The secret behind their success: Colombian compounders LOPEZ and USQUIANO

Feature by World Archery Reporter Billie MARSHALL.

The recipe for success has been seen as a lengthy process, matching experience and practice with talent and hunger. However, the Colombian duo of Sara LOPEZ and Alejandra USQUIANO read the script slightly differently.

With little or no experience of top end competition heading into the finals, both LOPEZ and USQUIANO could have been forgiven for falling at the final hurdle but instead, have continued their success. USQUIANO went on to win the individual World Cup title in Paris, whilst LOPEZ won the same title a year later in Lausanne.

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Despite their sudden rise, both Sara and Alejandra were in agreement as to why their success happened so quickly. LOPEZ said: “I think it's because we've been practicing pretty much every day for the past five years and it was just the right time for us. This is something we've both been pushing for for a very long time and I honestly never thought it would all happen so soon.”

USQUIANO also admitted the support both received was a big factor in their success: “It has been achieved thanks to the support of all those who believed in me. Although, the biggest key was to listen and believe in my coach.”

However, after initial success LOPEZ and USQUIANO decided to not let the moment pass and push themselves towards even further success. As easy as taking their 15 minutes of fame and running was, both wanted to keep going to get where they are today.

Although, the success in Antalya still remains a highlight for Sara: “With my victory, I couldn’t believe it. I never thought it would be so soon that I would have such a huge win. I still watch the video of that day and I remember each second of the competition. It was one of the best days of my life.”

The success of Sara and Alejandra has driven everybody around them to new heights and none more so than each other and USQUIANO is certain that has contributed to their success. “With a fellow competitor like Sara around, you always increase the pace of practice and make sure each and every day you are doing the upmost to improve. It is because of this we are both determined for more success.”

It has been a compelling last 18 months for the pair and the pressure and expectations will only grow with further success. Although their lives have drastically changed, both remain as determined as ever.

USQUIANO explains: “A lot has changed because you have to work harder if you want to be the best in the world and we will both continue to give everything to continue the success we’ve had.”