Types of Competitions
In the realm of international outdoor archery, there are two primary divisions: Recurve and Compound.
- Recurve Division: This division has been a part of the Asian Games and Olympic Games since its introduction in 1920. Recurve bows are traditionally more challenging to aim accurately, requiring exceptional skill and technique from the archer.
- Compound Division: While the Compound Division is not part of the Olympic program, it is featured in prestigious events such as the World Championship and Asian Championship, as well as various continental competitions. The compound bow utilizes a system of pulleys, making it easier to draw the string compared to the recurve bow, which contributes to its popularity in Europe and America.
The Modern Outdoor Target Round, commonly referred to as the FITA Round, has also evolved over the years. In response to the growing interest from spectators and television audiences, the FITA Round was expanded to include the Olympic Round, while the FITA Round itself is referred to as the Ranking Round.
In India, archery is further diversified with the introduction of the Indian Round in 1993, which involves shooting with bamboo or wooden bows and arrows, thereby broadening the base of the sport in the country.
Events
Both the Recurve and Compound divisions feature individual and team events. Indian teams participate in both men’s and women’s sections for these events at international competitions.
Each country is allowed to field a maximum of three male and three female archers in both the Recurve and Compound divisions, adhering to the regulations set by the International Archery Federation.
Categories
Archers are categorized based on age:
- Sub Junior/Cadet: Archers aged 15 years or younger on the date of the championship.
- Junior: Archers aged 18 years or younger on the date of the championship.
- Senior: There is no age limit; any archer can participate in this category.
Distances
The number of arrows shot at various distances for different categories is detailed below:
| The number of arrows shot at various distances for different categories is detailed below: | ||||||
| Recurve and Compound Round (Men/Women) | ||||||
| Category | Distance | Target Face Size | No. of Arrows in Each End | No. of Ends | Total No. of Arrows | Total Points |
| Sub-Junior Cadet | 60 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 |
| 50 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 | |
| 40 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
| 30 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
| Junior | 70/90 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 |
| 60/70 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 | |
| 50 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
| 30 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
| Senior | 70/90 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 |
| 60/70 m | 122 cm | 6 | 6 | 36 | 360 | |
| 50 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
| 30 m | 80 cm | 3 | 12 | 36 | 360 | |
Conclusion
Archery competitions, especially at the Olympic level, offer a thrilling showcase of skill, precision, and discipline. With various events and categories, archers of all ages can participate, making the sport accessible and exciting for a wide audience. As the popularity of archery continues to grow, both traditional and modern formats play a vital role in shaping its future.