World Field Archery Championship: Namibian Meuwesen wins men's freestyle title

World
Europe

01:51

The International Field Archery Association World Championships recently took place in South Africa. Outstanding skills with a bow and accuracy were on display, with several new champions crowned in different categories. CGTN's Julie Shyer was there.

About 200 field archers from around the world have participated in this year's World Championships in Potchefstroom, South Africa.

STEPHEN KENDRICK IFAA VICE-PRESIDENT "There are 24 countries competing this year and there are 28 different styles, this is the ultimate title for all field archers it is what they work for over the last two years, it is the pinnacle."

The African climate has tested archers' endurance and fitness levels.

MIKEY MCGHEE UNITED STATES ARCHER "It's been a completely different environment than I am used to, lots of wind, lots of sun and then more sun, and tons of heat and then the sandy dirt that blows in the air -- it was incredible -- and it was probably the hardest competition I think I ever shot."

After five days of intense competition, Namibia's Jannie Meuwesen won the men's Freestyle title, while South Africa's Luzanne Grant grabbed gold in the women's event. The hosts also dominated in the Bowhunter classes.

KOBUS BARNARD SOUTH AFRICA ARCHER "I worked hard for this one the whole year and just to win this with all the guys coming from overseas America, Australia, New Zealand for me it was a milestone and I am over the moon winning this one."

MARJONE MULHOLLAND SOUTH AFRICA ARCHER "This win definitely rates at the top of my personal achievements having the world championships at home in South Africa gave me a little bit of home-ground advantage and being the 2018 world field champion feels pretty amazing."

The next world championships are due to take place in Estonia in 2020. JS, CGTN, P, SOUTH AFRICA.