Chatsworth Country Fair 2011
Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th September
Archery
Open Have-A-Go and Archery Tournament on the Cricket Field, north west of the Showground
Organised by: Derwent Bowmen Archery Club
The bow has been with mankind for thousands of years. Following the Conquest, the peasants and yeomen of these islands quickly became proficient in handling the long bow, and for many centuries they formed the backbone of every English army. Because of this, many of our kings promoted laws to encourage archery as a sport, practiced by the vast majority of Englishmen. Among these the most famous of course is Robin Hood. From this time archery as a sport grew in popularity.
These days similar longbows are in use alongside modern equipment made from aluminium alloy, carbon fibre and polyester at the hundred or more archery clubs in this country. Despite such advances, the skill remains the same and today’s archer, without instruction and practice, can still easily miss the target. Archery is a true family sport, open to all ages, relying more on technique than strength. Safety is an aspect always emphasised and this instils in the young a high level of responsibility and self-discipline. It is a sport which offers the challenge of being easy to do, but hard to be good at; and yet, with reasonable practice, virtually everyone is capable of attaining a good standard.
Derwent Bowmen will be offering everyone an opportunity to try the sport of archery under the guidance of experienced archers and coaches. Additionally, on Sunday, some of the country’s top archers will be competing in a tournament, shooting at distances of up to sixty yards. This will give everyone a chance to see modem equipment in action.
Derwent Bowmen shoots at nearby Darley Bridge. Recently improved facilities allow members to shoot at any time and beginner’s courses are run for anyone wishing to take up the sport or to find out more about it. Further details can be obtained from any of our members over the weekend, by visiting our website www.derwentbowmen.co.uk
or by contacting the Secretary by email by clicking here.