The GB Transplant Archery Squad gathered at the Performance Archery Centre in Lilleshall for a training camp in preparation for the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany this August.
Each squad member has overcome serious illness, with many relying on life-saving organ transplants to regain their health and quality of life. Selection to the squad was earned through strong performances at the British Transplant Games, organised by Kath Fitzpatrick, or by medalling at previous World or European Transplant Games.
The GB & NI team has a proud track record, having won 18 medals at the 2019 World Games in Newcastle/Gateshead and 10 of the 11 available medals at the 2022 European Games in Oxford.
Thanks to support from the Worshipful Company of Fletchers, nine archers attended the weekend from 17-18 May, receiving coaching from Lloyd Brown and Pete Probert, who will also travel with the squad.
Saturday focused on technical refinement, including drills, blank boss shooting, and one-to-one feedback. The group also rehearsed team round procedures and participated in a mock competition to simulate competitive pressure.
Sunday shifted to understanding elite level expectations and equipment checks that can impact performance. Archers completed a three-dozen scoring round to mirror the ranking round in Dresden, followed by head-to-head match practice; a first-time experience for many.
The weekend left everyone motivated and better prepared, each athlete gaining new insights and a confidence boost ahead of the Games. The squad is now even more determined to build on its past successes and bring home more medals from Dresden.
Some archers are using crowdfunding in order to participate:
Andrew Dorrian is based in Hartlepool
GB team Captain Sam Newton, who is based in Spalding, Lincolnshire
