13-year-old Summer Chambers is hoping to secure a place in Archery GB’s National Age Group Academy following a hugely successful inaugural season in the sport.
Summer only started archery with West Wight Archery Club just over a year ago, but has already risen up through the ranks leaving an impressive mark.
The teenager only took part in her first competition back in March – the Vectis Open in Ryde – where she won every round she entered and was crowned the overall tournament champion.
Her impressive performance caught the eye of the Hampshire County Manager, who invited her to join the team. Then, to her surprise, she was asked to represent Hampshire in a 3-way match with the counties of Kent and Sussex. It was at that tri-county match that Summer secured a 2nd overall position and was the only person from Hampshire to be placed.
Summer’s success hasn’t stopped there… she travelled to the Junior National Outside Competition to gain vital experience before a planned appearance in 2025.
She shot in every weather condition imaginable across the weekend. The competition got off to an understandably nervous start, but by the second day Summer secured a 2nd place finish, just 4 points behind the top spot.
Now, following a bumper year, the 13-year-old is waiting to find out if she has secured a place at the National Age Group Academy – seen as a pathway to Olympic selection.
In the meantime, Summer has continued to shoot in other competitions; she came 1st in her category when playing for Hampshire recently and last weekend competed at the Mushroom Shoot in Sway, where she won the Junior Archer Supreme.
Supported by her family, Summer is travelling to the mainland most weekends for training and competitions, demonstrating dedication and passion.
All the best Summer!
