A buzz filled Crossroads Youth Club, in Staffordshire on 10 June. Over 40 youngsters were there to celebrate the Olympic and Paralympic Games as part of Archery GB's Aim for Paris events.
Max Oakley (Archery GB Young Ambassador) and Lucas Meadows (from the compound Development Squad) led the charge, joined by Icelandic compound archer Thordis Unner. But the biggest cheer came for Fletch, Archery GB’s lion mascot! Fletch even tried his hand at archery using the soft arrows kit, adding to the fun and excitement of the event.
Max, Lucas, and Thordis shared their journeys in the hope that they would encourage the youth club members to try archery themselves.
Once the presentation was over, under expert guidance, the eager participants picked up bows, learned proper form, and aimed for the target. The initial clangs were replaced by satisfying thuds, each hit met with cheers.
Representatives from local archery clubs were on hand to answer questions and offer a path forward for those wanting to take archery further. Their Olympic dreams might not start in Paris, but maybe on a local stage someday.
Thanks to the dedicated organisers – Max and Nicky Oakley, Lucas and Laura Meadows, and Neil Wright – for making this event happen.
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If you're an archery club or activity partner wanting to take part in Aim for Paris, our summer of celebration, head over to our Paris Hub to find out how to get involved.
