How Archery Fosters Community Spirit in Christchurch, New Zealand
‘Shoot and forget your troubles’: how archery brought a New Zealand community together
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
The Christchurch Archery Club in New Zealand, led by coach Dave Henshaw, has become a vibrant community hub for diverse individuals, including athletes with disabilities and aspiring Olympians. Archery fosters mental well-being and camaraderie, helping members build confidence and friendships, while the club recently secured a long-term lease to ensure its future.
- 01Dave Henshaw, an 83-year-old coach, has dedicated over 50 years to the Christchurch Archery Club, training athletes from various backgrounds, including Olympians.
- 02The club recently secured a 33-year lease for its range, allowing for the development of an indoor facility for winter training.
- 03Archery is recognized for its mental health benefits, helping participants focus and forget their troubles, as stated by club president Graeme Robb.
- 04Rising star Julia Harrison is targeting qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, having recently competed in a world cup event.
- 05The club's annual Dave Henshaw Classic tournament attracts top archers and emphasizes the balance of competition and community spirit.
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The Christchurch Archery Club, located in New Zealand's South Island, has become a vital community space under the guidance of coach Dave Henshaw, who has dedicated over 50 years to the sport. Henshaw, who has coached many athletes, including Neroli Fairhall, a Paralympic gold medalist, emphasizes the importance of adapting coaching to individual needs, fostering self-worth among participants. The club, which boasts 150 members, recently secured a 33-year lease to ensure its future and developed an indoor facility for winter training. Members like Karen Redpath, who took up archery at 65, highlight the club's welcoming atmosphere and the physical challenges of the sport. The club also promotes mental health benefits, allowing archers to focus and forget their troubles. Rising talents such as Julia Harrison are aiming for Olympic qualification, showcasing the club's competitive spirit. The annual Dave Henshaw Classic tournament exemplifies the blend of competition and camaraderie, making the Christchurch Archery Club a true community hub.
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The club's activities promote mental well-being and community engagement, benefiting local residents of all ages.
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