John Inkley of Nene Bowmen, and Tim & Frances Bull of Targetcraft Archers took part in the GNAM (Grand National Archery meeting) at Lilleshall from 24th to the 26th June.
Whilst John has been a regular at this event for several years it was a first for Frances and Tim.
“its something we have wanted to give a go for a few years and finally got there this year despite having our own 2 day club event on the following weekend.”
The weather was pretty good for the 2 days of the York/Hereford rounds and although we did get a bit of rain on the Friday at the start of the Long National it stayed warm.
The competition is based on the combined score from the first 2 days with the Long National being based on handicap adjusted scores.
The atmosphere was so relaxed and friendly. it was a real pleasure to be there. We stopped at 11am for refreshments, tea/coffee/sherry (!), then lunch had to be at 12.30 (12.45 latest). We would have stopped regardless of wherever we were in the round Smiling face with smiling eyes. After about an hour for lunch we were later given refreshments again during the afternoon.
After the Long National of Friday we had a 2 hour wait for the Presentation. Although not expecting to be winning anything we decided to head to the pub for lunch and get back to see the trophies.This event is a real piece of our Archery history and some of the trophies go a long way back.
John Inkley did brilliantly and won another award to add to his collection, coming 3rd in the Gents Recurve.
What a surprise for me… to come 2nd in the Ladies Compound and to also win the cup for “Ladies over a Certain Age”… It was called out but I won’t repeat it. I am now the proud owner of a GNAM Spider (as they are called.)
Frances Bull
Targetcraft Archers
