Friars Gate Archers Two Way Western 26th April '09

Friars Gate Archers held their 16th annual British Longbow Society shoot on Sunday 26th April at Buxted Park.

Making the most of the warm and sunny weather, 48 archers from across the southeast gathered to shoot the two-way western round a total of eight-dozen arrows at two distances.

The afternoon was a lively mix of good shooting, easy pace and friendly chatter with the competitors enthusiastically supporting each other’s efforts. After the first four-dozen arrows, shot at 60 yards, the traditional break for a glass of sherry was a welcomed by all as a chance to discuss the good shots and the excuses for those that missed.

The archers returned to the field to shoot a further four-dozen arrows at 50 yards with the competition hotting up. The spectators enjoyed the sunshine and the idyllic English village setting of Buxted Park as well as the lazy, arching flight of 20 arrows heading towards the targets.

After tea, Friars Gate Archers’ Ian Martin presided over the prize giving. In the ladies competition Margaret Bunyard took first place, with Julia Madelin second and Judy Friedlander third. The men’s competition was won by Steve Chapman, with Ron Smith second and Terry Skinner third. For Full results see: