GALLERY: Budding archers get off to a flier

The young field of archers were required to use a specific NASP bow, which bears no comforts such as sights and arrow rests.

September 23, 2017

Bruce Douglas 2 minutes read

Guillame van Rensburg winds up to let fly.

The future of competitive archery is in the youth.

With this in mind, Newcastle played host on Saturday to the first ever local event of the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP).

NASP was launched in America in March of 2002.

With coordinators across the world, NASP aims to serve ‘specific educational and conservation purposes’, with a view to encourage outdoor skills among youths.

Newcastle is the latest to benefit from this program.

Entrants representing Aletheia Christian College, St Dominic’s Newcastle, Amajuba School and Afrikaans Hoër (Kroonstad) competed in a test of newfound skill.

Fanus Bergh explained the process further.

“There are three rounds of five arrows each from five metres, with a maximum of 50 points per round. The target is marked from one to ten at the centre. After the first three rounds, there are another three rounds at 15 metres, also with five arrows each. We then tally up the score and if necessary, host a shootout.”

The young field of archers were required to use a specific NASP bow, which bears no comforts such as sights and arrow rests.

This is designed to teach the children how to use a bow at its most basic.

Faced with a temperamental wind and a significant lack of experience, the archers lined up and gave it their best shot.

Kroonstad which took top honours in the bulls eye event.

Abrie Visagie and Madaleen van Dalen clinched first and second respectively, with Keaton Daniel van Rooyen of Newcastle taking third position.

However, it wasn’t all about winning.

Parents and guardians also had the opportunity to learn proper bow usage from the children, which in turn helped them focus their minds.

All in all, the event was hailed as a great success.

Secretary of Newcastle Bowhunting and Archery Club, Retha Erasmus said archery had a lot of local support and believed the sport was only growing.

“Archery is difficult, and thus teaches focus and skill. Children can control their tempers like one does with martial arts. It gets them out of the house and socialising.”

Membership of the club has almost quadrupled in recent months, with future competitions planned for later in the year.

For details, contact Fanus on 084 528 8636.