Excitement as city prepares to host national archery tournament

THE CITY of Kimberley in the Northern Cape is preparing to welcome archery enthusiasts from across South Africa as the 2024 AGA-SA National Tournament kicks off at the SANDF base at Diskobolos.

The tournament is set to run from September 25 to 28, with teams being given a chance to register, settle in and orientate themselves on Tuesday, September 24.

This tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of archery talent, with over 1,100 archers expected to participate in various competitions, including the AGA-SA Inter-Provincial Championship, the Adult Archery Generation Championship, and the Inter-School Championships.

For many of the competitors, this event will be an opportunity to qualify for the prestigious 2025 National Teams.

The excitement surrounding this year’s tournament follows on the heels of South Africa’s Adult Archery Generation Team securing their fifth consecutive victory in Namibia, a milestone that further solidifies their status as champions and serves as an inspiration to the rest of the nation’s archery community.

Speaking to the DFA Dawid de Greeff, co-ordinator of the upcoming tournament and secretary of the AGA Federation, expressed his enthusiasm about the growing popularity of archery in Africa and beyond.

The AGA Federation has been expanding its reach of late, recently including teams from Zambia and Canada in its competitions, highlighting the sport’s increasing global appeal. The Federation is already looking ahead, with plans for the 2027 World Tournament in Canada and is preparing for Canada’s participation in next year’s tournament in Namibia.

One of the standout initiatives this year is the partnership between Africa Genesis Archery Northern Cape and the Elizabeth Conradie School. This collaboration aims to promote inclusivity by providing opportunities for disabled students to engage in archery.

Thanks to the initiative, archery instructor training and starter equipment kits have been provided, ensuring that students with disabilities can actively participate in the sport.

De Greeff, who also serves as an archer instructor trainer, has been instrumental in promoting safety and inclusivity within the sport. His recent training programmes for new instructors in the Northern Cape underscore archery’s reputation as one of the safest sports worldwide and emphasises the Federation’s commitment to fostering growth and participation in the region.

Meanwhile, while archery has seen rapid growth over the past five years, with its influence spreading across Africa and globally, the sport continues to face challenges.

De Greeff highlighted that, despite the sport’s expansion, even national teams have had to cover their travel and apparel expenses. He emphasised that archery not only builds future leaders but also deserves greater investment support to sustain its development and ensure South Africa’s continued success on the global stage.

As Kimberley gears up for the 2024 AGA-SA National Tournament, there is a growing anticipation, with archers from across the country ready to compete, inspire, and continue the legacy of excellence that defines South African archery.