“It was at a glorious, sunny weekend in June that a few of the Pastures Archers met up, and realized that the following weekend we were shooting at the Golden Arrow competition and the Oregon Challenge. The change from the clear blue skies at the Burton Bridge FITA and the weather as experienced at Beeston Rylands could not be held in more contrast. The experience at Burton told me it would be a good idea to pack some sun block, my experience at other competitions told me to pack my waterproofs. My experience was put to good use (unlike the sun block which was not).
The Golden Arrow competition at Beeston Rylands on the Saturday was well attended, even given the heavy rain during the morning; however we were all pleased that the rain stopped in time for the sighters. The wind did not abate, with a blustery, strong wind affecting how all Archers were shooting. The atmosphere on and off the shooting line was relaxed and enjoyable, which has always been my experience at the Golden Arrow Shoot. Even given this I was not disappointed when the Shoot came to an end, as the shooting conditions had not been favourable.
Left to right: Tony Dolby, Mike Emery, Paul Garner and Lee Chlechowicz
On receiving the results it was pleasing for us all that Tony Dolby won the Bronze Arrow (giving him the title of Lieutenant of Sherwood Forest, unfortunately a demotion from last year when he was Captain, I’m certain he will pass on his congratulations to Paul Croot who won the Golden Arrow). To add to this Pastures won the team award for posting the highest team total. The Pastures Team consisted of Tony Dolby, Paul Garner, Lee Chlechowicz and Mike Emery. Congratulations for this achievement.
Sunday morning saw Beeston Rylands host the Oregon Challenge. We were welcomed at the field by the sound of thunder rumbling over the Archery Field with an accompaniment of rain. I would like to say that the rain did not persist, unfortunately I can’t. Full waterproofs were the order of the day. The waterproofs did not really seem to be enough, for those of us who had them, as a biting wind was cutting through us all. I thought it was supposed to be June, it felt more like a winter Frostbite.
The plan was supposed to be to shoot a double American, a vote by the thoroughly wet and cold Archers turned this into a single American round. When the final whistle had been blown we were all pleased that we could at last leave the wet and cold and head indoors for some warmth. It may take a while for us all to dry out and warm up.
Congratulations to Dave Statham who shot a personal best in less than ideal conditions. He did not seem convinced that the shoot had been fun, even when myself and Tony tried to convince him of this. The seed has been planted Dave, you will turn into an all weather archery nut! Maybe!!
For the first time the Oregon Team has been opened up for East Midland and South Yorkshire Archers to be eligible for team selection, this has traditionally only been available for Nottinghamshire Archers. I am very pleased to report that Tony Dolby, Lee Chlechowicz and Mike Emery from Pastures were all selected for the Oregon Team, the first time non Nottinghamshire Archers have been selected. A hearty congratulations to this Trio, and also to all those who survived the shoot. I hope you all dry out and warm up soon, Archery is fun honest, it isn’t all wind and rain.
