The Scottish Bow-hunter Championship 2017 was held over the weekend of 6-7 may 17. Those who attended were treated to a superb weekend of competition and camaraderie.

Firstly thanks must go to Auld Braidlie Archers for hosting the event, and proving not only a first rate, challenging championship layout, but also for the catering, (not so) rough camping and hospitality shown was a fine example of the SFAA ethos of welcome and inclusion. Named thanks go to: Rod Groom, Chris McHale and Lynn Ball, a really big thanks for your support, it made the event. All those who turned up are also due thanks for assisting with tasks that needed to be done along the way.

Both days consisted of IFAA Animal Rounds:

• Unit 1 & 3 :14 Marked 2D shoots (up to 3 arrows), and
• Unit 2 : 14 Un-Marked 3D targets IFAA hunter Round (1 Arrow).

The targets were sensibly sited with a clever mix of straightforward and more technically demanding shots. This cunning mix provided a real variety of shots to test the archer’s range and elevation perception and restore their confidence over the simpler targets. Over-shoots were well planned so as to prevent loss or damage to competitors arrows, this was borne out in the distinct lack of arrow casualties.

On the Saturday the weather was very sunny, there was however a cheeky wind which made for some testing shots. Some archers were caught out by the large cut that needed to be applied to a few of the targets due to the angle of shot but this is all part of the “Game”. Scores were good despite the wind and most competitors joined up for well-earned refreshment in Newcastleton hostelries (much to their surprise).

Sunday started overcast with a slight drizzle which did not bode well, however the wind had mercifully died down and did not trouble the archers as much as on the Saturday. Scores were, as a result, mainly higher on the Sunday. Competitors applying lessons learned on the Saturday shoot, no doubt.

A hugely enjoyable weekend of archery, those who came along had smiles all round.  Bow-hunter is a challenging archery discipline but is all the more fun for the added challenge, clubs are encouraged to host internal Bow-hunter events to introduce our archers to this facet of are fantastic sport.  Come and have a go next time.

Results can found on our results page.

Photos from the event can be found below.