Northern Cape archers hit the mark on International stage

The cool Atlantic breeze of Walvis Bay carried with it more than the salty scent of the ocean late in July; it also carried the dreams of four young archers from Kimberley, each representing not only their schools but the entire Northern Cape at the prestigious AGA World Tournament in Namibia.

For Hezekiah Lodewyk from Homevale Primary, Otniël van Wyk from Adamantia High, and Kimberley Girls High’s Athrah Arnold and Fathima Mustapha, the journey to the international stage was a story of rapid growth, unshakeable faith, and the unyielding spirit of community.

A rapid rise for Northern Cape archery

Organised archery in the Northern Cape is still in its infancy, having only taken root in late 2021 and early 2022. Yet, in just a few short years, AGA Northern Cape has grown to include 11 affiliated schools and private clubs.

From this blossoming network, four archers emerged to earn places in South Africa’s elite 16-member AGA Development Team, a feat that would have seemed impossible when the sport first began in the province. Their selection goes beyond the personal victory; it’s a sign that archery’s appeal knows no boundaries of age, gender, or background.

First-day nerves, second-day determination

The tournament itself proved a test of both skill and composure. On day one, the Kimberley quartet stepped into a world unlike any they had experienced before. “Their first day was very challenging, and they were overwhelmed because being at such a huge tournament took its toll on them,” one of the team reported.

Three flights in a single day tested their focus, and early scores reflected the tension of the moment. But day two brought a turning point. Their best scores came from day two as their nerves settled and they were now more comfortable

The event was not solely about hitting targets. The World Tournament offered a vibrant cultural exchange. Athletes received goodie bags filled with programmes, snacks, and personalised name tags. Around the venue, the swapping of pins and team shirts became a tradition that built friendships across borders.

The atmosphere was festive and warm. Food stalls and cheering crowds turned the Jan Wilken Sports Complex into a hub of excitement. On the awards evening, camaraderie shone as brightly as the medals. One moment stood out: a bow exchange between archers from Canada and South Africa, a gesture that captured the spirit of international sport.

The journey almost derailed

Getting to Walvis Bay was no easy feat. Team Manager Banie described it as “the craziest, most challenging, and most enduring World Tournament ever”, not because of the competition but because of the transportation nightmare before it even began.

When their original bus was involved in an accident and disappeared for 12 hours, their hopes seemed in jeopardy. Yet, the Northern Cape archery community rallied. Supporters including Roelf Spies in Kuruman, Camiela Paulsen, Izinga Fleet Rentals in Kimberley, Wilhelm Greeff, AGA SA, Rindert Wyma, and driver Jovi stepped in.

Within 24 hours, a replacement bus was secured and paid for. “By the Grace of God, He provided our every need,” Banie reflected.

Standing among the best

The championships drew more than 250 archers from Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, and Canada. It was the first Archery World Championships ever held in Namibia, with competition in the Bulls Eye, 3D, and Overall categories.

Namibia shone in many junior and development events, but South Africa ultimately claimed the title of Overall AGA World Champion Country. The Senior Team secured gold in Bulls Eye, 3D, and Overall, cementing the nation’s status as a powerhouse in the sport.

Eyes on the future

For the four Kimberley archers, this was more than their first international tournament as it signalled the start of something bigger. Their performance, marked by composure and positivity despite early nerves, has inspired young athletes across the province.

Their success sends a clear message: with dedication, community backing, and the right development programmes, even athletes from regions new to a sport can compete and thrive on the world stage.

The next AGA World Championships will be held in 2027 in Canada. It’s a date already etched into the dreams of the Northern Cape’s growing archery community. And somewhere in Kimberley, perhaps in a school hall or at a dusty practice range, the next Hezekiah, Otniël, Athrah, or Fathima is already drawing back a bowstring, imagining the moment they too will represent their province to the world.

Beyond a victory for four individuals this event was a defining moment for Northern Cape archery, proof that vision, determination, and the power of community can turn even the most ambitious sporting dreams into reality.