Disabled Archers and mechanical Aids

[pwiles1968]

We have a Gentleman who is interested in a beginners session he is disabled we think he will need to use a release aid (wrist style) as he only has one finger (Thalidomide I think) although it does not matter in the club he can shoot how he likes, what the GNAS/FITA rules are for disabled archers shooting recurve with mechanical aids.

[Tony_zelah]

why not check with the people at GNAS who deal with disabled archers

http://www.gnas.org/disabled/contactus.cfm

[Rik]

I'm not sure it's strictly the GNAS rules you need to think about, they most likely follow the IPC...

[disbloke]

GNAS don't actually recognise disabled archers, as a style so to speak, within the rules, anyone can shoot from a stool or wheelchair or use whatever kind of device they feel they need to to shoot a bow.

GNAS do have Paralympic squads and the archers on those have to be classified under IPC rules. these classifications are ARW1, typically the most disabled usually impairment in all 4 limbs and needing to use a wheelchair, ARW2, typically paralegic or resticted to a wheelchair due to other reasons, and ARWST, anyone else who has a classifiable level of disability but is able to shoot standing. Obviously there is variation within these classifications but I hope that gives you the basic idea.

If you really want to find out more information contact either Pauline Betteridge, an IPC classifier, or Ann Webb, an IPC delegate. They can both be contacted through the British Wheelchair Archery Association, http://www.british-wheelchair-archery.org.uk.

I personally classify ARW2.

[buzz lite beer]

Wrist style release would be the obvious solution to getting him shooting, however I don't know how that would be accepted when it comes down to the likes of achievement awards etc. Unless he is steered along the compound bow path, there are also archers who are missing an arm shooting with a leather tab attached to the string using their teeth to draw.

[disbloke]

Part 11 of the GNAS rule book: Approved policy concerning disabled archers.

Basically if a disabled archer can prove their disabilty they are allowed dispensation from the rule so long as they are safe and so is everyone else.

It gives a few other bits and pieces but I would take this to mean that you could use some kind of mechanical release to shoot a recurve if it is impossible for you to do so by conventional means. It does also say if in doubt ask the Chairman of the Target sub-committee.

[pwiles1968]

Thanks for the responses, if he starts shooting and gets into it we will have to approach the appropriate committee to see what the judgements is about competition etc for now he will be fine at the club we will get him shooting somehow.

I did suggest he try and shoot compound to the coach but she just gave me a scowl

[Murray]

Seems strange to put someone with such disability on a recurve... why?? We have two Matthews Genesis bows for just this purpose.