My First Taste of Field Archery – And Why I’m Hooked

Ever since a fellow CMB club member confessed that she found target shooting dull compared to field archery, I was intrigued. The 3D targets at the club gave me a small taste, and that was enough—I had to try the real thing. Fortunately, I wasn’t alone. Jennie shared my enthusiasm, and thanks to the dedication of Carl (our Field Archery Rep) and Jez (CMB Coach), we got the chance to experience it firsthand.

A Rocky Start—Literally

The adventure didn’t begin smoothly. I arrived at what I thought was the right location, only to be met by a massive locked metal gate. Confused, I drove further down to a lay-by, double-checked the date, maps, and location—everything seemed correct. Just as I was questioning my sanity, I spotted a small queue forming at the gate. Phew! No senior moment today.

Once inside, it was time to get serious. Bows were prepped, teams assigned, safety briefing completed, and then—off we went to the first peg and target. My mental checklist grew longer: stance, grip, anchor point… and now, estimating the range, avoiding tree collisions, and, most importantly, not tumbling down a slope mid-draw.

The Challenge and the Thrill

For those who haven’t tried field archery yet (and you absolutely should!), here’s how it works: If you miss your first shot, you move to a closer peg for your next attempt. Sounds easier, right? Well… sometimes. A new position means a fresh guess at the range. At least your first arrow gives you a clue—if you can spot where it lands!

The targets? They’re a fantastic mix—some small and close, others large and deceptively far. Some narrow, some wide, and many placed on slopes that test your balance as much as your aim. And just when you think you’re getting the hang of it, the second half of the course throws in… dinosaurs. Yes, dinosaurs! As if field archery wasn’t exciting enough.

Beyond the targets, the setting itself is incredible. The woodland course is stunning—a place you’d happily walk through even without a bow in hand (though you’d have to watch out for flying arrows). I had worried about losing arrows, but the well-thought-out back-stop boards and nets kept them safe. Two rounds in, and I still haven’t lost a single one!

Victory Tastes Sweet

And the best part? Our team won the morning’s competition! Naturally, I’d like to think Jennie and I carried the team with our impressive scores, rather than Carl and Jez’s small contributions of skill and experience.

Field archery isn’t just shooting—it’s an adventure, a challenge, and an absolute blast. If you haven’t tried it yet, trust me, you’re missing out!