Big Weekend 2019 has smashed all previous records, with 105 events introducing thousands of people to archery around the country.
The results are still coming in - but one thing is certain: the eighth Big Weekend, this year sponsored by The Archery Shop, was a tremendous success. Student Ambassador Ffion Edgeley helped out at Talisman Bowmen's have-a-go. She said: Â"We did get some typical British weather - but people kept coming back to shoot more arrows. Lots of cheering could be heard whenever an archer hit the gold and there was plenty of encouragement from families for archers on the line.”
Shropshire's Long Mynd Archers received a surprise visitor, Archery GB's Chief Executive Neil Armitage with his wife, Louise. Sue Williamson said: Â"That was the icing on the cake! I think it was a great day and the members were buzzing about how well it had gone.”
Another Hampshire club, AC Delco Bowmen, welcomed a record number of visitors. Its Chair, Egan Carey, said: Â"This was our most successful Big Weekend to date. It was great to see so many families, as well as individuals come and have a go at archery. We had a great time sharing our passion for archery and hope that we might have inspired more people to get involved in archery in the future.”
Our new Chair, Mark Briegal, was out and about too. He visited Colwyn Bowmen and Lonsdale Archers over the weekend. He thanked both clubs and said: Â"Thank you so much for your hospitality. My wife Clare and I were delighted to meet you all. The enthusiasm of members was evident as was the excellent organisation.”
It was all systems go at Wellingborough Open Archery Club where Club Ambassadors Helen and Jack were helping out. Helen said: Â"Our day was a success. Many people signed for beginners courses and there were lots of smiles and the enthusiasm that comes with those first arrows hitting the gold!”
And Overton Black Arrows used the event to help charity. It asked visitors for donations towards the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
This year we set a target of hitting the century - and when the 100th event was registered, we held a prize draw to win free Arrows kit. The lucky winners? Caldy Bowmen!
But that's not all. The Big Weekend was also tied in with Mental Health Awareness Week because archery is welcoming, positive, inclusive - and a great way to get active and interact with others.
We want to hear how your event went - and The Archery Shop is offering vouchers to clubs that send in their feedback. Want to know how? It's simple, just click this link and tell us about your experience.
Above: CEO Neil Armitage and his wife, Louise, at the Long Mynd Archers' event