Marks Park Archery Club is preparing to host one of the most anticipated events on the sporting calendar as the 76th SA National Archery Championships take place from March 27 to 29 at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia.

The prestigious tournament is expected to draw a vibrant mix of seasoned competitors and rising stars from across South Africa, alongside international participants from Zimbabwe, Namibia and Kenya. Over three days, the quiet focus of archery will give way to moments of high tension as athletes compete in qualifiers, eliminations and ultimately, the medal matches.

Read more: Local archers win gold at recent archery tournament

Chairperson of the local organising committee, Barbara Manning, said the event is about more than just competition. “It’s a chance to bring people together, celebrate the sport and showcase incredible talent from across the continent,” she said.

The championships are inclusive, welcoming archers of all ages and abilities, including both able-bodied and disabled competitors. For many, the stakes are particularly high, as performances will influence selection for South Africa’s 2026 High Performance Squad.

Spectators can expect a lively atmosphere throughout the weekend, with food vendors on site and full catering available at the main club. The highlight will be Sunday’s medal matches, which will be streamed live, allowing supporters from across the region to share in the excitement.
Adding to the significance of the event is the presence of a Kenyan delegation, including a team manager who serves on the executive of the World Archery Africa body, a sign of the championships’ growing continental reputation.

Also read: Marks Park archer hits her stride as with a steady hand

Founded in the 1960s, Marks Park Archery Club has long played a key role in developing the sport locally and has hosted the national championships since 2009. This year’s edition not only continues that legacy but also promises a new chapter, with a three-year sponsorship set to be unveiled during the event.

As arrows fly and tensions rise, Johannesburg will briefly become the heartbeat of African archery, where focus, discipline and community come together on the range.

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