Last evening I attended the Hampshire Archery Association Annual General Meeting in Hedge End. I am not a regular at such meetings, so I did find it very enlightening. As with all there is good news and bad news. First and very much up front; the good news.

 
There were two significant presentations made, the first to a 14 year old junior Michael Hopkins hoping to raise his game sufficient to shoot at the 2012 Olympics. Michael was presented with the “Steve Gulliver” award by Mrs Shirley Gulliver, a financial gift to aid Michael on his way. While the money is obviously very important, the mere recognition and selection of him for his achievements and success to date is I am sure a major boost to his confidence and moral. I am sure we all wish him well. Steve Gulliver sadly passed away a few years ago. He was instrumental in the founding and subsequent success of Sway Bowmen and had a particular interest in juniors achieving their best.

The second award for services to coaching in particular was presented to Gary Carr by the Hampshire Archery Association’s Lady Chairman Mrs Margaret Taylor. 

  Gary has been involved in archery for a long time and I mean a long time, something in excess of 40 years. He is a well respected Coach currently involved with the GB archery squad. This involves many and frequent visits to Lilleshall in Shropshire, the National Coaching centre, to participate in continuing group and individual progressive programs as well as within his own coaching group here in Hampshire. Many archers in this county have a lot to thank Gary for, also his wife Julie for being so understanding.

 On the other side there is some not so good news; the Association is obviously run and managed by a Committee. This year the Secretary and Treasurer have decided they have “done their bit” and do not wish to continue. This was not sprung upon the meeting, it has been known for some weeks now, unfortunately there were no nominations prior to the start of the meeting and nobody at the meeting showed willing to take up either of the posts. This is very disappointing as there are some sixteen hundred affiliated to the Association and you would believe we could and should expect someone to give of their time to be involved. Fortunately the two current occupants agree to continue for a short period, ‘till June when the posts must be filled, else the continued existence of the Association will be in jeopardy. The consequence is unthinkable.

Andover Archers 'Advent' Shoot

The date for the 2008 'Advent' shoot has been confirmed as being the 14th December.

As a consequence of the resignation of the HAA Target Tournament Secretary with immediate effect, and since we cannot ensure our ability to maintain the Record Status management of our Tournament, The Hampshire Archery Association Chairman has decided to cancel the 2008 Hampshire Indoor Championships.

Archers entry fees are being refunded.