By the E. F. A. A.
Artemis Archers Field Archery Club, located in Derby, is a family-oriented sports club that specialises in the exciting and rewarding sport of field archery. The club consists of families who come together to practise, socialise, and compete both indoors and outdoors. Field archery involves shooting bows and arrows in beautiful woodland areas across the country.
The club follows strict safety rules and guidelines, making it one of the safest sports to participate in. Members of Artemis Archers walk along a marked trail that features numbered targets, typically 36 or 40 in total, in groups of 3–5 people. Each archer in the group takes turns shooting at the target from marked pegs. Laughter often fills the air as arrows occasionally break upon hitting trees.
After everyone in the group has shot at the target, they proceed to score it, collect their arrows, and move on to the next target. This process continues until all targets on the course have been shot and scored.
Artemis Archers regularly attends open shoots and competitions hosted by other clubs in different woodlands throughout the country. On these weekends, members register and receive scorecards upon arrival. The cost to enter these shoots varies from 7 to 10, depending on the organising club. Before the competition begins, archers have the opportunity to socialise, enjoy tea or coffee, and even indulge in a delicious bacon butty.
At the start of the day's event, all archers gather for a briefing to go over arrangements and safety protocols. Course marshals then lead the archers to their designated starting pegs, and the competition commences with a starting signal heard throughout the course. Lunch breaks are incorporated into the day, and at the end of the day, all participants come together for score collection and award placements for different bow types, sexes, and ages.
While archery may seem like a relatively simple skill to learn, it takes time and dedication to truly master. However, it is highly addictive and will quickly become a beloved hobby. Artemis Archers is a member of the National Field Archery Society (N. F.
A. S. ), which provides insurance, a calendar of events, strict safety regulations, national championship events, and coaching courses. The club is also affiliated with the English Field Archery Association (E.
F. A. A. ), allowing members the opportunity to participate in prestigious international events such as the European Championships and World Championships.
Join Artemis Archers in Derby for an unforgettable experience of family fun and adventure in the woods. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced archer, the club welcomes everyone to embrace the wonderful sport of field archery and create lasting memories in a supportive and friendly community.