Archery for Children
Green Hollow Bowmen do not provide private archery events such as parties for children. Children of all ages are, however, very welcome to take part in our "Come and Try Archery" events so long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult. We have small bows and arrows which even little children can use safely.
Many children find that a taste of archery at a come and try (or indeed a visit to the movies!) whets their appetite for taking up the sport in earnest and we are frequently approached by parents asking if their kids may join the club or take part in one of our beginners' courses.
Sadly, in most cases, we have to say no.
The club was formed primarily for adults and any juniors taking part in club meetings are expected to shoot alongside the grown-ups, tackling a full day's shooting at challenging distances. We have found that younger children have difficulty reaching such distances with any success since they must use lightweight equipment so as not to damage growing bones. Coupled with the fact that traditional longbows are trickier to handle than modern bows, this can quickly lead to frustration and discouragement for youngsters.
We have therefore set a strict minimum age limit of fourteen for our club beginners' courses with no exceptions. However, children younger than fourteen who are already competent archers may be accepted as members of the club at the discretion of the club committee. Such juniors must be both brave enough to tackle the big distances and mature enough to be patient on the road to becoming the next Robin Hood or Legolas!
Please note that our insurance conditions relating to the Child Protection Act require that all those under the age of eighteen attending any meetings of Green Hollow Bowmen or of the BL-BS must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian, or by a responsible adult authorised in writing by their parent or guardian.