An Olympic discipline since the Munich Olympics in 1972, archery is a sport that requires impressive precision. Less popular than other competitions in Paris, archery is a real spectacle.
Archery, an ancient and prestigious Olympic discipline, combines strength, precision and concentration. Present since the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris, it has undergone several evolutions before becoming a regular event since Munich in 1972. This discipline requires athletes to have exceptional mastery of their equipment and perfect management of their stress.
Same distance for all
Archery events take place at long distances, requiring pinpoint accuracy at all times. Facing a target that is 122 centimeters in diameter, the standard distance for Olympic events is 70 meters, whether in men’s or women’s competitions. At this distance, even a slight breeze can deflect the arrow from its initial trajectory, making each shot a real challenge.
Crazy speed
Arrow speed is another crucial element. On average, an arrow shot by a professional archer can reach speeds of between 240 and 250 km/h. This impressive speed is achieved through the combination of the bow, often made of advanced composite materials, and the archer’s technique. A modern Olympic bow is a masterpiece of technology, optimized to maximize arrow speed and stability.
A captivating discipline
Concentration and consistency are the key words for Olympic archers. In competition, the ability to repeat the exact same movements, under the exact same conditions, is essential to success. The mental aspect plays a crucial role. Managing stress and staying focused for long periods of time are skills that are just as important as physical strength.
Thus, archery at the Olympic Games is a discipline that requires rigorous training, surgical precision and great self-control. The performances of the archers are the result of thousands of hours of practice and unwavering will, offering a captivating spectacle for sports fans.