Editor-in-chief
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’ range is a realm apart. Situated in the heart of Ireland, it epitomizes the island’s inherent uniqueness and charm. The landscape here is reminiscent of the fantastical realms depicted in “The Lord of the Rings” or “Game of Thrones.” At the very outset, the path meanders through a dense, primeval forest, a verdant tapestry of intertwined branches and leaves. This ancient woodland gradually gives way to a younger, more sparsely populated coniferous forest. To the left, a hill rises majestically, dotted with boulders of varying sizes and hues, as if cast there by the whimsical hand of a mythical giant. These stones shimmer under the southern sun, each one a silent witness to the passage of time. To the right, the land gently descends into a wide, verdant valley, where an old, thick forest stands as a sentinel, its trees whispering secrets to the wind.
Further along, the road seems to delve into the earth itself, leading unexpectedly into a narrow gully. Here, nestled in this natural fortress, lies the Dunbrody Archers’ camp. Tall, densely planted pine trees line either side, their branches swaying and humming with an almost mystical resonance. Entering this woodland sanctuary, one feels transported to an enchanted realm, akin to Fangorn Forest from Tolkien’s epic. The ground is a lush carpet of moss, its colors ranging from light, almost yellow-green to a deep, rich emerald, at times so intense it appears nearly black. This vibrant moss blankets the stones and tree trunks, creating a surreal, crystalline sheen under the forest canopy. Amidst this verdant splendor, mushrooms and heather peek out, adding splashes of color to the green expanse. It is a landscape straight out of a fairy tale, a daily reality for the Dunbrody Archers, and one that inspires both envy and admiration. In this place, the world takes on a dreamlike quality, where one can momentarily become a hero, destined for great deeds and victories.
On this particular day, I chose not to partake in the archery but to chronicle the event, moving from target to target. As I trailed the archers, I greeted the various groups, engaging in brief exchanges. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and mutual respect, a shared appreciation for the skill and dedication required to excel in this sport. The participants expressed unanimous praise for the event’s organization. The Dunbrody Archers’ team, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, performed their tasks with exemplary precision and enthusiasm, ensuring the event’s resounding success.
Throughout my journey, I captured a series of photographs, which I now wish to share with you. Some were taken in the early morning, capturing the tranquil beauty of the forest before the briefing and the start of the competition. Others were snapped during the briefing, documenting the collective anticipation and readiness of the archers. The final set of images showcases the archers in action, their focused determination and skill evident in every frame.
As expected, the evening was unforgettable, with all campers gathered around a grand table for lively discussions. Conversations ranged from the distant echoes of history to summaries of decades, if not centuries, in a symphony of voices that blended past and present. After an ample portion of “refreshing” drinks was consumed, the mood turned festive as everyone joined in singing, accompanied by Conor Stokes on the guitar. Our good friend from the online channel Blackbird Podcast, James Byrne, revealed his hidden talent as a singer with a flair for improvising lyrics, a performance met with enthusiastic applause from all the campers gathered.
Morning arrived with a sense of anticipation, and an impressive number of 129 archers assembled once more at the Dunbrody camp. The weather, thankfully, remained temperate—windy, but spared us from rain for most of the day. It wasn’t until about a quarter past two in the afternoon that the sky began to drizzle, but as the saying goes, we are not made of sugar, and thus, would not melt.
The second day of the Dunbrody 100 3D unfolded with the same challenging course as the first, yet the weariness among the competitors was increasingly apparent. Imagine, dear reader, traversing a rugged landscape where an average adult male covers between 20,000 and 22,000 steps per day. Now, consider the stamina required to double this effort while maintaining unwavering concentration and physical prowess over two demanding days. This relentless journey is not for the faint of heart; it is a testament to the fortitude and determination of each participant, who must navigate the intricate trails and demanding shots that define this unique competition.
By 4 p.m., all participants had returned, their expressions a blend of exhaustion and triumph. The air buzzed with a sense of accomplishment as each archer knew they had faced and conquered the trials set before them. The camaraderie was palpable as stories of the day’s trials and triumphs were shared among friends and rivals alike. Soon after, the much-anticipated presentation of medals and perpetual trophies commenced. Categories spanned a broad range, recognizing not just the top performers but also celebrating the diverse skills and perseverance displayed by all.
As the sun dipped lower, casting a warm, golden hue over the gathering, the Dunbrody Archers club hosted a raffle that added an extra layer of excitement to the event’s conclusion. The prizes were as intriguing as they were diverse, featuring coveted items such as 3D targets that every archer dreams of owning. The raffle was a fitting end to a day filled with competitive spirit and communal joy, symbolizing the generous and inclusive nature of the Dunbrody Archers.
Reflecting on the event, I must seize this moment to convey a sentiment echoed by the majority of those who attended: the Dunbrody 100 3D stands as the pinnacle of archery events in Ireland. It is not just an archery competition but a rich, immersive experience that challenges the mind and body, drawing participants into a world where skill, strategy, and endurance are paramount. It is a journey through the heart of Ireland’s stunning landscapes, where each step and each shot is a step closer to understanding the essence of archery.
This event can easily be ranked among the top 10 most captivating archery events in Europe. It holds a unique charm and complexity that sets it apart from the rest, making it an unparalleled experience for those fortunate enough to participate. For me, the Dunbrody 100 3D transcends the ordinary. It is an event steeped in tradition and excellence, a beacon of what archery competitions should aspire to be.
As I look forward to next year, I must share with you, my dear friends, that my role will shift. Having chronicled the essence of this remarkable event, I now yearn to experience it firsthand as a competitor. The allure of the Dunbrody 100 3D is irresistible, and next time, someone else will take up the mantle of reporting while I embrace the challenge and joy of participation.
Thank you, Dunbrody Archers, for orchestrating such a magnificent event. As you celebrate your 20th anniversary, we wish you all the success and fulfillment you so richly deserve. Your dedication to the sport and to fostering a sense of community is truly inspiring. Here’s to many more years of excellence and memorable events! We eagerly anticipate what next year will bring, confident that it will be yet another testament to your unwavering commitment and passion.
Matt Latimer
