A young Equestrian’s Passion: Combining Archery and Horseback Riding
Élina, a 15-year-old equestrian prodigy, embodies teh unique blend of skill and dedication required for mounted archery.This thrilling discipline, gaining popularity worldwide, combines the precision of archery wiht the grace and power of horseback riding.
Originating in Japan,where samurai warriors honed their skills in mounted archery,this ancient practice has found a new home in France. The French Equestrian Federation, recognizing its potential, established the discipline five years ago.
Élina’s mount, Fabio, a seven-year-old Auvergne horse known for his calm demeanor and versatility, is a testament to the strong bond between horse and rider.Fabio excels in various equestrian disciplines,from competitions to playful activities like football and even archery,though the latter is Élina’s domain.
Mounted archery courses in France challenge riders to hit three targets simultaneously while galloping at full speed. Elite archers, like the current world champion from Sweden, can fire 30 to 40 arrows per minute, demonstrating unbelievable accuracy and control.Élina and her brother, Corentin, are passionate about this demanding sport, which requires extraordinary complicity between horse and rider. They even practice mounted archery hunting on 3D targets, showcasing the sport’s versatility.
While live animal hunting with bows is strictly prohibited, the International Agricultural Show features demonstrations with foam arrows, allowing spectators to witness the skill and precision of mounted archers.
Fabio’s talents extend beyond archery. He is also a contender in the national competition for territory horses organized by the French Society of Working Equids. This competition tests horses in four disciplines: mounted maneuverability, complicity, obstacle jumping, and driving.
Élina’s passion for horses began at a very young age, nurtured by her mother, Christelle, a dedicated breeder and equestrian center owner. Christelle raises five Auvergne horses on their farm in Maurs-la-Jolie,nestled in the heart of Cantal.
Beyond breeding and training horses, Christelle is also an educator, working with disabled children and juvenile delinquents. She believes that horses have a unique ability to connect with these young people, offering them a sense of purpose and belonging.
Thru her equestrian program, Christelle helps these youth develop essential life skills like etiquette, responsibility, and teamwork. The horses become a catalyst for positive change, allowing them to rediscover their potential and build a brighter future.
From samurai to Show Ring: An Interview with equestrian Champion, Bertrand Lamont
Welcome back, sports fans, to Equine Encounters, your weekly destination for in-depth conversations with the movers and shakers of the equestrian world. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Bertrand Lamont, a French equestrian champion and former mounted archery competitor. Bertrand brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our topic today: the rising popularity of mounted archery,a captivating discipline uniquely blending equestrian skill with archery precision. Bertrand, thank you for joining us!
Bertrand: My pleasure. It’s great to be here and talk about this captivating sport.
Moderator: The article we’re discussing spotlights Élina, a 15-year-old equestrian prodigy. She embodies the new face of mounted archery, showcasing incredible talent and dedication. What drew you to this discipline?
Bertrand: I’ve always been passionate about both horses and archery. Mounted archery offered the perfect blend of thes two passions. its a true test of reflexes, horsemanship, and concentration.
moderator: The article mentionsÉlina’s horse, Fabio, a multi-talented Auvergne breed known for his calm demeanor. How critically important is the bond between horse and rider in mounted archery?
Bertrand: The horse-rider connection is absolutely paramount. You need a horse that is calm, responsive, and athletic. Mounted archery demands a deep level of trust and understanding between both partners, as you essentially have to move as one.
Moderator: The article highlights the historical roots of mounted archery, originating with the samurai of Japan. It’s fascinating to see this ancient practice finding new life in France.
Bertrand: It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of this discipline. The skills and techniques remain fundamentally the same, even though the context has evolved.
Moderator: Absolutely! The article describes French mounted archery courses as incredibly challenging, requiring archers to hit three targets simultaneously at full gallop. It sounds exhilarating but surely incredibly demanding.
Bertrand:
(chuckles) It’s definitely not for the faint of heart! You need remarkable hand-eye coordination, agility, and the ability to stay focused under pressure.
Moderator: The article also mentions that live animal hunting with bows is prohibited, but demonstrations with foam arrows are showcased at events like the International Agricultural Show. What are your thoughts on the ethical considerations surrounding the sport?
Bertrand: It’s essential to acknowledge the ethical complexities. The introduction of foam arrows in demonstrations is a responsible step towards showcasing thrilling elements of the sport while prioritizing animal welfare. We shoudl always strive to prioritize the well-being of our equine partners.
Moderator: Well said, Bertrand. the article concludes by mentioning Élina’s mother, Christelle, who breeds horses, runs an equestrian center, and works with disabled children and juvenile delinquents. What role do you think horses play in fostering personal growth and development?
Bertrand: Horses have a remarkable ability to connect with people on a profound level. They teach us patience, responsibility, and empathy. They offer a sense of purpose and belonging,which can be especially transformative for young people facing challenges.
Moderator: That is a beautiful sentiment, Bertrand. Thank you so much for sharing your insights and expertise with us today.
Bertrand: My pleasure! I hope this conversation sparks interest in the incredible world of mounted archery.
Moderator: We hope so too,folks! We encourage our viewers to weigh in. share your thoughts and experiences with mounted archery. What are your perspectives on the role of tradition, horsemanship, and ethics in this remarkable sport? we’ll be back next week with another exciting guest and discussion right here on Equine Encounters!
