Published on 11.03.2022
Pupils from two classes of Beauregard and Sensive elementary schools met Archers from Saint-Herblain who are taking part in the French Handisport Championship from March 12 to 13.
“How do those who are missing an arm? Who have lost a leg? Are these real arrows? Is the crossbow in the category of archery? Do you use the same targets than able-bodied people? Is it a dangerous sport? And you, what is your handicap?”
Adaptations for disabled athletes
In the Vigneau archery room, like arrows, the questions shoot out one after the other. The pupils of a class of CM1 of the school Beauregard each prepared a question which they address to the 3 disabled archers who receive them. Patiently and with a smile on his face, Christophe Gérardin answers all of them. This European vice-champion, holder of 8 French records, is visually impaired. “In order for disabled archers to be able to practice their discipline, they have recourse to adaptations such as this gallows which I used to stabilize my shots during the European championships” he explains. Séverine, French champion in the deaf category, uses a compound bow. As for Thierry, visually impaired and inter-regional champion, he is comfortable with a recurve bow and has a bigger target due to his handicap.
Christophe Gérardin, visually impaired handisport athlete, member of the Herblinois Archers, vice-champion of Europe, shares his passion with schoolchildren.
Pay attention to people with disabilities
During the events, these athletes are assisted by a spotter who guides them. “Each archer has his own arrows because they are adapted to his size, the power and the style of his bow. As a result, they are not interchangeable” adds Christophe. “It’s important to receive schoolchildren and introduce them to disabled archery. They can come back this weekend with their parents. It’s also a way of preparing future generations for the issue of disability. The goal is to get them to pay attention to people with disabilities.”
Vigneau sports area. Boulevard Allende. Tests Saturday and Sunday morning. Free admission
