ANDREW’S 20 Questions – #23 Deidre Shannon

Hello Deidre and welcome to the TIFAM magazine and specifically my monthly 20 question interview. I am enjoying getting to know a bit about you and as you point out it is Deidre with only one r and you also tell me you have another exciting away trip coming up very soon. We had a nice chat at the Bowhunter champs and I hope to get to shoot with you some day soon to talk further about international destinations etc. Righto 20 questions, lets make a start. How did you get into archery?My son wanted to try archery, so because I had to take him, I decided to give it a go as well. This was about 19 (ish) years ago. He drifted away from it when he went to college – I kept it up. Your first shoot, when where, with who etc ?My first big “away” shoot was at Kendal Bowmen Andrew and…...

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Here and beyond

EDITOR’s NOTE [November 2024] As the editor-in-chief of The Irish Field Archery Monthly (TIFAM), I am always torn between two alternatives that define the role of this magazine: are we the chroniclers of the events and achievements of the sport of archery, or the catalyzing agent of new thoughts change in the sport both within Ireland and elsewhere? This question has struck home in my mind, raising not only philosophical and practical implications of our work, but also a broader trajectory of archery in an ever-changing world. At its core, archery represents an ancient form of art: a practice that reaches into the very extremities of millennia and represents everything from warfare and survival to ritualistic ceremonies and competitive sports. Thinking about the future of archery means heaving an almost philosophical discussion with its past and present, trying to make sense of what place it shall hold in such a digital and hypermodern world. Shall…

ANDREW’S 20 Questions

This is the 22nd interview and this month sees an archer of target/archery Ireland origins but who is becoming a more frequent presence at various field shoots which is great as he is one of the most bubbliest, brightest, and amiable people I've met, even if I really only have got to know him this past year. So this month it is the turn of Wicklow archer Alan Callister, the larger than life character who we should all get to know.

The format of this interview is 20 questions, the first 10 of which are generally the same, specifically around the subjects of archery career and experiences to date, the 2nd set of 10 is usually broader as the interviewee chooses 10 random numbers themselves from 11-60 which dictates what questions I ask them.

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The Phoenix Archer – Orion’s Legacy – Chapter 1

Considered the most established of Anordaithe’s five continents, The Sigel still hides beautiful and wicked revelations yet to be found.

After receiving an invitation from the Maytoni Summiteers, Alejandro Zaragosa, Ksenia Kiamount, and Blair Ruthvane travel to The Sigel. The trio fall into a conspiracy, millennia in the making, forcing them along a path which crosses into the works of the very legend whose crusade sought to slay Alejandro – Orion Aldenberg.

Lost on another trail, Luciana Doran is in mourning for the man who restored a life to her. With a rogue Summiteer, she pursues the tracks of an unknown force threatening to bring forth an evil Orion worked to keep secret.

Presenting, the follow up to The Phoenix Archer, set shortly after the events of the first story, The Phoenix Archer – Orion’s Legacy.

The Phoenix Archer – Orion’s Legacy – Prologue

Considered the most established of Anordaithe’s five continents, The Sigel still hides beautiful and wicked revelations yet to be found.

After receiving an invitation from the Maytoni Summiteers, Alejandro Zaragosa, Ksenia Kiamount, and Blair Ruthvane travel to The Sigel. The trio fall into a conspiracy, millennia in the making, forcing them along a path which crosses into the works of the very legend whose crusade sought to slay Alejandro – Orion Aldenberg.

Lost on another trail, Luciana Doran is in mourning for the man who restored a life to her. With a rogue Summiteer, she pursues the tracks of an unknown force threatening to bring forth an evil Orion worked to keep secret.

Presenting, the follow up to The Phoenix Archer, set shortly after the events of the first story, The Phoenix Archer – Orion’s Legacy.

Winning paths episode 39

Tolkien’s Bows of Fate ~ unstrung ~ Also available as an episode of the Winning Paths podcast on our channel www.youtube.com/@Winning_Paths The bows of the Galadhrim hum with the taut pull of destiny, their strings drawn tight, not as mere instruments of war, but as conduits of a deeper truth. In Tolkien’s mythos, the bow transcends its role as a weapon and becomes a thread in the broader design of fate—a force through which the ancient tension between free will and the inevitable course of destiny manifests. When an archer draws the string, they are not simply readying an arrow but rather setting into motion the quiet unraveling of events yet to come. The arrow, once loosed, becomes a messenger, flying swiftly and silently toward a mark preordained by forces beyond the archer’s control. Tolkien imbues archery with profound symbolism, elevating it beyond mere skill into a reflection of humankind’s fragile balance with the forces…...

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Killigarry shoot Photo-recap

Killygarry Archers, based at Pullamore Farm in Cavan, Ireland, is led by Sean Crow, a dedicated IFAF committee member, accomplished archer, and long-standing Irish representative at major international competitions. Sean’s leadership and charismatic community spirit have made the club a hub for archery enthusiasts. Known for organizing challenging yet thoroughly enjoyable traditional and field archery competitions, the club draws archers from all skill levels. With years of experience behind them,

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Loch Riach ~ photostory ~

Log Riach Traditional Archery Club:
Located in the heart of nature, Log Riach Traditional Archery Club is a haven for archers who appreciate the traditional aspect of the sport. The club specializes in longbow and recurve archery, offering events that challenge archers in the most natural and scenic environments. If you’re passionate about field archery, you’ll find no better place to hone your skills and connect with like-minded enthusiasts.

Ready to join the adventure? Visit Log Riach Traditional Archery Club’s official site here to learn more about upcoming events, membership, and how you can become part of this incredible archery community.

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Community Ads

Marble Archers Dinosaur Hunt Join the Adventure with Marble Archers! Sunday, October 20th Loughan House Forest Get ready to embark on a thrilling Dinosaur Hunt and UAR 14×2! Follow the trail through the forest, discover multiple dinosaurs, and catalog your findings with the provided check sheet. Become a Jurassic Park Ranger! Badges, certificates, and prizes await those who dare to take on the challenge. Bring your family along—though if things get wild, you can always feed them to the dinosaurs! Plenty of off-road parking New toilet facilities Tea and coffee available For directions, type “Loughan House” in your GPS, and look out for the big flag marking the parking area. Don’t miss this exciting day in the wild! See you there, adventurers! Archery Northern Ireland and Open Senior Indoor Target Championships hosted by Lisburn City Archers Entry Form here: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSepZpluAq…/viewform Historical champs in Slovenia For more info look here: https://www.facebook.com/people/LP-Dwarf-Archery IFAF AGM 2024 • 3rd…

Newsroom

3D World Championships Slovenia The 2024 World Archery 3D Championships are currently taking place at the scenic Mokrice Castle in Slovenia, running from September 30 to October 6. Over 300 archers from 31 countries are participating, competing in the 3D archery discipline, which involves shooting at lifelike animal targets set in natural environments. The tournament has progressed to the elimination stages, with both individual and team matches in full swing. The U.S. men’s and women’s teams are competing fiercely, with standout performances in compound and longbow categories. Shiloh Butts, Christian Clark, and Madison Ritter have advanced to challenging matchups against strong opponents from France, Finland, and Austria. The mixed team events are also exciting, with the U.S. competing in longbow and compound matches against Italy and Denmark. On the individual front, athletes like James Todd (compound) and Julie Jones (traditional) are up against top seeds from Austria and San Marino. The final matches and medal…

Lesser things and trivia…

“Old stories endure, even as the world changes’”. This is the tale of the Phantom Archer of Dunluce. As they say, the legend is deeply rooted in the castle's history and has been passed down from generation to generation. The ruins of Dunluce Castle stand among the windswept cliffs of Antrim and are a reminder of human ambition in the face of the power of nature.

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Archery Ireland National Field Championship 2024 Field Report

On a very sunny Saturday the 7th of September, archers descended on the majestic Drewstown house and surrounding grounds for the annual National Field championships. It had been several decades since the Archery Ireland field championship had last been in Drewstown and we were blessed with two days of exceptional weather. The field championships consist of paper faces (black with gold centre) shot at various distances depending on bow class and age categories. The course is set up with 24 targets, 12 at marked distances and 12 at unmarked distances. Archers shoot 3 arrows per target so a total of 72 arrows per day and the championship is a two day event. Scoring ranges from 1 for the outer black ring and 6 for the inner gold with the max score for one day being 432 and max for the two day championship being 864 points. There are four target sizes ranging from 20cm to…

2nd TIFAM All Ireland Archery Festival

& Sunday Black Castle UAR shoot (A weekend of fun in Thurles) Andrews account… A fun weekend in the woods outside Thurles in the home of Black Castle Archers. The majority of the festival photos included in this issue were taken by the TIFAM crew of Matt, Chris and Andrew. The weather was very suitable to shooting arrows, mild and fine over the two days. Arriving on the friday evening it was great to see some campers already set up, David from NI and Marcin for example, and of course Sandra was upping the luxury scale as usual with her impressive RV already on site and sensibly parked. Black Castle had done a wonderful job and what is noticeable is their camaraderie and their efficiency at getting things done, albeit with no shortage of hints or reminders and of course the slagging. The way they erected their marquee was an example of this. Laura explained…

Show of Power

The forth in a series of short stories about The Archery Guild and its members, set in a fantasy world, known as Anordaithe.

For those reading The Phoenix Archer – Orion’s Legacy in our magazine, a couple of names will be familiar here.

Line Cutter

The third of a series of short stories about The Archery Guild and its members, set in a fantasy world, known as Anordaithe.

2nd TIFAM All Ireland Archery Festival: A Weekend of Arrows, Adventure, and Archery Community

Saturday Spectacle: A Day Open to All Workshops and Courses: Dive Deep into the Art of Archery Live Podcasts: Archery Conversations in Real-Time Buy & Sell Area: A Marketplace for Archers Free Stall Spaces and Vendor Opportunities Archery Associations and Clubs Stands Catering and Coffee Kiosk Novelty Tournaments and Competitions Launch of TIFAM Youth Merit Cup Sunday Showdown: Competitive Archery and Prestigious Awards Sunday Lottery Why Attend? Camping and Networking Fun for All Ages Whether you’re a seasoned archer, a budding enthusiast, or simply someone curious about the sport, the festival has something to offer everyone. Saturday’s open day is especially welcoming to families and individuals looking to explore archery—whether it’s your first time or you’re returning to a forgotten love, this day is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Don’t Miss Out! The 2nd TAIAF is more than an event; it’s a gathering of the archery community, a celebration of tradition, and an opportunity…...

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Dunbrody 100 3D – Echoes of Valor

By Marcin Malek The first day of the Dunbrody 100 3D began under the whispering canopy of dawn, with a morning briefing attended by 132 eager participants. As the golden rays of the sun filtered through the ancient trees, casting a mosaic of light and shadow on the ground, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. After a brief, matter-of-fact introduction, the competitors, organized into their respective groups, set off on the trail. The sight of 130 individuals marching in close formation was a spectacle to behold; it evoked visions of an ancient army or an expeditionary force setting out on a grand mission. And indeed, as it later unfolded, this analogy was not far from the truth. Each participant embarked on a personal, heroic journey, a testament to their endurance and the meticulous efforts of those who had painstakingly laid out the course. For those unfamiliar with this magical locale, the Dunbrody Archers’…...

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From Basic to Somewhat Pro setup

Hello folks, my article for this month is my transition from my bows. This is a new topic explaining equipment, so bear with me. So in September 2021, I started archery with Black Castle Archers. At the time, I started like all newbies on a wooden recurve. In my case, I started on a 26lb core archery wooden recurve. It was an excellent starting bow, but I did know in a few months I would have to transition to a style. In September 2022, I bought a small 26lb metal bow from Shooring style in Meath. It was a Samick Ideal riser and small 26lb Kinetic Honoric limbs. I loved the bow, shooting it as a bowhunter recurve. I shot it for 2 major championships in 2023 and also claimed 2 national records in JMBH-R. Though I did shoot well with it in bowhunter, I did need a reset from an issue that I had.…

Bill Stewart Multi-cam Recurve Bow Review

History Bill Stewart who is often referred to as the unknown bowyer and has worked for many of the great well known bowyers such as Fred Bear, Damon Howatt and Bob Lee amongst others. He is the one who worked behind the scenes to innovate, engineer and redesign the bow manufacturing processes of today. In his 7 years with Howatt, Bill designed the Eldorado, Diablo and Howatt Hunter bows. He then worked for Fred Bear for 7 years, they co-designed many longbows, re-curve bows and compounds including the Bear Magnum. More famously he is credited with designing possibly the best looking traditional bow of all time – the Tamerlane as well as the Bear Hunter. He later joined Bob Lee where he co-designed the Red Wing Hunter, White Wing and Presentation II, a target take down bow. He then went back to Bear Archery for a further 7 years, where he re-designed the Grizzly, Kodiak…...

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ANDREW’S 20 Questions – #19 MART MÜRK

For this 19th installment we focus on a well recognised, liked and skilled flatbow archer. he is easily recognised by his choice of head covering- a viking/ Scandinavian hat as well as the fact he is usually accompanied by his partner Marika. they always bring colour and smiles to an archery event and are both dedicated to the sport we all love. Both are talented craftspeople too. So this month it is none other than the one and only – MART MÜRK. the format of this interview is 20 questions, the first 10 of which are largely the same, specifically around the subjects archery career and experiences to date, the 2nd set of 10 are usually broader as the interviewee chooses 10 random numbers themselves from 11-60 which dictates what questions i ask them. Hello Mart and welcome to TIFAM magazine and I am delighted you were amenable to do this and I am also…...

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Archery needs the community an Interview with Raymond Huang

Once again readers we have the pleasure of sharing the story of an archers’ journey with you. This time, we are joined by the winner of the 2024 Lancaster Classic, Mr. Raymond Huang. I have listened to this interview twice, available on the TIFAM podcast, Winning Paths. Now, I could try and be descriptive here about Raymond but I keeping coming back to two words, role model. Many thanks to Neil Keeble for this interview and capturing the essence of what archery could, should and must be about. (Yours, The Stringfellow). Neil: Hello everyone. This is Neil from TIFAM Magazine. I’m here with Raymond Wang, better known as Reggie Neil: For those who don’t know Reggie, would you like to introduce yourself first? Reggie: Hi, I’m Raymond, more well known as Reggie. I’m a father, a husband, a son, and an archer. Neil: How long have you been shooting? Reggie: I started about five years…...

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Expeditionary

The second of a series of short stories about The Archery Guild and its members, set in a fantasy world, known as Anordaithe.

For those familiar with The Phoenix Archer, the Dytrentian Empire gets mentioned a few times. In this short piece, follow a greedy member of its Expeditionary Force for a insight into Empire’s armed forces.

We always work against the time

There is an old Latin proverb: “Vivit post funera virtus,” which translates to “Virtue lives after death.” This saying expresses the belief that though a person’s body dies, their virtues and values remain alive in the memory of others. It is an undeniable truth about our spiritual state, but the most intriguing aspect of this posthumous reflection is what is not immediately visible or audible—the process by which people come to remember and speak of these virtues, the process that ensures, as the proverb states, these virtues continue to live, even though the person to whom they are attributed is already far away.

Bullseye My Gob!: An Archery Ramble Through History, Hilarity, and Humbug

Indeed, the dance of an arrow as it traverses the distant of ‘from – to’, may seem oddly bizarre. A fleeting moment of grace, a trajectory that defies gravity, a vibrant intention and surrender. A paradox, like life itself, isn’t it? Aim too hard and you miss the target. Let loose and the arrow finds its own way. Like a pint of Guinness poured too fast, all foam without substance, a fleeting repulsion, a momentary loss of sanity. But what is an arrow really? A feathered messenger, a whisper of death, a prayer to the gods of chance? A symbol of Cupid’s capricious whims, of Eros’ changeable heart? Or is it just a stick with a pointed end, a tool for putting dinner on the table, a weapon for settling old scores, a relic of a bygone era? Ah, but it’s all of these things and none of these things, an ambiguous anchor point in…...

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Horus: The Divine Archer

By Marin Smallridge Also available as a Winning Paths Podcast episode “Straight be your arrows, Horus, your heart unstained.” If nothing else, it’s a way of saying the same thing—in ancient Egyptian lingo—about Horus, god of Egypt and divine archer, having a falcon-headed face that greets you from a thousand temple walls, standing head and shoulders in the pantheon of gods. His is a tale as twisted as one an Irishman might try to tell an American about hurling. You see, Horus isn’t just your average run-of-the-mill deity; he is the symbol of kingship, the personification of divine order, and one guy who had more family drama than a season of EastEnders. So, pull up a stool, pour a pint, and let’s pick apart the story of Horus, complete with all the sarcasm, wit, and wry humour that an Irishman can muster. And that’s where we start off—with the tangled web of Egyptian mythology. Horus…

Archery, movement, and mental health

By Roger Marsh Once again we have the pleasure of Roger Marsh joining us to share his archery journey. This month the topic I’m sure, is something that will resonate with nearly all of us. That Roger is penning this too from Australia shows how much in common as an archery community we have with each other, not to mention how much to learn. An important part of my journey in archery has been using it as part of my mental health strategy. As a topic, mental health gets a lot of discussion these days, though sometimes it seems to me that there needs to be a lot less talk and a lot more action. Be that as it may, in my day to day life there are several key aspects I look at when it comes to maintaining my mental health; these include diet, exercise, spiritual fitness, mindfulness and mental hygiene. Here I want…

ANDREW’S 20 Questions

#18 Conor O’ Connor By Andrew Wayland interview installment number 18 and we go up the north west this time to talk with a very well liked and extremely talented archer… Conor O’Connor. It is always nice to see Conor showing up at a competition as you are guaranteed banter, and craic as well as great enthusiasm, and quality shooting. I know Conor a good many years and all i can say is it is a pity that the forgotten county is so far from me in Wexford as i have fond memories of competing at Conors club – Donegal Archers. the format of this interview is 20 questions, the first 10 of which are largely the same, specifically around the subjects archery career and experiences to date, the 2nd set of 10 are usually broader as the interviewee chooses 10 random numbers themselves from 11-60 which dictates what questions i ask them. Hello Conor…...

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The Science of Arrows

Introduction Archery would not be possible without arrows and they are the most important part of the equipment set. Tommy, the seminole indian referenced in Maurice Thompson’s 1878 book ‘The Witchery of Archery’ was alleged to have said to – “Any stick will do for bow, good arrow damn heap work”. Even in the early days of archery, they recognised that the projectile does most of the work and was critical. People often spend large sums of money on expensive new bows but it’s more important to have consistent arrows that match the bow and the archers parameters.  Figure 1.0 – historically inaccurate meme of why archery was invented Arrows are made up of the following main parts – nock, fletching, shaft and point.   Arrow Shaft Materials  These days arrows are mainly made of Wood (traditional), Aluminium, Carbon (or fibreglass) or expensive Alum-Carbon composites. Initially all arrows were wood but it was difficult to match…

The Ghosts of Mary Rose

* Rising, Sinking and Resurrection * By Marcin Malek This is a revised and expanded edition of an article of the same title published in the 14th issue of TIFAM, December 2022 Also available as an audio Podcast on YouTube Greetings, Archers and Readers, and welcome to another thrilling episode of “Winning Path,” where we shoot straight into the heart of history’s most captivating tales. Today’s episode, whimsically titled “The Ghosts of Mary Rose,” will take you on a journey through time, much like an archaeologist sifting through centuries-old mud but with less muck and more mirth. Picture it now: a grand Tudor warship, the Mary Rose, pride of Henry VIII’s fleet, not just sailing the seas but dancing upon them with the grace of a drunken sailor at a village fair. Our story begins with this majestic ship, a veritable floating fortress, full of archers, sailors, soldiers, and perhaps a few ghosts who’ve had…

TIFAM Youth Merit Cup

** A Vision Cast Far Beyond the Target ** By Marcin Malek In the noble pursuit of archery, one discovers a discipline not solely confined to the draw of a bow and the flight of an arrow but one that extends its reach into the realms of personal development and civic engagement. As Editor-in-Chief of The Irish Field Archery Monthly, I am privileged to chart the intersection of ancient sport and contemporary virtue. Our commitment to fostering a robust youth engagement manifests grandly in the forthcoming introduction of the TIFAM Youth Merit Cup, an initiative designed to celebrate and encourage our young archers not only in their athletic prowess but also in their capacity as burgeoning stewards of societal goodwill. Archery, in its serene demand for precision and poise, offers a mirror to the self, reflecting the virtues of patience and diligence. It teaches the archer the quiet nobility of perfecting a craft, the alignment…

A student of the art

On Jorge L. Coppen “Bear Archery Traditional Bows – A Chronological History (1949-2015)“ I recognise and praise them for putting themselves out there for criticism but thank them for passing on their knowledge and helping others. When it comes to reviewing the books, I do so based of my own opinions and thoughts. I want to convey to the reader which books I believe add value and at what stage of their archery journey. Now for something totally different. Jorge has created the definitive guide to the Bear Archery bows, how to identify them and to determine the year of manufacture. Fred Bear is renown as one of the forefathers of modern traditional archery and founded Bear Archery in 1933. He went on to create some of the most iconic traditional bows including the Kodiak, the Grizzly, the Polar and then possibly the two most beautiful bows of all time – Tamerlane and the Temujin.…...

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Monkey mind versus monks mind!

Deeply considered and wise words from amiable and likable compound archer Anto Corcoran Edited by Andrew Wayland I have heard it said that archery is a very white belt sport. ( white belt mentality is simply remaining open to a lifetime of learning). ‘Monkey mind’ appears to know everything already, it is that constant ,distracting voice that takes over. ‘Monk mind’ knows that we should always be open to new thoughts and ideas. Going about my everyday life ,archery is ever present at the forefront of my mind, yet i find when i’m at the shooting line at full draw, all my ‘Monkey mind’ thoughts are suddenly present.  So how do we get from the noise of monkey mind to the quiet calm and focus of ‘Monk mind” to achieve the goal we have set ourselves?  Even though our aim in archery (pun intended) is to repeat the same shot everytime, this may not always…...

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The Homeric Landscape: Unfurling the Spectrum of the Odyssean Quest through Archery

By Marcin Malek Amid the swirling eddies of ancient epic and brisk modern sensibility, the legend of Odysseus, our perennial navigator through the tempestuous seas of fate and time, shines forth as a beacon of cosmic order, much like a stout lighthouse beams through the murky night upon the ever-churning ocean. We embark upon a cheery jaunt through the echoes of his archetypal voyage, wherein his trusty bow, a robust companion of yew, not only signifies but splendidly embodies the varied dimensions of existence, weaving the palpable and the ethereal into the grand weave of myth. This bow, let me tell you, is no mere tool of warfare. Oh, it’s much more—a symbol of the ties that bind the visible to the invisible, a bridge between the now and the eternal. With each tension of the yew, each arrow sent soaring towards its destiny, Odysseus not only confronts the physical adversities that sprawl before him…...

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It serves you right!

Hello and welcome back, fellow archers and enthusiasts! Despite the never-ending challenges we face, our passion for archery keeps us together, and we’ve got each other’s backs through it all. As we gear up for what promises to be an action-packed summer, let’s dive into a review of some of the most popular serving tools that who knows, may come handy from time to time. There are many to choose from and the vast majority are of good quality and do the job. Of course, there are quirks and variances in the design of different brands to allow for a couple of different techniques in, and frequency of, serving a string. However, they all effectively do the same job and ultimately it very much comes down to personal preference. Now a serving tool is not an essential piece of archery kit, especially if you do not make or regularly repair strings. Notwithstanding string making, the…...

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Jasmine’s 10 questions

1.Why did you start archery? I found it enjoyable when I did it in scouts, and during my 6 week training, I discovered a passion for it. As it was COVID, I started in the woods. 2.Why barebow? I needed to reset myself as an incident I had that caused major issues with shooting bowhunter. Once I got into it I found the accuracy with string walking much more satisfying. 3. Who is your biggest fan? Shur I dunno, must be my mum seeing as much as she says she wants a break and still driving me all around the country to compete. 4.What now you would shoot instead of barebow? Compound as I prefer to stay on the modern bow styles. 5.Does anyone else fire in your family? Yup, my mum and my sister, both flat bow shooters, so I’m the odd one out. 6.Greatest achievement in archery? Getting bronze, sliver and gold gains…

The rules of the game

By Nick Anton Of late there has been much discussion on this subject and with the outdoor season hotting up and EHBC, UKIFAC the IFAF champs and WFAC just around the corner it’s a good time to walk through some of the issues people have been highlighting. The past while has been challenging in all aspects of life and there is an argument that field etiquette has suffered, likely due to all the solo shooting and rolling starts. People have been shooting almost all the time in their own friend groups and as a result some bad habits have been learned or allowed. Now that everything has come back to some sort of normal and groups are more mixed we need to remind ourselves of some of the finer points of the collective game. KNOW YOUR CATEGORY There seems to be an assumption that shoot organizers, club officials or coaches are responsible for the category…

Field & Hunter Rounds. (The Dummy’s Guide)

By Owen Reynolds Field & Hunter Rounds. (The Dummy’s Guide) So, let’s get started. This year the Northern Ireland Field Archery Association (NIFAA) in association with Roe Valley Archery Club, will host the UK & Ireland Field Archery Championships (UKIFAC) at Oakgrove, Integrated College on the 20th and 21st of July 2024. As I type, Laois Archery have already hosted the first F&H competition of 2024 at their magnificent woods in Clonkeen. Wexford Archery will be hosting the IFAF F&H championships on the 4th. and 5th. of May at their, by now legendary venue, Woodville House. By the way, Wexford Archery hosted UKIFAC in 2022. The hosting of UKIFAC is on a rotational basis, with Ireland, Northen Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales taking turns at facilitating this annual two-day event. However, I’m not here to indulge in reminiscing but to try and arm you with the tools and knowledge needed for this competition, especially if…

Arrows of Unity (Laois Archery Field and Hunter Round, April 2024)

The Laois Archery Field and Hunter Round, held in the picturesque setting of MacDonald’s Woods in Clonkeen on the 6th and 7th of April 2024, exemplified the enduring appeal and community spirit of archery. This event, set in the verdant countryside of Ireland, brought together a diverse range of participants each contributing to a rich mosaic of experience, skill and shared enthusiasm for the ancient sport of archery. The organisers, with a strong sense of commitment and a deep understanding of the intricacies of the sport, created an event that was both a challenge and a celebration. The competition was designed to test the limits of the archers’ skills while ensuring that the spirit of camaraderie remained paramount. With its demands for precision, patience and control, archery often walks a fine line between exhilaration and frustration. The meticulous planning and thoughtful execution of the event ensured that the scales tipped towards challenge and enjoyment rather…...

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Archery – a social game par excellence

Imagine if archery were less about the simple act of flinging feathered shafts at bullseyes and more akin to joining a secret society where the handshake is replaced with a perfectly executed anchor point. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill weekend hobby; it’s a clandestine rendezvous with history, a mental duel against the self, all wrapped in the guise of a sport. Here, the bow becomes a time machine, each arrow a message sent across the ages, whispering secrets of mindfulness, discipline, and unity. Think of archery as the chess of the athletic world, where physical prowess meets mental fortitude in a silent ballet. The archer, a philosopher in athletic shoes, embarks on a quest not just for points but for inner peace and communal harmony, turning each shot into a verse in the epic poem of human endeavor. It’s a sport that doesn’t shout but whispers, inviting those who listen to discover not just the thrill…...

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Launch of the First Issue of TIFAM YOUTH Archery Magazine in February!

February will bring a revolution to the world of archery for youth, with the debut of a new magazine created specifically for the youngest archery enthusiasts – TIFAM YOUTH. This innovative publication, edited and managed by school-age youth, aims to inspire and unite young archers from Ireland and beyond. What to Expect in the First Issue of TIFAM YOUTH? TIFAM YOUTH Magazine is a unique space where young archery enthusiasts will find inspiring stories, reports, interviews, interesting facts, and product reviews tailored to their age and interests. It is a platform designed to captivate the youngest minds with the wonders of archery. Editor-in-Chief – Chris Ocampo, a Passionate Young Archer What sets TIFAM YOUTH apart from other archery magazines is that it is edited and managed by school-age youth. The Editor-in-Chief is the talented 14-year-old archer, who brings not only knowledge and skills to the magazine but also a fresh perspective on the world of…

The Wild Hunt (when gods tinning the veil between the realms)

This pursuit encapsulates a thorough exploration of the portrayal of “The Wild Hunt” within the realms of literature, music, and poetry. Consequently, it aligns more with the field of literary studies rather than the confines of a piece suitable for a casual archery magazine. Nevertheless, due to the inherent nature and subject of the myth under scrutiny, my essay holds relevance for the archery community, given its inevitable connection to the venerable elements of the bow and arrows. The Wild Hunt emerges as a captivating and enigmatic phenomenon deeply ingrained in the folklore and mythology of diverse European cultures. Its most notable association lies within Nordic mythology, yet its influence extends widely, weaving into the beliefs and traditions of various European regions. This exploration delves into its Nordic origins, unravels its profound significance, and traces its impact on popular culture. Additionally, it scrutinizes the theme of the Wild Hunt within the literary realms crafted by…...

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Andrews 20 Questions N0.8

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An archer’s spindle of literature Column

I first stumbled upon Irish Celtic mythology when I was a lad of fourteen, a scrawny thing with a wild imagination and a stubborn curiosity for the unknown. It was my older sister who planted the seed, gifting me a book for my birthday—a slim yet intriguing volume by Jerzy Gąssowski titled “Mitologia Celtów”. It was one of those peculiar gifts that, at the time, you’re not sure whether to thank someone for or quietly set aside. But once I cracked it open, that was it. I was hooked, drawn into a world that seemed both ancient and startlingly alive. The book wasn’t just about mythology. It was a kind of sweeping survey, casting its light not just on gods and heroes but on the culture of the Celts, their art, their rituals, their very way of seeing the world. Imagine my surprise, at fourteen, discovering an entire realm I’d known nothing about, a new…...

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Autism in Archery – Jessica Burcow

Welcome to a new series where I interview autistic archers about our experiences within archery. The goal here is to better inform people of our condition and needs within the sport. Furthermore, there will find plenty for those of us with autism to relate to I am sure, and perhaps even a means to express a trait we couldn’t before once it has been seen in writing. And finally, I would like to thank Jessica for taking the time to do this, and for doing it so promptly! 1 – What is your favourite animal?My favourite animals are cats, so much so I volunteer 3 hours a week at an animal refuge and work in the cattery, as well as having my own rescue cat. 2 – What club are you a member of?Eagle Bowmen 3 – What is your preferred shooting style?A compound bow. 4 – How did you get into archery?I got my…

Thorgal – precision, restraint and choice.

The trade was small, insignificant in the grand scheme of things. A childhood barter, some scrap of possession given away for something else, though the details are long since swallowed by the tides of memory. I don’t remember what I lost. Nevertheless, I remembered what I had gained – Thorgal, the first of many. This battered, ‘read to the limit’ barely holding together comic book, which god knows how many hands had passed through before I got it, became a gateway to a world that had followed me through the years as if it were a shadow streaking beneath the weight of a setting sun. It didn’t start with archery. Not really. Back then, the bow was no more than a tool in the hands of a man who fascinated me—not a weapon of war, not a sport, just something Thorgal used with quiet precision, as natural to him as breathing. I wasn’t one for…

John the blind – The King’s last charge

“The king, his heart resolute, called upon his knights, ‘Where is my son, Charles?’ They replied, ‘Sire, we know not; we believe he fights on.’ Then he declared, ‘Loyal companions, lead me into the fray, that I may strike but one blow with my sword.’ To ensure they would not lose him in the chaos, they bound their bridles together, placing the king at their head, and so advanced toward the enemy.” Froissart’s portentous words hang in the air like the dying notes of a funeral dirge, bearing with them the weight of a moment preserved in time’s amber. John of Luxembourg—John the Blind—was no ordinary king. He was a paradox alive, a man who belonged to his mortality yet was unchained by it. Even in his blindness — maybe because of it — he perceived with greater clarity the truth of what it meant to lead, to battle, to confront the tide of inevitability…...

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Hook Lighthouse archery tradition

Date: 01-01-2025 time 13:00 Place: Hook Lighthouse Co. Wexford The annual arrow ceremony took place on January 1st at Europe’s oldest lighthouse. For umpteen years now, archers from the local Dunbrody club have participated in this age old tradition. This tradition came about as the New Ross council would shoot an arrow into the sea at the Hook every new years day, to claim rights to the Waterford estuary and this ceremony has continued since the 1600’s. In recent years more and more Dunbrody archers have become involved. It is now one of if not the highlight of the clubs year. At the same time numbers of spectators have increased substantially too and it is not uncommon for hundreds to be present to watch the spectacle. Over the years a lone piper did accompany the archers to the shooting point but now a contingent of the New Ross pipe band lead the archer parade from…...

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“Field Ready” outdoor Column

The wind shifted. That peculiar scent of damp earth, wood smoke, and the first stirrings of green rising from winter’s quiet breath. The hedgerows outside my window whispered of coming rain, the kind that soaks slow and steady, not in the dramatic rage of winter’s storms but with a patient insistence that everything must bloom, ready or not. Spring, then. Time to step outside again, time to loose arrows beneath skies no longer grey with foreboding but streaked with hopeful gold. And with spring’s arrival comes the great gear reckoning. If you’ve spent the last few months wrestling damp fletchings, losing boots in the muck, or cursing the slow seep of water through what once claimed to be waterproof, I have a list for you. Not just any list—this is the kit that I, and many archers like me, have found to be worth its weight in gold (or at least in dry socks). And…...

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Andrew’s 20 questions – #26 michael hambly

Now this month we feature an absolute gentleman,… such a kind, thoughtful, considerate and lovely guy all round. he is one of the stalwarts of the great mayo archery club and always has a word of welcome and a smile for archers from all corners of the country. This month it is none other than the talented and passionate trad archer Michael Hambly, an archer who is always calm, impeccably dressed and well organised. i have fond memories of shooting with Michael on a few occasions and always enjoyed our interactions immensely so i am fully confident this will be an interesting interview. the format of this interview is 20 questions, the first 10 of which are generally the same, specifically around the subjects archery career and experiences to date, the 2nd set of 10 are usually broader as the interviewee chooses 10 random numbers themselves from 11-60 which dictates what questions i ask them.…...

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Smack my controversy Column

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James Byrne column

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Hachiman: The God of War and Archery

The story arrived as many others do, cloaked in the smoky haze of memory and the eccentric cadence of a teller who half-believes the story they’re telling. Dim, my father’s driver, was the one who first mentioned Hachiman. I could hardly think of him as anything more than a driver, someone who provided a service in a limited capacity and nothing more. Yet, for me, as a little boy, he had become so much more than that. He would accompany and protect me, often guiding a life that had only just begun to unfold. His hands were sculpted by the weather, his eyes penetrating, and his smile ever mysterious and slightly wry. He possessed that delightful ability to weave humour into the most sombre of stories, effortlessly resurrecting the gloomiest of myths. It was many years ago, during a pause on a cloudy evening, when the car was humming along the cracked roads. He spoke…...

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