I shoot what is called an Olympic-style recurve bow, or just a 'recurve'. This type of bow typically has a metal handle with wooden or carbon limbs that can be detached. When I first started shooting, I shot aluminium arrows but have since upgraded to carbon ones as these give greater accuracy. An Olympic bow is allowed to have a non-optical sight and also stabiliser bars.
There are different types of archery but my preferred type is target which is what is performed at the Olympics. This involves shooting at a target 70m away. For my age group, I have only been shooting up to 50m but I am now making the transition up to the Olympic distance of 70m. I also like to take part in field shooting which involves shooting at targets of differing distances, usually placed in some sort of woodland setting. Archery is a fantastic sport to participate in and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is really safe, fun and addictive! In August of 2014, I attended a talent identification day at the National Sports Centre in Lilleshall. The aim of this day was to invite other young archers like myself from all around the country to learn what is needed to become an international archer. 2 weeks later I received an amazing email to say that I had been fast-tracked onto the Northern Academy Performance programme. This programme is part of Archery GB's commitment to produce World-class archers on the International stage, right up to Olympic level. It is a great honour to be selected for this programme and my life has changed dramatically since that time. I now have a strict training regime that involves shooting up to a thousand arrows a week, set up and cool down exercises, skill drills and strength and conditioning work. I'm also not allowed to take part in any dangerous sports, have to be careful what I eat and must adhere to strict conditions during coaching, training and competitions. I also have to attend monthly training 'camps' either at Lilleshall or more regularly at Bishop Burton College in Humberside. These involve spending the weekend away for intensive coaching and training sessions by the best coaches in the country. While the coaching is priceless, the cost of accommodation and food has to be met by my parents. |