Today was a freezing day in the heart of Winter, we got ready and headed to the venue.
Upon arrival I started doubting I had the date of the event right, the first session is usually so packed you have trouble finding parking, today this was not the case. Heading up the stairs I heard a few familiar voices and it seems that the weather and exams kept a few archers in the warm confines of home.
Starting our ranking arrows all went smoothly. Using my too shiny arrows for indoor I was satisfied with my end. A 280/300. A quick break and something wasn't quite right. I started hitting about 3cm to the left. 2 rounds and I adjusted my sight. Having shot 3 8s I knew my score was about to take a pounding. Finished it as expected, somewhat lower.
Heading next door to Dale who is a magician when it comes to bows, he adjusted timing on cams, arrow rest alignment and added a new D loop. Just in time for the eliminations.
Round #1
Always an ice breaker, everything felt much better but still adjusted a bit on my height and centering in, probably not the best time. As we finished up we were tied. This caused the dreaded one arrow shoot off. He shot and I saw the pressure took its toll. He hit a solid 8. Shocked I felt my backtension slip, and hit a line cutter 9... Dumb luck prevailed!
Round #2
I thankfully got a bye, time to just clear my mind and hope the next round goes better.
Round #3
To my shock and surprise I saw I was in the final gold match. Against a fellow south paw and PSE archer. Having known he takes a podium position on occasion I was quite nervous to say the least. He takes the lead in the first round and keeps it. I get a few 10s, and miss a few, by a few millimeters. Eventually he knocks one arrow out giving me a 3 point lead. Fighting to keep my lead I just made it to take gold.
This is why I love this sport!
