25 January 2008

Fit 4 U Archery Tournament

People with physical and sensory disabilities from Armagh and Dungannon have competed in a friendly archery tournament at Kilmore Archery Centre, Lurgan.

The tournament involved service users from Willowbank Resource Centre, Dungannon, Station Road Resource Centre, Armagh and Moy Resource Centre.

The event was organised through the Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone’s, Fit 4 U Project, funded by Big Lottery, which aims to introduce people with physical and sensory disabilities to a range of new leisure, recreational and physical activities.

Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, explains: “Archery can be played from a seated or standing position and Kilmore Archery Centre provides specifically adapted equipment to meet the needs of people with various disabilities, for example a mouth piece for pulling back the bow, a tripod stand for people who are visually impaired and lighter bows and arrows.”

Phoebe McGown, Kilmore Archery Centre says: “Kilmore Archery Centre provides specialised coaching for people with physical and learning disabilities. Archery is also a Para Olympic sport and people with disabilities can participate at both Club and International level.”

Lynette Elliott, service user from Moy Resource Centre, who took part in the tournament, said “I really enjoyed the archery and it was nice meeting other people.”

Una Cushnahan, Acting Manager, Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone, highlights: “The Fit 4 U Project has given people with disabilities the opportunity to access activities they had not imagined they could. Archery is an excellent example of how an activity can be adapted to meet differing needs. Through the sport of archery, people have experienced physical, mental and social health benefits. It helps improve co-ordination, requires concentration and has been a great social opportunity.”