Archery Association Takes Aim At Plans

A journey that started out with a few persons taking an interest in the sport of archery just over a year ago has gathered momentum in the past several months with the formation of the Virgin Islands Archery Association (VIAA), with plans to one day field competitors at the Olympics.

Mr. Patrick Smith, the association’s public relations officer was very excited about the potential of the sport, but said the first goal is to introduce a program in the schools and build on that foundation.

“We are in discussions with the Ministry of Education to get physical education teachers trained and hopefully that will happen very shortly. The overall plan is to take it into schools, develop an Olympic program. We know this is a process and this is just the beginning,” Mr. Smith explained.

Part of the process also includes accreditation with plans to have VIAA recognized by the BVI Olympic Association and subsequently the World Archery body which will provide access to training and curriculum guidance.

According to Mr. Smith, the VIAA currently utilizes the grounds of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) on Saturdays for their activities, but there are plans to utilize HLSCC as a permanent fixture. He said they are currently in talks with the Tortola Sports Club to introduce archery there.

“Participation has been better than expected. We are getting members with about 15, 20 people ever Saturday. We have seen a steady increase in numbers,” Mr. Smith stated.