a skin cancer or is not sure, they can refer you for free through the NHS to see a skin cancer specialist, usually a consultant dermatologist, who is an expert in diagnosing and treating skin cancer.

Some of the possible things to look out for include:

Scab or sore

A scab or sore that won't heal, it may bleed occasionally.

Crusty patch

A scaly or crusty patch that looks red or inflamed.

Pearly lump

A flesh coloured pearly lump that won't go away and appears to be growing in size.

Getting bigger

A lump on the skin which is getting bigger and may be scabby.

Upturned volcano

A growth with a pearly rim surrounding a central crater, a bit like an upturned volcano.

The ABCD Easy way to check moles

(British Association of Dermatologists.)

There are two main kinds of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma and each looks different. This section deals specifically with melanoma, the less common, but more deadly type of skin cancer.

Melanomas can develop from existing moles, but they can also appear as new mole-like marks on normal skin.

This section tells you a few of the signs that might indicate a melanoma. You should tell your doctor about any changes to your moles or skin, even if they are not the same as those described here.

Asymmetry

The two halves of the mole may differ in their shape and not match.

Border

The outside edges of the mole or area may be blurred, and sometimes show notches or look ragged.

Colour

This may be uneven and patchy. Notice new colours appearing. Different shades of black, brown, pink or even purple may be seen.

Diameter

Melanomas will progressively change. If you see any mole or mole-like mark getting bigger over a period of weeks to months tell your doctor.

Expert

Look out for change, and if in doubt, get it checked by your doctor. If your doctor thinks that you have a melanoma, or is not sure, they can refer you for free through the NHS to see a skin cancer specialist, usually a consultant dermatologist, who is an expert in diagnosing and treating skin cancer.

Barebow: Tuning for string walkers (Part 2)

Words: Andrew Rees.

Tangible gains

In World Archery and Archery GB target archery, string-walking provides tangible gains in accuracy at a handful of distances inside the archer's point of aim. But it is most valuable in field archery, where distances for the barebow archer vary between five and 50 metres.

However, in both disciplines, variations in string-finger position cause potential tuning problems, while the rulebooks constrain the bow set-up to greater or lesser degrees.

Conventional recurve set-up and tuning is based on optimising the bow's performance when the draw hand fingers' position is constant: one finger above the nock and two below and elements like torque and vibration can be controlled by adding long-rods and weights.

String-walkers place three fingers below the nock and then increase the eccentricity, as target distances shorten, by further movement down the string. Long-rods are illegal in barebow, so torque and vibration must be dealt with by mass applied to the riser and, optionally, a limb saver on each limb. The mass also aids the follow-through. The options

The options for tuning a barebow may appear limited but many attributes can be varied to influence the bow's performance. The basic set-up can vary in respect of riser and limb types, string materials, nock point materials, use of pressure buttons, arrow rests, bracing heights, additional weighting on the bow and many other factors. Add the selection of arrows of a spine suitable for the bow at your particular draw-weight and draw-length and the available combinations become mind-boggling. But this only covers variables in the set-up of the bow. The actual tuning is the adjustment of these many variables to provide predictable and accurate arrow flight at all finger positions on the string.

Useful insight

Many sources can help with tuning and although often specifically aimed at the 'Olympic' style, nearly all have a great deal of information relevant to barebows. They include: World Archery's Intermediate Coaching Manual, which has intelligent and comprehensive advice in the 'recurve tuning' section; Easton's classic 'Arrow Tuning and Maintenance Guide' and Archery Australia's very useful guides to tuning and set-up, written by Jim Larven.

Studying these sources will give many insights into barebow tuning: try some of them out. But remember, if you are setting out to shoot field, the majority (66 per cent) of the shots you need to make will be at 30 metres or less, so don't spend a lot of time tuning for long shots and neglect the tune at short range. Bare-shaft tuning at 20 metres will give a starting point.

Safety note

String-walking puts considerable strain on bow limbs due to asymmetric loading. Do not use the techniques described without checking the suitability of your equipment.

Next time:

Tiller set-up.

New products: Some of the latest archery products on the market

Fairweather Tab

Designed by Olympic Gold Medal winner Simon Fairweather. Kangeroo leather facings, comfortable rubber finger spacer, one screw secure fixing.

Available from Quicks Archery: www.quicksarchery.co.uk.Costs: Plates and leather facings £45.96, finger spacer £22.50.

Easton Halcyon stabiliser system

Engineered for compound and recurve. Less than 15mm diameter, features 360-degree Windcutter technology for the steadiest possible hold.

Available from Quicks Archery: www.quicksarchery.co.uk.Costs: longrod £216, twin rod £118.80

Easton ProComp shafts

The latest Easton A/C parallel shaft for compound target and field competition. Available in 7 spines sizes, takes same components as for Carbon One, ACG and ACE.

Available from Quicks Archery: www.quicksarchery.co.uk.Costs: £215.40 per set 12

The Stolen Calix

Dermot McKeone of AC Delco Bowmen has written a novel with archery at its heart. The Stolen Calix centres on an archer who finds a stolen drinking cup with huge symbolic importance. Its fate will determine the future of an empire. Available on Amazon.

Xtinction release aid

The all new Xtinction from STAN blends target grade performance and field grade simplicity with its patent pending Sear and 1/2 Technology. Feature packed index finger activated wrist strap release. Check it out at I shoot Stan: www.ishootastan.com.

Bearpaw Sidepack quiver

Combines elegance and utility. Length approximately 54cm. Available in Right or Left handed versions.

Available from Shire Archery: www.shirearchery.co.uk.Costs: £26.99

Import duty and VAT

Please be aware that if you order goods online from an overseas supplier which have to be imported into the UK, you are likely to find yourselves liable for both Import Duty and VAT on top of the original retail cost.

Archery GB

Suggested rule changes

The following are suggestions for changes to be made to both the Worcester and the Vegas rounds (both indoor rounds). Please submit any comments to rules@archerygb.org. Depending on the responses received, the changes will be considered for October 2019, effectively in time for our main indoor season.

Worcester X spot

Following the introduction of the five-spot face for Worcester rounds, aimed at the compound archers where there is no tie-break available on a Worcester round for a maximum score of 300.

The rules for the Worcester round could be amended as follows to introduce the use of the X spot on the five-spot face as a tie-break. It also allows for the introduction of using any colour face provided the concentric rings are the right size.

The applicable rules in Archery GB Rule Book are 408:

1. The names of the round will be Worcester, and Worcester X spot. The Worcester X spot round is primarily for use by compound archers.

2. Both rounds can be shot at the same time.

3. Target faces add: for the five-spot, an X ring with a 4.065in (1.8cm) diameter.

4. Scoring to add:

o Any arrow hitting the X ring will be recorded as an X, and score value is five. Scorecards need to record Totals for score, hits, fives and Xs.

o If archers tie on score, hits, and fives, the X ring is used as a tie-break. All other rules regarding shooting, number of arrows, time, equipment etc shall remain unchanged. Classification and handicaps for the Worcester X spot shall be the same as for the Worcester.

Vegas round

For some time it has been considered that the AGB Vegas round is very similar to the WA 18m round. In order to reflect more fully the Vegas round now commonly used in the USA, the suggestion is that AGB should remove the current Vegas round in the AGB Rule Book and replace it with the following:

Rule 409 is the appropriate set of rules for the Vegas, below is an amended version:

1. The distance to be shot is 20 yards.

2. The target face will be a 40cm three spot triangular face, or a single spot 40cm face. Archers can select which target face they will use. If using a three-spot face, one arrow must be shot into each centre. Target face sizes are as per AGB rule 401.

3. There will be four archers per target, each with an individual target face. Archers A and B will start on the top two faces, Archers C and D on the bottom two faces.

4. The round will consist of 30 arrows, shot in ends of three. Any number of multiples of the round can be shot in a day.

5. Archers on the bottom faces will always shoot first.

6. After 15 arrows, the archers will change position, and archers A and B will shoot the bottom faces for the second 15 arrows, and archers C and D the top faces.

7. Two ends of warm up arrows will be shot; warm up ends are two minutes, or a maximum of three arrows if timing clocks are not used.

8. Each end will consist of three arrows, shot in two minutes. Timing will be by method one or two as per AGB rules of shooting, Rule 304.

9. Scoring:o The scoring zones on the target will be from 10 to 6 (triple spot) and 10 to 1

(Single spot).

o Any arrow hitting the smaller centre circle within the 10 ring will score as an X.

o Rule 404 applies for scoring.

o The score totals need to include score, number of 10s, number of Xs and number of nines. Tie-breaks are as follows:

Score. Number of 10s. Number of nines. Number of Xs.

If the changes to the Vegas round are adopted, then the current handicap tables for a Vegas round will be removed, as it will no longer be appropriate.

Clarification

We hope that the above interpretations clarify both situations.

Latest news: Assistance dogs update and Team GB is back

Dogs rule

Assistance dogs are a regular feature at archery events, providing invaluable assistance to para archers. Archery GB has been consulting all interested parties about their presence at tournaments and, as a result, has a new policy which will be added to Part 11 of the Rules of Shooting:

At events in the UK, registered assistance dogs are allowed on the field of play, although this may be subject to the ground owner's rules. Assistance dogs must be under control at all times. If any dog causes issues with the shooting, then the judges have the right to ask the owner to remove the dog from the shooting area.

Formally classified archers also need to be aware that World Archery has its own rule on assistance or support dogs. Rule 21.12.10 states that for all international tournaments and/or those tournaments registered with it, no assistance or support dogs will be permitted on the field of play.

We will also be introducing a dogs at competitions and events policy.

At the discretion of landowners and competition and event organisers, dogs are permitted at Archery GB competitions and events. Unless there is good reason to the contrary, assistance dogs should be allowed at Archery GB competitions and events.

All dogs, including assistance dogs must be under control at all times. If any dog causes issues with the shooting, then organisers and/or judges may ask the owner to remove the dog from the competition or event.

All dogs other than registered assistance dogs should be kept behind the tent line.

I Am Team GB is back

Did you take part in the hugely successful I Am Team GB events that followed Rio 2016? The good news is that it's back and Team GB, along with partners Toyota, are hoping to make it an annual fixture.

This year, 'I Am Team GB: The Nation's Biggest Sports Day' will culminate on August bank holiday with a day of sport and physical activity.

It will happen next year too and the ambition is that I Am Team GB will become an ongoing, annual campaign to drive sustained growth in physical activity inspired by Team GB. UK Sport and The National Lottery will be looking to support I Am Team GB this year with athlete appearances and Archery GB will be playing its part.

We are busy planning at the moment but once the plans are in place, we will let you know. In the meantime, find out how Olympic champion and I Am Team GB ambassador Laura Kenny is going to be supporting the campaign by going to the I am Team GB website: iamteamgb.com.

Sponsors

We would like to thank the following sponsors and partners.

Long term support of our core programmes

Lottery Funded Sport England

Excellence in Sports Coaching

National Lottery

Errea

Wales Archery

Helping us raise standards

The Equality Standard: A Framework for Sport

National tour sponsors

Archery GB: National tour logo

Tru Ball Axcel

Shibuya

Hoyt

Stanislawski

Mybo

WIAWIS

Trading name

Archery GB is the trading name of the Grand National Archery Society, a company limited by guarantee number 1342150 Registered in England.