Today had me up and about early this morning setting up an archery range at Lakelands School in Ellesmere for the first of the archery sessions that we are running as part of the Active Adventures program this Summer holiday.

Unfortunately, one of the six lads registered to take part in the session had to pull out due to not being well. A great shame for us all, but we hope he’s back to full strength soon, and perhaps able to join us for the next archery session on the 14th August. However, the five survivors made the most of the opportunity. A couple had done a bit of archery at some point in the past, but were a bit rusty to say the least! However, barebow archery is definitely a skill that takes time and practice to develop a consistent technique and feel.

During the early part of the session, more arrows were missing the target completely that were landing on the target face. However, there was definite progress made in each and every case and a complete miss became less and less frequent as time went on. Developing a consistent and reliable stance, grip, draw, aim and release is key and this certainly started to develop.

After a few ‘ends’ of straightforward practice, we started to get into a few games and competitions which definitely seemed to help focus the mind a little. Various ways of scoring helped to keep things moving before the balloons came out. It’s always interesting to see how kids really don’t care about scoring as long as they get to burst a balloon from their own efforts – I think it must be the hunter instinct.

I was really pleased with the way the session went and all those that took part seemed to enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of hitting the target – especially if it went pop! And the weather just about held off as well which was an unexpected bonus.

I would also like to say how grateful I am to Lakelands School for letting us use their playing field – it’s not easy finding somewhere large enough, and not busy with people, to set up a range. Thanks – it’s really appreciated.