Preview: Recurve-heavy line-up for World Cup warm-up in Antalya

Another week, another early event at which archers can pick up early points towards the Sanlida World Archery Rankings before the official start of the outdoor season in April.

We’re in Antalya for the Kahraman Bagatir Spring Arrows – and Europe’s first major of 2023.

It’s usually a recurve-focused event, since many regional countries choose the city to host pre-season training camps, and although the entry list isn’t expansive it does have quality.

Men’s world number one Marcus D’Almeida is present – and his long-time Brazilian mixed team partner Ane Marcelle Dos Santos is the favourite woman going off the lists. The big attraction in Türkiye remains, of course, reigning Olympic Champion Mete Gazoz.

The 23-year-old is a bona fide star.

A D’Almeida versus Gazoz final on Friday would certainly be a pre-season treat.

Key information

What’s happening? The Kahraman Bagatir Spring Arrows tournament, traditionally the first outdoor ranking event of the year in Europe, on 27-31 March in Antalya, Türkiye.

What’s at stake? World ranking points.

Who’s competing? About 80 archers from 11 countries plus independents.

What’s the story? Antalya’s permanent competition range is well-used for international tournaments. It’s cooler in March than it is in April – and into the height of summer – and the well-kept facility is a particular favourite for pre-season training camps, which often lead into this Spring Arrows event. It’s a perfect warm-up for the Hyundai Archery World Cup season opener – which is here again next month.

Schedule

• Tuesday 28 March: Qualifying
• Wednesday 29 March: Eliminations
• Thursday 30 March: Team eliminations
• Friday 31 March: Finals*

*Only recurve finals will be broadcast from this event.

How to watch

Watch live footage on the World Archery YouTube channel. Live scores will be available on the World Archery website and there will be coverage on World Archery’s digital platforms throughout the competition.

Who’s competing?

Full entries are available online. These are the top-ranked recurve archers shooting in Antalya:

• Recurve men: Marcus D’Almeida, Brazil (world rank: 1)
• Recurve women: Ane Marcelle Dos Santos, Brazil (world rank: 18)

Competition at the Spring Arrows in Antalya starts with qualifying on Tuesday.