Beth Rhodes Archery Fund
Hi, I'm Beth and I am a 16 year old compound archer.
It has just been announced that I have been selected to represent Great Britain at the European Youth Championships, in Bucharest to be held the 2nd to 7th August.
We have been really lucky that the selection shoots for a place on the squad were able to go ahead. I took part on both weekends and overall I was ranked 4th.
All our events are self funded, so I am looking to raise funds to help get me there.
This would cover travel, accomodation and necessary kit/equipment. Unfortunately we also have to fund the PCR Covid tests throughout the trip. If there were any additional funds these would be used to support the continuing costs of competitions, coaching and equipment.
My Story So far....
I passed my archery beginners course at the age of 8 and shot a recurve bow. I started at a target archery club called Aire Valley Archers and then joined Riggwelter Field Archers. I took part in many NFAS field competitions.
I got my first compound bow at the age of 13 and I have never looked back. My confidence, attitude and commitment to the sport and improving my technique, increased massively.
In May 2019 I turned 14, so had to move up to an outdoor distance of 50 metres and compete with the under 16’s. I took part in my first Archery GB competitions. Some events were over two days, shooting over 140 arrows each day. Which takes strength and focus.
I have already broken some of the Yorkshire and Northern County Records, which again I never expected. I have set a number of new club records which are held at Aire Valley Archers.
In May 2019 I returned to Field Archery for the 3D National Championships held in Derby. Taking silver and I was just 18 points from gold, which was incredible. I had to shoot 40 various distances, some up to 50 yards. I was placed with adults who I didn’t know, and I held my own.
In July 2019 I attended the Junior National Outdoor Championships at Lillieshall, Archery GB. My first insight into a major competition. Approx. 300 juniors all taking part in their respective categories. On day 1 I was just 6 points from 3rd place. On day 2, I held 3rd place all day. Podium finish. I was only 32 points from the maximum score achievable.
In October 2019, I made the Yorkshire County Team. Taking Silver.
November 2019, I took part in the Junior Indoor National Championships. I came 5th against fantastic archers who already shoot for Archery GB.
2020 and the start of 2021 has been difficult for many. With archery ranges closed it has been difficult to practice. At the start of 2021 I was selected to join a virtual compound archery GB squad video session. This was brilliant and it was preparing us for the year ahead. Further lockdown and restrictions prevented any face to face coaching.
I look forward to what the future holds and with additional coaching and development, I can't wait to improve further.
If you can find a small contribution to help me during this process I would be grateful.
Thank you in advance.
Beth x