Leigh is on target (From Barry And District News)

Leigh is on target

A BARRY man became the FITA All British Field Archery Champion on Sunday, May 29, after a hard-fought victory against some seasoned internationals.

Leigh Wallington, who has been shooting with Llantwit Major Archery Club for only two years, pulled off the shock victory with some exhilarating shooting at the tournament held at Ton Pentre in the Rhondda.

Leigh made his international debut in August 2004 with a win at the WFAA Welsh Field Championships, which were held at Fonmon Castle in the Vale.

He followed up this victory by winning the FITA Welsh Field title in September, making him Wales' only undisputed field archery champion.

Coach, Mathew Symmonds said: "Leigh's progression in archery has been remarkable.

"He remains cool under tournament pressure, which is a necessary temperament to succeed at this level.

"I am confident he can make the jump to the next level later this year."

Leigh will next represent Wales at the IFAA UK Championships in Galashiels, Scotland, in early July before joining the Welsh team at the IFAA European Championships in Parnu, Estonia, August 1-8.

Field archery is a challenging variation on the sport and consists of a course of between 24 and 28 targets which are shot over varying sizes and distances.

Adding to the challenge is terrain and weather conditions which means that the archer has not only to be a consistent shot, but also needs to contend with hills, wind and other weather conditions.

Field archery is a growing sport which is enjoyed in more than 60 countries worldwide.

Llantwit Major Archery Club has many members from all over the Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff, Bridgend and even further afield.

The club is the second biggest field archery club in Wales and currently has 19 international archers.

The club also transcends the political boundaries within the sport, with members subscribing to both the IFAA and FITA codes.

The club meets at Llantwit Major Leisure Centre on Wednesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm.