Activity combines “trust between horse and rider, precision and focus.”
The ancient practice of horseback archery is the UK’s latest official horse sport.
Having just become a member body of British Equestrian, the British Horseback Archery Association has joined the national equestrian sports family, writes ETN editor Liz Benwell.
I don’t suppose the horseback archery community enjoys being likened to Robin Hood and Gengkis Khan any more than Western riding bodies relish an association with John Wayne and Clint Eastwood movies.
Nevertheless, firing off arrows from the back of a moving horse sounds adventurous and exciting. It may well appeal to those bored or disillusioned with the usual horsey activities – or even to people who thought riding wasn’t for them.
As Jim Eyre, chief executive of British Equestrian, says. “Horseback archery is a unique discipline that combines a relationship of ultimate trust between horse and rider with skills of precision and focus.”
When pony racing first emerged, hat-maker Charles Owen was a big sponsor. Asked why his company was supporting an obscure sport, the late Roy Burek said he wanted to get more boys into riding.
He was proved right. Horseback archery could do likewise – and of course will appeal to many other people too.
New activities that draw more participants into our industry – while being well organised and ethical - are so welcome.
