Horseback Archery is Back!

The ever-popular Beginner and Intermediate Horseback Archery workshops with Robert Borsos are back this Sunday, August 6th. People have been asking which course they can and should take and whether their existing skills are up to par. So let's deconstruct it for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shouldn't I learn how to ride before taking Beginner Horseback Archery? Not necessary. Even if you've never been on a horse before, our experienced handlers will put you on our most bomb proof school horses, and lead your horse while you learn to shoot at a sedate walk.
But shouldn't I learn to shoot first? Nope. And having done archery on the ground may even be a bit of a drawback as you will need to unlearn some habits to modify your technique from horseback.
I'm a skilled rider -- can I go straight to Intermediate? Even if you're the next Eric Lamaze, you'll need to learn the archery techniques from the ground in the Beginner workshop. Once we have seen everyone on horseback, some experienced riders may be allowed to ride without a handler or shoot at the trot or canter if we feel its safe.
I did the Beginner Workshop last time -- should I sign up for Intermediate? That depends. If you have a minimum of Riding Level 1 and have taken the Beginner workshop you can take the Intermediate course. However, if you don't have Riding Level 1 you should re-take the Beginner course where we have handlers to help you with your horse.
What should I wear? Boots with smooth sole and separate (minimum 1") heel; long pants; and no dangly scarves or jewellry. Plus sunscreen!
What should I bring? A riding helmet if you have one, or a similar sports helmet. Loaner helmets are available (as are some loaner boots).
Should I bring my bow? If you have a horsebow, by all means, bring it. Otherwise, there are plenty of loaner bows. Longbows and modern target bows do not work well from horseback.
Can kids take the workshop? Kids aged 8 - 13 must have a parent or guardian present on site during the workshop. Youth 14 -18 will need a parent to sign paperwork, but the parent does not need to remain on site afterward.

Horseback Archery is loads of fun for all ages and abilities. Don't miss this rare chance to try it out! Register by calling the front desk at 604 568 9907 or online here.

Beginner Horseback Archery

Whether you are an expert rider or archer, or a complete beginner at both, this is your starting point. You will spend about an hour and a half on the ground learning the techniques of Hungarian archery from the Kassai school. After that, you will begin shooting from horseback while our handlers lead your mounts past the targets at the walk. Experienced riders may have the option to try shooting at faster paces without handlers if they are competent and comfortable at the walk.

Sunday 6 Aug, 10am – 1pm
cost: $149 + gst
prerequisites: none

Intermediate Horseback Archery

If you have taken our Beginner course previously and have a minimum of Riding Level 1 or the equivalent this course is for you. Riders with Level 1 will walk and trot, Level 2 Riders will be able to shoot at the canter. Last time we practised multiple targets on canter circles — what will we get up to this time?

Sunday 6 Aug, 2pm – 5pm
cost: $75 + gst
prerequisites: Riding Level 1, Beginner Horseback Archery

Jennifer Landels heads up Academie Duello's Cavaliere Program. She has been swordfighting since 2008, and riding since before she could walk. She started the program as an excuse to combine those passions.
Read more from Jennifer Landels.