AN ARCHERY club in Overton hosted their annual competition last week.
Overton Black Arrows archery club's annual Watership Down Open competition took place against the backdrop of the Warren and the Peter Hastings Memorial Woods.
The competition spanned July 13 to 14 and was attended by 83 archers.
The Watership Down Open accommodates a range of archers.
This year's event showcased an array of striking bow styles, from traditional longbows through to ultra-modern compound bows and everything in between.
The competition also coincided with the Hampshire Archery Association (HAA) and Southern Counties Archery Society's (SCAS) Field archery championships.
Participation was inclusive, with competitors ranging from novices to some of the UK's finest archers, including representation from Team GB's Olympic squad.
Competitors of all ages participated - the youngest being in their teens and the oldest in their eighties, with Overton's own Eric Dunlop representing this end of the spectrum.
The course, designed by Susie Allam, put archers' skills to the test, featuring a mix of short and long shots of varying difficulties and steep slopes.
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The competition spanned over two strenuous days consisting of 48 targets, a blend of marked and unmarked targets, set over demanding terrain.
The event was a sporting success with club members securing 17 medals at the competition.
David Mahers earned Overton Gold, HAA Gold, and SCAS Gold in the Asiatic category, whereas in the Barebow category, Ed Pockett claimed Overton Silver, HAA Gold, and SCAS Gold.
Rob Aldridge took Overton Bronze, HAA Silver, and SCAS Silver in the Barebow category.
In the spirit of goodwill and camaraderie, the event was also used to raise funds for Dive Ability, a charity that makes scuba diving accessible for people with disabilities.
Through selling treats and donations to the club, Overton's Black Arrows have managed to raise approximately £2,000 for the cause this year.
The overall atmosphere of the competition, coupled with the resilience and determination of the athletes, as well as the strong sense of community, contributed remarkably to a memorable weekend that was enjoyed by the archers, organisers, judges, and helpers.
More details about the competition results can be found on the Overton Black Arrows club's website: www.overtonblackarrows.org.
For more information on Dive Ability, visit www.diveability.org.
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