Nottwil 2014 European Para Championships: eight archers to watch

This article was written by Billie MARSHALL for the International Paralympic Committee.

This Saturday, 150 of Europe’s best para archers will begin their quest for gold at Nottwil 2014 and the continent’s para archery championships. Ahead of the competition, we’ve picked out eight athletes worth keeping an eye on. 

1) David DRAHONINSKY (CZE), recurve/compound men’s W1

Current world number one, fresh off a bronze medal at last year’s worlds in Bangkok and a silver at London 2012. Tipped to go one better in Nottwil after winning the Nove Mesto ranking event earlier this summer.

2) John STUBBS (GBR), compound men’s open

The Brit is reigning World Champion and bidding to complete a continental double. Every chance of it happening – and he set a new world record for the ranking round recently.

3) Zandra REPPE (SWE), compound women’s open

A consistent top 10 finisher going back to the 2009 worlds in South Korea. Aiming for her first medal at a major event.

4) Maik SZARSZEWSKI (GER), recurve men’s open

This German athlete has three consecutive ninth place finishes in the past two Paralympics and World Championship events.

5) Roman CHAYKA (UKR), recurve men’s open 

Finished just outside the podium places at Bangkok 2013 worlds and London 2012 Games. There’s nothing like being close to nurture some determination.

6) Hatice BAYAR (TUR), recurve women’s open

Currently a career high of fourth in the para archery world rankings, and finished in fourth place at the last worlds.

7) Magali COMTE (SUI), recurve women’s open

Had an inconsistent last two years but has home soil advantage and support in Nottwil.

8) Martin IMBODEN (SUI), compound men’s open

Shot a world record recently, which stood until it was bettered by STUBBS a week later. With home support: the one to beat.

The 2014 European Para-Archery Championships take place between 26 July and 4 August. Visit the event website for more information.