WORLD Archery Fiji is laying the foundation for long-term Olympic success, with its focus firmly set on developing local talent capable of representing the country at the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
Speaking to Times Sport, World Archery Fiji executive Jacob Kivi said the association’s priority was building the sport from the grassroots by encouraging more children, adults and para-athletes to take up archery.
“Our pathway to the Olympics is not only for the 2028 Olympic Games, but also for the Brisbane Olympics in 2032,” Kivi said.
He said the association was working to remove barriers to participation by providing equipment for beginners who could not afford their own gear while also assisting those wishing to purchase equipment.
Kivi said World Archery Fiji was committed to creating an inclusive environment where both able-bodied and para-athletes could pursue international opportunities.
“We’ve got volunteers and club members here, many of whom have represented Fiji, helping children experience archery for the first time. We want able-bodied athletes and para-athletes to know that this is a sport where they can represent Fiji on the international stage.”
Despite the growing interest in the sport, Kivi said the lack of a permanent training venue remained one of the biggest obstacles.
He said archery required a safe and dedicated practice area and appealed to the Fiji Government for assistance in securing a permanent facility, which would also allow the sport to expand into the North, West and other parts of Fiji.
To promote participation, World Archery Fiji hosts weekly “Come and Try” sessions every Saturday while finalising a development plan that will guide athletes from beginner level through to elite competition.
Although archery will not feature at the next Commonwealth Games, Kivi said Fiji’s archers continued to pursue international ranking points while competing in the re-curve and compound disciplines.
