How To....

Get into Archery

Archery is a very ancient activity; the qualities that were developed through archery many years ago of physical fitness, relaxation, mental awareness are just as relevant today. The satisfaction that comes from increasing skill and attainment, of the simple pleasures of shooting with a bow, combine to produce a worthwhile leisure activity. For those who prefer a more competitive approach, there are competitions between club members right through to the Olympics.

There are few age barriers in archery. The age at which youngsters start to shoot is determined by their attention span, and it is not unusual to see three generations of archers shooting and competing together, through the handicap scheme. The Grand National Archery Society handicap scheme, is operated nationally through affiliated local clubs, and can be applied to all archers. The archer, having shot three rounds, is given an average for those rounds; this average will decrease in the light of subsequent rounds shot and the archer effectively shoots against his last score, trying to better his handicap each time. There is also a National Classification Scheme which operates within GNAS Affiliated clubs. This gives the archer the incentive to move up in classification from 3rd class archer through 2nd class, 1st class, Bowman, Master Bowman to Grand Master Bowman.

Club Archery and Beginners Classes

There are many clubs around the country. Most have a good coaching and beginners system and a good selection of equipment to teach you on as well. Even if you want go it alone at home or in the local farmers field (with his knowledge and permission) a beginners’ course is a good way to start.

You can find your local club on the Web at these links; Grand National Archery Society or GNAS is mainly Target Archery, EFAA is Field Archery over marked distances & NFAS is Field Archery in the woods over unmarked distances. Your local Library may also have a contact Number. Or ring our hotline number 0870 321 7654 and we will try to help.

On completing a beginner’s course successfully, it is usual to receive a certificate of competence. Without this certificate most clubs will not accept people as new members. Please remember when approaching clubs that most club officers are unpaid volunteers, and are involved in the sport so they can shoot themselves.

ETIQUETTE

A Good Archer will not :-

1. Talk in a loud voice whilst others are shooting.
2. Talk to another competitor who obviously prefers to be silent.
3. Make any exclamation on the shooting line which might disconcert a neighbour in the act of shooting.
4. Go behind the target to retrieve his/her arrows before his/her score has been recorded.
5. Walk up and down the line comparing scores.
6. Touch anyone else's equipment without permission.
7. Leave litter.

1. When calling scores do so in groups of three, for example 7-7-5 pause 5-5-3.
2. Help cover targets, remove faces etc. at the end of each session./li>
3. Thank the Field Captain at the end of each archery session for work on his behalf.
4. If he breaks another's arrow through carelessness, pays for it in cash on the spot.

A Beginners Glossary