Keith and Charlie Ryan from Galtee Archery participating in the All Ireland Archery Festival 2023 at Fior Bhia Farm in Portlaoise. Photograph: Alan Betson

At TIFAM, we see archery as more than a sport; it is a powerful means of building bridges of friendship, fostering cooperation locally and across borders, and creating a legacy that will endure for generations. Our mission is to inspire and ignite a lifelong journey for people of all ages, celebrating the rich traditions of archery while ensuring its vibrant future in Ireland and beyond. Central to our vision are inclusion and integration, as we work tirelessly to bridge the divides between archery communities across both the North and South of Ireland. We believe in the unifying power of archery, transcending borders, backgrounds, and experiences. Through our efforts, we aim to strengthen these bonds, creating a shared culture of connection, belonging, and mutual respect.

One such event that should absolutely be noted is the TIFAM All Ireland Archery Festival. It is a chance not merely of showcasing the sport, but also to highlight the wonderful spirit of the community revolving around the sport while reaching out to a larger pool of people interested in archery. Novelty shoots, skill-sharing, stratagems, and presentations, plus interactive events throughout the festival bond archers from all over the island creating a unique vibe of solidarity. Beyond a demonstration of technical skills, the festival is something more in truth being a dynamic venue for exchanging cultures, words, and gestures that knock down dividing walls. Indeed, TAIAF has the potential to become a dedicated vessel to integrate archers into one cohesive archery culture across all physical and psychological boundaries. The Irish Times beautifully captured the spirit of the event – which you can see for yourself here

The cup is the culmination of our work for youth empowerment, it was created as a way to encourage young people beyond competition of the sporting field, so as to strengthen youth involvement in volunteering and club involvement With this award, the goal is not to reward technical merit, as this is well catered for in other competitions. Instead, it focuses on the social aspect: The Youth Merit Cup gives young archers a chance to be at the center of events promoting the sport, to help their home clubs grow, or to get involved in the development of archery from the ground up. By nurturing a sense of responsibility, leadership, and belonging, it ensures that the upcoming generation of archers will play a key role in bringing together all archery communities across the island. Therefore, the purpose of this initiative is to foster and encourage young people to believe that archery can indeed break down barriers of competition and bring communities together.

At TIFAM, storytelling is an extension of the bonds created through archery. Our Publish Your Book initiative invites writers—whether seasoned authors or aspiring storytellers—to share their unique perspectives on archery and its deeper cultural, historical, or personal resonance. As part of our mission, this service is provided at no cost to successful submissions, ensuring that the voices of our community are heard and preserved for generations to come. This initiative aligns with our belief that archery transcends sport, fostering connections and leaving a lasting legacy. By publishing with TIFAM, authors not only refine their craft but also contribute to the rich tapestry of stories that unite archers across Ireland and beyond. Whether through memoirs, instructional guides, historical accounts, or imaginative fiction, every book becomes part of a shared cultural narrative, bridging divides and inspiring future generations. Learn more about how to submit your manuscript and let TIFAM help you bring your story to life. Together, we ensure that the spirit of archery resonates far beyond the target.