Wilford Bowmen Archery Club, based in Nottingham, has been a cornerstone of the archery scene since 1948, making it one of the longest-standing clubs in Nottinghamshire. While the club works on relocating, they will continue meeting at the Walled Garden on weekends until March 2024.
John, the organiser, is dedicated to supporting archers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors. Those keen to join must have completed an authorised Archery GB course in the last two years. The club features a diverse group of coaches, including some who have represented Great Britain.
Regular shooting sessions are held year-round. On Sundays, members gather from 10:00 am to set up for a 10:30 am start. There are also coaching sessions on Saturdays around the same time. During summer, the club shoots on Wednesday and Friday evenings; in the winter, sessions move indoors to the Small Hall at Rushcliffe Spencer Academy on Saturday afternoons.
A notable event is the annual open competition in May, which is a Record Status event and part of the Nottinghamshire Team selection process. The club also hosts a leg of the Nottinghamshire League, fostering friendly competition and helping new archers gain experience.
John encourages anyone interested in archery to visit the club on Sundays to meet the members. The club offers beginner courses consisting of four sessions for £75, with all equipment provided. Participants will learn target archery and how to shoot a recurve bow under the guidance of an experienced coach.
Wilford Bowmen Archery Club is affiliated with Nottinghamshire Archery Society, East Midlands Archery Society, and Archery GB. For more information, including contact details and maps to the venues, visit their website. Wilford Bowmen is a welcoming community for all who share a passion for archery.