The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) will hold the World Blind Games in Birmingham, UK, 18-27 August 2023 with visually impaired athletes, including archers, from all over the world.
Phase 1 entry is now open to register the number of archers, spotters and officials who will attend. Entry can be by Member Associations or by individuals. The deadline for submission is midnight GMT on Friday 10th February 2023.
The archery event begins on Monday, 21st August with sight classification for those who need it. Shooting begins on Tuesday, 22nd with unofficial practice, followed by official practice on the Wednesday, ranking round and eliminations/finals on Thursday and Friday, finishing with the British Championships on Sunday, 27th August. The closing party will follow that evening.
To take part in both events, Blind Games and British Champs, the schedule is Tuesday, 22nd to after breakfast on Monday, 28th August – 6 nights.
For VI archery, the international classifications are VI1 (B1) and VI2/3 (B2 and B3). B1 athletes must wear a blindfold at all times, whilst B2 and B3 archers do not. All archers shoot with the aid for a tactile sight that archers touch with the back of their hand to align themselves with the target.
In International Blind Sport, Archery is unique including a category known as VI Open which incorporates participants who are categorised as B4 or B5. These archers have enough sight to use a regular bow sight. This is a great opportunity for all VI archers, wherever you are, to compete in an international multi-sport event.
To find out more see the General Information Guide and the paper entry form at How to Enter the Games.
