The UK 3D Championships took place from 5-6 July at Overton Black Arrows, attracting 108 archers.
The weather brought heat and thunderstorms, and after a 20 minutes sheltering from the rain, the shooting continued and the clouds cleared just in time for the medal ceremony.
The varied targets set on tricky angles and slopes in dimly lit woodland made for challenging courses on both days, with some new shots for the venue including an owl perched in a tree and a platform shot, shooting down onto hornets. “Octavia” the Ostrich was particularly tricky, and saw many archers underestimate the distance, leaving their arrows to bounce along the chalk track behind.
On the Sunday morning, an 80th birthday cake was presented to Peter Turner, the club president. After the event, archers attempted to shoot “Phil” (a 4ft minion) who was positioned 110m up a very steep slope on the side of the hill.
Archers gauging “Octavia” the Ostrich. Credit: Malcolm Rees
The event also included the Home Nations Championship, with teams entered from England and Wales. England won the overall team medal, with bow category team golds going to:
Compound: Chris Horan and Cecile Midroulillet
Barebow: Ed Pockett and Francesca Hawker
Traditional: Steve Allam and Sarah Montieth
American Flatbow: Brendan Reese and Sophie Twigg
See the full UK Championships results here
Steve Allam, Tournament Organiser, said: "The competition was fantastic. Course designer Susie Allam laid out what proved to be a challenging course with some nice changes between Saturday and Sunday. We have had a lot of great feedback, the archers clearly enjoyed themselves."
Sarah Monteith, traditional archer, said: "It was a fantastic weekend, well organised, great courses, and food. Thanks to all involved for putting this on so we can enjoy doing what we love."
Daniel Hawley, longbow shooter, said: "Brilliant weekend; what a UK Championships should be. Well laid course, well organised with a great team of organisers, work party, and judges. Thank you to everyone who made it possible."