Guide to Competitions

Welcome to Your First Archery Competition!

It’s natural to feel a bit nervous, but remember that competitions are really about pushing yourself, having fun, and being part of the archery community. Think of it as an opportunity to set a personal benchmark and enjoy the experience—just by participating, you’re already winning! Most archers feel a bit unsure their first few times, but after two or three competitions, it will start to feel like just another day of shooting. Remember, every archer was a beginner once, and everyone is rooting for you!

Entering the Competition

Entering a competition for the first time can feel like a big step, but it’s an exciting opportunity to grow and challenge yourself. Here are a few things to consider when you’re signing up:

• Registration: Many competitions require you to register in advance. Check online platforms or local club postings for upcoming events. Make sure you have your Archery GB membership card ready.
• Choosing a Suitable Round: Competitions vary in terms of rounds and distances. Choose one that matches your skill level, and don’t hesitate to ask your club members or coaches for advice.
  • Non-Record Status: These are more relaxed competitions, where the rules around clothing and scoring are not as strict. They are ideal for beginners or those wanting a less formal experience.
  • UKRS (UK Record Status): Competitions with UK Record Status follow stricter rules regarding equipment, clothing, and scoring. Scores achieved in these competitions are eligible for UK records.
  • WRS (World Record Status): World Record Status competitions are the most formal, adhering to World Archery rules. Scores from these events can be used for setting world records. These competitions must use Method 2 for timing and generally involve stricter guidelines across all aspects.
• Practice: Regular practice leading up to the competition will help you feel confident. Work on consistency, focus, and shooting within time limits.
• Fight the Imposter Syndrome: It's natural to feel a bit intimidated when competing for the first time. Imposter syndrome happens to many archers, but you belong here just as much as anyone else. Your fellow archers, the judges, and even the more experienced competitors all want you to succeed. If you feel nervous, just focus on the fact that you've made it to the competition—that in itself is a big win!

Before the Competition Day

Getting ready before the competition is essential to having a stress-free day. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

Gather Your Equipment

• Make sure you have all your equipment packed the night before.
• Bring spare nocks, an extra string, an extra tab, and an arrow puller.
• Tools like allen keys, screwdrivers, pliers, spare fletchings, glue, and scissors are useful for any minor repairs.
• Don’t forget a pen for scoring and binoculars if you’re shooting longer distances.

Mark Your Arrows

• Your arrows need to be marked with your initials on the shaft near the fletchings — not on the fletchings themselves. This is a requirement for competition and helps prevent confusion during scoring.
• It’s also good practice to number your arrows sequentially. Some competitions may require arrows to be numbered, and numbering them helps identify individual arrows if issues arise.
• Consider using either an arrow pen or stickers to mark your arrows. You might also find suppliers like Arrowsocks useful for purchasing arrow marking accessories.

Dress Regulations

• Approved Colors and Styles: For competitions under Archery GB Rule 307, clothing must be clean, in good condition, and conventional in style. Any color can be worn, although dark green and/or white are considered traditional for Archery GB events. However, blue denim, olive drab, and camouflage are strictly not allowed at record status events.
• Club Clothing: Wearing club-branded clothing is a great way to promote team spirit and increase coherence among club members. It’s an excellent opportunity to show unity and pride in your club.
• Footwear: Footwear must fully enclose the toes and the front of the foot — no sandals or open shoes are allowed.
• Shirts and Tops: Clothing must cover the front and back, including the midriff at full draw. Sleeveless shirts are not allowed for men, and strapless tops are not allowed for anyone.
• Logos and Badges: Manufacturer logos, your name, or sponsor logos are permitted. Any badges must be related to archery.
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: When shooting outdoors, dress for the weather. Conditions can change rapidly, so it’s wise to wear layers that you can easily put on or remove
• Non-Record Status Competitions: For non-record status competitions, the dress code may be more relaxed. Blue denim or other casual clothing may be acceptable if Rule 307 is not enforced, so always check the entry form to understand what is allowed.

Understand the Difference Between AGB and WA Rounds

• For Archery GB (AGB) rounds, you’ll have "sighters"—a set number of arrows you shoot in ends before scoring starts.
• For World Archery (WA) rounds, you get a set time for practice, where you can shoot as many arrows as you can within the time frame.

Research the Format

• Make sure you understand the competition format, including how many arrows you’ll be shooting per end, and what type of timing system will be used (Method 1 or Method 2).
• Competitions may involve alternating details, where archers are split into groups (e.g., AB and CD) and take turns shooting. Knowing this in advance will help you feel more confident on the day.

Check the Venue

Plan your journey — whether by bus, train, or car — and consider lift-sharing if multiple people from club are attending. Lift sharing can help reduce stress, gives you a chance to socialise, and even saves a bit of money.

On the Day of the Competition

Starting your competition day off right is key to enjoying the experience. Here are a few important steps to help you get ready and feel comfortable:

Arrival Time

Arrive about an hour before the competition starts. This gives you time to register, set up, and get comfortable. Arriving early helps reduce stress and gives you time to adjust.

Registration

• Upon arrival, head to the registration area to check in. The registration area is normally staffed by someone from the organising club, and they will let you know what target you're on.
• Let them know it’s your first competition—most people are supportive, and you’ll likely receive a warm welcome.
• Have your Archery GB membership card (physical or e-card) ready.

Setting Up

• After registration, find your target, set up your equipment, and make sure everything is ready.
• This includes assembling your bow and ensuring all your arrows are prepared.
• Consider bringing a chair or something to sit on. Most indoor venues will have chairs available, but many archers prefer to bring their own for comfort, and some have found really cool collapsible space-saving stools. For outdoor competitions, bringing a chair is essential, as you'll need somewhere to sit between ends. Many archers also bring a tent or some kind of shelter to act as a base, providing much-needed shade or protection from the elements. Additionally, the ground sheet of your tent can also work well (weather permitting) as a place to sit or rest.
• Taking time to set up helps you feel organized and relaxed before the competition begins.

Equipment Inspection

After setting up, you'll need to go through equipment inspection. Judges will check your bow, arrows, and other equipment to ensure everything is safe and meets the competition rules.

• Make sure you take your bow, finger tab, arrows, sight, quiver, and even your bracer — even though it might not be checked, it's good to have it on hand to avoid forgetting it later.
• Take a moment to ensure that your bow has all the essential parts attached (e.g., pressure button, clicker, stabilizer), as realising something is missing right before you shoot can be stressful.
• The judge will talk you through the inspection process, and it’s not uncommon for each judge to handle a different bow type (e.g., recurves or compounds). If you’re unsure about anything, just ask—they are there to help.

Ask Questions

If you're not sure about anything—whether it’s a rule, timing, or where to set up your equipment—don't be afraid to ask. Judges and fellow archers are there to help, and everyone understands what it’s like to be new.

Assembly

Before shooting starts, judges will hold an assembly to explain the round and timing system. They will give you all the details you need to know, including how scoring works and the safety rules. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask questions during this time.

Understanding the Shooting Lines

• Shooting Line: The line from which you will shoot your arrows. Ensure you stand correctly based on the target face and whether you're sharing with others.
• Waiting Line: Archers who are not shooting must stay behind this line until it is their turn to shoot. It helps maintain safety and organisation during shooting.
• Equipment Line: Place your bow and other equipment behind this line when not shooting. It helps keep the shooting area clear and organised.
• Tent Line (for outdoor competitions): If you bring a tent or shelter, it should be set up behind the tent line. This keeps the field clear and ensures everyone has enough space.

Practice or Sighters

• World Archery Competitions: Allow unlimited practice arrows in a set time frame before the competition begins. This helps you get comfortable with your equipment and the shooting conditions.
• Archery GB Competitions: Typically include "sighters," where you shoot a specific number of arrows in ends before scoring starts. This allows you to get familiar with the round, but there are limits on the number of arrows.

Photography

Taking photos is generally okay, but you’ll need to sign the photography register, which is usually available at the registration desk. This ensures that everyone is aware and comfortable with photos being taken during the event.

Bring Money for Raffle Tickets

Many competitions hold raffles to support the club or charity. Bring cash if you'd like to participate and help support the event, and if you enter the raffle you might win a raffle prize!

Meet Fellow Archers

Introduce yourself to other archers. Experienced archers are often happy to offer tips and answer questions. Most people are friendly and chatty, although some prefer to keep to themselves during competitions. Even experienced archers have moments of confusion, so you won't be alone! The question "Is it my turn to shoot?" has been asked many times, even by seasoned competitors. Getting to know a few people can help ease any nerves and make the day more enjoyable.

Understanding the Competition Format and Timing Methods

Competitions, both indoor and outdoor, use different timing methods to control shooting, and it's important to understand how these work. Here are the details:

Composition of Ends

• For all Imperial rounds, Long Metric rounds, and the two longest distances of the Metric I-V rounds, six arrows shall be shot per end.
• For other Metric rounds, either three or six arrows may be shot per end, depending on the specific round.
• For most indoor rounds, ends consist of three arrows, except for the Worcester round that uses five-arrow ends.

Timing of Ends

Many competitions use electronic timing systems to keep track of shooting times. If you're unsure how they work, don't worry—judges will explain everything during the assembly, and you can ask questions.

Archers will shoot ends of three or six arrows, depending on the round, using one of the following methods controlled by the Judge:

Method 1

• One Signal: The first detail (group) takes their place on the line and begins shooting.
• Each archer shoots three arrows and immediately retires from the line, being replaced by the subsequent archer in their detail. Once all archers on a target have shot, they may shoot another set of three arrows if required.
• If an archer persists in shooting more than three arrows consecutively, they may be disqualified by the Judge.
• Three Signals: When all archers have shot, three sound signals will indicate that archers can move forward to score and collect arrows.
• Time Limit: Each archer has 2.5 minutes to shoot three arrows, starting from when they step onto the shooting line. Exceeding this time limit results in a warning ("Time Warning") and may lead to the highest scoring arrow being disallowed if the infraction continues.

Method 2

Shooting is conducted in timed ends controlled by audible signals and sometimes lights.

• Two Signals: Archers in the first detail take their positions on the line, can nock an arrow, but can not shoot the arrow.
• One Signal: After 10 seconds, one signal (a green light) indicates that shooting can commence.
• After 3 minutes 30 seconds (if six arrows are shot) or 1 minute 30 seconds (if three arrows are shot), an indication is given (a yellow light if available) that there are 30 seconds of shooting time remaining.
• Two Signals: After 4 minutes (for six arrows) or 2 minutes (for three arrows), two signals (a red light) indicate that archers must retire, and the next detail takes their place.
• Three Signals: Once all details have shot, three signals (a flashing red light) indicate that archers are to move forward to score and collect arrows.

Timing Methods for Different Competition Types

• If you’re shooting in a record status or world record status competition, Method 2 must be used.
• For non-record status competitions, the organisers can choose between Method 1 or Method 2.

Alternating Details

• Archers are often split into groups, such as A/B and C/D, to prevent overcrowding and keep things organized.
• A/B shoots first while C/D waits behind the waiting line.
• Once A/B completes their end, they retire behind the waiting line, and C/D takes their place to shoot.
• On the next end, the order reverses: C/D shoots first, followed by A/B.
• This alternating process ensures fairness and a smooth shooting experience for everyone involved.

Important Notes

• An arrow shot before or after the allotted time will be considered part of that end, and the highest scoring arrow will be disallowed.
• The time allowed for a make-up arrow is 40 seconds.
• Archers are expected to retire from the shooting line as soon as they have completed shooting, though they may stay to keep company with another archer still shooting. Also bare in mind if the archer immediately infront of / behind you is at full draw, and wait until they have shot that arrow.

Scoring & Etiquette on the Range

Scoring is a crucial part of any competition, and proper etiquette ensures everything runs smoothly. Below are some guidelines specific to competition days. For broader etiquette applicable to all archery activities — including club sessions — please refer to our General Archery Etiquette Guide.

• Positioning on the Shooting Line
  • Make sure to stand in the correct position on the shooting line. If you're shooting on a face by yourself, stand in the middle of the face. If there are target markers on the floor, they can help guide your positioning. If there are side-by-side faces on a boss and you're shooting in alternating details (AB/CD), leave enough room for your target companion.
  • If other archers leave their scopes on the shooting line, and it's in your way, politely ask for it to be moved. It's common for archers to leave their gear there, but everyone understands and is willing to help ensure the line is clear for shooting.
• Identifying Arrows:When scoring, point to your arrows by indicating the nocks without touching them, and call out the scores clearly in descending order.
• Do not touch the arrows, the target face, or the boss until all scores have been recorded and verified by everyone scoring. This ensures there are no disputes over scores.
• Marking Arrow Holes:
  • During WA events, it’s important to mark all arrow holes in the target face after each scoring end to help judges identify pass-throughs or bounce-outs. Use a fine-point pen or pencil and mark short lines (not longer than 5 millimeters) extending out from the arrow hole. Ideally, mark two lines at right angles, resulting in a ‘V’ shape pointing toward the hole. Make sure all the holes are marked before removing the arrows.
  • Only mark holes on the target face. Holes outside the scoring zones are not considered, so marking the entire boss is unnecessary.
  • Marking holes is the responsibility of all archers on the target, and it’s a shared task. Often, one archer marks while the others score.
• Learn how to Score: It’s important to know how to score correctly. Call your arrows starting from the highest value, and be mindful of line cutters (arrows that touch the line between two scoring zones count as the higher score). If you’re unsure if an arrow is a line cutter, do not touch it. Call it upwards, and if others disagree, they can voice their opinions, and a judge can be called if needed to make a final decision. Make sure you have a working pen with you, as you’ll need it to record your score.
• Score in Groups of 3: Typically, scores are recorded in groups of three arrows (e.g., calling out 10, 9, 8, then 7, 6, 5), and then the second set of three is added for rounds requiring six arrows per end. Always score in descending order, calling the highest score first.
• Scorecard Completion: The scorer completes the scorecard, then the archer checks and signs it when complete. Make sure you sign for your score before heading off for lunch, packing up, or wandering off. You'll also need the score sheet when you go to score, so make sure it doesn't get left behind — this happens more often than you might think! Also, remember that any misses should be marked as 'M' on the scorecard.

Special Situations During Competitions

During competitions, some unexpected events might happen, and it's important to know what to do:

• Bouncers: If an arrow hits the target but bounces out, follow the procedure for your round format and call a judge to assist with scoring.
  • For Archery GB Rounds, if you experience a bouncer, finish shooting your remaining arrows before calling for a judge. The judge will mark a spare arrow, which you’ll shoot after everyone on your target has completed their end. At the target, the judge will verify if it was a true bouncer. If so, you score the extra arrow. If it wasn’t, the extra arrow’s score is ignored, or if it bounced off another arrow, you receive that arrow's score.
  • For World Archery Rounds, stop shooting immediately and alert the judge, pausing shooting on your target. The judge will join you at the target after others have finished. They’ll confirm the bouncer and look for an unmarked hole, awarding the score based on the unmarked hole. If more than one unmarked hole is found, the lowest score is awarded. If the arrow bounced off another arrow, you score the value of that arrow.
• Pass-Through Arrows: If an arrow passes through the target, do not pull the remaining arrows. Call a judge, who will confirm the scoring before any arrows are pulled. The arrow should be withdrawn by the target captain and inserted back through the target from the opposite side to record the score. Also, inform the judge, as it might be necessary to repair the target.
• Hanging Arrows: If an arrow hangs from the target face or does not penetrate fully, signal a judge during shooting. The judge will instruct you on the next steps to score it safely.
• Equipment Failure: If your equipment fails during shooting, signal a judge. You are allowed up to 15 minutes to fix your equipment, and you may make up the missed arrows under the supervision of the judge.
• Exceeding Arrow Limit: If you shoot more arrows than allowed, the value of your highest scoring arrows for that end will be disqualified.

Wrapping Up After the Competition

The end of the competition is just as important as the beginning. Here’s how to wrap up your day:

• Final Scoring: Once shooting is complete, add up your scores carefully, and ensure that your scorecard is filled out correctly and signed before handing it in. This is your responsibility, and forgetting to sign or miscalculating could mean your score is invalidated. You don't need a judge to correct the maths though!
• Prize Giving: Stick around for the prize-giving ceremony if there is one. It’s courteous to support other archers, and it’s also an opportunity to celebrate your day, regardless of where you placed. Who knows—you might even have won something (maybe even a raffle prize)!
• Reflect on the Day: Take a few moments to reflect on your performance, chat with fellow archers, and enjoy the atmosphere. Even if you didn’t win, it’s a valuable learning experience. Ask yourself what went well and where you could improve.
• Socialising: Competitions are also a chance to make friends and become part of the wider archery community. Share experiences with your fellow archers, ask questions, and talk about the highlights of the day.
• Packing Up: Make sure you pack away all your gear, double-check that you haven’t left anything behind, and thank the organisers and judges for their hard work in putting on the competition.

Final Thoughts & Encouragement

Competitions are a fantastic way to push yourself, make friends, and grow in the sport. It's okay to make mistakes—everyone does! The most important thing is to enjoy yourself, keep learning, and be proud of taking this big step in your archery journey. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and every archer there was once a beginner just like you.

Most importantly, have fun! Whether you’re hitting golds or not, the experience will help you improve and make future competitions feel more familiar.

Frequently Asked Questions