sports
‘Shoot and forget your troubles’: how archery brought a New Zealand community together
Dave Henshaw is enchanted by archery’s curiously addictive qualities and its ability to attract all-comers, including those turned off by other sports environments
TL;DR
- Dave Henshaw, an 83-year-old coach, has dedicated over 50 years to the Christchurch Archery Club, coaching athletes from beginners to Olympians.
- The club is known for its diverse membership, including people with disabilities and teenagers not drawn to traditional team sports.
- Archery is described as having curiously addictive qualities that attract a wide range of people, offering benefits for mental health and self-worth.
- The club recently secured a 33-year lease and developed an indoor facility, ensuring its future and allowing it to expand its outreach programs.
- The Dave Henshaw Classic is an annual tournament named in honor of Henshaw's contributions, highlighting the club's dual emphasis on competition and camaraderie.