At One Tree Hill in Auckland enthusiasts fire arrow after arrow to perfect their scores. Photo / Greg Bowker
Each week intrepid reporter Rachel Grunwell will try out a new form of exercise to bring you the lowdown.
What is it? You use a bow to shoot arrows at a target, aiming to strike the centre. The person with the highest score, ie, whose arrows are closest to the centre of the target most often, wins.
What's needed? Clubs have all the gear: target boards, bows, arrows and
leather hand protectors. Try it and if you like it, you may want to buy your own gear. Comfortable shoes, with closed tops, are recommended.
The experience: Auckland's One Tree Hill would have to be one of the prettiest spots for a sport, especially in autumn. I'm at Auckland Archery Club, surrounded by dewy grass and clusters of rocks. The sun is throwing light on that famous statue at the top of the hill, moody grey clouds are about, there's a flock of meandering sheep fenced off to one side of the hill and bright red, yellow and orange leaves float off trees.
A cluster of archers line up, shooting arrows at their individual targets, going for gold (that's the "yellow" centre of the target). The arrows make a "thock, thock" sound as the arrows pierce the boards. There's quiet chatter among those waiting for their turn. Then a whistle blows to signal everyone to stop shooting so the archers can safely collect their arrows. This cycle continues during the day as each archer tries to better their own shot. Those who are more skilled can shoot from longer distances. All types of people are here: young, old, boys, girls, mature men and women and families, those who are super-strong and those who are more like me. That's the beauty of archery - most people can do it. Caroline Geelen, aged 28, sums up why she keeps coming back: "It tends to be addictive".
