Belarus archer Iryna HUL arrows in on a replacement bow

Belarus archer Iryna HUL revealed she has been competing with inferior equipment for more than a year because she can't afford to replace a broken bow.   HUL was knocked out in the first elimination round in the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games junior women's archery competition on Wednesday but produced a spirited performance a day later to reach the mixed team event quarterfinals at Kallang Field before crashing out.   The damage to her equipment happened in the lead up to the World Youth Championships in the United States in July last year and she has been waiting since then for a proper replacement.    “My bow broke just before that competition,” she said. “The replacement I was given is much heavier than it should be for a women. It means I get tired much quicker - I get pains in my arms and across my shoulders.”    “I have been promised proper equipment for months but I still haven't seen anything.”   Coach Mikhail PUZIAK (BLR) gave a frank insight into why HUL had not yet been given new equipment.   “We are from Belarus,” he said. “We simply don't have the money.”   Despite having to make do with the heavier bow, HUL narrowly missed out on a mixed team semifinal spot when she and partner LUO Siyue (CHN) were beaten by HUL's close friend Anton KAROUKIN (BLR) and Gloria Filippi (ITA).   HUL said she only got as far as she did because of her coach.   “I only shoot well because of my coach,” she said. “I love him. He is very honest with me and shows me the best techniques.”   HUL praised KAROUKIN (BLR) after he and FILIPPI went on to win gold.   “My country hasn't won any medals here until now so we are very proud of him,” she said. “It doesn't matter that he defeated me.”   HUL said the experience of competing at the Youth Olympic Games will live with her for ever.   “I still can't believe I was here,” she said. “It has all been a bit of a whirl. This will give me great preparation for future events.”   YONS ap/rm Edited by World Archery Communication