Katie writes  I discovered archery in July 2023 as part of a have a go session, arranged as a team building exercise for a first aid group I was part of. I missed the target more times than I hit it, but instantly fell in love with the process of shooting, and found it incredibly beneficial for my physical and mental health - both of which were poor. As soon as the next beginners course came up in November 2023, I signed up. I was able to purchase a basic beginners bow, and for the last year and a half, I have been shooting at every possible opportunity. I soon outgrew the bow, and needed to purchase better equipment. 

Fortunately, I found out about the Fletcher's trust, who were able to give me a grant to help me upgrade to a more appropriate setup. Without this grant, I would not be able to compete at the level I do. I used the bow to shoot at the 20th international Island Games in Orkney this summer where I got silver in the mixed pairs event, alongside one of my team mates. In the FITA I came a respectable 6th (of 22) for women's recurve and obtained my first FITA star.

Now I am preparing for attending the Archery GB disability championships in September and continuing my training for the 21st International Island Games in Faroe 2027.